Should you visit Aegina or Hydra? I’ve visited both islands and genuinely love them. Aegina is closer to Athens and easier to reach, with a wider variety of beaches. Hydra is car-free, walkable, and centred around a beautiful harbour. This guide compares both to help you decide which one fits your trip.
From traditional stone houses and picturesque villages to sandy beaches and natural springs, this Aegina vs. Hydra travel guide has it all.
The Saronic Islands of Greece make an ideal island escape from bustling Athens.
While it’s true that Athens has plenty to see and do, and it is a must-visit for history buffs, sometimes the noise is just a bit too much, you know?
In that case, you can quickly jump on a ferry from Piraeus (Athens’ main port) and be on an island in as little as 30 minutes, depending on the route. This guide will show you how to do just that.
Quick facts
- Closest to Athens by ferry: Aegina
- Car-free island: Hydra (bicycles are also generally prohibited)
- Typical one-way ferry range: Aegina 30–75 min; Hydra 65–140 min (varies by service/season)
Two of the most popular islands of the Saronic Islands are Aegina and Hydra. So, if you only have time to see one, which should you go to?
| Key fact | Aegina | Hydra |
|---|---|---|
| Main departure port (Athens) | Piraeus | Piraeus |
| Typical one-way ferry time | ~30–40 min (high-speed) or ~1h 15m (conventional) | ~1h 05m–2h 20m (service-dependent) |
| Arrival ports | Multiple (Aegina Town, Souvala, Agia Marina) | Hydra Harbor |
| Cars/bikes | Cars allowed (you can bring a vehicle on some services) | Car-free; bicycles generally prohibited |
| Getting around | Taxi, bus, car/scooter, walking | Walking, water taxis/boats, and pack animals used for goods |
| Best fit if you want… | More beach variety + easiest/shortest trip | Harbour vibes + walking + “no traffic” atmosphere |
Keep reading below for our in-depth analysis on weighing up Aegina vs. Hydra.
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Aegina
Aegina is one of the closest Greek islands to Athens, and the ferry takes around 30–40 minutes on high-speed services or about 1 hour 15 minutes on conventional ferries, with year-round routes.
Most ferries to Aegina depart from Gate E8 in Piraeus (gates can change), so check your ticket/app on the day.
Good to know: Ferries arrive at multiple ports on Aegina (Aegina Town plus other ports depending on the route), so double-check the port name on your ticket if you’re staying outside Aegina Town.
Of course, locals often flock to Aegina during the summer months for a quick holiday to enjoy the dramatic landscapes of this island, so you will find it quite busy, especially on the weekends.
However, despite that, it still retains its laid-back charm, especially if you venture just outside the main town, also called Aegina.
Aegina is larger than Hydra, which means there are more beaches to explore, and it’s often easier to escape the busiest spots once you get beyond Aegina Town. Beaches here range from sand to pebbles, and the water is usually calm and clear on sheltered days.
If you’re a fan of ancient ruins, Aegina is a great spot to enjoy a little history without the crowds you’ll encounter in Athens. The Temple of Aphaia is part of the triangle formed between here, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion. You should also visit the Cathedral of Saint Nectarios while you’re there.
Aegina is home to many traditional taverns, restaurants, and small bars where you can sit back and relax, and you can even enjoy a fantastic view back over to Athens.
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Hydra
The ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra usually takes about 1 hour 5 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes, depending on the service, and routes generally run year-round, weather permitting.
Good to know: Hydra is car-free by law, and bicycles are also generally prohibited, so expect lots of walking (often on steps) along stone lanes.
Mobility note: Hydra’s harbour area is fairly flat, but many accommodations involve steep lanes and lots of steps—something to factor in if you’re travelling with a stroller, heavy luggage, or limited mobility.
The great thing about Hydra is that it’s as laid-back as possible, thanks to its long-standing ban on motor vehicles.
With the absence of motor vehicles, you’ll get around on foot, by water taxi/boat, or via pack animals used for transport (we don’t suggest riding them).
The harbor is a beautiful place to sit and watch the world go by, and you can also catch sight of the famous donkeys. Many tavernas are here, and it’s a popular spot for sunset walks.
Hydra has a more traditional look to it than Aegina, with stone mansions and historic houses climbing up the hillside.
The winding, narrow streets are ideal for slow explorations, and there are many small cafés you can stop and enjoy.
Of course, Hydra’s beaches are beautiful, though they’re mostly pebbly and accessed on foot or by boat. Although the island is smaller, it can feel less hectic away from the harbour area, especially if you explore on foot or by boat.
Reasons Not To Go To Hydra & Aegina
Aegina and Hydra are undoubtedly captivating destinations, each boasting its unique charm and allure. As you’ve seen, they offer a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquil vibes, making them popular choices for travelers seeking a taste of Greek island life.
However, like any travel destination, they also have a few downsides worth considering. Here’s a look at some aspects that might be seen as less favorable, helping you to make a well-rounded decision for your trip.
Aegina
Crowding from Cruise Ships: Aegina can get busy with day-trippers and organized day-cruise groups, especially in peak season and on weekends.
Limited Quiet Spots in Peak Season: Aegina is relatively compact, so in summer, the truly quiet areas can be harder to find, especially on weekends.
Hydra
Transportation Limitations: Hydra does not allow cars, so getting around involves walking (often on steps) or using water taxis, which may not suit everyone.
Things To See And Do On Aegina
- Visit ancient Greek temples, such as the Temple of Apollo and the Temple of Aphaia.
- Explore Orthodox cathedrals on the island
- Enjoy the relaxing beaches
- Indulge in the delicious local pistachios
- Experience the charm of the island and its authentic Greek atmosphere
- Check out the Tower of Markellos
Things To See And Do On Hydra
- See the famous donkeys around the harbour and village lanes
- Explore the scenic harbors and take in the picturesque views
- Admire the traditional Greek houses and island architecture
- Try local sweets and seafood, and pick up Aegina pistachios if you’re passing through Aegina
- Immerse yourself in the serene environment and savor the authentic Greek island lifestyle
Which One Wins – Hydra Or Aegina
Both Aegina and Hydra are beautiful islands of the Saronic Gulf, and if you have the time, it’s well worth visiting both. However, Aegina scrapes the win simply because it is closer to Athens and, therefore, requires less of a ferry trip.
There are more facilities in Aegina Town, which may or may not matter to you. However, Hydra is undoubtedly more authentic and laid-back, so if that’s what you’re looking for, perhaps Hydra would be the winner for your next trip.
Is Aegina or Hydra better for a day trip from Athens?
Aegina is usually the easiest day trip because the ferry ride is shorter and runs very frequently. Hydra also works well as a day trip, but the ferry is longer, and you’ll spend more time walking or using water taxis once you arrive.
Can I visit both Aegina and Hydra on a day trip from Athens?
Yes—some organised day cruises from Athens include stops at both Aegina and Hydra (often with a third island as well). Itineraries vary, so always check how much time is allocated on each island before booking.
How do I get to Aegina?
Aegina is easily accessible by ferry from Piraeus port in Athens. There are also ferry connections to other Saronic islands, such as Poros and Agistri.
How can I reach Hydra?
To reach Hydra, you take a ferry from Piraeus port in Athens. Some services stop at other islands (such as Poros or Spetses), which can affect the total travel time.
Do you need to pre-book ferries?
In summer, weekends, and holidays, yes—high-speed ferry seats can sell out. In winter, you can often buy tickets close to departure, but sailings are less frequent.
Is Hydra really car-free?
Yes. Cars are not allowed on Hydra, and bicycles are generally prohibited as well. You’ll get around on foot, by water taxi/boat, and by pack animals used to transport goods.
Which island is known for pistachios?
Aegina is famous for pistachios, and you’ll see them everywhere on the island, especially in Aegina Town.
What are the main attractions of Aegina?
Aegina offers ancient Greek temples like the Temple of Aphaia, Orthodox cathedrals, relaxing beaches, and an easy day-trip vibe from Athens. It’s a great choice if you want history plus beach time.
What are the main attractions of Hydra?
Hydra is known for its stone mansions, scenic harbour, donkeys, and car-free streets. It’s ideal if you want walking, harbour cafés, and a very traditional island atmosphere.
What types of accommodations are available in Aegina?
Aegina offers hotels, traditional houses, apartments, and villas. Options range from beachside stays to inland properties with pools, making it flexible for both short trips and longer stays.
Are there accommodations available in Hydra?
Yes. Hydra has hotels, apartments, houses, and villas, mostly concentrated around the harbour and nearby hillsides, often in historic buildings.
Can I visit other islands from Aegina?
Yes. Aegina is a convenient base for visiting nearby islands like Poros and Agistri, with regular ferry connections.
Can I visit other nearby islands from Hydra?
Yes. You can travel from Hydra to other Saronic islands such as Poros, Spetses, and Aegina, depending on ferry schedules and routes.
When is the best time to visit Aegina or Hydra?
Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Both islands are accessible year-round, though ferry schedules are reduced in winter.