Getting there. Boats regularly travel through the Saronic Gulf islands, connecting them with Athens and Nafpilo (off to the left of the map). From Athens it's a long day trip. As always, the hydrofoils are twice as fast. A common package day cruise is to go from Athens to Aegina, Poros and Hydra and return. Convenient but crowded and your time is not your own.

Staying there. Hydra town is essentially the only city on the island. There are rooms and hotels, several of the sites on the links page list them. Remember: the island is touristed heavily in high season.

Being there. Hydra is an artist's colony and there are studios and galleries. The rugged hills around the main town provide opportunities for hikes. Day trips via ferries to Poros and Spetses are possible.

An annual Rebetiko conference is held there in October.

In the 18th and 19th century Hydra was the home to an extensive merchant fleet and its captains built many mansions in Hydra town. Some of these are available for touring.