How to Get to Hydra. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Athens International Airport ATH

Your journey to Hydra begins with air travel to mainland Greece. Hydra itself lacks an airport. The closest major international airport is Athens International Airport (ATH), also known as Eleftherios Venizelos Airport. This airport serves as the main gateway for international visitors.

Airlines & Routes

ATH hosts major carriers like Delta, American Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France.
Greek carriers Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air also operate here.
These airlines offer direct flights from major global hubs and extensive connections across Europe.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Athens International Airport Provides a full range of services for travelers. You will find duty-free shops, various restaurants and cafes, currency exchange offices, and airline lounges. The airport is modern and well-equipped.

Transfer Options to Piraeus Port

X96 Express Bus: Operates 24/7 from airport to Piraeus port. Travel time 60-90 minutes.
Metro: Take Line 3 (Blue) to Monastiraki, then transfer to Line 1 (Green) to Piraeus. Total travel time approx. 60 minutes.
Taxi: Readily available. Flat rate of €50-€60 to Piraeus port. Travel time 45-60 minutes.

Flight Deals

Explore Dollar Flight Club for low-fare alerts.

Flight Comparison

Utilize Skyscanner for comparing prices.

Car Rental Search

Find car rentals for mainland Greece at DiscoverCars.com.

Sea Arrivals

Ferry Services to Hydra

Hydra is accessible only by ferry or private boat.
The main port for ferries to Hydra is Piraeus Port in Athens.
Main operators: Hellenic Seaways (hydrofoils/catamarans) and Alpha Lines (high-speed vessels).
Travel time: 1.5 to 2 hours for high-speed services.

Booking & Procedures

Booking ferry tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Purchase tickets online or at Piraeus port offices.
For domestic travel, no additional immigration checks occur at seaports.
Upon arrival at Hydra Port, all onward transport is by foot, water taxi, or donkey. No cars.

Departure Information

Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes apply when departing Greece by ferry or air. These are included in your ticket price.

Ferry Departure

Arrive at Hydra Port at least 30 minutes before your scheduled ferry. Have your physical or e-ticket ready.

Airport Departure

For international flights from ATH, arrive 2-3 hours before departure for check-in and security. ATH provides extensive facilities.

Departure Logistics

Airport Services ATH

Athens International Airport offers a wide selection of dining options, shopping opportunities (including duty-free), and airline lounges.

Maximize Your Airport Time

Browse duty-free shops for last-minute souvenirs.
Enjoy a meal or coffee at one of the many airport eateries.
Relax in an airline lounge if you have access.

Hydra Port for Departures

Hydra Port provides basic facilities for departing travelers, including cafes and small shops. These places sell snacks or last-minute items.

Pre-Ferry Routine

Grab a coffee or a quick bite at a waterfront cafe.
Pick up any final local treats or small gifts.
Allow ample time to find your ferry and board calmly.

Luggage Considerations at Departure

Remember Hydra's unique transport system extends to your departure. If your accommodation is not harbor-side, consider pre-arranging donkey transport for your luggage.

Smooth Luggage Transfer

Book a donkey for luggage transport in advance, especially during peak hours.
Confirm the pick-up time and location with your handler or hotel.
Ensure your bags are well-secured and labeled.

Contingency Planning

While usually smooth, unforeseen circumstances can occur. A little foresight minimizes stress.

Prepare for Variables

Check weather forecasts the day before departure, especially for Meltemi winds.
Ferry times can change due to weather conditions.
Have contact numbers for your ferry company and accommodation.

Important Ferry Advisory

Ferry schedules are subject to change, especially outside peak season.
Strong winds (Meltemi) in July and August can lead to delays or cancellations.
Always reconfirm your ferry departure time the day prior to travel.

Keep your physical or e-ticket readily accessible for boarding.
Allow sufficient time at the port for boarding procedures.
Familiarize yourself with the layout of Piraeus Port if departing from there.

Connectivity Post-Departure

International Flight Connections

If flying internationally from Athens, ensure ample buffer time between your ferry arrival at Piraeus and your flight departure from ATH.

Transit Planning

Factor in travel time from Piraeus to ATH (45-90 minutes).
Allow for check-in, security, and potential delays at the airport.
A minimum of 4-5 hours between ferry arrival and international flight departure is prudent.

Staying Connected

Maintain digital connectivity for onward travel and sharing your Hydra memories.

Digital Considerations

Ensure your phone is charged for navigation or contact.
Utilize airport WiFi for updates and last-minute checks.
Consider uploading photos to cloud storage before heading to the airport.

Success Story

Departing Hydra smoothly for your next adventure.

Memories Made

Carry with you the serene beauty of Hydra.

Until Next Time

Hydra awaits your return.

Final Departure Tip

For budget-conscious travelers, the X96 bus offers a good alternative for airport to Piraeus transfer. If arriving late or with considerable luggage, a taxi provides the most direct and convenient transfer.

How to Get to Hydra