Transfer to Hydra Island Combined With a Sightseeing Tour

This comprehensive sightseeing tour from Athens combines the scenic wonders of the Ermioni or Metochi peninsula with a boat transfer to the picturesque island of Hydra. Along the way, it takes visitors on a captivating journey through ancient Greek history, with stops at iconic sites like the Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, the Archaeological Site of Mycenae, the charming town of Nafplio, and the ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. With private transportation, an expert guide, and an authentic Greek lunch, this tour offers a hassle-free way to take in Greece’s rich cultural heritage. But the real allure lies in the island of Hydra, where the true essence of the Greek Isles awaits.

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Key Points

• This private tour from Athens offers a scenic drive to Ermioni or Metochi peninsula for a boat crossing to Hydra Island, avoiding the traditional boat ride.
• The tour includes stops at the Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, Archaeological Site of Mycenae, Nafplio, Palamidi Fortress, and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.
• The tour provides a comprehensive sightseeing experience with a private tour guide and transportation in a comfortable vehicle, as well as an authentic Greek lunch, coffee, and dessert.
• Entrance fees for select archaeological sites are included, but Hydra Island boat tickets and pickup outside Athens are excluded.
• The tour pricing starts from €9,137 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This private tour from Athens to Hydra Island offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience, allowing visitors to explore the island without the hassle of a boat ride from the Piraeus port.

The tour provides a value-for-money alternative, as it avoids the traditional boat ride and instead takes guests on a scenic drive to the Ermioni or Metochi peninsula, where they’ll board a short boat crossing to Hydra.

Along the way, the tour includes stops at iconic landmarks such as the Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, and the Archaeological Site of Mycenae.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to visit Nafplio, Palamidi Fortress, and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, ensuring a well-rounded sightseeing experience.

Itinerary

The tour departs Athens and first stops at the Corinth Canal, where travelers can marvel at the impressive feat of engineering.

It then proceeds to Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, and the Archaeological Site of Mycenae, allowing visitors to explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region.

After these captivating visits, the tour continues to Nafplio, where guests can discover the charming old town and the impressive Palamidi Fortress.

The final stop before the boat transfer to Hydra Island is the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, known for its remarkable acoustics and well-preserved architectural beauty.

• Explore the Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, and Mycenae
• Visit the historic town of Nafplio and the Palamidi Fortress
• Discover the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus
• Enjoy a seamless transfer to the picturesque island of Hydra

Included in the Tour

The private tour package offers an array of value-added inclusions to ensure a seamless and enriching sightseeing experience.

Travelers are provided with a private tour guide who offers expert insights into the historical and cultural significance of the destinations visited.

On top of that, the tour includes transportation in a brand new, comfortable vehicle, allowing passengers to travel in style between the various sites.

An authentic Greek lunch, coffee, and dessert are also included, giving guests a true taste of local cuisine.

Plus, entrance fees for select archaeological sites are covered, eliminating the need for guests to worry about additional costs.

The tour also includes hotel, cruise ship, or Airbnb pickup, ensuring a convenient start to the day’s exploration.

Excluded From the Tour

While the tour includes an array of valuable inclusions, there are a few items that aren’t covered in the package. Travelers will need to purchase their own boat tickets to Hydra Island, which cost approximately €8 per person. Plus, pickups from locations outside of Athens will incur an additional cost.

The tour may not be suitable for those requiring wheelchair accessibility, as this isn’t specifically mentioned as an included amenity.

The excluded items include:

• Hydra Island boat tickets (€8/person)
• Pickup outside Athens (additional cost)
• Wheelchair accessibility
• Any other expenses not explicitly mentioned as included

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Pricing and Booking

Pricing for the sightseeing tour to Hydra Island starts from €9,137 per person, and travelers can reserve their spots now and pay later.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for those planning their trip.

The price includes various inclusions such as a private tour with a local guide, a brand new vehicle, an authentic Greek lunch, coffee, and dessert, hotel/cruise ship/Airbnb pickup, and entrance fees for select sites.

Travelers can also opt for a licensed site guide for an additional cost. However, the boat tickets to Hydra Island and pickup outside Athens are excluded from the package, and additional costs may apply.

Visiting the Corinth Canal

After departing Athens, the tour first stops at the iconic Corinth Canal, allowing visitors to marvel at this impressive feat of engineering. Spanning 6 kilometers in length and just 23 meters wide, the canal dramatically slices through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth, connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf.

Originally proposed by Ancient Greek tyrant Periander in the 6th century BC, the Corinth Canal was finally completed in 1893 after centuries of attempts.

Serving as a vital waterway for ships, the canal saves vessels a significant distance around the Peloponnese peninsula.

Visitors can walk across the canal’s pedestrian bridges, snap photos of the towering limestone cliffs, and learn about the engineering challenges overcome during its construction.

With its dramatic landscape and historical significance, the Corinth Canal is a must-see stop on the journey to Hydra Island.

Exploring Ancient Corinth and Acrocorinth

From the Corinth Canal, the tour heads to the ruins of ancient Corinth, a once-thriving city-state that played a significant role in Greek history.

Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient marketplace, temples, and the impressive Acrocorinth, a fortified acropolis towering over the region. The Acrocorinth was an important strategic location, with layers of fortifications built over centuries.

Guests can wander through the archaeological site, admiring the Doric columns, the Temple of Apollo, and the Fountain of Peirene. This stop provides a glimpse into the glory days of ancient Corinth, once a prosperous commercial hub and a center of Greek civilization.

Discovering Nafplio and Epidaurus

Next, the tour takes visitors to the charming coastal town of Nafplio, known for its Venetian architecture, medieval fortress, and picturesque harbor. Guests can explore the narrow streets and admire the well-preserved old town before ascending to the Palamidi Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The tour then continues to the ancient site of Epidaurus, home to the remarkable Ancient Theatre, one of the best-preserved classical Greek structures and renowned for its impressive acoustics.

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is considered a masterpiece of Greek architecture, with perfect acoustics that allow even a whisper to be heard from the back rows.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the ancient healing sanctuary, including the Asclepieion, where people sought medical treatments and divine cures in ancient times.

The tour provides an opportunity to learn about the history and cultural significance of these important archaeological sites, which offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of Greece.

Guests can enjoy the scenic beauty of the region, with stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling Aegean Sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Is Spent on Hydra Island?

The tour spends several hours on Hydra Island, allowing visitors to explore the island’s charming seaside town and take in the scenic views. The exact time spent on the island is not specified in the tour overview.

Are There Any Special Requirements for the Boat Crossing?

The boat crossing to Hydra Island has no special requirements. Travelers can simply purchase tickets and board the ferry. The duration of the boat ride is not specified in the provided information.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. The private tour allows flexibility to adjust the sightseeing stops and activities based on the travelers’ interests and preferences. The local guide will work with customers to personalize the experience.

Is the Tour Available Year-Round?

The tour is available year-round, though seasonal factors may impact some aspects. Travelers should check with the tour operator for up-to-date information on any seasonal variations or closures that could affect the itinerary.

What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?

The tour uses a mix of transportation methods. Travelers depart Athens by private vehicle, then transfer to a boat for the short crossing to Hydra Island. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable and efficient sightseeing experience throughout the tour.

Recap

This comprehensive tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore some of Greece’s most iconic historical and cultural attractions.

From the picturesque Hydra Island to the ancient sites of Corinth, Mycenae, and Epidaurus, the tour offers a seamless and immersive experience, complete with private transportation, an expert guide, and an authentic Greek lunch.

It’s an ideal way to discover the rich heritage and stunning natural beauty that make Greece such a captivating destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: