Both Hydra and Santorini are very popular among tourists. Hydra is one of the most popular islands to visit on a day trip from Athens. It’s a non-motorized island, so getting around is usually done on foot, water taxi or donkey. Santorini is probably the most known Greek island, famous for its sunsets, wines and beaches. It’s a romantic island, ideal for couples celebrating anniversaries or getting married. It’s filled with interesting places to see and do.

And I’ve also been asked quite frequently what the best way to travel between the two islands is. So, for those planning your summer vacation in Greece, here are the two ways to get from Hydra to Santorini (or the other way around).

Multi leg ferry trip

In order to get from Hydra to Santorini, your first stop is Athens (Piraeus). Many online booking engines allow you to choose a “multi leg trip” so it won’t give you much of a headache.

The journey between Hydra and Piraeus takes between 1h 10 min and 2 h 5 min, depending on the vessel you choose. The only company offering ferries on this route is Hellenic Seaways. There are several departures daily. The price starts at €25.50 per person, one way on the 1h 10 min ferry.

>>more information on Ferries from Athens to Hydra (and return)

Then you need to get on the ferry between Piraeus and Santorini (Thira). The fast connection only takes little under 5 hours and is run by Hellenic Seaways and Sea Jets. There are departures daily during the summer. The fare depends on the company ; on Sea Jets it’s €56.10 one way in economy non smoking class; and on Hellenic Seaways it’s €59 on economy non smoking class.

>>more information on Ferries from Athens to Santorini (and return)

Make sure to check the links above if you want to plan getting from Santorini to Hydra.

Ferry and plane

Hydra doesn’t have an airport so you need to get to Athens first by ferry. (see details above).

Once in Athens you can choose to catch a flight to Santorini. It takes about 45 min and there are 3 total flights daily (offered by the two Greek airlines). Prices start at €87.64 per person (saver, including all taxes and fees, in mid-July 2012), one way, depending on when you purchase the ticket. Also, both companies usually have some special offers available, so it’s worth it to check their websites often.

>>more information on Getting from Athens to Santorini: a flight or a ferry ride away?

Note: the article was first published in June 2009 and has been updated (prices and schedules) as of June 2012.

Photo credit: davesag on Flickr