Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.
We've compiled the best of the best in The Saronic Gulf Islands - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Running from late July through August, this magical event brings leading Greek and international classical musicians to open-air stages on Avra Beach—right in front of the Kolona archaeological site, and in the courtyard of Sotiras Church. It remains under the artistic direction of renowned pianist Dora Bakopoulou. Tickets are sold in advance at Aiakeion Café-Patisserie on the port esplanade and at the venues on the night.
The island celebrates its crucial role in the War of Independence with the Miaoulia, which takes place the last weekend of June. At around 10 pm on Saturday night, Hydra's small port goes dark, and a journey into history commences as the day's festivities culminate in a reenactment of the night Admiral Miaoulis loaded a vessel with explosives and sent it upwind to the Turkish fleet back in 1821. Naturally, the model enemy's ship goes down in flames. Fireworks, music, traditional dancing, treasure hunts, and sports competitions all accompany the burning of the fleet, a glorious part of Hydra's Naval Week.
