Hydra, Greece

Of the thousands of islands in Greece, only 227 are inhabited. Although each of Greece’s islands is beautiful, Hydra – part of the Saronic archipelago – is often touted as one of the prettiest, and also one of the best car-free vacation destinations. The easiest way to get to Hydra is by taking a one-hour, 30-minute ferry from Athens’ Piraeus port directly to the island. Whether travelers visit for a day trip, an overnight stay, or spend several days soaking up island life, they will be doing so mostly on foot – as cars and motorcycles are banned by law. At least there’ll be no traffic getting in the way of strolling through Hydra Town, where visitors will find the busiest part of the 10-mile-long isle.

Not far from Athens floats the island of Hydra (aka Ydra or Idra). Once you step foot off the water taxi, visitors will be hard-pressed to find a car or even a bike on the island. Instead, visitors make their way by foot or boat to Hydra's natural springs and isolated beaches. Here, visitors can enjoy picturesque beaches, and charming architecture, admire its Orthodox monasteries and browse the historical archive at the Museum of Hydra. No wheeled vehicles are permitted, so that means no cars or scooters, leaving the cobbled streets totally open to pedestrians and donkeys. Part of the Saronic Islands, Hydra is known for its well-preserved architecture, stunning blue waters, hidden bays, and beautiful coastal hiking paths.