A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Volterra for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Arachova or Volterra?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Volterra, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and bustling town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Volterra

Volterra is a medieval, cultural, and historic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Arachova and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Arachova or Volterra?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Volterra are both popular with visitors, Arachova has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Arachova is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, and hiking, while Volterra is known for its museums, food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Arachova is more touristy than Volterra and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also home to Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Volterra is popular for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Arachova different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Volterra and Arachova. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Arachova or Volterra Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Volterra

Arachova is a popular place for winter skiing. However, Volterra is not a skiing destination.

Arachova is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Volterra is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Volterra?

Arachova
Volterra

Volterra is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Volterra can be an interesting and educational experience. For such a large town there are a huge number of historic sights packed into a small area. Check out the Roman Theater, the Etruscan Museum, and the Duomo.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Volterra

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Volterra is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The town is surrounded by the region of truffles, so you'll find this item included in all kinds of recipes. Pumpkin sauce is also a specialty of the area and there are also many local cheeses. Many restaurants also have bruschetta as an appetizer.

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Arachova or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Volterra

Arachova is well known for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Volterra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are cozy bars and cafes where you can sip wine and soak up the atmosphere, but the town isn't known as a nightlife destination.


Is Arachova or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Volterra

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Volterra offers plenty to see. The walled town is perched on a hilltop and dates back to the 8th century BC. Visitors come specifically to explore its winding streets and stunning setting.

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Is Arachova or Volterra Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Volterra

Arachova is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Volterra is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Volterra is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Volterra?

Arachova
Volterra

Shopping is a popular activity in both Volterra and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Volterra. Some of the streets are lined with boutique shops and one of the most popular things to buy in town is Alabaster. You'll also find plenty of Italian wine from the nearby vineyards.


Is Arachova or Volterra Better for Families?

Arachova
Volterra

Arachova is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Arachova is a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Volterra offers lots of family activities. If you have a Twilight fan, this town is home to the Volturi, who are the royal family of vampires. For everyone else, its a charming town with medieval walls and wandering alleys that kids will enjoy exploring.

Is Arachova or Volterra Better for Couples?

Arachova
Volterra

Volterra is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Volterra has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's unique atmosphere, amazing food, and medieval style make for a unique and world class couples destination. While many people visit as a day trip, you can spend the night and soak up the evening atmosphere as well.

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Arachova or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Volterra

Volterra is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Volterra. There's only one or two hostels in town, so if you're looking for a more social backpacker setting, then this may not be your spot. It does make for a great day trip though and if you're more interested in culture than meeting other backpackers, then definitely stop by.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


Is Arachova or Volterra Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Volterra

Arachova is a popular place for its public transit. However, Volterra is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Volterra. Public transit isn't necessary as the city is best explored on foot.

Is Arachova or Volterra a more walkable city?

Arachova
Volterra

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Volterra on foot is easy. Most people explore the town on foot.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Volterra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Volterra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Arachova or Volterra to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Arachova than Volterra because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 1-2 days is enough time in Volterra.

Families should spend more time in Arachova than Volterra. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Arachova, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Volterra than Arachova. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Volterra that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Volterra than Arachova if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Volterra.


  • How many days in Arachova or Volterra? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Volterra 1-2

One day in Arachova or Volterra?

The town of Arachova offers museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Volterra is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Arachova or Volterra?

Arachova is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arachova, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Volterra is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Volterra, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Volterra?

Arachova is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Volterra is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Volterra?

Arachova is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Volterra is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Volterra or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Volterra is €101. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Volterra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Volterra 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Volterra 122
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Volterra

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Volterra? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Volterra


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Volterra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Volterra 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volterra

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Volterra:

  • Private Transfer from San Gimignano to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $248

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Volterra?

Prices for flights to both Volterra and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Volterra 36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volterra

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Volterra.

  • Buffet dinner at the farm: $49
  • Dining experience at a local's home in San Gimignano with show cooking: $93
  • Volterra - Olive oil tasting with lunch with lunch or dinner: $112
  • Pizza Cooking Class: $112
  • Fresh Pasta Cooking Class: $112
  • "Hands in dough" Cooking Class with Lunch: $120
  • Tuscan Cooking Class: $126
  • Tuscany: Wine Tasting Lunch or Dinner: $128
  • Winery Cave Dinner & Tasting in Tuscany - Romantic & Lovely : $137
  • Fiorentina Steak Dinner & Wine Tasting: $164
  • Cooking class, wine tasting and 2500 year old granaries: $175
  • Cooking Classes in Tuscany among the Chianti Vineyards: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Volterra 11

Tours and Activities in Volterra

Here are a few actual costs in Volterra for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Cesani Wine Experience: $33
  • Private Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Wine, Evo Oil & Meal: $69
  • Cocktail Mixing Experience with Snacks: $75
  • Chianti and Castle Small Group Tour from San Gimignano: $93
  • San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey small group tour: $149
  • Private Tour in San Gimignano: $150
  • Volterra tour + Salt Mine visit by shuttle from Lucca&Pisa: $159
  • Piazza dei Priori & Cathedral Private Walking Tour: $160
  • Truffle Lunch & Hunting Experience in San Gimignano: $180
  • Volterra - Archeotour by e-bike with tasting: $187
  • Tuscany: Volterra Truffle Hunting Experience: $203
  • Private Tour: San Gimignano Walking Tour: $207

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Volterra 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Volterra

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Volterra:

  • San Gimignano: Chianti wine tasting : $33
  • Casa Emma Wine Tasting : $34
  • Gourmet Wine Tour San Gimignano Wine Tasting - San Quirico Winery: $36
  • 5 Wine Tastings in San Gimignano: $60
  • Lunch with Wine Tasting: $60
  • "Gourmet" Wine Tasting at Cesani's: $66
  • Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $71
  • Vineyard Walk & Wine Tasting in Tuscany: $115
  • Brunello Wine Tasting from San Gimignano: $130
  • Exclusive evening wine tasting at organic winery : $218
  • Chianti e-bike tour from Florence with wine tasting: $284
  • Private Excursion: Volterra & San Gimignano+wine tastings: $289


When comparing the travel costs between Arachova and Volterra, we can see that Arachova is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arachova Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Volterra?

Volterra has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Volterra, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Arachova or Volterra?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arachova or Volterra in the Summer?

Both Volterra and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arachova in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Arachova is a little warmer than Volterra in the summer. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Volterra fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Volterra. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Volterra. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Volterra 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Volterra in the Autumn?

Both Volterra and Arachova during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Volterra because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Arachova is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arachova in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Volterra averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the autumn, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun.

Volterra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Volterra 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Volterra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Volterra. The winter months attract visitors to Arachova because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Volterra this time of year.

In January, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 10°C (51°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Volterra. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Volterra 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Volterra in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Volterra. The small town charm are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Arachova is a little warmer than Volterra in the spring. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the spring, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Volterra 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Volterra and Arachova

Arachova Volterra
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (51°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)


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