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

Should you visit Athens or Volterra?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Volterra. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Volterra

Volterra is a cultural, historic, and charming town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Athens and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Volterra?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Athens than Volterra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Athens is better known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Volterra is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Athens is more touristy than Volterra and is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. Volterra is well known for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Athens that are not to be missed. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Many visitors head to Volterra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Volterra can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

For foodies, Volterra is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Is Athens or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

Athens is terrific for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Athens is a must-see party destination. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the amazing old town areas in both Athens and Volterra.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

The rich history of Volterra can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Volterra?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Volterra both offer plenty of notable spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Volterra is a great destination for shopping. 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 Athens or Volterra Better for Families?

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

Athens is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Volterra is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is terrific for backpackers. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Athens is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Volterra is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Athens or Volterra Better for Students?

Athens is well known for students. However, Volterra is not popular with students.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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

Is Athens or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Volterra is a very easy town to get around on foot. Most people explore the town on foot.

Athens is very walkable. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Athens?

How long in Athens or Volterra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Athens or Volterra to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Athens than Volterra because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-2 days is enough time in Volterra.

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

Couples should spend more time in Volterra than Athens. 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 Athens than Volterra 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Volterra?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Volterra?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Volterra is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Volterra?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Volterra?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Volterra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Volterra, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Volterra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Volterra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Volterra and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Volterra.

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Volterra?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Volterra?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Volterra in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Volterra. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Athens is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Volterra averages at about 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Volterra. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Volterra. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Volterra in the Autumn?

Both Volterra and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Volterra in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Athens is generally a little warmer than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Volterra. In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Volterra. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Volterra in the Winter?

Both Volterra and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Volterra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Athens is a little warmer than Volterra in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Volterra fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Volterra. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Volterra in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Volterra. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Volterra because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Athens is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Volterra averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Volterra. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Athens