A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auxerre vs. Volterra for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Auxerre or Volterra?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auxerre and Volterra can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a authentic, under-rated, and undiscovered town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for food and museums.

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.

Auxerre and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Auxerre or Volterra?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Volterra than Auxerre, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Volterra is more touristy than Auxerre and is popular for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster. Also, Volterra is famous for The Roman Theater. Auxerre is well known for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Auxerre different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Auxerre
Volterra

Volterra is great for its historical sights. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


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

Auxerre
Volterra

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Volterra has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Auxerre or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

Auxerre
Volterra

The vibe at night is respectable in both Auxerre and Volterra.

Auxerre doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Most people don't head to Volterra specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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 Auxerre or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Auxerre
Volterra

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

Volterra offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Auxerre does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Auxerre or Volterra?

Auxerre
Volterra

Volterra is very good for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Volterra has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Auxerre or Volterra Better for Families?

Auxerre
Volterra

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Auxerre or Volterra.

Auxerre offers lots of family activities. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Volterra is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Auxerre or Volterra Better for Couples?

Auxerre
Volterra

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Volterra has plenty to offer. 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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.


Is Auxerre or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auxerre
Volterra

Volterra is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

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

Auxerre
Volterra

Auxerre 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 Auxerre, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town.

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

Is Auxerre or Volterra a more walkable city?

Auxerre
Volterra

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.


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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Auxerre?

How long in Auxerre or Volterra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Auxerre or Volterra to fill your time. In our opinion, Volterra has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Volterra than Auxerre. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Volterra than Auxerre. 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 Auxerre 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 Auxerre or Volterra? Ideal Length of Stay
    Auxerre 1-2 
    Volterra 1-2

One day in Auxerre or Volterra?

The town of Auxerre offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Volterra is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Auxerre or Volterra?

Auxerre 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Auxerre, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Volterra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Volterra has to offer.

Five days in Auxerre or Volterra?

Auxerre 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Auxerre or Volterra?

Auxerre is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. Since Volterra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Volterra or Auxerre?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Auxerre is €113, 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 Auxerre and Volterra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Auxerre 51
    Volterra 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Auxerre 102
    Volterra 122
Compare Hotels in Auxerre and Volterra

Looking for a hotel in Auxerre 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 Auxerre


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: Auxerre Hotel Prices and Volterra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Auxerre 46
    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 Auxerre or Volterra?

Prices for flights to both Volterra and Auxerre 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
    Auxerre 34
    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.
    Auxerre 18
    Volterra 11

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Auxerre.

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112

Tours and Activities in Volterra

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

  • Cesani Wine Experience: $33
  • Chianti and Castle Small Group Tour from San Gimignano: $93
  • Discover Volterra with Licensed Tour Guide: $214
  • Private Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Wine, Evo Oil & Meal: $69
  • Private Tour in San Gimignano: $150
  • Private Tour: San Gimignano Walking Tour: $207
  • Private walking tour in San Gimignano with a local licensed guide: $218
  • San Gimignano Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $293
  • San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey small group tour: $149
  • Truffle Lunch & Hunting Experience in San Gimignano: $180
  • Tuscany: Volterra Truffle Hunting Experience: $203
  • Volterra - Archeotour by e-bike with tasting: $187

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Auxerre 6.14
    Volterra 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Auxerre:

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273

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 Auxerre and Volterra, we can see that Auxerre 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 Auxerre Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Auxerre or Volterra?

Auxerre has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Auxerre 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 Auxerre 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 Auxerre or Volterra in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Auxerre as well as Volterra. Most visitors come to Auxerre for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Volterra because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Auxerre is cooler than Volterra. Typically, the summer temperatures in Auxerre in July average around 19°C (66°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 Auxerre this time of the year. In the summer, Auxerre often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Auxerre gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun.

Auxerre usually gets more rain in July than Volterra. Auxerre gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F) 
    Volterra 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Auxerre or Volterra in the Autumn?

Both Volterra and Auxerre are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Auxerre because of the small town atmosphere. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Volterra this time of year.

In October, Auxerre is generally cooler than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Auxerre average around 13°C (55°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Auxerre usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during autumn. Auxerre gets 126 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, Auxerre usually receives less rain than Volterra. Auxerre gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F) 
    Volterra 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Auxerre or Volterra in the Winter?

Both Volterra and Auxerre during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Auxerre this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Auxerre in the winter. Auxerre is much colder than Volterra in the winter. The daily temperature in Auxerre averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Volterra fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Auxerre often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Auxerre gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun.

Auxerre usually gets less rain in January than Volterra. Auxerre gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F) 
    Volterra 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Auxerre or Volterra in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Auxerre and Volterra. Many travelers come to Auxerre for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Volterra in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Auxerre is cooler than Volterra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Auxerre in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Volterra averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Auxerre usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during spring. Auxerre gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Auxerre usually receives less rain than Volterra. Auxerre gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F) 
    Volterra 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Volterra and Auxerre

Auxerre Volterra
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (51°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in) 24°C (74°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)


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