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

Should you visit Beaune 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 Beaune 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.

Beaune

Beaune is a quaint, vineyard-filled, and cultural town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Beaune and Volterra: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Beaune or Volterra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beaune. Although Beaune and Volterra are popular destinations, Beaune has more sights and attractions for tourists. Beaune is very popular for its nightlife, while Volterra attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Beaune is more touristy than Volterra and is known for its surrounding vineyards and world-renowned wines. It is also well known for The Surrounding Vineyards. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Beaune different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beaune
Volterra

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Beaune and Volterra.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Beaune. Top sights and museums around town include Hôtel-Dieu (a former hospital), Château de Savigny, and Château de la Rochepot.

Volterra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Beaune or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaune
Volterra

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Beaune and Volterra.

Eat your way through Beaune, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is made up of small, narrow, local bistros that serve local dishes with regional ingredients. Many of the menus are focused on wine with the dishes designed specifically to compliment the wines. This is a tourist town, and you'll find many visitors come specifically to enjoy the French cuisine.

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 Beaune or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

Beaune
Volterra

Beaune is a popular place for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Beaune has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find bars and pubs as well as many places to sip French wine and enjoy the evening.

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 Beaune or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Beaune
Volterra

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

Beaune has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is walled and compact. It is centered around the medieval hospital complex and it is filled with cobblestone streets and shops.

The old town of Volterra is one of the most recognized in the world. 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 Beaune or Volterra?

Beaune
Volterra

Shopping is a popular activity in both Volterra and Beaune.

Beaune offers some nice shopping areas. Boutiques, wine shops, and independent vendors are fun to explore in town.

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.

Is Beaune or Volterra Better for Families?

Beaune
Volterra

Both Beaune and Volterra are nice family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beaune. The town has museums like Hospices de Beaune, Hotel-Dieu (a formal hospital), as well as vineyards that you can hike through. Many people enjoy taking a hot air balloon ride while they're in the region.

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 Beaune or Volterra Better for Couples?

Beaune
Volterra

Beaune and Volterra both amazing destinations for a couple.

Beaune is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples will enjoy exploring vineyards, sipping French wine, and wandering through the charming old town. There are breathtaking hot air balloon rides and wonderful French restaurants that make for a romantic trip.

Volterra makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.


Is Beaune or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaune
Volterra

Volterra is a good destination for backpackers. However, Beaune is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Beaune is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a charming town, but it's not on many backpacker's itineraries. There are also a limited number of hostels to choose from.

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

Beaune
Volterra

Beaune 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 Beaune, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While you can walk around the historic center, it's possible to take a bus if you're traveling further.

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

Is Beaune or Volterra a more walkable city?

Beaune
Volterra

Beaune and Volterra both are amazing when exploring on foot.

Getting around Beaune on foot is easy. It's a walkable town that's perfect for taking a stroll.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Beaune?

How long in Beaune or Volterra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Beaune or Volterra to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Beaune than Volterra because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Beaune, and 1-2 days is enough time in Volterra.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Volterra than Beaune 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 Beaune or Volterra? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaune 2-4 
    Volterra 1-2

One day in Beaune or Volterra?

The town of Beaune offers food and shopping. 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 Beaune or Volterra?

Beaune 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 Beaune, a weekend is sufficent for most. 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 Beaune or Volterra?

Beaune 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.

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 Beaune or Volterra?

Beaune 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.

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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Volterra or Beaune?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaune is €166, 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 Beaune and Volterra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaune 83
    Volterra 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaune 166
    Volterra 122
Compare Hotels in Beaune and Volterra

Looking for a hotel in Beaune 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 Beaune


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: Beaune Hotel Prices and Volterra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaune 41
    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 Beaune or Volterra?

Prices for flights to both Volterra and Beaune 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
    Beaune 54
    Volterra 36
Typical Food Prices in Beaune

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Beaune:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    9.00
  • Cookie
    1.00
  • Coffee
    2.80

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.
    Beaune 33
    Volterra 11
Typical Entertainment Prices in Beaune

Here are a few typical costs in Beaune for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Winery Tour (for 2)
    20

Tours and Activities in Beaune

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

  • Beguiling Beaune Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Burgundy’s Wine Capital: $5.99
  • Skip the Line: Abbaye de Fontenay Admission Ticket: $13
  • Small group guided tour - Beaune 2h: $22
  • Meursault: Tour of the Vineyards on Motorbike with Sidecar: $59
  • Private Guided Sidecar Tour in Burgundy from Meursault: $60
  • Paris Private Walking Street Art Tour: $87
  • Small group tour Morning in Côte de Beaune: $102
  • Touristic highlights of Semur-en-Auxois a Private half day tour with a local: $118
  • Private city tour - Beaune the essential - 2h: $187
  • Private guided tour - Beaune 2h: $191
  • Wine walking tour through the Burgundian vineyards - 2h: $191

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
    Beaune 48
    Volterra 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Beaune

Also in Beaune, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • 2 Hour Sparkling Wine Tasting and visit in Beaune: $11
  • Wine Tasting at Château de Pommard: $21
  • Maison Champy Guided Cellar Tour with Wine Tasting: $27
  • Visit Domaine Bourgogne - Guided wine tasting: $44
  • From Full-Day Bicycle and Wine Tour in Burgundy: $227
  • Burgundy Bike Tour with Wine Tasting from Beaune: $229
  • Wine tour - Meursault, its prestigious whites: $240
  • Wine tour - Aloxe-Corton, its great wines: $240
  • From Burgundy Day Trip with 12 Wine Tastings: $262
  • Côte de Nuits Private Local Wineries and Wine Tasting Tour: $945
  • Côte de Beaune Private Local Wineries and Wine Tasting Tour: $945

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beaune and Volterra, we can see that Beaune 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 Beaune would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaune 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 Beaune Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Beaune or Volterra?

Beaune has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Beaune 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 Beaune 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 Beaune or Volterra in the Summer?

Both Volterra and Beaune are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beaune this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beaune is generally around the same temperature as Volterra. Daily temperatures in Beaune average around 21°C (70°F), 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 Beaune. Beaune usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during summer. Beaune gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Beaune usually receives more rain than Volterra. Beaune gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaune 21°C (70°F) 
    Volterra 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Beaune or Volterra in the Autumn?

Both Volterra and Beaune during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beaune for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, many visitors come to Volterra in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Beaune is cooler than Volterra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaune averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Beaune often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Beaune gets 121 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. Beaune usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Beaune gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Beaune or Volterra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaune and Volterra. Many visitors come to Beaune in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Volterra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Beaune can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Beaune is much colder than Volterra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaune in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Volterra averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Beaune usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during winter. Beaune gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beaune usually receives less rain than Volterra. Beaune gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaune 3°C (38°F) 
    Volterra 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Beaune or Volterra in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beaune as well as Volterra. Most visitors come to Beaune for the small town charm during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Volterra because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Beaune is generally cooler than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Beaune average around 11°C (53°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Beaune often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Beaune gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Beaune usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Beaune gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaune 11°C (53°F) 
    Volterra 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Volterra and Beaune

Beaune Volterra
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (51°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 24°C (74°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (69°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)


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