A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cagliari vs. Volterra for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Cagliari 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 Cagliari and Volterra can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a historic, under-rated, and laid back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Volterra

Volterra is a charming, medieval, and cultural town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Cagliari and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cagliari or Volterra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cagliari. Although Cagliari and Volterra are popular destinations, Cagliari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cagliari is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Volterra attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cagliari is famous for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also well known for Castello. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Cagliari different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Cagliari and Volterra.

Many visitors head to Cagliari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

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.

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

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dining out in Cagliari is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

Is Cagliari or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

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

Cagliari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

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 Cagliari or Volterra Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is well known for its beaches. However, Volterra is not a beach destination.

Cagliari is considered a top beach destination. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Cagliari or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its old town. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

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.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to see the historical old town. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Volterra?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Cagliari and Volterra.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cagliari. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few shops.

Many visitors go to Volterra to go 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 Cagliari or Volterra Better for Families?

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

Cagliari is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

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 Cagliari or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Cagliari frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.

Is Cagliari or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cagliari and Volterra are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Cagliari is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

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.

Is Cagliari or Volterra Better for Students?

Cagliari is a popular place for students. However, Volterra is not popular with students.

Cagliari is popular with students. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Cagliari 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 Cagliari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

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

Is Cagliari or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Volterra. Most people explore the town on foot.

Cagliari is a very walkable destination. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Volterra?

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

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

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

One day in Cagliari or Volterra?

The city of Cagliari offers 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.

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 Cagliari or Volterra?

Cagliari is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cagliari, 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 Cagliari or Volterra?

Cagliari 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 Cagliari or Volterra?

Cagliari is a great place to explore. 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 city 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 The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Volterra?

Cagliari has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari 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 Cagliari 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 Cagliari or Volterra in the Summer?

Both Volterra and Cagliari during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Volterra because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Volterra. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 24°C (75°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Volterra, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cagliari. In the summer, Cagliari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in July than Volterra. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Volterra in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Volterra. The autumn months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. 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.

Cagliari is a little warmer than Volterra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during autumn. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Volterra receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Volterra. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cagliari or Volterra in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Volterra. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cagliari is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cagliari in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Volterra averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in January than Volterra. Cagliari 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 Cagliari or Volterra in the Spring?

Both Volterra and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cagliari for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Volterra in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Volterra. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 14°C (57°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra during spring. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Volterra. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Cagliari