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

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Volterra?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Volterra? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a spectacular, iconic, and impressive destination. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and museums.

Volterra

Volterra is a charming, medieval, and cultural town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Cape Sounion and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Volterra?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Volterra than Cape Sounion, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Volterra is better known for its food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Cape Sounion is more popular for its museums and beaches. Cape Sounion is well known for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets. Volterra is well known for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster. Also, Volterra is famous for The Roman Theater.

How is Cape Sounion different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Volterra?

Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion that are not to be missed. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

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 Cape Sounion or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Volterra is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Cape Sounion or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

Both Cape Sounion and Volterra have respectable vibes after the sun sets.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cape Sounion. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Volterra is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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 Cape Sounion or Volterra Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion is a popular place for its beaches. However, Volterra is not a beach destination.

Cape Sounion is a good option for a beach vacation. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Volterra has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Volterra?

Volterra is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Volterra Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cape Sounion or Volterra.

Cape Sounion is a family-friendly destination. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Volterra. 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 Cape Sounion or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is very popular for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

Is Cape Sounion or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion and Volterra are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cape Sounion. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

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

Is Cape Sounion or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Volterra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Volterra than Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion 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.

One day in Cape Sounion or Volterra?

The destination of Cape Sounion 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 where visitors enjoy the shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Cape Sounion or Volterra?

Cape Sounion is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this destination makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Sounion, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Volterra is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Volterra?

Cape Sounion is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums 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.

Volterra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Cape Sounion or Volterra?

Cape Sounion is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This destination offers something for everyone.

Volterra is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to 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 Cape Sounion and Volterra, we can see that Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Volterra?

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

Both Volterra and Cape Sounion during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Volterra this time of year.

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

In Volterra, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the summer, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in July than Volterra. Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Volterra in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Volterra. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Volterra for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In Cape Sounion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during autumn. Cape Sounion gets 206 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, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Volterra. Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Volterra in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Volterra. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Volterra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

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

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

Both Volterra and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cape Sounion in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Volterra for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during spring. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Volterra. Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion