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

Should you visit Hydra or Volterra?

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

Should I visit Hydra 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.

Hydra

Hydra is a quaint, picturesque, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Volterra?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Volterra are both popular with visitors, Hydra has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hydra is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Volterra is known for its food and historical sights. Hydra is more touristy than Volterra and is known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also home to The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Volterra is popular for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Hydra different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Hydra and Volterra have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hydra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

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 Hydra or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Volterra is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and 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.

Hydra has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Is Hydra or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Hydra or Volterra has a better nightlife scene.

Hydra is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

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 Hydra or Volterra Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a popular place for its resorts. However, Volterra is not a resort destination.

Hydra has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Volterra is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Volterra Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hydra has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Volterra Better for Beaches?

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

Hydra is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The historic old town of Volterra is revered around 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

Is Hydra or Volterra Better for Hiking?

Hydra is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Volterra is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hydra. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Volterra is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Volterra?

Hydra is well known for shopping. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Volterra. 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 Hydra or Volterra Better for Families?

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

Hydra is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

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 Hydra or Volterra Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Volterra make for a first-rate place to visit.

Hydra makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

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.

Is Hydra or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volterra is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hydra and Volterra.

Public transit is generally limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

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

Is Hydra or Volterra a more walkable city?

Hydra and Volterra both are first-rate when exploring on foot.

Getting around Hydra on foot is easy. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Volterra?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Volterra than Hydra 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 Hydra or Volterra?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Volterra, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this medieval small town offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hydra or Volterra?

Hydra is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island 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 Hydra, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Hydra or Volterra?

Hydra 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the small town destination of Volterra. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Volterra?

Hydra is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic small town of Volterra. 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. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Hydra and Volterra, we can see that Volterra 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 Hydra Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Volterra?

Volterra has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Volterra in the Summer?

Both Volterra and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Volterra this time of year.

Hydra is a little warmer than Volterra in the summer. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, 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 Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Volterra. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Volterra in the Autumn?

Both Volterra and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hydra 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 the autumn, Hydra is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hydra in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Volterra averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Hydra gets 206 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. Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Volterra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Volterra. Many travelers come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Volterra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 10°C (51°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Volterra. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Volterra in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Volterra. Many visitors come to Hydra in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Volterra for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Hydra is a little warmer than Volterra in the spring. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Hydra