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

Should you visit Istanbul or Volterra?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Volterra, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Volterra

Volterra is a historic, charming, and medieval town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Istanbul and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Volterra?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Volterra are both popular with visitors, Istanbul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Istanbul is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Volterra is known for its small town charm. Istanbul is more touristy than Volterra and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Volterra is popular for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Istanbul different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul 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 Istanbul that are not to be missed. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

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 Istanbul or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Volterra can be difficult as they are each fantastic in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Istanbul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

Many restaurants in Volterra have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Istanbul or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

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

Istanbul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

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 Istanbul or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Volterra both have fantastic historical old towns that attract visitors.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Volterra?

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

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

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 Istanbul or Volterra Better for Families?

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

Istanbul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

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 Istanbul or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Volterra has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

Is Istanbul or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is terrific for backpackers. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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 Istanbul or Volterra Better for Students?

Istanbul is well known for students. However, Volterra is not popular with students.

Istanbul is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its public transit. However, Volterra is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Istanbul can take you anywhere. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

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

Is Istanbul or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Istanbul is a very walkable city. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Volterra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Volterra to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Volterra because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Volterra.

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

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

One day in Istanbul or Volterra?

Istanbul is a big city with plenty to do. 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 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 Istanbul or Volterra?

Istanbul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. 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 Istanbul or Volterra?

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Istanbul, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Istanbul or Volterra?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. 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 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Volterra?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 990 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Volterra in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Volterra. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as Volterra in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Volterra fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Volterra this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Volterra. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Volterra in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Volterra. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Volterra because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Volterra. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Volterra averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Volterra. Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Volterra in the Winter?

Both Volterra and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Volterra this time of year.

In January, Istanbul is generally cooler than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Volterra. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Volterra in the Spring?

Both Volterra and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as Volterra in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Istanbul