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

Should you visit Lille or Volterra?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lille 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.

Lille

Lille is a historic, under-rated, and fascinating city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Volterra

Volterra is a historic, charming, and medieval town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. 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.

Lille and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lille or Volterra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lille. Although Lille and Volterra are popular destinations, Lille has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lille is very popular for its nightlife and shopping, while Volterra attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Lille is famous for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene. It is also well known for Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle). Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle)

How is Lille different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Volterra is notable for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

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

Both Lille and Volterra offer fantastic local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

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 Lille or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

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

Lille is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

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 Lille or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is very popular for its old town. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Lille is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Is the Shopping Better in Lille or Volterra?

Lille is terrific for shopping. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Lille is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

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 Lille or Volterra Better for Families?

Volterra is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Volterra is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Lille or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Lille is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Lille or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lille and Volterra are nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Lille. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Volterra is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 Lille or Volterra Better for Students?

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

Lille is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Lille. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

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

Is Lille or Volterra a more walkable city?

Lille and Volterra both are fantastic when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Lille on foot. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Lille?

How long in Lille or Volterra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lille or Volterra to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lille 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 Lille, and 1-2 days is enough time in Volterra.

Families should spend more time in Volterra than Lille. 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 Lille. 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 Lille 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 Lille.

One day in Lille or Volterra?

The beautiful city of Lille offers nightlife and food. 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.

Even though Volterra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Lille or Volterra?

Lille 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lille, 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 Lille or Volterra?

Lille 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. Volterra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Lille or Volterra?

Lille 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 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. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lille or Volterra?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Lille 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 Lille 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 Lille or Volterra in the Summer?

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

In July, Lille is generally cooler than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 17°C (63°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Volterra this time of the year. In Lille, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lille usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during summer. Lille gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lille usually receives more rain than Volterra. Lille gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lille or Volterra in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lille as well as Volterra. Most visitors come to Lille for 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.

Lille is cooler than Volterra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Lille often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Lille gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Volterra. Lille usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Lille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lille or Volterra in the Winter?

Both Volterra and Lille are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Lille 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.

The weather in Lille can be very cold. In the winter, Lille is much colder than Volterra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lille in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Volterra averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during winter. Lille gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Lille or Volterra in the Spring?

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

In April, Lille is generally much colder than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 8°C (47°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Lille often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Lille gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Lille usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Lille gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Lille