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

Should you visit Lisbon or Volterra?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

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.

Lisbon and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Volterra?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Volterra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lisbon is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Volterra is more popular for its small town charm. Lisbon is more touristy than Volterra and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Volterra is well known for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Lisbon different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon that are not to be missed. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Volterra can be an enjoyable experience.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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.

Is Lisbon or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Lisbon is a must-see party destination. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or Volterra Better for Music?

Lisbon is terrific for live music. However, Volterra is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is a world class music destination. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Volterra is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Volterra Better for Beaches?

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

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the first-rate old towns in both Lisbon and Volterra.

With a famous historical old-town, Lisbon offers plenty to see. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

The rich history of Volterra can be explored in its historical center. 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 Lisbon or Volterra?

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

Lisbon is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or Volterra Better for Families?

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

Lisbon is a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon 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.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Is Lisbon or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Lisbon is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon or Volterra Better for Students?

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

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon can take you anywhere. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Lisbon or Volterra a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Volterra are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Getting around Volterra on foot is easy. Most people explore the town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Volterra?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Volterra?

Lisbon 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Volterra?

Lisbon 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Volterra?

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Volterra?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Volterra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, 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 Lisbon and Volterra, we can see that Lisbon 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 Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon 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 Lisbon Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Volterra?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Volterra in the Summer?

Both Volterra and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, 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.

In the summer, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Volterra. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°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 Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Volterra. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Volterra in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Volterra. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 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, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Volterra. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Volterra in the Winter?

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

Lisbon is much warmer than Volterra in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Volterra fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Volterra. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Volterra in the Spring?

Both Volterra and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, 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, Lisbon is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon 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 Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Volterra. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Lisbon