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

Should you visit Lyon or Volterra?

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

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

Lyon

Lyon is a cultural, quaint, and authentic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. 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. 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.

Lyon and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Volterra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lyon. Although Lyon and Volterra are popular destinations, Lyon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lyon is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Volterra attracts visitors for its small town charm. Lyon is more touristy than Volterra and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Lyon different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon 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 Lyon that are not to be missed. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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 Lyon or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lyon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

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

Lyon is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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 Lyon or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

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

Lyon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

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 Lyon or Volterra?

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

Lyon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

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 Lyon or Volterra Better for Families?

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

Lyon is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

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 Lyon or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Lyon 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.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Lyon or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is well known for backpackers. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

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 Lyon or Volterra Better for Students?

Lyon is terrific for students. However, Volterra is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Lyon 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 Lyon can take you anywhere. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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

Is Lyon or Volterra a more walkable city?

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

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

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Volterra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lyon or Volterra to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lyon than Volterra because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Volterra.

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

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

One day in Lyon or Volterra?

Lyon 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 museums and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Lyon or Volterra?

Lyon 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 Lyon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Volterra is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Lyon or Volterra?

Lyon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, five days is sufficent for most. 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. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Lyon or Volterra?

Lyon 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.

Because Volterra is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lyon and Volterra, we can see that Lyon 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 Lyon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lyon 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 Lyon Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Volterra?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Lyon 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 Lyon 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 Lyon or Volterra in the Summer?

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

In July, Lyon is generally around the same temperature as Volterra. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 22°C (71°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 Lyon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during summer. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lyon usually receives more rain than Volterra. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lyon or Volterra in the Autumn?

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

Lyon is cooler than Volterra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Volterra. Lyon usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Lyon 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 Lyon or Volterra in the Winter?

Both Volterra and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Lyon 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 Lyon can be very cold. In the winter, Lyon is much colder than Volterra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lyon in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Volterra averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during winter. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lyon usually receives less rain than Volterra. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lyon or Volterra in the Spring?

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

In April, Lyon is generally cooler than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 11°C (53°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Lyon