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

Should you visit Montpellier or Volterra?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Montpellier and Volterra. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a bustling, beautiful, and friendly city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Montpellier and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montpellier or Volterra?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Montpellier than Volterra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Montpellier is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Volterra is more popular for its food and small town charm. Montpellier is well known for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. Also, Montpellier is famous for The Place de la Comédie. Volterra is well known for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Montpellier different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Montpellier or Volterra.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Montpellier. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

Volterra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Montpellier or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Volterra, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Montpellier. The dishes are made with fresh ingredients produced in the agricultural areas just outside of town. The area is known for its seafood and fish stews.

Is Montpellier or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

Montpellier is a popular place for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Montpellier has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The weather is mild, making for a nice evening out. The population is also young, so you can expect a lot of activity during the evenings, particularly in the area around Place Jean Jaurés. Make sure you enjoy local wine and champagne while you're in town.

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 Montpellier or Volterra Better for Beaches?

Montpellier is well known for its beaches. However, Volterra is not a beach destination.

Montpellier is considered a top beach destination. The coastline near Montpellier feels pristine and beautiful. You can also visit Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone to the southwest of town, which is a protected area.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Montpellier or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the amazing old town areas in both Montpellier and Volterra.

With a famous historical old-town, Montpellier offers plenty to see. Known as L'Écusson the town's old town dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a pedestrian area that is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and churches.

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 Montpellier or Volterra?

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

Montpellier is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best 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 Montpellier or Volterra Better for Families?

Both Montpellier and Volterra are notable family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Montpellier. Popular activities for kids include taking a ride on the carousel in the Comedie, visiting the playground - Jardin Champs de Mars, and visiting the botanical garden - Jardin des Plantes.

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 Montpellier or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Volterra is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Montpellier is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Rich in history and beautiful architecture, this city offers a romantic setting for a great couple's getaway.

Is Montpellier or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier 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 Montpellier. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of 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 Montpellier or Volterra Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Montpellier. Montpellier is a popular university town that is home to many trendy university students. It's also where you'll find the youngest population of any city in France.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Montpellier 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 Montpellier. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

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

Is Montpellier or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Montpellier is very walkable. Many of the sights and attractions are easily accessible on foot and can be enjoyed as part of a self-guided walking tour.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Volterra?

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

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

One day in Montpellier or Volterra?

The beautiful city of Montpellier offers 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.

Volterra is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the food. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Montpellier or Volterra?

Montpellier 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Montpellier, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Volterra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Montpellier or Volterra?

Montpellier 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.

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. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Montpellier or Volterra?

Montpellier 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.

Since Volterra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the food. 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 France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, 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 Montpellier and Volterra, we can see that Montpellier 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 Montpellier would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Montpellier 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 Montpellier Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Volterra?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier 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 Montpellier 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 Montpellier or Volterra in the Summer?

Both Volterra and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Montpellier is around the same temperature as Volterra. Typically, the summer temperatures in Montpellier in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Volterra averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Volterra. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Montpellier. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during summer. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Volterra. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Montpellier or Volterra in the Autumn?

Both Volterra and Montpellier during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Montpellier for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Volterra in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Montpellier is generally around the same temperature as Volterra. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 15°C (60°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Montpellier often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra. Montpellier gets 187 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Montpellier. Montpellier usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Volterra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Volterra. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Volterra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Montpellier is cooler than Volterra in the winter. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Volterra fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during winter. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Montpellier usually receives around the same amount of rain as Volterra. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Montpellier or Volterra in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Volterra. Most visitors come to Montpellier for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Volterra because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Montpellier is around the same temperature as Volterra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Montpellier in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Volterra averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Montpellier this time of the year. In the spring, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Montpellier