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

Should you visit Nantes or Volterra?

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

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

Nantes

Nantes is a vibrant, welcoming, and friendly city. 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 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.

Nantes and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantes or Volterra?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nantes than Volterra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nantes is better known for its nightlife and shopping, while Volterra is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm. Nantes is well known for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. Also, Nantes is famous for The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. Volterra is well known for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Nantes different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Volterra and Nantes.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Nantes can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Volterra. 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 Nantes or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantes is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

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

Nantes is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

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 Nantes or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Volterra offers plenty to see. 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.

Many visitors go to Nantes to see the historical old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantes or Volterra?

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

Nantes is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

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 Nantes or Volterra Better for Families?

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

Nantes is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Nantes frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

Is Nantes or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volterra is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Volterra. 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Nantes or Volterra Better for Students?

Nantes is a popular place for students. However, Volterra is not popular with students.

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Nantes 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 Nantes. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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

Is Nantes or Volterra a more walkable city?

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

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

Nantes is very walkable. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Nantes?

How long in Nantes or Volterra?

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

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

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

One day in Nantes or Volterra?

The beautiful city of Nantes offers food and shopping. 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 Nantes or Volterra?

Nantes 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nantes, a weekend is sufficent for most. 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 Nantes or Volterra?

Nantes 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.

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 Nantes or Volterra?

Nantes is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 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 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Nantes or Volterra?

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

Both Volterra and Nantes during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nantes in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nantes is cooler than Volterra. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nantes in July average around 19°C (67°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 Nantes. In the summer, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Nantes gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets more rain in July than Volterra. Nantes gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or Volterra in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantes and Volterra. Most visitors come to Nantes for 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.

In October, Nantes is generally cooler than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 13°C (56°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Nantes usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during autumn. Nantes gets 141 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, Nantes usually receives less rain than Volterra. Nantes gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nantes or Volterra in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantes as well as Volterra. The winter months attract visitors to Nantes 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.

Nantes is cooler than Volterra in the winter. The daily temperature in Nantes averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Volterra fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Nantes gets 72 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets more rain in January than Volterra. Nantes gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or Volterra in the Spring?

Both Volterra and Nantes are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Nantes this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nantes is cooler than Volterra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nantes in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Volterra averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Nantes usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra during spring. Nantes gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nantes usually receives less rain than Volterra. Nantes gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Nantes