A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Palermo vs. Volterra for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Palermo or Volterra?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Volterra can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Volterra

Volterra is a historic, charming, and medieval town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Volterra?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palermo than Volterra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palermo is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Volterra is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Also, Palermo is famous for The Cathedral. Volterra is well known for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Palermo different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Volterra is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Volterra is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palermo. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Palermo or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

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

Palermo is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

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 Palermo or Volterra Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palermo has a few good snorkeling spots. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Volterra Better for Beaches?

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

Palermo is considered a top beach destination. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

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.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Volterra?

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

Palermo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo or Volterra Better for Families?

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

Palermo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is very popular for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Volterra is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Palermo or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Volterra are notable destinations for backpackers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Is Palermo or Volterra Better for Students?

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

Palermo is popular with students. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Both Palermo and Volterra offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

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

Is Palermo or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Palermo is very walkable. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Volterra?

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

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

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

One day in Palermo or Volterra?

The city of Palermo offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Palermo or Volterra?

Palermo 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 Palermo, 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Volterra has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Volterra?

Palermo 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Palermo or Volterra?

Palermo is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. Since Volterra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Volterra?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo 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 Palermo or Volterra in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Volterra. Many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Volterra in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Palermo is around the same temperature as Volterra. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palermo in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Volterra averages at about 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Volterra this time of the year. In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Volterra. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Volterra in the Autumn?

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

In October, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 20°C (67°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Volterra. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Volterra in the Winter?

Both Volterra and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Volterra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Volterra. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Volterra in the Spring?

Both Volterra and Palermo during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Volterra this time of year.

In the spring, Palermo is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palermo in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Volterra averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the spring, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Palermo