A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Portimao vs. Volterra for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Portimao 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 Portimao 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.

Portimao

Portimao is a active, scenic, and adventure-filled coastal city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

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.

Portimao and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Volterra?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portimao than Volterra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portimao is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Volterra is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm. Portimao is more touristy than Volterra and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Also, Portimao is famous for Praia da Rocha. Volterra is well known for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Portimao different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Volterra is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Volterra is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its restaurants.

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.

Portimao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many resorts have attached restaurants where visitors often find themselves dining. For a slightly more local vibe, you can check out one of the many restaurants around town. Much of the restaurant scene is centered around the Alvor District where you'll find unique options that serve local dishes mixed in with some international choices. The city is most famous for its grilled sardines, which are considered a local specialty.

Is Portimao or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

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

Portimao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's nightlife scene is mostly found around Praia da Rocha. It's a compact area that makes it easy to hop from bar to bar on foot. Particularly during the summer months you'll find plenty of parties and all night activities that draw a crowd. Sunset boat parties are also a popular activity in the area.

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 Portimao or Volterra Better for Resorts?

Portimao is terrific for its resorts. However, Volterra is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Portimao is a great choice. The area has all types of resorts, from all-inclusive options to luxury or more family-friendly. Many of the resorts are surprisingly affordable and offer easy access to the beach.

Volterra is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Volterra Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Portimao. The best water conditions are during the summer months but this is also when the beaches are crowded and swimmers can kick up a lot of sand. There are a variety of vendors where you can book snorkeling or diving trips in the area.

Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Volterra Better for Beaches?

Portimao is terrific for its beaches. However, Volterra is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Portimao. The stunning beaches are a major draw to the area. They are sandy and feature a backdrop of dramatic red cliffs. The most popular beach in town is Praia da Rocha, which can get crowded during the summer months, but it is quite large so you should still be able to find a spot. The strip behind the beach is lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and a casino. If you want to avoid some of the crowds you can make the walk down to Praia do Vau. Families often enjoy Praia de Alvor, which has a boardwalk that leads to Ria de Alvor nature reserve.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Portimao or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Portimao does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Volterra is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Volterra?

Both Portimao and Volterra are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Portimao to go shopping. It's the second largest city in the Algarve so you'll find several large and modern shopping centers including Aqua Portimão.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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 Portimao or Volterra Better for Families?

Portimao is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Portimao is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the wide range of activities available near Portimao. They can kayak through caves, see an underwater world snorkeling, learn to surf, visit waterparks, explore nature parks, and more. There are activities that the whole family can enjoy, making this stretch of coastline the perfect option for those traveling with kids.

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 Portimao or Volterra Better for Couples?

Portimao and Volterra both amazing destinations for a couple.

Portimao is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful stretch of coastline offers unique beaches and stunning outdoor activities. It makes a wonderful honeymoon destination for couples who enjoy adventure, pampering, and romantic resorts. There are great restaurants as well as places to relax or activities for thrill seekers.

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.

Is Portimao or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Portimao and Volterra are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Portimao. Most people think of high end resorts when they think of the Mediterranean coast, but there are a couple of hostels available for backpackers. You should also consider transportation options. While buses are available, many visitors prefer to have access to a car so they can experience the outlying regions. The good news is the area in general is not particularly expensive so you can enjoy a touch of luxury at a lower cost.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Portimao or Volterra Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Portimao and Volterra offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Portimao. There are local buses around town but many routes don't run on weekends.

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

Is Portimao or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its walkability.

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

Portimao is generally not a very walkable coastal city. While there are some nice walks along the coastline, the city is fairly large and spread out with many resorts located far from the center of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Volterra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Portimao or Volterra to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Portimao than Volterra because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Portimao, and 1-2 days is enough time in Volterra.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Volterra than Portimao 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 Portimao or Volterra?

The beautiful coastal city of Portimao offers nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. 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 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.

A weekend in Portimao or Volterra?

Portimao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portimao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Volterra is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Volterra, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portimao or Volterra?

Portimao is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches 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.

Volterra 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.

A week in Portimao or Volterra?

Portimao is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 coastal city offers something for everyone.

Volterra is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Portugal, The Best Bicycle 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 Portimao and Volterra, we can see that Portimao 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 Portimao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portimao 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 Portimao Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Volterra?

Portimao has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Portimao 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 Portimao 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 Portimao or Volterra in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Volterra. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portimao this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Portimao is around the same temperature as Volterra. Typically, the summer temperatures in Portimao in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Volterra averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives less rain than Volterra. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portimao or Volterra in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Volterra. Many travelers come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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, Portimao is generally a little warmer than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 19°C (67°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite rainy in Volterra. Portimao usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Volterra in the Winter?

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

Portimao is much warmer than Volterra in the winter. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Volterra fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In January, Portimao usually receives around the same amount of rain as Volterra. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portimao or Volterra in the Spring?

Both Volterra and Portimao during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Portimao for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Volterra because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Portimao is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Portimao in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Volterra averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Portimao gets 38 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 Portimao