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

Should you visit Porto or Volterra?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Porto and Volterra can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. 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 cultural, historic, and charming town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Porto and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Volterra?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Porto. Although Porto and Volterra are both popular with visitors, Porto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Porto is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Volterra is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Porto is more touristy than Volterra and is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also home to Cais da Ribeira. Volterra is popular for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Porto different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Porto or Volterra.

Many visitors head to Porto specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Volterra can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Porto or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Porto and Volterra offer world-class local cuisine and restaurants.

Porto has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Volterra is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Porto or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

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

Porto is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

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 Porto or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Porto to see the historical old town. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Volterra?

If you're looking to go shopping, Porto and Volterra both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Porto. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Volterra offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Porto or Volterra Better for Families?

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

Porto is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

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 Porto or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is very popular for romance. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Volterra 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.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Is Porto or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is terrific for backpackers. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Porto is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

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 Porto or Volterra Better for Students?

Porto is well known for students. However, Volterra is not popular with students.

Porto is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Porto 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 Porto. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

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

Is Porto or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is very popular for its walkability. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its high level of walkability.

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

Porto is a very walkable port city. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Porto?

How long in Porto or Volterra?

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

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

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

One day in Porto or Volterra?

Porto 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.

Even though Volterra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Porto or Volterra?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Porto or Volterra?

Porto is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Porto, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Volterra is a fun place to experience. Volterra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Porto or Volterra?

Porto 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 port city offers something for everyone.

Volterra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, The Best 10-Day 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 Porto and Volterra, we can see that Porto 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 Porto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Porto 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 Porto Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Porto or Volterra?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Porto as well as Volterra. Most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Volterra because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Porto is cooler than Volterra in the summer. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Volterra fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Volterra. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In the summer, Porto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun.

Porto usually gets less rain in July than Volterra. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Volterra in the Autumn?

Both Volterra and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Volterra this time of year.

In the autumn, Porto is around the same temperature as Volterra. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Porto in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Volterra averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Porto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra during autumn. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Volterra. It's quite rainy in Porto. In October, Porto usually receives around the same amount of rain as Volterra. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Porto or Volterra in the Winter?

Both Volterra and Porto during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Volterra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Porto is generally a little warmer than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 10°C (50°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Porto often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets more rain in January than Volterra. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Volterra in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Volterra. Many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Volterra in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Porto is around the same temperature as Volterra in the spring. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. Porto usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during spring. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Porto usually receives more rain than Volterra. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Porto