A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers San Sebastian vs. Volterra for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit San Sebastian or Volterra?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a splendid, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Volterra

Volterra is a historic, charming, and medieval town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

San Sebastian and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Volterra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Sebastian. Although San Sebastian and Volterra are popular destinations, San Sebastian has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Sebastian is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Volterra attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. San Sebastian is more touristy than Volterra and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. It is also well known for La Concha Bay. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is San Sebastian different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Sebastian or Volterra?

Volterra is notable for its sights and museums. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around San Sebastian. Head to Castillo de la Mota for nice views and walks. Museo San Telmo offers an overview of Basque culture and Palacio de Miramar is another interesting place to visit.

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

Both San Sebastian and Volterra offer fantastic local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, San Sebastian is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It is a famed culinary capital of not just Spain, but the entire world. The city has many Michelin-starred restaurants where you can experience modern or traditional recipes prepared by world class chefs. There are also pintxo bars, food markets, and gourmet food shops, that sell local ingredients and dishes. Much of the cuisine includes seafood, but you'll also find a local twist on traditional tapas. Dining is a true experience in this town.

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 San Sebastian or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

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

San Sebastian is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. You can expect a lively nightlife scene around town with many bars and places to hang out. Some of the best nightlife is found in and around Parte Vieja, Centro, Reyes Católicos and Gros.

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 San Sebastian or Volterra Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a popular place for its resorts. However, Volterra is not a resort destination.

San Sebastian has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

Volterra is not a resort destination.

Is San Sebastian or Volterra Better for Beaches?

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

San Sebastian is considered a top beach destination. The city has three urban beaches that are a huge attraction during the summer months. For surfing and a lively atmosphere, head to the Playa de la Zurriola. The playa de la Concha is the most photographed and famous beach in town and Ondarreta is another beautiful option.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is San Sebastian or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is very popular for its old town. However, San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Volterra?

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

San Sebastian is an extremely popular place for shoppers. A mix of familiar brands and locally made items make shopping a fun activity. You'll also find many artisan food shops around town where you can take home some local wine or other culinary treats.

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 San Sebastian or Volterra Better for Families?

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

San Sebastian is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is surprisingly family-friendly. Not only is there the beach, but there are playgrounds everywhere. There's also the fun Monte Igueldo San Sebastian Amusement Park and the San Sebastian Aquarium. You could also take a boat ride or explore the many parks and gardens around town. And, of course, there are the many ice cream shops to check out.

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 San Sebastian or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

San Sebastian makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its nice beaches, stunning view points, and world class restaurants, this city makes an excellent couple's destination. There are Michelin star restaurants to dine in and many parks and gardens where you can take a stroll as well.

Is San Sebastian or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian. There are a number of hostels around town, and you'll find enough other backpackers looking to meet up so you'll never be lonely.

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 San Sebastian or Volterra Better for Students?

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

San Sebastian is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

San Sebastian is a popular place for its public transit. However, Volterra is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in San Sebastian, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

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

Is San Sebastian or Volterra a more walkable city?

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

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

San Sebastian is a very walkable destination. It's a great city for walking, with many pedestrian areas and places where you can take a stroll along the river or seaside.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Volterra?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Volterra than San Sebastian. 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 San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian.

One day in San Sebastian or Volterra?

The city of San Sebastian offers food and shopping. 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.

Even though Volterra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in San Sebastian or Volterra?

San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian, 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in San Sebastian or Volterra?

San Sebastian 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.

Volterra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in San Sebastian or Volterra?

San Sebastian is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food 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 city offers something for everyone.

Volterra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Volterra?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Volterra. Many visitors come to San Sebastian in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, San Sebastian is generally cooler than Volterra. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 20°C (68°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Volterra this time of the year. In San Sebastian, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during summer. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Volterra. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Volterra in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Volterra. Most visitors come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Volterra because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Volterra in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Volterra. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Volterra. San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the autumn. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in October than Volterra. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Volterra in the Winter?

Both Volterra and San Sebastian are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to San Sebastian 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.

In the winter, San Sebastian is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Sebastian in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Volterra averages at about 7°C (45°F).

San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during winter. San Sebastian gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In January, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Volterra. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Volterra in the Spring?

Both Volterra and San Sebastian during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, San Sebastian is generally around the same temperature as Volterra. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 12°C (54°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Volterra. San Sebastian gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in April than Volterra. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Volterra and San Sebastian