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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Volterra?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Volterra? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a bustling, historic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Thessaloniki and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Volterra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki. Although Thessaloniki and Volterra are popular destinations, Thessaloniki has more sights and attractions for tourists. Thessaloniki is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Volterra attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Volterra and is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also well known for The Monument of Rotonda. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Thessaloniki different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Thessaloniki and Volterra.

Thessaloniki offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

Many visitors head to Volterra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Thessaloniki or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Volterra is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Volterra is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Dining out in Thessaloniki is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

Is Thessaloniki or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

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

Thessaloniki is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

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 Thessaloniki or Volterra Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a city with a few options for its beaches. However, Volterra is not a beach destination.

Thessaloniki is a good spot to see the beach. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Volterra is revered around 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.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Volterra?

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

Thessaloniki is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

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 Thessaloniki or Volterra Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Volterra.

Thessaloniki is a family-friendly city. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Volterra. 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 Thessaloniki or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

Is Thessaloniki or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Thessaloniki or Volterra Better for Students?

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

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

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

Is Thessaloniki or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Volterra?

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

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Volterra?

The city of Thessaloniki 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 is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Volterra?

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Volterra is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Volterra?

Thessaloniki 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 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. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Thessaloniki or Volterra?

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. 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 popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, 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 Thessaloniki and Volterra, we can see that Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Volterra?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Volterra in the Summer?

Both Volterra and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Volterra this time of year.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Volterra. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Volterra, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets more rain in July than Volterra. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Volterra in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Volterra. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Volterra for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 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, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Volterra. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Volterra in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Volterra. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Volterra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Thessaloniki is cooler than Volterra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Volterra averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Volterra. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Volterra in the Spring?

Both Volterra and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Volterra for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Volterra. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Volterra. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Thessaloniki