A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Volterra for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a historic, authentic, 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 medieval, cultural, and historic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thiva (Thebes). Although Thiva (Thebes) and Volterra are popular destinations, Thiva (Thebes) has more sights and attractions for tourists. Thiva (Thebes) is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Volterra attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Thiva (Thebes) is famous for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. It is also well known for The Archeological Museum. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra?

Thiva (Thebes)
Volterra

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Thiva (Thebes) and Volterra.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

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.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Volterra

Volterra is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Volterra

Thiva (Thebes) is a popular place for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Thiva (Thebes) has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Volterra

Volterra is very popular for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra?

Thiva (Thebes)
Volterra

Shopping is a popular activity in both Volterra and Thiva (Thebes).

Thiva (Thebes) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Volterra has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Volterra

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Volterra are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Volterra

Volterra is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Volterra

Volterra is a town with good options for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Volterra is a good town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Volterra

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

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

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Volterra

Volterra is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Volterra on foot is easy. Most people explore the town on foot.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.


For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Volterra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra to fill your time. In our opinion, Volterra has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Volterra than Thiva (Thebes). However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Volterra than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). 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 Volterra than Thiva (Thebes) 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.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Volterra 1-2

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra?

The city of Thiva (Thebes) offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Volterra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra?

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes), a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Volterra is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra?

Thiva (Thebes) 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 small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Volterra or Thiva (Thebes)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Volterra is €101. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thiva (Thebes) and Volterra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Volterra 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Volterra 122
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Volterra

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Volterra


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Volterra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Volterra 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volterra

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Volterra:

  • Private Transfer from San Gimignano to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $248

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra?

Prices for flights to both Volterra and Thiva (Thebes) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Volterra 36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volterra

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Volterra.

  • Buffet dinner at the farm: $49
  • Dining experience at a local's home in San Gimignano with show cooking: $93
  • Volterra - Olive oil tasting with lunch with lunch or dinner: $112
  • Pizza Cooking Class: $112
  • Fresh Pasta Cooking Class: $112
  • "Hands in dough" Cooking Class with Lunch: $120
  • Tuscan Cooking Class: $126
  • Tuscany: Wine Tasting Lunch or Dinner: $128
  • Winery Cave Dinner & Tasting in Tuscany - Romantic & Lovely : $137
  • Fiorentina Steak Dinner & Wine Tasting: $164
  • Cooking class, wine tasting and 2500 year old granaries: $175
  • Cooking Classes in Tuscany among the Chianti Vineyards: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Volterra 11

Tours and Activities in Volterra

Here are a few actual costs in Volterra for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Cesani Wine Experience: $33
  • Private Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Wine, Evo Oil & Meal: $69
  • Cocktail Mixing Experience with Snacks: $75
  • Chianti and Castle Small Group Tour from San Gimignano: $93
  • San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey small group tour: $149
  • Private Tour in San Gimignano: $150
  • Volterra tour + Salt Mine visit by shuttle from Lucca&Pisa: $159
  • Piazza dei Priori & Cathedral Private Walking Tour: $160
  • Truffle Lunch & Hunting Experience in San Gimignano: $180
  • Volterra - Archeotour by e-bike with tasting: $187
  • Tuscany: Volterra Truffle Hunting Experience: $203
  • Private Tour: San Gimignano Walking Tour: $207

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Volterra 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Volterra

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Volterra:

  • San Gimignano: Chianti wine tasting : $33
  • Casa Emma Wine Tasting : $34
  • Gourmet Wine Tour San Gimignano Wine Tasting - San Quirico Winery: $36
  • 5 Wine Tastings in San Gimignano: $60
  • Lunch with Wine Tasting: $60
  • "Gourmet" Wine Tasting at Cesani's: $66
  • Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $71
  • Vineyard Walk & Wine Tasting in Tuscany: $115
  • Brunello Wine Tasting from San Gimignano: $130
  • Exclusive evening wine tasting at organic winery : $218
  • Chianti e-bike tour from Florence with wine tasting: $284
  • Private Excursion: Volterra & San Gimignano+wine tastings: $289


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thiva (Thebes) and Volterra, we can see that Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra?

Thiva (Thebes) has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra in the Summer?

Both Volterra and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for 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 July, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 27°C (81°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Volterra. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Volterra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Volterra 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra in the Autumn?

Both Volterra and Thiva (Thebes) during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Volterra for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Volterra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun.

Volterra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Volterra 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Volterra. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Volterra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Volterra averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Volterra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Volterra 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Volterra in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Volterra. The spring months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Volterra this time of year.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 16°C (60°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Volterra 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Volterra and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Volterra
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (51°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)


Related Articles for Thiva (Thebes)
Related Articles for Volterra