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

Should you visit Valencia or Volterra?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia 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.

Valencia

Valencia is a historic, architectural, and friendly coastal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

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.

Valencia and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Volterra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia. Although Valencia and Volterra are popular destinations, Valencia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Valencia is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Volterra attracts visitors for its small town charm. Valencia is more touristy than Volterra and is known for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). It is also well known for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Valencia different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Valencia and Volterra.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Valencia can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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 Valencia or Volterra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and Volterra can be difficult as they are each fantastic in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Valencia is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

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 Valencia or Volterra Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is terrific for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Valencia is a must-see party destination. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

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 Valencia or Volterra Better for Resorts?

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

Valencia has a handful of resorts to choose from. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Volterra is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Volterra Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a popular place for its beaches. However, Volterra is not a beach destination.

Valencia is a good option for a beach vacation. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Valencia and Volterra both have fantastic historical old towns that attract visitors.

Valencia offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (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.

Is Valencia or Volterra Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Volterra is not a hiking destination.

Valencia is a good destination for hiking. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Volterra is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Volterra?

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

Valencia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

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 Valencia or Volterra Better for Families?

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

Valencia is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

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 Valencia or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Valencia is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

Is Valencia or Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia 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 Valencia. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

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 Valencia or Volterra Better for Students?

Valencia is terrific for students. However, Volterra is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Valencia. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Valencia 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 Valencia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

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

Is Valencia or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Valencia 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.

Valencia is a very walkable destination. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Volterra?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Valencia than Volterra. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Valencia that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Valencia 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 Valencia.

One day in Valencia or Volterra?

Valencia 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.

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 Valencia or Volterra?

Valencia 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Valencia, 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 Valencia or Volterra?

Valencia 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 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 Valencia or Volterra?

Valencia is a great place to explore. 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 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 The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, 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 Valencia and Volterra, we can see that Valencia 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 Valencia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Valencia 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 Valencia Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Volterra?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia or Volterra in the Summer?

Both Volterra and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Valencia in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Valencia is generally around the same temperature as Volterra. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 25°C (76°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 Valencia. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Volterra during summer. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Volterra. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or Volterra in the Autumn?

Both Volterra and Valencia during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Valencia for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Volterra because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Valencia is a little warmer than Volterra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Valencia gets 198 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. Valencia usually gets less rain in October than Volterra. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Volterra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Volterra. The winter months attract visitors to Valencia 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, Valencia is much warmer than Volterra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valencia in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Volterra averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Volterra during winter. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valencia usually receives less rain than Volterra. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or Volterra in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Volterra. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 15°C (60°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the spring, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Volterra. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in April than Volterra. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Valencia