A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Volos vs. Positano for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Volos or Positano?

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 Volos and Positano can help you decide which place is right for you.

Volos

Volos is a youthful, authentic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Positano

Positano is a luxurious, charming, and picturesque Mediterranean village. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Volos and Positano: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling


Is there more to do in Volos or Positano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Volos. Although Volos and Positano are both popular with visitors, Volos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Volos is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Positano is known for its food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Positano is more touristy than Volos and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Volos is popular for its vibrant seaside setting and its access to nearby natural beauty. It is also home to The Archaeological Museum of Volos.

How is Volos different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Volos or Positano?

Volos
Positano

Volos is adequate for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Volos specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in town including the Archaeological Museum of Volos.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Volos or Positano? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Volos
Positano

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

Positano has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Dining out in Volos is an experience not to be missed. Greece cuisine is very regional specific, and this area has its own dishes that are very different from elsewhere in the country. Deep fried kolitsianoi (sea anemone), boubari (local sausage), and spetzofai (sausage, tomato, and peppers) are just some of the unique dishes in the area.

Is Volos or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Volos
Positano

Volos is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Volos for the nightlife scene. The universities around town keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are a number of bars and clubs that are fun throughout the year.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Volos or Positano Better for Resorts?

Volos
Positano

Positano is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Volos is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Positano is a perfect choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Volos is not a resort destination.


Is Volos or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Volos
Positano

Volos is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Positano is not a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Volos. There are some snorkeling and dive shops in town that offer day trips.

Snorkeling is an option in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Is Volos or Positano Better for Beaches?

Volos
Positano

Volos is great for the beach. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its beaches.

Many people visit Volos for it's beautiful beaches. If you're willing to travel out of town, this region has some of the best beaches in Greece. The summers are cooler than other parts of the country and the winters are milder, so this is both a beautiful and a comfortable place to explore.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Is Volos or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Volos
Positano

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

The historic old town of Positano is revered around the world. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Volos does not have a historic old town.


Is Volos or Positano Better for Hiking?

Volos
Positano

Positano is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Volos is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Volos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Volos or Positano?

Volos
Positano

Positano is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Positano is well-known for its shopping. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Many visitors go to Volos to go shopping. There are shopping malls and shopping centers around town that have a variety of retail options including clothing, jewelry, and home goods.

Is Volos or Positano Better for Families?

Volos
Positano

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Volos or Positano.

Volos is a family-friendly city. If your kids are adventurous, they'll enjoy horseback riding or exploring the area's beaches. There's also the Archaeological Museum of Volos and Agios Konstantinos Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Positano. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.


Is Volos or Positano Better for Couples?

Volos
Positano

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

For those traveling as a couple, Positano has plenty to offer. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

Volos is a good city for couples to visit. There are gardens and outdoor activities that couples can enjoy. There are also museums and beaches.

Is Volos or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volos
Positano

Positano is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Volos is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Positano is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Volos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination and you won't find that many hostels in the area.

Is Volos or Positano Better for Students?

Volos
Positano

Volos is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Volos. You'll find several universities in town. The port city also offers access to different parts of the country.

Positano is not popular with students.


Is Volos or Positano Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Volos
Positano

Visitors will find good public transit in both Volos and Positano.

Volos has some public transit options. There is a bus system that travels around town.

You'll find some public transit in Positano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Volos or Positano a more walkable city?

Volos
Positano

Positano is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Volos 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 Positano. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

Volos is a very walkable destination. The city is flat and there's a historic district that you can explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Volos Worth Visiting? and Is Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Volos?

How long in Volos or Positano?

Both Volos and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Volos. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Volos, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Positano than Volos 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 Positano.


  • How many days in Volos or Positano? Ideal Length of Stay
    Volos 1-2 
    Positano 2-7

One day in Volos or Positano?

The city of Volos offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This Mediterranean village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Volos or Positano?

Volos 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 Volos, 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 Positano. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Volos or Positano?

Volos 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.

Positano is a fun place to experience. Positano is a small town with plenty to do. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Volos or Positano?

Volos is a great place to explore. 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.

Positano might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Positano or Volos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Volos is €95, while the average daily cost in Positano is €222. 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 Volos and Positano in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volos 43
    Positano 148
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volos 86
    Positano 296
Compare Hotels in Volos and Positano

Looking for a hotel in Volos or Positano? 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 Volos


Hotels in Positano


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: Volos Hotel Prices and Positano Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volos 37
    Positano 7.73

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volos

Also for Volos, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Volos to Athens Easy & Economy Transfer: $522
  • From Volos to Athens Airport / Athens / Piraeus Private Transfer: $280
  • Volos to Athens, Athens Airport and Piraeus Port Private Transfer: $257

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Positano

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Positano:


  • Bus Ticket
    1.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Positano

Also for Positano, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • private transfer from Sorrento to Naples: $262
  • private transfer from Positano to Naples or reverse: $81
  • private transfer from POSITANO to NAPLES: $109
  • Transfer to Naples with a stop in Pompeii from Positano: $196
  • Transfer from Positano to The Path of the Gods: $109
  • Transfer from Naples to Positano or Positano to Naples : $240
  • Transfer from Naples to Positano : $204
  • Transfer Positano to Naples: $87
  • Transfer Naples - Positano: $273
  • Shared Transfer from Positano to Naples Airport: $52
  • Private transfer from Positano to Naples by the scenic coast: $109
  • Private transfer from Positano to Naples : $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Volos or Positano?

Prices for flights to both Positano and Volos 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
    Volos 30
    Positano 53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volos

For Volos, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Session "Pelion Flavours": $71
  • Cook like a local Greek Cooking lesson in Mt Pelion Greece: $109

Typical Food Prices in Positano

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Positano:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    31
  • Pizza in a Restaurant
    9.32
  • Sandwich in a Restaurant
    12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Positano

For Positano, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner on the farm: $55
  • Cooking class with Pasta, mozzarella and Tiramisu with wine: $64
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sant'Agnello with Show Cooking: $93
  • Gluten Free Cooking School: $108
  • Pizza e Tiramisù class with local mum in Positano: $136
  • 3 Hours Sorrento Cooking Class in Sorrento Coast with Pickup: $142
  • Small Group Positano Cooking Class Gnocchi Tiramisù with Drinks : $147
  • Lemon & sea food cooking class at local's home: $169
  • Small Group Home Cooking Class with a Local: $191
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $191
  • Cesarine: Small group Pizza and Tiramisu Class in Positano: $195
  • Vico Equense: Market Tour, Home Cooking Class, and Dinner: $201

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Volos 17
    Positano 60

Tours and Activities in Volos

For Volos, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • BIKING PELION Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $211
  • East Pelion - Sea Kayak Tour "Short Paddle": $38
  • From Hidden Sights of Meteora Private Tour: $213
  • HIKING PELION - Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $197
  • Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour "The Secret Cave": $49
  • Kayaking Adventure around Pelion Coastline : $33
  • Volos Pelion Full Day Tour : $240
  • Pagasetic Gulf Full-Day Sailboat Experience: $733

Typical Entertainment Prices in Positano

For Positano, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Chair & Umbrella at Spiaggia Grande
    17
  • Day Trip of Capri & Amalfi
    80
  • Sunset Cruise
    24
  • Full Day Wine Tour
    97
  • Cooking Class
    65

Tours and Activities in Positano

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Positano.

  • Amalfi Coast Premium Boat Tour From Sorrento Max 8 People: $244
  • Amalfi Coast Private Half Day Tour from Positano/Praiano: $1,352
  • Amalfi Coast Tour: $272
  • Amalfi Coast Tour: secret caves and stunning beaches: $1,279
  • Amalfi Coast Tour: secret caves and stunning beaches: $2,131
  • Amalfi Coast: Path of the Gods Private Walking Tour: $133
  • Amalfi Coast: Pompei & Vesuvius small group with Skip the line tickets: $147
  • Amalfi Coast: Romantic Sunset Cruise with Music & Cocktails: $159
  • Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour: $208
  • Amalfi coast day tour from Positano: $299
  • Breathtaking Journey on the Path of Gods: Tour from Positano: $2,048
  • Capri All Inclusive Small Group Tour from Positano: $272

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Volos 7.86
    Positano 15

Typical Alcohol Prices in Positano

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Positano:


  • Bottle of Limoncello
    16

Sample the Local Flavors in Positano

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Positano:

  • 5 Wine Tastings with Typical Products in Sorrento Coast: $76
  • Small Group Positano Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $108
  • Pompeii Wine Tasting Tour from Positano: $245
  • Pompeii Guided Tour With Lunch and Wine Tasting from Positano: $250
  • Pompeii Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting from Positano: $272


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Volos and Positano, we can see that Positano is more expensive. And not only is Volos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Volos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Volos 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 Positano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Positano than you might in Volos.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Volos Expensive? and Is Positano Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Volos or Positano?

Volos has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Volos and Positano, 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 Volos or Positano?

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 Volos or Positano in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Volos and Positano. Many visitors come to Volos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Volos is a little warmer than Positano. Typically, the summer temperatures in Volos in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Positano averages at about 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Positano this time of the year. In Volos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Volos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Positano during summer. Volos gets 330 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Volos usually receives less rain than Positano. Volos gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Volos 26°C (78°F) 
    Positano 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Volos or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Volos as well as Positano. Most visitors come to Volos for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Positano because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Volos is generally around the same temperature as Positano. Daily temperatures in Volos average around 17°C (62°F), and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Volos often gets less sunshine than Positano. Volos gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Volos usually gets less rain in October than Positano. Volos gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Volos 17°C (62°F) 
    Positano 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Volos or Positano in the Winter?

Both Positano and Volos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Volos because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

Volos is cooler than Positano in the winter. The daily temperature in Volos averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Volos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Positano during winter. Volos gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Positano. In January, Volos usually receives less rain than Positano. Volos gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Volos 6°C (42°F) 
    Positano 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Volos or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Volos during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Volos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Volos is around the same temperature as Positano. Typically, the spring temperatures in Volos in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Positano averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Volos. In the spring, Volos often gets more sunshine than Positano. Volos gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets less rain in April than Positano. Volos gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Volos 14°C (56°F) 
    Positano 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Positano and Volos

Volos Positano
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)