A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Volterra vs. Amalfi for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Volterra or Amalfi?

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

Should I visit Volterra or Amalfi? 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.

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.

Amalfi

Amalfi is a charming, picturesque, and stunning town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Volterra and Amalfi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Volterra or Amalfi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amalfi. Although Volterra and Amalfi are popular destinations, Amalfi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amalfi is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Volterra attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Amalfi is more touristy than Volterra and is known for its dramatic views, charming character, and excellent limoncello. It is also well known for the dramatic coastline. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Volterra different from Amalfi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Volterra is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Amalfi. The town is an attraction in and off itself. It's filled with charm and character and visitors spend much of their time simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Volterra and Amalfi.

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.

Amalfi has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town's access to the beautiful sea means that many dishes use a variety of seafood. Eggplant is also a common ingredient and you'll find everything from pastas to elegant desserts around town.

Is Volterra or Amalfi Better for Nightlife?

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

Amalfi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a good number of bars and clubs in town that often have live music or DJs. Alternatively, there are also clubs that dot the entire coastline.

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 Volterra or Amalfi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Amalfi is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Amalfi has a few good snorkeling spots. You'll find snorkeling trips that take you along the coastline and stop at several places so you can take a peak at the underwater world.

Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Volterra or Amalfi Better for Beaches?

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

Amalfi is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches tend to be pebbly and rocky. During the summer months they can get very crowded, but taking a swim is a great way to escape the heat for a bit.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Volterra or Amalfi Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its old town. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Volterra offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Amalfi. The town is charming and filled with great shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

Is Volterra or Amalfi Better for Hiking?

Amalfi is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Volterra is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Amalfi. The coastline is filled with great trails that offer stunning views. Hiking is a top way to see the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and catch a glimpse at some of the best beaches.

Volterra is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Volterra or Amalfi?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Amalfi and Volterra.

Volterra is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Amalfi. You'll find many great shops that sell everything from clothing to fine wine, local foods, or limoncello.

Is Volterra or Amalfi Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Volterra or Amalfi.

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.

Amalfi offers lots of family activities. The town is positioned in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, making it a great base for exploring the area. It's also one of the larger towns so you'll find more energy and things to do with kids, including the Museum of Paper.

Is Volterra or Amalfi Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Volterra and Amalfi make for a terrific place to visit.

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.

For those traveling as a couple, Amalfi has plenty to offer. The Amalfi Coast is a world class honeymoon destination and couples will enjoy staying in the lively town of Amalfi. It's a quaint and beautiful town in the middle of everything, so you'll have access to all that the area has to offer.

Is Volterra or Amalfi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volterra is a town with good options for backpackers. However, Amalfi is not particularly known 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.

Amalfi is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The area has a couple of hostels around, but in general this is a difficult place to visit as a backpacker. There are SITA buses that offer transportation, and because the town is in the middle of the coastline, it offers decent access to everything.

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

Amalfi 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 Amalfi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The SITA buses offer transit between many of the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

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

Is Volterra or Amalfi a more walkable city?

Volterra and Amalfi both are terrific when exploring on foot.

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

Amalfi is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a compact and charming town that is a bit flatter than some nearby villages so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Amalfi or Volterra?

How long in Volterra or Amalfi?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Volterra than Amalfi 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.

One day in Volterra or Amalfi?

Volterra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The beautiful town of Amalfi offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Volterra or Amalfi?

Volterra is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Volterra or Amalfi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Amalfi is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amalfi, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Volterra or Amalfi?

Volterra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Amalfi is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amalfi has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Volterra or Amalfi?

Volterra has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Amalfi. When comparing the sizes of Volterra and Amalfi, 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 Volterra or Amalfi?

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 Volterra or Amalfi in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Volterra is around the same temperature as Amalfi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Volterra in July average around 23°C (74°F), and Amalfi averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Amalfi. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Volterra. Volterra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi during summer. Volterra gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Volterra usually receives less rain than Amalfi. Volterra gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Volterra or Amalfi in the Autumn?

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

In October, Volterra is generally around the same temperature as Amalfi. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 16°C (61°F), and Amalfi fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Volterra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi. Volterra gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun.

Amalfi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Volterra. Volterra usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Amalfi. Volterra gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Volterra or Amalfi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Volterra and Amalfi. The winter months attract visitors to Volterra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amalfi this time of year.

Volterra is cooler than Amalfi in the winter. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 7°C (45°F) in January, and Amalfi fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Volterra usually receives less sunshine than Amalfi during winter. Volterra gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Amalfi receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Volterra usually receives less rain than Amalfi. Volterra gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Volterra or Amalfi in the Spring?

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

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

In the spring, Volterra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi. Volterra gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets more rain in April than Amalfi. Volterra gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amalfi and Volterra