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

Should you visit Volterra or Bari?

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

Should I visit Volterra or Bari? 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 cultural, historic, and charming town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Bari

Bari is a authentic, local, and cultural port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Volterra and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Volterra or Bari?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bari than Volterra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bari is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Volterra is more popular for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Volterra is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster. Bari is well known for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. Also, Bari is famous for San Nicola.

How is Volterra different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bari 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 Bari?

Both Volterra and Bari have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Volterra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Bari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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

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

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.

Bari has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

Is Volterra or Bari Better for Nightlife?

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

Bari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

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 Bari Better for Beaches?

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

Bari is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Volterra or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Volterra has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Is the Shopping Better in Volterra or Bari?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bari 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 Bari. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Volterra or Bari Better for Families?

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

Bari is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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 Volterra or Bari Better for Couples?

Volterra is terrific for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Volterra is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Volterra or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari 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 Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

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 Volterra or Bari Better for Students?

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

Bari is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Bari 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 Bari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

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

Is Volterra or Bari a more walkable city?

Volterra is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

Volterra is a very easy town to get around on foot. Most people explore the town on foot.

Bari is very walkable. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Volterra?

How long in Volterra or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Volterra and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bari than in Volterra. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Volterra, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

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

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

One day in Volterra or Bari?

Volterra is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The port city of Bari offers 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 Volterra or Bari?

Volterra is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bari is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port 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 Bari, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Volterra or Bari?

Volterra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bari 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 Volterra or Bari?

Because Volterra is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Bari 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 port city 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 comparing the travel costs between Volterra and Bari, we can see that Bari is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Volterra or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Volterra and Bari, 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 Bari?

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 Volterra or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Volterra during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Volterra is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 23°C (74°F), and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Volterra. In the summer, Volterra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Volterra gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Volterra gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Volterra or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Volterra and Bari. The autumn months attract visitors to Volterra because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

Volterra is cooler than Bari in the autumn. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Volterra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during autumn. Volterra gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Volterra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Volterra usually receives more rain than Bari. Volterra gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Volterra or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Volterra as well as Bari. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Volterra this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Volterra is cooler than Bari. Typically, the winter temperatures in Volterra in January average around 7°C (45°F), and Bari averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Volterra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Volterra gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets more rain in January than Bari. Volterra gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Volterra or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Volterra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Volterra is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 13°C (55°F), and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. Volterra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during spring. Volterra gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Volterra usually receives more rain than Bari. Volterra gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Volterra