A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Volterra vs. Brescia for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Volterra or Brescia?

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

Should I visit Volterra or Brescia? 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Brescia

Brescia is a undisovered, authentic, and under-rated city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Volterra and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Volterra or Brescia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Volterra. Although Volterra and Brescia are both popular with visitors, Volterra has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Volterra is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Brescia is known for its nightlife and shopping. Volterra is popular for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster. It is also home to The Roman Theater. Brescia is popular for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Volterra different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Volterra
Brescia

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Volterra can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Brescia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.


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

Volterra
Brescia

Volterra is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Volterra is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Brescia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Is Volterra or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Volterra
Brescia

Brescia is a popular place for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Brescia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

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 Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Volterra
Brescia

Volterra is renowned for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Volterra is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Volterra or Brescia?

Volterra
Brescia

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

Brescia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

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 Volterra or Brescia Better for Families?

Volterra
Brescia

Volterra is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Volterra or Brescia Better for Couples?

Volterra
Brescia

Volterra is renowned for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.


Is Volterra or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volterra
Brescia

Volterra is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Volterra. 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.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.

Is Volterra or Brescia Better for Students?

Volterra
Brescia

Brescia is a popular place for students. However, Volterra is not popular with students.

Brescia is popular with students. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Volterra
Brescia

Brescia 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 Brescia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

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


Is Volterra or Brescia a more walkable city?

Volterra
Brescia

Volterra is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Volterra?

How long in Volterra or Brescia?

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

Families should spend more time in Volterra than Brescia. 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 Brescia. 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 Volterra than Brescia 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 Volterra or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Volterra 1-2 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Volterra or Brescia?

Volterra is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The city of Brescia 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.

A weekend in Volterra or Brescia?

Volterra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Volterra has to offer.

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


Five days in Volterra or Brescia?

Volterra is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Brescia 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.

A week in Volterra or Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. Since Volterra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Brescia 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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Volterra?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Volterra is €101, while the average daily cost in Brescia is €144. 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 Volterra and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volterra 61
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volterra 122
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Volterra and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Volterra or Brescia? 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 Volterra


Hotels in Brescia


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 and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volterra 4.29
    Brescia 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $217

Is it cheaper to fly into Volterra or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Volterra 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
    Volterra 36
    Brescia 47

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
  • Cooking class Cantuccini and Vin Santo: $76
  • Dining experience at a local's home in San Gimignano with show cooking: $92
  • 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: $125
  • Tuscany: Wine Tasting Lunch or Dinner: $128
  • Cooking class in San Gimignano: $130
  • Winery Cave Dinner & Tasting in Tuscany - Romantic & Lovely : $136
  • Private cooking class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in San Gimignano: $158

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

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

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $92
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Corte Franca with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $157
  • Cesarine: Home Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Lake Garda: $157
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Volterra 11
    Brescia 31

Tours and Activities in Volterra

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

  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil Experience: $13
  • Cesani Wine Experience: $33
  • Private Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Wine, Evo Oil & Meal: $68
  • Private Wine, Evo Oils & Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Meal: $69
  • Cocktail Mixing Experience with Snacks: $75
  • Chianti and Castle Small Group Tour from San Gimignano: $92
  • San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey small group tour: $149
  • Private Tour in San Gimignano: $149
  • Electric Bike Experience around Colle di Val d’Elsa- private tour: $153
  • 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: $179

Tours and Activities in Brescia

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

  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.17
  • Audio guides to discover Lake Garda, complete private tour: $4.34
  • Audio guides in Brescia, the Lioness of Italy, complete private tour: $5.43
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Sirmione Sunset Tour: $38
  • Desenzano Sunset Walking and Boat Tour with a Drink On Board: $57
  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Italy most underrated city:Brescia-Walking tour with a drink: $74
  • Photographic tour at sunset on Lake Garda: $78
  • Canyoning "Gumpenfever" - beginner Canyoningtour for everyone: $84
  • Lake Cruise (visit Torri & Gargnano): $91
  • Desenzano e-bike tour: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Volterra 16
    Brescia 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Volterra

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Volterra:

  • San Gimignano: Chianti wine tasting : $32
  • Wine tasting in San Gimignano: $33
  • Casa Emma Wine Tasting : $34
  • Wine Tour for small group in Tuscany: $35
  • Gourmet Wine Tour San Gimignano Wine Tasting - San Quirico Winery: $36
  • San Gimignano: Basic Wine Tasting at the bar: $38
  • Superior Wine Tasting in San Gimignano: $49
  • Vineyard visit with local appetisers and wine tasting: $52
  • Lunch with Wine Tasting: $60
  • 5 Wine Tastings in San Gimignano: $60
  • "Gourmet" Wine Tasting at Cesani's: $65
  • Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $71

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


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


Which is Bigger, Volterra or Brescia?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Volterra and Brescia, 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 Brescia?

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 Brescia in the Summer?

Both Brescia and Volterra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Brescia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Volterra is around the same temperature as Brescia in the summer. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Brescia fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Brescia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Volterra. Volterra usually receives more sunshine than Brescia during summer. Volterra gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Volterra usually receives less rain than Brescia. Volterra gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Volterra 23°C (74°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Volterra during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Volterra in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Volterra is a little warmer than Brescia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Volterra in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Brescia averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Volterra often gets more sunshine than Brescia. Volterra gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Volterra. Volterra usually gets more rain in October than Brescia. Volterra gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Volterra 16°C (61°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Brescia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Volterra and Brescia. Most visitors come to Volterra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Brescia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Brescia can be very cold. In January, Volterra is generally much warmer than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 7°C (45°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Volterra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brescia during winter. Volterra gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Volterra usually receives more rain than Brescia. Volterra gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Volterra 7°C (45°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Volterra as well as Brescia. The spring months attract visitors to Volterra because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

Volterra is around the same temperature as Brescia in the spring. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Brescia fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Volterra often gets more sunshine than Brescia. Volterra gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets more rain in April than Brescia. Volterra gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Volterra 13°C (55°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Volterra

Volterra Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (3 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 8°C (47°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 76 mm (3 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 23°C (74°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)


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