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

Should you visit Volterra or Korcula?

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

Should I visit Volterra or Korcula? 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.

Korcula

Korcula is a historic, scenic, and laid back island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Volterra and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Volterra or Korcula?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Korcula. Although Volterra and Korcula are popular destinations, Korcula has more sights and attractions for tourists. Korcula is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Volterra attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm. Korcula is more touristy than Volterra and is known for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. It is also well known for St Mark's Cathedral. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Volterra different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Volterra
Korcula

Volterra is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Korcula 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 Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.


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

Volterra
Korcula

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

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.

Korcula has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

Is Volterra or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Volterra
Korcula

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Volterra and Korcula.

Volterra is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Volterra or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Volterra
Korcula

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

Korcula has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Volterra or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Volterra
Korcula

Korcula is well known for its beaches. However, Volterra is not a beach destination.

Korcula is considered a top beach destination. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Volterra or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Volterra
Korcula

Volterra is renowned for its old town. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Korcula. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

Is Volterra or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Volterra
Korcula

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Korcula. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Volterra is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Volterra or Korcula?

Volterra
Korcula

Shopping is a popular activity in both Korcula 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 Korcula. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Volterra or Korcula Better for Families?

Volterra
Korcula

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

Korcula is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.

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 Korcula Better for Couples?

Volterra
Korcula

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

Volterra is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Korcula is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.


Is Volterra or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volterra
Korcula

Volterra and Korcula are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Korcula is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Volterra or Korcula Better for Students?

Volterra
Korcula

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

Korcula is popular with students. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Volterra
Korcula

Korcula 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 Korcula, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

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


Is Volterra or Korcula a more walkable city?

Volterra
Korcula

Volterra is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula 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.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable town. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

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

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Volterra?

How long in Volterra or Korcula?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Volterra than Korcula. 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 Korcula 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 Korcula.


  • How many days in Volterra or Korcula? Ideal Length of Stay
    Volterra 1-2 
    Korcula 2-3

One day in Volterra or Korcula?

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 beautiful island of Korcula offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Korcula?

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.

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


Five days in Volterra or Korcula?

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.

Korcula 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 Korcula?

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.

Korcula is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Korcula 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 Korcula is €90. 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 Korcula in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volterra 61
    Korcula 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volterra 122
    Korcula 116
Compare Hotels in Volterra and Korcula

Looking for a hotel in Volterra or Korcula? 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 Korcula


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 Korcula Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volterra 4.29
    Korcula 1.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volterra

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Volterra:

  • Private Transfer from San Gimignano to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $248

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Korcula

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Korcula:

  • Island Stupe / Moro Beach Transfer: $26
  • Private One Way Transfer from Orebić to Dubrovnik: $205

Is it cheaper to fly into Volterra or Korcula?

Prices for flights to both Korcula 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
    Korcula 28

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
  • Dining experience at a local's home in San Gimignano with show cooking: $93
  • 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: $126
  • Tuscany: Wine Tasting Lunch or Dinner: $128
  • Winery Cave Dinner & Tasting in Tuscany - Romantic & Lovely : $137
  • Fiorentina Steak Dinner & Wine Tasting: $164
  • Cooking class, wine tasting and 2500 year old granaries: $175
  • Cooking Classes in Tuscany among the Chianti Vineyards: $175

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Korcula

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

  • Private Half-Day Cooking Workshop Gastronomy in Korcula: $87
  • Korcula walking tour and dinner for Food Lovers: $228
  • Korčula: Island Yacht Cruise with Wine Tasting and Dinner: $321

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Volterra 11
    Korcula 11

Tours and Activities in Volterra

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

  • Cesani Wine Experience: $33
  • Private Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Wine, Evo Oil & Meal: $69
  • Cocktail Mixing Experience with Snacks: $75
  • Chianti and Castle Small Group Tour from San Gimignano: $93
  • San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey small group tour: $149
  • Private Tour in San Gimignano: $150
  • 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: $180
  • Volterra - Archeotour by e-bike with tasting: $187
  • Tuscany: Volterra Truffle Hunting Experience: $203
  • Private Tour: San Gimignano Walking Tour: $207

Tours and Activities in Korcula

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

  • Semi-Submarine Tour: $21
  • Private Korcula Eco Tour with Guide: $27
  • Korčula: 3 Island Hop-on Hop-off Tour Daily Ticket: $32
  • 3 Islands Tour - HopOnHopOff - Daily Ticket : $33
  • Half day Lago di Korcula Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour: $64
  • Bits of History - Half day kayak Tour: $66
  • Small-Group Lumbarda Sunset and Evening Kayaking Experience: $66
  • Lumbarda: Half-Day Kayaking and History Tour: $66
  • Lumbarda: Sunset Kayak Tour: $66
  • Korčula for Early Risers and Coffee Lovers Private Walking Tour: $70
  • 1 Hour Private Walking Tour in Korcula : $75
  • Korčula & Pelješac: Wine & Culture Experience from Dubrovnik: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Volterra 16
    Korcula 9.69

Sample the Local Flavors in Volterra

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Volterra:

  • San Gimignano: Chianti wine tasting : $33
  • Casa Emma Wine Tasting : $34
  • Gourmet Wine Tour San Gimignano Wine Tasting - San Quirico Winery: $36
  • 5 Wine Tastings in San Gimignano: $60
  • Lunch with Wine Tasting: $60
  • "Gourmet" Wine Tasting at Cesani's: $66
  • Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $71
  • Vineyard Walk & Wine Tasting in Tuscany: $115
  • Brunello Wine Tasting from San Gimignano: $130
  • Exclusive evening wine tasting at organic winery : $218
  • Chianti e-bike tour from Florence with wine tasting: $284
  • Private Excursion: Volterra & San Gimignano+wine tastings: $289

Sample the Local Flavors in Korcula

Also in Korcula, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting at Black Island Winery: $31
  • Slurp of Grk Wine Tour: $92
  • Day Tour from Dubrovnik - Korčula and Pelješac Wine Tasting: $92
  • Wine Tour Korcula: $98
  • Half-Day Bike Tour in Lumbarda with Wine Tasting: $105
  • Korcula Buggy Safari With Wine Tasting: $107
  • Korcula Bike & Wine Tour: $111
  • Private Korcula wine tour and tasting : $131
  • Wine tour Korčula - private tour: $146
  • Enchanted Forest Hike and Wine Tasting Private Tour: $158
  • Korcula Island Sightseeing Tour Including Wine Tasting: $229


When comparing the travel costs between Volterra and Korcula, we can see that Volterra 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 Korcula Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Volterra or Korcula?

Volterra has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Volterra and Korcula, 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 Korcula?

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 Korcula in the Summer?

Both Korcula 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 Korcula for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Volterra is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the summer temperatures in Volterra in July average around 23°C (74°F), and Korcula averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Volterra. Volterra usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during summer. Volterra gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Volterra usually receives less rain than Korcula. Volterra gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Volterra 23°C (74°F) 
    Korcula 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Korcula in the Autumn?

Both Korcula 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. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Korcula because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Volterra is generally cooler than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 16°C (61°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Volterra often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Volterra gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Volterra. Volterra usually gets more rain in October than Korcula. Volterra gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Volterra 16°C (61°F) 
    Korcula 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Korcula in the Winter?

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

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

Volterra usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during winter. Volterra gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Volterra usually receives less rain than Korcula. Volterra gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Volterra 7°C (45°F) 
    Korcula 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Korcula in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Volterra is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the spring temperatures in Volterra in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Korcula averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Korcula. In the spring, Volterra often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Volterra gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets more rain in April than Korcula. Volterra gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Volterra 13°C (55°F) 
    Korcula 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Korcula and Volterra

Volterra Korcula
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 8°C (47°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 76 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (74°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)