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

Should you visit Volterra or Livorno?

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

Should I visit Volterra or Livorno? 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.

Livorno

Livorno is a down-to-earth, waterfront, and friendly port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Volterra and Livorno: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Volterra or Livorno?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Livorno than Volterra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Livorno is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Volterra is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Volterra is well known for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster. Livorno is well known for its large port and its great seafood. Also, Livorno is famous for The Waterfront Promenade.

How is Volterra different from Livorno?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Volterra
Livorno

Volterra is great for its historical sights. However, Livorno is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Livorno offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The waterfront promenade and New Venice are nice to explore. There's an aquarium in town as well as a fun central market.


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

Volterra
Livorno

Volterra is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Livorno is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Livorno offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. As a port city, this is the place to try seafood. Many dishes include calamari, shrimp, or freshly caught fish. The city is less touristy than most in Italy, so even the food has an authentic and down-to-earth vibe.

Is Volterra or Livorno Better for Nightlife?

Volterra
Livorno

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

Livorno has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Most visitors arrive by cruise ship, and depart in the evening, but the city is large and for those that stay the night, there are a number of bars and clubs around town.

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 Livorno Better for Beaches?

Volterra
Livorno

Livorno is a port city with a few options for its beaches. However, Volterra is not a beach destination.

Livorno is a good spot to see the beach. The beaches are pebbly or rocky, so you won't really find a long stretch of sandy beach where you can relax. They can also stay very crowded.

Volterra is not a beach destination.


Is Volterra or Livorno Better for its Old Town?

Volterra
Livorno

Volterra is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Livorno 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.

Livorno does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Volterra or Livorno?

Volterra
Livorno

Shopping is a popular activity in both Livorno 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 Livorno. The main shopping street in town is Via Grande. It's generally filled with major chain stores and familiar brands.

Is Volterra or Livorno Better for Families?

Volterra
Livorno

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Volterra or Livorno.

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.

Livorno offers lots of family activities. The city has a nice aquarium as well as outdoor recreational activities like cycling and boating. There's a beach and parks where kids can stretch their legs and run around as well.


Is Volterra or Livorno Better for Couples?

Volterra
Livorno

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

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.

Livorno is a nice destination for couples. There are some nice museums as well as parks and boat rides that couples can enjoy. There's also an aquarium and a beach.

Is Volterra or Livorno Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volterra
Livorno

Volterra is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Livorno is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Livorno is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this city, so you won't find many hostels around town. It's a relatively affordable place to stay with some fun entertainment options if you do pass through.

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

Volterra
Livorno

Livorno 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 Livorno, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town including lines that run from the central train station to the port.

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


Is Volterra or Livorno a more walkable city?

Volterra
Livorno

Volterra is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Livorno 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.

Livorno is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but if you're arriving by cruise ship, you'll want to take a shuttle bus from the port.

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

Should I spend more time in Livorno or Volterra?

How long in Volterra or Livorno?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Volterra or Livorno 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 Livorno. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Volterra or Livorno?

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 port city of Livorno offers nightlife and food. 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 Livorno?

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.

Livorno 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Livorno, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Volterra or Livorno?

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.

Livorno 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 Livorno?

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.

Livorno 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 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.


Which place is cheaper, Livorno 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 Livorno is €135. 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 Livorno in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Volterra or Livorno? 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 Livorno


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 Livorno Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volterra 4.29
    Livorno 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Livorno

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

  • From Livorno Cruise Port: Bus Transfer to Pisa and Lucca: $35
  • From Bus Transfer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa: $21
  • From Florence and Pisa Roundtrip Transfer: $49
  • Livorno Cruise Port to Pisa city hotels -Arrival Private Transfer: $101
  • Livorno Port to Pisa Airport (PSA) - Arrival Private Transfer: $101
  • Livorno Private Arrival Transfer: Cruise Port to Central Florence: $175
  • Private Transfer from Livorno Cruise Port to Florence City Hotels: $111
  • Private Transfer from Livorno Cruise Port to Pisa City Hotels: $91

Is it cheaper to fly into Volterra or Livorno?

Prices for flights to both Livorno 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
    Livorno 42

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: $50
  • Truffle Hunting and Cooking Class: $61
  • Dining experience at a local's home in San Gimignano with show cooking: $94
  • "Hands in dough" Cooking Class with Lunch: $97
  • Volterra - Olive oil tasting with lunch with lunch or dinner: $114
  • Pizza Cooking Class: $114
  • Fresh Pasta Cooking Class: $114
  • Tuscan Cooking Class: $127
  • Tuscany: Wine Tasting Lunch or Dinner: $130
  • Cooking class in San Gimignano: $132
  • Winery Cave Dinner & Tasting in Tuscany - Romantic & Lovely : $138
  • Cooking Classes in Tuscany among the Chianti Vineyards: $165

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Livorno

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

  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Livorno with Show Cooking: $94
  • Private Home Cooking Class and Meal with a Local: $157
  • Cesarine: Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Livorno: $160

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Volterra 11
    Livorno 26

Tours and Activities in Volterra

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

  • Cesani Wine Experience: $33
  • Chianti and Castle Small Group Tour from San Gimignano: $94
  • Discover Volterra with Licensed Tour Guide: $49
  • Horse Riding in Tuscany for Experienced Riders: Full-day Trail Ride: $204
  • Private Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Wine, Evo Oil & Meal: $61
  • Private Tour in San Gimignano: $151
  • Private Tour: San Gimignano Walking Tour: $209
  • Private walking tour in San Gimignano with a local licensed guide: $220
  • San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey small group tour: $151
  • Truffle Lunch & Hunting Experience in San Gimignano: $182
  • Tuscany: Volterra Truffle Hunting Experience: $206
  • Volterra - Archeotour by e-bike with tasting: $190

Tours and Activities in Livorno

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

  • Aquarium Entrance Ticket: $16
  • 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket Experience: $19
  • From Livorno to Pisa on your own with optional Leaning Tower Ticket: $19
  • Livorno Shore Excursion to Lucca & Pisa optional Leaning Tower Ticket: $34
  • Half Day Pisa and Jewel of the Cinque Terre Tour From Livorno: $76
  • Winery Tour & Tasting in Pisa Countryside: $77
  • Livorno Food and Market Tour: $88
  • Florence Skip The Line Leonardo Da Vinci Museum Tickets & City sightseeing Tour: $123
  • Epicurean Experience Private Diner with a Local and Local Food: $150
  • Full-Day Private Tour of Cinque Terre with Personal Photographer from Pisa: $198
  • Private Walking Tour in Livorno with Personal Photographer from Pisa: $220
  • Private tour from Livorno port to San Gimignano & Volterra: $565

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Volterra 16
    Livorno 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Volterra

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Volterra:

  • Wine tasting in San Gimignano: $33
  • Gourmet Wine Tour San Gimignano Wine Tasting - San Quirico Winery: $33
  • Wine Tour for small group in Tuscany: $35
  • San Gimignano: Vineyard and Cellar Tour with Wine Tasting: $42
  • Superior Wine Tasting in San Gimignano: $50
  • 5 Wine Tastings in San Gimignano: $61
  • Lunch with Wine Tasting: $61
  • "Gourmet" Wine Tasting at Cesani's: $66
  • Food and Wine Lesson and Wine Tasting in San Gimignano: $72
  • San Gimignano: Chianti wine tasting and lunch : $77
  • Vineyard Walk & Wine Tasting in Tuscany: $116
  • Brunello Wine Tasting from San Gimignano: $131

Sample the Local Flavors in Livorno

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

  • Bolgheri: Classic Wine Tasting with Winery Tour: $28
  • Wine Tasting in Bolgheri: $39
  • Wine Tour Experience at Agricola Tamburini: $50
  • PRIVATE EXCURSION: Florence & Chianti with Wine Tasting Experience from Livorno: $220
  • PRIVATE EXCURSION: Volterra & San Gimignano + wine tastings (from Livorno Port) : $297
  • From Siena and Chianti Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $484


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


Which is Bigger, Volterra or Livorno?

Livorno has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Volterra. When comparing the sizes of Volterra and Livorno, 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 Livorno?

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 Livorno in the Summer?

Both Livorno and Volterra during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Livorno in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Volterra is generally around the same temperature as Livorno. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 23°C (74°F), and Livorno fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Livorno, 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 Livorno. Volterra gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Livorno receives 316 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Livorno. Volterra gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 24 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Volterra 23°C (74°F) 
    Livorno 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Livorno in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Volterra and Livorno. 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 Livorno for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Volterra is around the same temperature as Livorno in the autumn. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Livorno fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

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

Livorno receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Volterra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Volterra usually receives around the same amount of rain as Livorno. Volterra gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Volterra 16°C (61°F) 
    Livorno 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Livorno in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Volterra as well as Livorno. Most visitors come to Volterra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Livorno because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Volterra is around the same temperature as Livorno. Typically, the winter temperatures in Volterra in January average around 7°C (45°F), and Livorno averages at about 7°C (45°F).

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

Volterra usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Livorno. Volterra gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Volterra 7°C (45°F) 
    Livorno 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Livorno in the Spring?

Both Livorno and Volterra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Volterra because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Livorno this time of year.

In April, Volterra is generally around the same temperature as Livorno. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 13°C (55°F), and Livorno fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Volterra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Livorno during spring. Volterra gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Livorno receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Volterra usually receives around the same amount of rain as Livorno. Volterra gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Livorno and Volterra

Volterra Livorno
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (3 in) 7°C (45°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 8°C (47°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 76 mm (3 in) 10°C (50°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 20°C (68°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 23°C (74°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)


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