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

Should you visit Volterra or Trieste?

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

Should I visit Volterra or Trieste? 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 charming, medieval, and cultural town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Trieste

Trieste is a historic, dynamic, and energetic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, museums, and nightlife.

Volterra and Trieste: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Volterra or Trieste?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Volterra than Trieste, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Volterra is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is more popular for its nightlife and beaches. Volterra is more touristy than Trieste and is popular for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster. Also, Volterra is famous for The Roman Theater. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Volterra different from Trieste?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Volterra is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Trieste is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Because Trieste was part of Austria for such a long stretch of time, you'll find that it looks different from many Italian cities. This is also evident in the different architectural and historic monuments around town. Major landmarks and sights include Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia, which is the largest square in the old part of the city, Miramare Castle, San Giusto Castle, Museum Riseria di San Sabba, and the Cathedral of San Giusto.

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

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Trieste offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. It's hard to pinpoint exactly how to categorize the local cuisine. It's been influenced by the city's Austro-Hungarian past and you'll find Austrian, Slovenian, and even Croatian flavors. The food scene is often overlooked for more famous Italian cities, but that doesn't mean there's not a lot to enjoy. Make sure you try jota (a bean, potato, and sauerkraut stew), calandraca (a salted meat stew), and gulasch alla triestina (a local twist on goulash. The city is also a coffee capital in Italy.

Is Volterra or Trieste Better for Nightlife?

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

Trieste has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's not known as a party destination, there is a laid-back nightlife scene that usually involves a late night enjoying drinks at a local bar with friends. Many establishments blur the café and bar concepts, but you'll find a number of lively bars west of Piazza Unità in the trendy Cavana neighborhood. There always seems to be something new in the area worth checking 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 Trieste Better for Beaches?

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

Trieste is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches tend to be pebbly, but they are a nice way to experience the sea. Locals still refer to it as "bathing" in the sea, a throwback to years past. The most common beach to visit is Ausonia, which is at the bottom of the Rive past the port of Sacchetta. Nearby are La Lanterna, also called Pedocin. This area still separates men and women in the bathing areas.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Volterra or Trieste Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Volterra offers plenty to see. 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 go to Trieste to see the historical old town. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Is the Shopping Better in Volterra or Trieste?

Volterra is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Volterra has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Volterra or Trieste Better for Families?

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

Trieste is a very family-friendly place to visit. The caves, adventure parks, and interactive museums all make for a fun family vacation. Make sure you check out Grotta Gigante, which will impress kids and adults alike. The Museum of Natural History has a collection of fossils that any dinosaur lover will appreciate, and Trieste Adventure Park is filled with ropes courses and ziplines. Finally, a visit to Miramare Castle will spark every child's imagination.

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 Trieste Better for Couples?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Trieste frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Visit the castles, cathedrals, and historic monuments, experience the atmosphere of the city's historic center, people watch in one of the grand piazzas, and watch the city light up at night. There are so many romantic sides to this cultural Italian city.

Is Volterra or Trieste Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volterra and Trieste are notable 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.

Trieste is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often overlooked for more popular Italian city's but there is still a lot that this under-rated city has to offer. You'll also find hostels for every budget and a youthful energy that will bring the city to life.

Is Volterra or Trieste Better for Students?

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

Trieste is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Italy attracts students from around the globe and this city is no exception. The city's diverse population and unique cultural opportunities make it a great place to study abroad or immerse yourself in university life.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Trieste is well known for its public transit. However, Volterra is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Trieste. There are buses and trams 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 Trieste a more walkable city?

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Volterra. Most people explore the town on foot.

Trieste is very walkable. It's a hilly city, but it's also very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Trieste or Volterra?

How long in Volterra or Trieste?

It's fun to spend time in either Volterra or Trieste. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Trieste due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Volterra, and 2-4 days is enough time in Trieste.

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

Couples should spend more time in Volterra than Trieste. 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 Trieste if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Volterra.

One day in Volterra or Trieste?

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 Trieste offers nightlife and food. 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 Trieste?

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.

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

Five days in Volterra or Trieste?

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.

Trieste 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 Trieste?

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.

Trieste 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Volterra and Trieste, 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 Trieste Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Volterra or Trieste?

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

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 Trieste in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Volterra as well as Trieste. Many visitors come to Volterra in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Volterra is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 23°C (74°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Trieste. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Volterra this time of the year. In the summer, Volterra often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Volterra gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 288 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets less rain in July than Trieste. Volterra gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Volterra or Trieste in the Autumn?

Both Trieste and Volterra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Volterra for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Trieste because of the natural beauty of the area.

Volterra is around the same temperature as Trieste in the autumn. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Trieste fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Volterra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trieste during autumn. Volterra gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Volterra. In October, Volterra usually receives more rain than Trieste. Volterra gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Volterra or Trieste in the Winter?

Both Trieste and Volterra during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Volterra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Trieste this time of year.

In the winter, Volterra is a little warmer than Trieste. Typically, the winter temperatures in Volterra in January average around 7°C (45°F), and Trieste averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Volterra often gets more sunshine than Trieste. Volterra gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trieste receives 96 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Trieste. Volterra gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Volterra or Trieste in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Volterra and Trieste. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Volterra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Volterra is generally around the same temperature as Trieste. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 13°C (55°F), and Trieste fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Volterra usually receives more sunshine than Trieste during spring. Volterra gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Trieste receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Volterra usually receives less rain than Trieste. Volterra gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Trieste receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Trieste and Volterra