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

Should you visit Volterra or Verona?

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

Should I visit Volterra or Verona? 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Verona

Verona is a beautiful, stunning, and romantic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Volterra and Verona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Volterra or Verona?

Both Verona and Volterra have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Volterra is very popular for its food, historical sights, and small town charm, while Verona attracts visitors for its nightlife. Verona is more touristy than Volterra and is popular for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Volterra different from Verona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Volterra
Verona

Both Volterra and Verona have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Volterra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a large town there are a huge number of historic sights packed into a small area. Check out the Roman Theater, the Etruscan Museum, and the Duomo.

Many visitors head to Verona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.


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

Volterra
Verona

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Volterra is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The town is surrounded by the region of truffles, so you'll find this item included in all kinds of recipes. Pumpkin sauce is also a specialty of the area and there are also many local cheeses. Many restaurants also have bruschetta as an appetizer.

Dining out in Verona is an experience not to be missed. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

Is Volterra or Verona Better for Nightlife?

Volterra
Verona

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

Verona has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

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 Verona Better for its Old Town?

Volterra
Verona

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Verona. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.


Is the Shopping Better in Volterra or Verona?

Volterra
Verona

Shopping is a popular activity in both Verona 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 Verona. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

Is Volterra or Verona Better for Families?

Volterra
Verona

Volterra is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.

Is Volterra or Verona Better for Couples?

Volterra
Verona

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Volterra makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Verona is a very popular place to visit for couples. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.


Is Volterra or Verona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volterra
Verona

Volterra and Verona 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.

Verona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Is Volterra or Verona Better for Students?

Volterra
Verona

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

Verona is popular with students. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Volterra
Verona

Verona 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 Verona, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. ATV operates buses through the city.

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


Is Volterra or Verona a more walkable city?

Volterra
Verona

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Verona is a very walkable destination. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

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

Should I spend more time in Verona or Volterra?

How long in Volterra or Verona?

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

Families should spend more time in Volterra than Verona. 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 Verona. 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.


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

One day in Volterra or Verona?

Volterra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The beautiful city of Verona offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Volterra or Verona?

Volterra is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Verona 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Verona, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Volterra or Verona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Verona 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 Verona?

Volterra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Verona is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This 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, Verona 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 Verona is €168. 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 Verona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volterra 61
    Verona 107
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volterra 122
    Verona 214
Compare Hotels in Volterra and Verona

Looking for a hotel in Volterra or Verona? 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 Verona


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 Verona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volterra 4.29
    Verona 6.88

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Verona

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Verona:


  • Bus From Airport
    6.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Verona

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

  • Amarone Wine Tour with 2 Wineries Lunch and Private Transfer: $145
  • Departure Private Transfer from Verona to Malpensa Milan Airport (MXP): $137
  • Departure Private Transfer: Modena or Verona to Bologna Airport by Business Van: $162
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Venice Airport: $499
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Peschiera to Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport: $116
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Bergamo Orio al Serio airport: $131
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Bolzano (or vice versa): $218
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Florence (or vice versa): $272
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Madonna di Campiglio (or vice versa): $218
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Ortisei (or vice versa): $262
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Selva Val Gardena (or vice versa): $284
  • Private Transfer Verona Center to Valerio Catullo Airport VRN: $64

Is it cheaper to fly into Volterra or Verona?

Prices for flights to both Verona 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
    Verona 54

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 Verona

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Verona:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    36
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    23
  • Cappucino
    1.75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Verona

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

  • Guided Food Tour with Wine Tasting: $63
  • Tortellini Cooking Class and Lunch with Mamma Ivana: $64
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Castelnuovo del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Fumane with Show Cooking: $93
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Soave: $93
  • Verona Food Tour with Guide: $95
  • Food Tour with Amarone Wine Tasting: $95
  • Wine and Food Tour with Dinner and Tastings: $96
  • Small-group Street food tour in Soave: $97
  • Valpolicella: Traditional cooking class with local products: $101
  • Italian Cuisine Cooking Class: $101
  • Verona Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Volterra 11
    Verona 12

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: $92
  • Discover Volterra with Licensed Tour Guide: $213
  • Electric Bike Experience around Colle di Val d’Elsa- private tour: $153
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil Experience: $13
  • Horse Riding in Tuscany for Experienced Riders: Full-day Trail Ride: $202
  • Private Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Wine, Evo Oil & Meal: $68
  • Private Tour in San Gimignano: $149
  • Private Tour: San Gimignano Walking Tour: $207
  • Private Wine, Evo Oils & Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Meal: $69
  • San Gimignano Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $292
  • San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey small group tour: $148

Typical Entertainment Prices in Verona

For Verona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Juliet's House Entry
    4.00
  • Verona Card
    10

Tours and Activities in Verona

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Verona Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.71
  • Solferino Ticket Valid for Visit to the Museum and the Rocca: $6.82
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.93
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $7.99
  • Verona's History and Highlights: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Tour Escape Verona - The happy ending of Juliet: $9.59
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour and 1-Day Itinerary: $10
  • Verona and Lake Garda: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Non guided tour of the wine museum and amarone tasting: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Volterra 16
    Verona 11

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 Verona

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

  • Wine tasting in Bardolino: $26
  • Valpolicella Wine Tour and Tasting in Medieval Court: $33
  • Amarone Wine Tour: $35
  • Valdadige: Roeno Guided Tour and Wine tasting: $37
  • Montresor Winery Visit with Wine Tasting and Snacks: $37
  • Food and Wine Tasting in Valpolicella: $38
  • Unique Wine tasting in Verona, with Amarone docg: $41
  • Lazise: Historical Center Wine Tasting Tour: $43
  • Lake Garda: Wine Tour & Tasting Experience in Bardolino area: $44
  • Wine Tasting near Juliet's Balcony in Verona: $45
  • Classic Valpolicella Wine Tasting Experience: $48
  • Wine Tasting with Snacks and Panoramic City Views: $48


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


Which is Bigger, Volterra or Verona?

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

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 Verona in the Summer?

Both Verona and Volterra during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Volterra because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Verona this time of year.

In the summer, Volterra is around the same temperature as Verona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Volterra in July average around 23°C (74°F), and Verona averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Verona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Volterra. In the summer, Volterra often gets more sunshine than Verona. Volterra gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 286 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets less rain in July than Verona. Volterra gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Verona receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Volterra or Verona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Volterra and Verona. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Volterra this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Verona for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Volterra is generally a little warmer than Verona. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 16°C (61°F), and Verona fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Volterra usually receives more sunshine than Verona during autumn. Volterra gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Verona receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Volterra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Volterra usually receives more rain than Verona. Volterra gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Verona receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Volterra 16°C (61°F) 
    Verona 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Verona in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Volterra as well as Verona. Many travelers come to Volterra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Verona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Verona can get quite cold in the winter. Volterra is much warmer than Verona in the winter. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 7°C (45°F) in January, and Verona fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Volterra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Verona. Volterra gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 98 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets more rain in January than Verona. Volterra gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Verona receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Volterra 7°C (45°F) 
    Verona 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Verona in the Spring?

Both Verona and Volterra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Volterra in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Verona for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Volterra is around the same temperature as Verona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Volterra in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Verona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Volterra usually receives more sunshine than Verona during spring. Volterra gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Verona receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Volterra usually receives more rain than Verona. Volterra gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Verona receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Verona and Volterra

Volterra Verona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 8°C (47°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 76 mm (3 in) 9°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 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) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 23°C (74°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 51 mm (2 in)