Things To Do
in Volterra
Volterra is a picturesque hilltop town in Tuscany, Italy, known for its well-preserved medieval walls and buildings. The town is rich in history, with Etruscan, Roman, and Renaissance influences evident in its architecture and monuments. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, such as the Roman theater and Etruscan gates, as well as impressive museums showcasing Etruscan artifacts and local artwork.
Volterra also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both cultural enrichment and natural beauty.
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- đ˝ď¸ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- đď¸ââď¸ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Roman Theatre, where you can marvel at the impressive ruins. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets and enjoy a local cafĂŠ for breakfast.
In the afternoon, head to the Guarnacci Museum to see a remarkable collection of Etruscan artifacts. Take a short hike to the nearby Medici Fortress for stunning panoramic views.
Wind down your day with dinner at a traditional trattoria, savoring local Tuscan dishes. Enjoy a leisurely evening walk, watching the sunset over the hills.
Begin with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore local vineyards. Participate in a morning wine tour to learn about the wine-making process.
Enjoy wine tasting at a family-owned vineyard, savoring various Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Pair your tastings with local cheeses for an authentic experience.
Return to Volterra and dine at a vineyard restaurant, sampling exquisite regional cuisine. End the night with a stroll through the town square, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Stunning panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
- Famous for its alabaster craftsmanship, offering unique local artisan products.
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in Tuscany, providing a more authentic experience.
- Delicious local cuisine featuring traditional Tuscan dishes and wines.
- Limited public transportation options, making it harder to reach without a car.
- Tourist infrastructure may be less developed compared to larger cities.
- Some attractions may have limited opening hours, especially in the off-season.
- Steep streets and hilly terrain can be challenging for those with mobility issues.
- Higher cost of living compared to nearby smaller towns.
Best Activities in Volterra
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Volterra through various hiking trails that offer stunning views of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves.
Discover the ancient Roman Theatre of Volterra, an outdoor archaeological site that dates back to the 1st century BC, while enjoying the historic ambiance it offers.
Experience the beauty of the Tuscan hills on horseback, with guided tours available that take you through scenic paths and picturesque views.
Participate in outdoor wine tasting sessions at local vineyards, enjoying the locally produced wines while taking in the beautiful Tuscan scenery.
Take a leisurely walk along the ancient Etruscan walls of Volterra for a blend of history and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Join a photography tour to capture the stunning landscapes, architecture, and sunsets of Volterra and the surrounding areas.
Tours
Uncover the best of Volterra with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Volterra
Visit one of these nice places.
The main square of Volterra, surrounded by stunning medieval architecture, offers a breathtaking view of the town's historic buildings. It's perfect for capturing the essence of Volterra.
The ancient Etruscan Arch provides a unique view of the surrounding hills and is a great spot for photography with its historical significance.
As the oldest town hall in Tuscany, the Palazzo dei Priori offers panoramic views of Volterra and the surrounding countryside from its tower.
This archaeological park features well-preserved ruins and offers scenic views over the ancient city, making for great shadow and light photography.
Walking along the medieval city walls gives photographers ample opportunities to capture Volterra from different angles, showcasing its beautiful landscape.
The view from near this historic cathedral offers stunning vistas of the rolling Tuscan hills, perfect for sunrise or sunset shots.
The ancient Roman theater not only has historical significance but also provides a remarkable backdrop for photos, especially during events.
Food in Volterra
Volterra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Tuscan bread and tomato soup, often garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Indulge in this comforting dish at Osteria La Pace.
Must-Try!
Cinghiale is a popular regional dish typically prepared as a stew or slow-cooked ragĂš. Savor this flavorful specialty at Ristorante Etrusco.
These almond-based cookies, often flavored with orange zest, are a classic Tuscan sweet treat. Enjoy them at Pasticceria Toscana.
A hearty and rustic vegetable soup, showcasing the Tuscan cooking tradition. Taste this dish at Osteria dei Poeti.
A dense, chewy fruit and nut cake, enriched with honey and spices. Sample this traditional dessert at Pasticceria Del Vecchio Forno.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Volterra better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Volterra Food Market to discover an assortment of local produce, cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal products. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the famed pecorino cheese and indulge in freshly baked focaccia.
Wander through Piazza dei Priori, where you'll find charming street food stalls offering delectable bites such as porchetta sandwiches, fried seafood, and stuffed olives. Experience the lively atmosphere while relishing these authentic street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Volterra, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) during the day and 'Buonasera' (Good evening) in the evening. A handshake is a common greeting, and among friends, a kiss on both cheeks is typically exchanged.
When dining in Volterra, it is considered polite to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. Additionally, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during the meal, and always say 'Buon Appetito' (Enjoy your meal) before you start.
Dress neatly and respectfully, particularly when visiting churches or attending formal events. Italians tend to dress stylishly, so opting for smart-casual attire is appreciated. Itâs advisable to avoid overly casual clothing like beachwear in public settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Volterra with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Volterra
Ensure a smooth experience
In Volterra, as in much of Italy, tipping is generally not mandatory but is appreciated. It is common to round up the bill in a restaurant or leave small change. However, service charges are often included in the bill, so it is good to check before tipping.
Payment methods in Volterra include cash and credit cards, with some places preferring cash, especially smaller establishments. ATMs are available for withdrawing cash. Itâs advisable to carry some euros on hand for small purchases or markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Volterra.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Volterra. The weather is mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and lush landscapes. This season typically sees fewer tourists compared to summer, allowing for a more intimate experience of the town's historical sites and attractions.
Summer attracts many tourists to Volterra, with warm temperatures ideal for exploring the town's outdoor attractions. However, it can get quite hot, and popular sites may be crowded. Visitors can enjoy local festivals and events that take place during this vibrant season.
Fall is an excellent time to visit as the temperatures start to cool and the summer crowds diminish. The landscape transforms with beautiful autumn foliage, and wine and food festivals celebrate the harvest season. This is a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Winter in Volterra is quieter and offers a unique charm with fewer tourists. Although it can get cold and sometimes rainy, the townâs medieval atmosphere is enhanced. Visiting during this season provides opportunities to experience local traditions and holiday events, making it a peaceful time to explore the city's history.
Volterra at Night
Hiking in Volterra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park located near Volterra, offering various hiking trails through forests and scenic landscapes.
A hiking route that combines stunning views of the surrounding hills and historical Etruscan sites.
A picturesque hike leading to natural hot springs and waterfalls, perfect for a relaxing day surrounded by nature.
A challenging hike that rewards climbers with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside and the nearby cities.
A scenic trail that winds along ridges and through valleys, perfect for observing local flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Volterra through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Volterra by plane.
Located approximately 67 km from Volterra, Pisa International Airport is the nearest major international airport, serving numerous destinations across Europe and beyond.
Situated around 80 km from Volterra, Florence Airport offers international flights primarily within Europe and connects the Tuscan region to various destinations.
Approximately 95 km from Volterra, Grosseto Airport is a smaller airport that serves regional flights but may have limited international connections.
Located about 145 km from Volterra, Bologna Airport is a significant international airport offering flights to various destinations, including intercontinental routes.
Roughly 260 km from Volterra, Fiumicino is Italy's largest international airport, serving a vast number of destinations worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, comprising local residents and those from surrounding regions.
Residents from other EU countries, contributing to the local economy and culture.
Includes migrants from countries outside of the EU, representing diverse cultural backgrounds.
Visitors from around the world who come to experience Volterra's historical sites and rich heritage.
The Soul of Volterra
Discover the essence of Volterra through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is widely played in Volterra, with local clubs and community teams engaging in matches and tournaments.
Basketball is popular among the youth in Volterra, with several local teams participating in regional competitions.
Cycling is enjoyed for both leisure and sport, with scenic routes around Volterra attracting cycling enthusiasts.
Tennis has a presence in Volterra with local courts and clubs offering opportunities for both casual and competitive play.
Running is a popular activity, with many residents participating in local events and enjoying the natural landscapes of the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Volterra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Tuscan cuisine predominantly features meat, many establishments in Volterra offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of traditional dishes. Look out for restaurants that specially mark plant-based options on their menus, such as Osteria dei Poeti and Ristorante Etrusco.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a variety of gluten-free alternatives across Volterra. Several restaurants and cafÊs, including Caffè Poliziano and Enoteca Del Duca, are known for their gluten-free offerings and are accommodating to specific dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Volterra with these cultural adventures.
