Hotels in Volterra

Volterra: Where Ancient Castles Embrace Enchanted Hills

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Volterra is a charming hilltop town that enchants visitors with its rich Etruscan history and stunning medieval architecture. Wander the cobblestone streets to discover ancient monuments, like the majestic Roman Theatre and the impressive Palazzo dei Priori. Surrounded by rolling countryside and volcanic landscapes, Volterra is perfect for families and couples seeking a romantic escape. Don’t miss the artisan shops offering exquisite alabaster crafts or the luxurious Borgo Pignano, a serene retreat. With its breathtaking views and cultural treasures, Volterra invites you to experience the magic of Tuscany off the beaten path. For the best hotel rates in Volterra and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Volterra

Some of the best places to stay in Volterra are Certaldo Alto, Montarioso and Castagneto Carducci. Certaldo Alto is a medieval gem with charming streets and stunning views, perfect for first-time visitors. Montarioso offers a tranquil countryside experience, ideal for couples seeking romance. Castagneto Carducci boasts beautiful coastal scenery and rich cultural heritage. Accommodations in these areas range from boutique hotels to family-friendly options, including star hotels and romantic stays. Many places also provide amenities like babysitting services, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all travelers. Here are some of the best hotels in Volterra that our travelers love:

1. Certaldo AltoOpens in a new window: Certaldo Alto is a charming hilltop town in Tuscany, perfect for travelers interested in culture and wine. The area is known for its picturesque medieval architecture and is surrounded by renowned wineries, including Tenuta Torciano Winery and Antinori nel Chianti Classico, both offering delightful wine tasting experiences. For a luxurious stay, consider COMO Castello Del NeroOpens in a new window, which caters to business and family travelers with amenities like a business center and golf facilities. Another option is Villa Le CalvaneOpens in a new window, ideal for adventure seekers, featuring horseback riding and mountain biking opportunities. For a touch of luxury, Il CastelfalfiOpens in a new window offers a lavish experience.
2. MontariosoOpens in a new window: Montarioso is a picturesque area near Siena, rich in history and culture, boasting attractions like the Siena Cathedral and Piazza del Campo. This location is perfect for families and business travelers alike. Borgo Scopeto Wine & Country RelaisOpens in a new window offers extensive business amenities and adventure activities such as hiking and biking. The Club HouseOpens in a new window also provides excellent business facilities along with golf experiences, while Grand Hotel Continental Siena – Starhotels CollezioneOpens in a new window offers romance packages in a family-friendly environment.
3. Castagneto CarducciOpens in a new window: Castagneto Carducci is a beautiful destination known for its outdoor activities and scenic landscapes, making it ideal for families and adventure enthusiasts. The area features attractions like Cavallino Matto theme park and Ornellaia Winery. For a beachfront experience, Tombolo Talasso ResortOpens in a new window offers direct beach access and business amenities. Gallia Palace HotelOpens in a new window and Hotel Villa OttoneOpens in a new window also feature beachfront locations with various adventure sports options, making them great choices for active travelers.

Things to do in Volterra for first time

Three days in Volterra offers a captivating blend of hilly landscapes, rolling countryside, and ancient castles. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking through lush forests or exploring scenic parks, while immersing themselves in local art and opera, making it a perfect base for broader Tuscany tours. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Volterra:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Volterra at the enchanting Piazza Duomo, where you can admire the stunning cathedral and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Next, wander over to Castelvecchio, a historic fortress that offers impressive views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the town's medieval past. To wrap up your day, visit Fattoria San Donato, a local farm that provides a delightful experience of Tuscany's agricultural heritage. Here, you can savor some authentic Tuscan dishes and perhaps enjoy a wine tasting.
• Day 2: Kick off your exploration with a visit to the Medieval Criminal and Torture Museum, where fascinating exhibits reveal the darker aspects of medieval justice. Afterward, make your way to the Ranuccio Bianchi Bandinelli Archeological Museum, which houses incredible artifacts that tell the story of Volterra's ancient civilizations. Conclude your day with a stop at Art in Color, a gallery showcasing vibrant local artworks, perfect for picking up a unique souvenir to remember your trip.
• Day 3: Start your day at the San Gimignano Communal Palace, where the stunning frescoes and rich history will captivate you. Then, venture to the Monastery of San Vivaldo, a serene spot nestled in nature, ideal for reflection and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. End your day with a visit to the Castelvecchio Natural Reserve, where you can take a leisurely hike and immerse yourself in the breathtaking Tuscan landscape, making for a perfect conclusion to your memorable journey in Volterra.

5 tips to find a great Volterra hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Volterra is during January, February, and December, when hotel rates are more affordable. For international travelers, booking your flight at least three months in advance can help you secure better prices. To fully appreciate the main attractions, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. In Volterra, you can explore its impressive monuments, picturesque countryside, and stunning castles, all of which offer great value for your money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: For travelers seeking spontaneous adventures, last-minute deals to Volterra can offer excellent savings on luxury accommodations. To explore these offers, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find appealing rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize the chance to enjoy a remarkable stay in this charming Italian town.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Volterra.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Volterra is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars and buses to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Volterra and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Volterra

Here are some famous dishes in Volterra, Tuscany, Italy:

• Ribollita: This hearty Tuscan soup is a delightful blend of vegetables, beans, and stale bread, typically made with kale and carrots. Traditionally, ribollita is prepared over several days, allowing the flavors to deepen. It's often enjoyed as a comforting meal during colder months, reflecting the region's rustic culinary heritage.
• Pappardelle al Cinghiale: This dish features wide ribbons of pasta served with a rich, slow-cooked wild boar sauce. The meat is marinated in red wine and herbs, giving it a robust flavor that’s perfect for sharing at family gatherings. It's a true taste of Tuscany, often enjoyed in the cozy trattorias scattered throughout Volterra.

Best time to go to Volterra

Volterra experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 41.2°F (5.1°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.3°F (24.6°C). November is usually the wettest month. April, July, and August are the peak travel months in Volterra, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.