Volterra is a walled medieval town nestled on a hilltop in the heart of Tuscany. Its history dates back before this to the Roman era. This provides a rich array of architecture to explore. Given its remote location if you are considering visiting Volterra you will need a car. It is easy to get around the town on foot and you shouldn’t get lost. Whilst there are roads in the historic town taking a car inside the town would not be recommended. There are some places to park just outside the town within walking distance. Parking can be difficult especially during peak times.

Once inside the town there are ample bars and restaurants to choose from. There are various shops catering for tourist and also some selling local arts and crafts. Just outside the town are supermarkets in case you need to do some grocery shopping. you can choose to stay in one of the hotels inside the town. This would be a good plan if you are only staying from one night. If you are staying longer a hotel or agriturismo outside the town would be better. This would also be a better choice if you want to use Volterra as a base to explore further afield. Staying outside the town would offer more relaxation in the Tuscan countryside. We have stayed twice at a very friendly agriturismo called Agriturismo Cassallario. The link is below and some photographs of the views. There are different rooms on offer. Some offer a kitchen and others with rooms for children. The setting is very peaceful and makes for a relaxing break after a day exploring. https://www.agriturismocasallario.it/en/

If you are intereted in the local Tuscan cuisine then there are plenty options available. My favourite place was Osteria Trattoria La Pace, the link is below. It is located just inside one of the gates leading into the town. It is here were I had my favourite beans and sausage, Tuscan style. Still only €10. There are many local dishes to choose from. If you enjoy wine it is also a good idea to sample a local bottle. Often there are some not widely available outside of the local area. They are generally good value for money. The owner here is very friendly and even remembered us when we went back to Volterra a second time. https://www.osteria-lapace.com/

For those interested in Roman history there is the Roman Theatre of Volterra and the Roman Ampitheater. Although small compared to other Roman sites they are still worth visiting. They remind me of a small version of the Roman Forum in Rome.

There is a strong medieval feeling within the town. At the end of summer there is a local festival celebrating their heritage. This is called Volterra AD 1398 and is a celebration of their medieval history. It takes place between the third and fourth Sunday is August. Each part of the town has its own flag and there are many local events taking place. Below you can see the main square being prepared for the festival. The history and architecture is simply stunning and leaves an impact on you. It is no coincidence that Volterra was the setting and home town for the vampire family from the Twilight film. Spoiler alter, the scenes were filmed in nearby Montepulciano. You can’t have everything.

After walking around the walls on the outskirts of the town there is plenty to see inside the town. There is the cathedral, town hall, museums, baptistry and fortress. The altarpiece ‘Desposition from the Cross’ by Rosso Fiorentino is located in the Picture Gallery and Civic Museum of Volterra. Below are some photographs from around the town.

We really enjoyed the town of Volterra and what it has to offer. Both of our trips there also provided us with a countryside escape. If also allowed us to visit some of the surrounding towns and vineyards. All in all I would recommend a trip to a historic Tuscan town staying just outside in the countryside. This was you are getting the best of both.