Tours / Discovering Volterra – 2 hours in the magic of the ancient Etruscan city

Volterra is a city where mystery, history, and legend blend into a unique experience, capable of captivating travelers of all kinds.

Perched on a hill overlooking the Tuscan hills, this ancient city seems suspended outside of time, and it is precisely this intense and solemn atmosphere that has made it famous in the Twilight saga, as the home of the powerful Volturi. Strolling through Volterra means entering a place that naturally evokes eternity, secrets, and power.
Volterra's charm, however, has its roots long before modern fiction. It is one of the most important Etruscan cities, and its most distant past is still visible in the monumental walls, the evocative Porta all'Arco, and the artifacts preserved in the Guarnacci Etruscan Museum. The Etruscans left a profound mark here, helping to create the archaic and mysterious aura that still surrounds the city today and seems to perfectly resonate with the imagery of Twilight.
Alongside its ancient history, Volterra also recounts a unique artisanal tradition: that of alabaster. For centuries, this luminous and delicate material has been quarried and crafted in the city, transforming it into works of art that seem to capture the light from within. Visiting the artisan workshops means discovering ancient knowledge, passed down from generation to generation, and understanding how alabaster is an integral part of Volterra's identity.
The historic center, with its cobbled alleys, medieval buildings, and the majestic Piazza dei Priori, thus becomes the perfect stage where reality and fantasy meet. A tour of Volterra offers much more than a simple visit: it is a journey through ancient civilizations, living traditions, and literary and cinematic influences.
Visiting Volterra means discovering a different, intense, and authentic Tuscany, where every corner tells a story and every experience leaves a lasting impression, suspended between light and shadow, past and legend.


Tour Itinerary:
Piazza dei Priori – The Beating Heart of the City
We begin our walk in Piazza dei Priori, a true medieval masterpiece and the center of city life for centuries. The guide will reveal the curious stories of the buildings surrounding the square, including the majestic Palazzo dei Priori, the oldest town hall in Tuscany.
The Cathedral and the Baptistery – Spirituality and Art Between Marble and Silence
We walk a few steps and immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of Piazza San Giovanni, home to the splendid Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery of San Giovanni. A place of peace and beauty where you can breathe in history and admire the elegant Romanesque decorations.
The Etruscan Walls and the Porta all'Arco – In the footsteps of the ancient Etruscans
We continue towards one of Volterra's symbols: the spectacular Porta all'Arco, dating back to the 4th century BC. Here, your guide will share curiosities and secrets of the Etruscans, the true founders of the city, and how their works proudly stand the test of time.
The Roman Theater and breathtaking views of the Cecina Valley
We then descend towards the Roman Theater, one of Tuscany's most evocative archaeological sites, with a spectacular view spanning the entire valley. A perfect moment for some dreamy photos!
The Alabaster Workshops – A Tradition That Lives Today

We conclude the tour in the ancient artisan workshops where you can watch master alabaster workers at work, discovering the centuries-old art that makes Volterra famous worldwide.

Info

Available days: Every day

Bookable Starting Time: From 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

Duration: 2 hours

Available Languages:

English, Italian, French, Spanish, German

Adult rate: The rate of the tour depends on the number of persons CALCULATE YOUR OWN RATE!

Child rate: Children 6 to 17 years old and with an ID card. Enter the number of people

Meeting Point: Piazza dei Priori, in front of the Palazzo dei Priori