We have a day to wander about in Tuscan hilltowns and would like advice from anyone who has been to Volterra. We've been to San Gimignano and Siena and Lucca.

I have, and unlike many people, I disliked it: I found it dark and dreary. The Etruscan museum has about 2000 cinerary urns and one really interesting piece.

I rented a villa outside of Volterra one Fall and went into the city often. It is rather dreary and windswept but that can also be its charm. As Zerlina mentioned there is the museum and other interesting alabaster themed places. The views from the ramparts are outstanding. It is a real town and has other income from alabaster so it is not geared towards tourists.

I think it would be a nice daytrip. What month are you visiting?

We enjoyed Volterra as it seemd more real and wasn't jam packed with tourists. We didn't find it dreary at all.

I too like Volterra. It is the real thing and not the Hollywood version.

I agree with both parties. It's real & not Hollywood AND dark & dreary.

The Etruscan museum in Tarquinia is much better. It has more variety, and one can visit nearby Etruscan tombs.

Thank you! We will be there toward the end of October. Because we will be staying near Montecatini, we want to travel only a short distance on a day trip. Orvieto, which sounds interesting, might be too far away. What do you think?

Did you guys know that Dante came from Volterra?

Yes, Orvieto is too far.