A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. Pisa for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Amsterdam or Pisa?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Pisa, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a scenic, historic, and canal-lined city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Pisa

Pisa is a iconic, world-famous, and classic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Amsterdam and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Pisa?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Pisa. Amsterdam is bigger than Pisa, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Pisa is more popular for its food and beaches. Amsterdam is more touristy than Pisa and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Pisa is well known for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere.

How is Amsterdam different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pisa and Amsterdam. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Amsterdam or Pisa?

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Pisa.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Pisa. The city is more than a one hit wonder. In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you'll find many beautiful buildings and museums. Popular places to visit include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Campo Santo (Sacred Field), and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.

Is the Food Better in Amsterdam or Pisa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pisa is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Pisa. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city's maritime roots. You'll find many seafood dishes as well as local classic recipes that have been passed down through the generations. A quintessential local dish is Bordatino alla Pisana, which is made with beans, cabbage, and cornflour. Also popular are Pasta e Ceci (chickpea pasta), Palette (a local polenta), and Trippa alla Pisana.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Amsterdam or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam is a must-see party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Pisa offers plenty to do in the evening. Head out to an aperitivo bar for an early drink, then head to one of the area's best nightlife neighborhoods. For the biggest party scene, go about 10 kilometers out of town to the Versilian coast. This area has the most popular clubs. If you decide to stay in town, there are still plenty of places to catch live music and dance.

Is Amsterdam or Pisa Better for Music?

Amsterdam is terrific for its live music scene. However, Pisa is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Amsterdam. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Pisa is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Pisa has a beach worth visiting. Many people forget that there are beaches near Pisa, but the city is close to the sea. Some of the closest beaches include Marina di Vecchiano and Marina di Pisa.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Amsterdam or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam and Pisa both have very good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Pisa is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Pisa?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pisa and Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Pisa. There's a great mix of traditional markets, high end stores, and indoor shopping malls where you can find anything that you might need. Corso Italia is one of the most popular shopping areas, but also worth checking out are Centro Commerciale Pisanova, Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo.

Is Amsterdam or Pisa Better for Families?

Pisa is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Pisa. It's a lively city with beautiful squares and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Kids will enjoy hanging out in the city center, visiting Parco Don Bosco, Giardino Scotto Park, or Marina di Pisa. If you have a car and are willing to venture a bit further away, there's the Piccolo Mondo Amusement Park and Parco Preistorico Peccioli.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Pisa Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Amsterdam is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Pisa is a good city for couples to visit. It's an iconic Italian destination that offers so much more than its most famous landmark. The city is filled with charming squares, beautiful architecture, and plenty of fun activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Amsterdam or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Amsterdam is extremely popular for backpackers. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Pisa is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Most backpackers pass through on their way to other towns, but for those that linger, there are plenty of hostels and a lively social scene.

Is Amsterdam or Pisa Better for Students?

Pisa is an unbeatable place for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Pisa is a great destination for students. Many study abroad students flock to Italy for its beautiful culture, art, and architecture. Pisa makes a nice base for international students, and it offers easy access to other parts of Italy. It's also home to an internationally acclaimed university, Scuola Normale Superiore, which was founded in 1810.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Amsterdam or Pisa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Amsterdam can take you anywhere. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Pisa has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

Is Amsterdam or Pisa a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Amsterdam is a very easy city to get around on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Pisa is a very walkable destination. The city is a great place to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Pisa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and Pisa. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Pisa. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pisa.

Families should spend more time in Pisa than Amsterdam. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Pisa, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Pisa. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Amsterdam that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Pisa if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Amsterdam.

One day in Amsterdam or Pisa?

Amsterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Pisa. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pisa has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Pisa?

Amsterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the classic destination of Pisa. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Pisa?

Amsterdam is a canal-lined big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the world-famous city of Pisa. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Pisa?

Amsterdam is a party-oriented city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Pisa is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Pisa, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Pisa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pisa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pisa and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam than you might in Pisa.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Amsterdam Expensive? and Is Pisa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Pisa?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Pisa, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Amsterdam or Pisa?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa and Amsterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pisa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Amsterdam is cooler than Pisa in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Pisa fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Pisa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Pisa. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Pisa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Pisa. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Pisa because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is much colder than Pisa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Pisa averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pisa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Pisa. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Pisa. The winter months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. In January, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Pisa. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Pisa in the Spring?

Both Pisa and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pisa for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Amsterdam is much colder than Pisa in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pisa. In April, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Pisa. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Amsterdam