A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Pisa for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Annecy or Pisa?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Annecy and Pisa can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a quaint, storybook, and charming alpine town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Pisa

Pisa is a world-famous, classic, and charming city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Annecy and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Annecy or Pisa?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Pisa, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is better known for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Pisa is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and shopping. Annecy is more touristy than Pisa and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Pisa is well known for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere.

How is Annecy different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pisa is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Pisa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

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

Annecy is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Annecy is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Dining out in Pisa is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Annecy or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Pisa is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Pisa has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Annecy or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is very good for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Pisa to enjoy the beach. 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.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Annecy or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is terrific for its old town. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Annecy has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Pisa. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

Is Annecy or Pisa Better for Hiking?

Annecy is a great alpine town for hiking. However, Pisa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Pisa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Pisa?

Pisa is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its shopping areas.

Pisa is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Annecy to go shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Annecy or Pisa Better for Families?

Annecy is a great alpine town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Pisa is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Annecy or Pisa Better for Couples?

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

Annecy makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Pisa is a good alpine town 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 Annecy or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pisa is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Pisa. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Annecy or Pisa Better for Students?

Pisa is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Pisa. 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.

Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Annecy and Pisa both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

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 Annecy or Pisa a more walkable city?

Annecy and Pisa are great when it comes to walkability.

Annecy is a very walkable alpine town. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore 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 Annecy Worth Visiting? and Is Pisa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Annecy and Pisa. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Annecy than in Pisa. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pisa.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pisa than Annecy 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 Pisa.

One day in Annecy or Pisa?

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pisa. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Annecy or Pisa?

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. 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.

Pisa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Annecy or Pisa?

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This alpine town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pisa. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Annecy or Pisa?

Because Annecy is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Pisa. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Annecy and Pisa, we can see that Annecy 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 Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy 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 Annecy Expensive? and Is Pisa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Annecy or Pisa?

Pisa has a larger population, and is about 82% larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Annecy 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 Annecy or Pisa?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Annecy or Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Pisa because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Annecy is around the same temperature as Pisa in the summer. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Pisa fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Pisa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Annecy. Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during summer. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Annecy usually receives more rain than Pisa. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Annecy or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa and Annecy during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Annecy because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

In the autumn, Annecy is cooler than Pisa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Annecy in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Pisa averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 177 hours of full sun.

Pisa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Annecy usually gets less rain in October than Pisa. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Pisa. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pisa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Annecy in the winter. In January, Annecy is generally much colder than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 4°C (39°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during winter. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Annecy usually receives less rain than Pisa. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Annecy or Pisa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Pisa. Many travelers come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Pisa in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Annecy is cooler than Pisa in the spring. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pisa. Annecy usually gets less rain in April than Pisa. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Annecy