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

Should you visit Arachova or Pisa?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova 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.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Pisa

Pisa is a iconic, world-famous, and classic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Arachova and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa


Is there more to do in Arachova or Pisa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Pisa are popular destinations, Arachova has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arachova is very popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm, while Pisa attracts visitors for its museums, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Arachova is famous for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also well known for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Pisa is famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere.

How is Arachova different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Pisa Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Pisa

Arachova is a popular place for skiing. However, Pisa is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Pisa is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Pisa

Pisa is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Pisa can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Arachova
Pisa

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Pisa can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Pisa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Arachova or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Pisa

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arachova and Pisa.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Many people head to Pisa for the nightlife scene. 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 Arachova or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Pisa

Pisa is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Arachova 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.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Pisa

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

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

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 Arachova or Pisa Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Pisa

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

Many visitors go to Arachova for the hiking trails. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Pisa is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Pisa?

Arachova
Pisa

Pisa is well known for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Pisa is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Is Arachova or Pisa Better for Families?

Arachova
Pisa

Arachova is a great 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, Arachova is very family-friendly. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

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 Arachova or Pisa Better for Couples?

Arachova
Pisa

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

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Pisa is a good 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 Arachova or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Pisa

Pisa is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.

Is Arachova or Pisa Better for Students?

Arachova
Pisa

Pisa is an unbeatable place for students. However, Arachova 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.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Pisa

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arachova and Pisa.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

While Pisa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.


Is Arachova or Pisa a more walkable city?

Arachova
Pisa

Pisa is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Pisa. In our opinion, Pisa has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Pisa than Arachova. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pisa.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Arachova or Pisa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Pisa 1-3

One day in Arachova or Pisa?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arachova. 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.

The beautiful city of Pisa offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Arachova or Pisa?

Arachova 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.

Pisa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pisa, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Arachova or Pisa?

You'll find food and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of Arachova. This 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.

Pisa is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Pisa?

The outdoorsy town of Arachova offers shopping and museums. 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.

Pisa is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pisa or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Pisa is €120. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Pisa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Pisa 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Pisa 120
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Pisa

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Pisa? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Pisa


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Pisa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Pisa 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pisa

Also for Pisa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Private Transfer from Pisa to La Spezia by car or van: $203
  • Florence: Private Transfer from Pisa Airport (PSA): $396
  • From Florence: Round-trip Transfer to Pisa & Cinque Terre: $1,230
  • PRIVATE TRANSFER: from Pisa to Florence with private chauffeur: $120
  • Pisa Airport (PSA) to Florence - Arrival Private Transfer: $74
  • Pisa Airport (PSA) to Florence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $148
  • Pisa Airport (PSA) to La Spezia Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Pisa Airport (PSA)to Montecatini Terme Resorts-RoundTrip Transfer: $127
  • Pisa Private Transfer from Pisa city centre to Pisa Airport: $87
  • Private Sightseeing Transfer from Pisa to Florence: $245
  • Private Transfer From Pisa To Florence, English Speaking Driver: $209
  • Private Transfer from Calambrone to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $79

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Pisa?

Prices for flights to both Pisa and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Pisa 50

Typical Food Prices in Pisa

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Pisa:


  • Dinner
    75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pisa

For Pisa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Chianni: wine and oil tasting with lunch or dinner: $39
  • Home-made Pasta Cooking Class: $75
  • Private Home-Made Pasta Cooking Class in Pisa.: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Pontedera with cooking demo: $93
  • Pisa Food Tour: $95
  • Pisa Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $101
  • Hands-On Cooking Class at a Local's Home: $155
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Pisa: $158
  • Authentic Italian Food Tour in Pisa: $521

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Pisa 20

Tours and Activities in Pisa

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pisa.

  • Tower of Pisa & Square of Miracles self guided audio tour: $4.27
  • From Italy eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.81
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Pisa: $8.72
  • Pisa Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Pisa Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.95
  • The Best of Pisa Self Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Pisa Cathedral Guided Tour and Optional Leaning Tower Ticket: $16
  • Square of Miracles guided tour with Leaning Tower ticket (option): $17
  • Baptistery and Cathedral Ticket with Audio Guide: $19
  • Camposanto and Cathedral Entry Tickets and Audio Guide: $19
  • Guided Walking Tour with Optional Leaning Tower Ticket: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Pisa -

Sample the Local Flavors in Pisa

Also in Pisa, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Cathedral Guided Tour & Wine Tasting & Optional Tower: $48
  • Pisa guided tour and Wine tasting with Leaning Tower ticket (option): $50
  • Winery Tour and Wine Tasting with Local Food Pairing: $75
  • From Pisa or Lucca: Half-Day Tuscany Chianti Wine Tasting: $90
  • Chianti Half-day Wine Tour in the Tuscan's Hills from Pisa: $97
  • Guided tour in San Miniato and wine tasting!: $99
  • Tuscan Wine Tour in Pisa by shuttle: $163
  • Pisa & Lucca with wine Tasting and Lunch from Livorno: $663


When comparing the travel costs between Arachova and Pisa, we can see that Pisa is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Pisa?

Pisa has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa and Arachova during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Arachova in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pisa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Arachova is a little warmer than Pisa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Pisa averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Pisa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Pisa. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Pisa. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Pisa 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Pisa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Pisa. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Pisa because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Pisa during autumn. Arachova gets 206 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, Arachova usually receives less rain than Pisa. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Pisa 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Pisa. The winter months attract visitors to Arachova because of the skiing, 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.

Arachova is a little warmer than Pisa in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Pisa. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Pisa. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Pisa 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Pisa in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Arachova is a little warmer than Pisa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Pisa averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Pisa during spring. Arachova gets 226 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, Arachova usually receives less rain than Pisa. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Pisa 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Pisa and Arachova

Arachova Pisa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)