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

Should you visit Chartres or Pisa?

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

Should I visit Chartres or Pisa? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Chartres

Chartres is a grand, spectacular, and historic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the food 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 beaches, shopping, and museums.

Chartres and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chartres or Pisa?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pisa than Chartres, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pisa is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chartres is more popular for its small town charm. Pisa is more touristy than Chartres and is known for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. Also, Pisa is famous for The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Chartres is well known for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

How is Chartres different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Pisa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Chartres. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.

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

Pisa is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chartres area. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Chartres or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Pisa is great for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Chartres or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a popular place for the beache. However, Chartres is not a beach destination.

Pisa is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Chartres is not a beach destination.

Is Chartres or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Pisa is great for its old town. However, Chartres does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Pisa. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

Chartres does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Chartres or Pisa?

Pisa is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chartres or Pisa Better for Families?

Pisa is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Pisa offers lots of family activities. 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.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Chartres or Pisa Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Chartres and Pisa make for a notable place to visit.

Chartres makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

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 Chartres or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pisa is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Chartres is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

Is Chartres or Pisa Better for Students?

Pisa is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not popular with students.

Many students frequent 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.

Chartres is not popular with students.

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

Chartres is a great town 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 public transit in Chartres can get you around easily. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

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 Chartres or Pisa a more walkable city?

Chartres and Pisa are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Chartres is a very walkable town. It's easy to see the sights around town 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 Chartres Worth Visiting? and Is Pisa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Chartres?

How long in Chartres or Pisa?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pisa than Chartres 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 Chartres or Pisa?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Chartres. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Chartres or Pisa?

Chartres is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Chartres or Pisa?

You'll find museums and food around the spectacular destination of Chartres. This town offers something for everyone. 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 Chartres or Pisa?

The grand town of Chartres offers food and museums. 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 The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Chartres 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 Chartres Expensive? and Is Pisa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chartres or Pisa?

Pisa has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Chartres. When comparing the sizes of Chartres 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 Chartres 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 Chartres or Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa and Chartres are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Chartres because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

Chartres is cooler than Pisa in the summer. The daily temperature in Chartres averages around 20°C (68°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 Chartres. Chartres usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during summer. Chartres gets 239 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chartres usually receives more rain than Pisa. Chartres gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chartres or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa and Chartres during the autumn are popular places to visit. The small town atmosphere are the main draw to Chartres this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pisa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chartres is cooler than Pisa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chartres in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Pisa averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Chartres often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Chartres gets 126 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. Chartres usually gets less rain in October than Pisa. Chartres gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chartres or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chartres and Pisa. Many travelers come to Chartres for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pisa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chartres. In January, Chartres is generally much colder than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Chartres average around 5°C (40°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Chartres usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during winter. Chartres gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chartres usually receives less rain than Pisa. Chartres gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chartres or Pisa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chartres as well as Pisa. Many visitors come to Chartres in the spring for the small town charm. Additionally, most visitors come to Pisa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Chartres is cooler than Pisa in the spring. The daily temperature in Chartres averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Chartres often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Chartres gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pisa. Chartres usually gets less rain in April than Pisa. Chartres gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Chartres