A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Genoa vs. Pittsburgh for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Genoa or Pittsburgh?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Genoa or Pittsburgh, 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.

Genoa

Genoa is a energetic, historic, and vibrant port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a under-rated, industrial, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa and Pittsburgh: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Genoa or Pittsburgh?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Pittsburgh than Genoa. While Genoa is larger than Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Pittsburgh is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Genoa attracts visitors for its food, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Genoa is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is known for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Pittsburgh is famous for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood". It is also well known for Mount Washington.

How is Genoa different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Genoa or Pittsburgh?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Pittsburgh and Genoa.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Genoa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Pittsburgh. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.


Is the Food Better in Genoa or Pittsburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

Genoa is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Genoa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Genoa or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is great for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Many people head to Pittsburgh for the nightlife scene. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Genoa or Pittsburgh Better for Beaches?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

Genoa is adequate for the beach. However, Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.

The beach in Genoa is worth checking out. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.


Is Genoa or Pittsburgh Better for its Old Town?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

Genoa is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Pittsburgh does not have a historic old town.

Genoa has an old town worth visiting. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Pittsburgh does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Genoa or Pittsburgh?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

If you're looking to go shopping, Genoa and Pittsburgh both offer plenty of nice spots.

Genoa has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

Is Genoa or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

Genoa is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Genoa. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.


Is Genoa or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

Genoa is great for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Genoa is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Genoa or Pittsburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

Genoa is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

Is Genoa or Pittsburgh Better for Students?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

Genoa is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Pittsburgh is not popular with students.

Genoa is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Pittsburgh is not popular with students.


Is Genoa or Pittsburgh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Genoa. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Pittsburgh has a few public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Is Genoa or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Genoa
Pittsburgh

Genoa is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Genoa is a very walkable destination. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Genoa Worth Visiting? and Is Pittsburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Genoa?

How long in Genoa or Pittsburgh?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Genoa than Pittsburgh 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 Genoa.


  • How many days in Genoa or Pittsburgh? Ideal Length of Stay
    Genoa 2-4 
    Pittsburgh 2-3

One day in Genoa or Pittsburgh?

With museums and nightlife around the colorful port city of Genoa, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Pittsburgh, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Genoa or Pittsburgh?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Genoa, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pittsburgh. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Genoa or Pittsburgh?

Genoa, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Pittsburgh is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Pittsburgh. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Genoa or Pittsburgh?

Genoa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Pittsburgh. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Genoa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Genoa is $160, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $181. 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 Genoa and Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Genoa $95
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Genoa $190
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Genoa and Pittsburgh

Looking for a hotel in Genoa or Pittsburgh? 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 Genoa


Hotels in Pittsburgh


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: Genoa Hotel Prices and Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Genoa $9.31
    Pittsburgh $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Genoa

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

  • Genova : Private Transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $603
  • Private Door-To-Door Transfer From Genoa To Florence: $285
  • Private Direct Transfer From Genoa to Nice, En Speaking Driver: $271
  • Departure Private Transfer from Genoa to La Spezia by car or van: $254
  • Private Transfer From Genoa to Milan English Speaking Driver: $249
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Milan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $223
  • From Genoa to Florence Hotels - Private Transfer: $145
  • Genoa to Malpensa Milan Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer : $131
  • Private Transfer from/to Genoa to/from Portofino: $124
  • Private transfer from Genoa to Portofino with Hotel or Cruise Port pick-up: $120
  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $118
  • Genoa airport (GOA) to Savona Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $118

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97
  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Genoa or Pittsburgh?

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh and Genoa 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
    Genoa $55
    Pittsburgh $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Genoa

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

  • Genoese cooking lesson in the garden with lunch: $68
  • Genoa Old town Food Tour: $74
  • Itinerant dinner in the old town: $75
  • Street Food Tour: $85
  • Do Eat Better Experience - Food Tours in Genoa: $86
  • Traditional Food Tour: $91
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Camogli: $93
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Savona: $93
  • Dining experience with cooking demo and wines in Rapallo: $93
  • Traditional Home Cooking Class in Genoa: $93
  • Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner: $93
  • Small-group Street food tour in Savona: $97

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Genoa $21
    Pittsburgh $38

Tours and Activities in Genoa

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

  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Genoa: $104
  • 3 Hours Private Walking Tour of Genoa from the Cruise Terminal: $240
  • 7 Islands 7 Stops Tour of Archipelago La Maddalena: $90
  • Aquarium of Genoa + Panera Ice Cream Taste experience: $32
  • Aquarium of Genoa Ticket and Whale Watching Cruise: $70
  • Aquarium of Entry Ticket and Aperitif: $31
  • Cesarine: Market Tour & Dining at a Local's Home in Genoa: $152
  • City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $27
  • Departure by Private Car from Genoa City to Genoa Cruise Port: $44
  • Discover Genoa, old town walking tour: $131
  • E-Bike, Scooter and Scooter Tour: $38
  • E-bike tour in Genova: $82

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

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

  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour of Pittsburgh: $33
  • Bike the Burgh Tour: $50
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Discover Oakland Tour: $33
  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Essential Pittsburgh Experience - The One Tour to Take: $75
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $40
  • JUST THE TOUR - Double Decker bus sightseeing tour of Pittsburgh.: $35
  • New! Art & Artists Tour: $33
  • New! Bikes & Brews Tour: $75
  • Pittsburg 101 Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Genoa $11
    Pittsburgh $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Genoa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Genoa:

  • Guided Eco Hiking and Sea View Wine Tasting in Portofino Park: $75
  • 3 Hour Pesto Making and Wine Tasting Activity in Campetto Genoa: $105
  • CAMOGLI: PRIVATE Ligurian Wine Tasting Experience and walking on National Park: $126

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $50
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Genoa and Pittsburgh, we can see that Pittsburgh 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. Even though Genoa is in Europe and Pittsburgh is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Genoa or Pittsburgh?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Pittsburgh. When comparing the sizes of Genoa and Pittsburgh, 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.