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

Should you visit Ghent or Pisa?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Ghent and Pisa. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Ghent

Ghent is a youthful, high energy, and cultural city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Pisa

Pisa is a classic, charming, and iconic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Ghent and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ghent or Pisa?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Pisa than Ghent. While Ghent is larger than Pisa, Pisa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pisa is very popular for its beaches, while Ghent attracts visitors for its nightlife and impressive beauty. Pisa is more touristy than Ghent and is popular for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. It is also well known for The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

How is Ghent different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Ghent and Pisa have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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.

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

Foodies will find both Ghent and Pisa both to be superb destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ghent makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

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

Ghent is a must-see party destination. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a good destination for its beaches. However, Ghent is not a beach destination.

Pisa offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Ghent is not a beach destination.

Is Ghent or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the superb old town areas in both Ghent and Pisa.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Pisa?

Both Ghent and Pisa are superb shopping destinations.

Ghent is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

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.

Is Ghent or Pisa Better for Families?

Both Ghent and Pisa are nice family-friendly destinations.

Ghent is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Pisa is a family-friendly city. 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 Ghent or Pisa Better for Couples?

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

Ghent is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

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 Ghent or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pisa is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Ghent or Pisa Better for Students?

Ghent and Pisa are both amazing destinations for students and younger travelers.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

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.

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

Ghent 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 Ghent can take you anywhere. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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 Ghent or Pisa a more walkable city?

Ghent and Pisa both are superb when exploring on foot.

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ghent and Pisa. In our opinion, Ghent has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ghent than Pisa. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Ghent. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Pisa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this classic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Ghent or Pisa?

Ghent is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pisa. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Ghent or Pisa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Ghent. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Ghent or Pisa?

The cultural city of Ghent offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the world-famous destination of Pisa. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Pisa?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Ghent 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 Ghent 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 Ghent or Pisa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Pisa. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ghent this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Pisa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ghent is cooler than Pisa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ghent in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Pisa averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pisa. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ghent this time of the year. In the summer, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets more rain in July than Pisa. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ghent for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Pisa in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ghent is generally cooler than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 12°C (54°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during autumn. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pisa. In October, Ghent usually receives less rain than Pisa. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ghent or Pisa in the Winter?

Both Pisa and Ghent during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ghent in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Pisa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ghent can get quite cold in the winter. Ghent is much colder than Pisa in the winter. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets less rain in January than Pisa. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Pisa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Pisa. Most visitors come to Ghent for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Pisa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ghent is much colder than Pisa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ghent in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Pisa averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during spring. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

Pisa receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Ghent usually receives less rain than Pisa. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Ghent