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

Should you visit Girona 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 Girona 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.

Girona

Girona is a charming, beautiful, and colorful city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Pisa

Pisa is a classic, charming, and iconic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Girona and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Girona or Pisa?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pisa than Girona, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pisa is better known for its nightlife and beaches, while Girona is more popular for its historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Pisa is more touristy than Girona and is popular for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. Also, Pisa is famous for The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Girona is well known for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

How is Girona different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Girona and Pisa.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Girona. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

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 Girona or Pisa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Girona. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Pisa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 Girona or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Pisa is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Girona or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a good destination for the beache. However, Girona 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.

Girona is not a beach destination.

Is Girona or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

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

Girona has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

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 the Shopping Better in Girona or Pisa?

Both Girona and Pisa are superb shopping destinations.

Girona is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Pisa. 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 Girona or Pisa Better for Families?

Pisa is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Girona or Pisa Better for Couples?

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

Girona is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

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 Girona or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Pisa is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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 Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Girona or Pisa Better for Students?

Pisa is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Pisa is a very popular place to visit 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.

Plenty of students visit Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

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

Both Girona and Pisa offer notable public transit options.

Girona has a few public transit options. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

Pisa has some public transit options. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

Is Girona or Pisa a more walkable city?

Girona is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Girona is a very easy city to get around on foot. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Girona?

How long in Girona or Pisa?

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Girona. 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.

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 Girona or Pisa?

Girona 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 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 Girona or Pisa?

You'll find shopping and museums around the beautiful destination of Girona. 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.

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 Girona or Pisa?

The beautiful city of Girona offers museums 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the iconic 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Girona or Pisa?

Girona has a larger population, and is about 0% larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Girona 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 Girona 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 Girona or Pisa in the Summer?

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

Girona is around the same temperature as Pisa in the summer. The daily temperature in Girona averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Pisa fluctuates around 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 Girona this time of the year. In the summer, Girona often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Girona gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets more rain in July than Pisa. Girona gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Girona or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa and Girona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, 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 the autumn, Girona is around the same temperature as Pisa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Girona in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Pisa averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Girona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pisa during autumn. Girona gets 170 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, Girona usually receives less rain than Pisa. Girona gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Girona or Pisa in the Winter?

Both Pisa and Girona during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Girona 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.

In January, Girona is generally a little warmer than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Girona average around 8°C (46°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Girona often gets more sunshine than Pisa. Girona gets 148 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets less rain in January than Pisa. Girona gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Girona or Pisa in the Spring?

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

Girona is around the same temperature as Pisa in the spring. The daily temperature in Girona averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Girona usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during spring. Girona gets 177 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, Girona usually receives less rain than Pisa. Girona gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Girona