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

Should you visit Lille or Pisa?

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

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

Lille

Lille is a under-rated, fascinating, and cultural city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and nightlife.

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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Lille and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lille or Pisa?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Pisa than Lille. While Lille is larger than Pisa, Pisa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pisa is better known for its museums and beaches, while Lille is more popular for its food and shopping. Pisa is more touristy than Lille 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. Lille is well known for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

How is Lille different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pisa is notable for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

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

Lille is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Lille is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

Dining out in Pisa is an experience not to be missed. 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 Lille or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Lille and Pisa.

Lille has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

Pisa has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Lille or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a beach destination.

Is Lille or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Lille to see the historical old town. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

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 the Shopping Better in Lille or Pisa?

Lille is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Lille draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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 Lille or Pisa Better for Families?

Pisa is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre 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.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Lille or Pisa Better for Couples?

Lille and Pisa are both notable to visit as a couple.

Lille makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

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 Lille or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pisa is notable for backpackers. Also, Lille 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.

Lille is a good city to visit for backpackers. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Is Lille or Pisa Better for Students?

Pisa is very popular for students. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Lille. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

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

Lille is a great city 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 Lille can get you around easily. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

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 Lille or Pisa a more walkable city?

Lille 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.

Lille is a very easy city to get around on foot. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored 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 Lille Worth Visiting? and Is Pisa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Lille?

How long in Lille or Pisa?

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lille. 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 Lille or Pisa?

Lille 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.

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 Lille or Pisa?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Lille. 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 Lille or Pisa?

The fascinating city of Lille offers shopping and nightlife. 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 charming 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lille or Pisa?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Lille as well as Pisa. Many visitors come to Lille in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pisa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Lille is cooler than Pisa in the summer. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 17°C (63°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 Lille this time of the year. In the summer, Lille often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Lille gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun.

Lille usually gets more rain in July than Pisa. Lille 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 Lille or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa and Lille are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Pisa because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lille is cooler than Pisa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lille in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Pisa averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during autumn. Lille 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, Lille usually receives less rain than Pisa. Lille 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 Lille or Pisa in the Winter?

Both Pisa and Lille during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Lille because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

The weather in Lille can be very cold. In January, Lille is generally much colder than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 3°C (38°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

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

Lille usually gets less rain in January than Pisa. Lille 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 Lille or Pisa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lille and Pisa. The natural beauty are the main draw to Lille this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pisa for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Lille is much colder than Pisa in the spring. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during spring. Lille 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, Lille usually receives less rain than Pisa. Lille 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 Lille