A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pamplona vs. Livorno for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Pamplona or Livorno?

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

Should I visit Pamplona or Livorno? 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.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a elegant, laid-back, and historic 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.

Livorno

Livorno is a waterfront, friendly, and down-to-earth port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Pamplona and Livorno: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Pamplona or Livorno?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pamplona than Livorno, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Pamplona is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and hiking, while Livorno is known for its beaches. Pamplona is more touristy than Livorno and is popular for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. It is also home to The Running of the Bulls Festival. Livorno is popular for its large port and its great seafood.

How is Pamplona different from Livorno?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pamplona or Livorno?

Pamplona
Livorno

Pamplona is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Livorno is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

Livorno offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The waterfront promenade and New Venice are nice to explore. There's an aquarium in town as well as a fun central market.


Is the Food Better in Pamplona or Livorno? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pamplona
Livorno

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

Pamplona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Livorno offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. As a port city, this is the place to try seafood. Many dishes include calamari, shrimp, or freshly caught fish. The city is less touristy than most in Italy, so even the food has an authentic and down-to-earth vibe.

Is Pamplona or Livorno Better for Nightlife?

Pamplona
Livorno

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

Many people head to Pamplona for the nightlife scene. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Livorno. Most visitors arrive by cruise ship, and depart in the evening, but the city is large and for those that stay the night, there are a number of bars and clubs around town.

Is Pamplona or Livorno Better for Beaches?

Pamplona
Livorno

Livorno is a moderate port city for the beache. However, Pamplona is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Livorno. The beaches are pebbly or rocky, so you won't really find a long stretch of sandy beach where you can relax. They can also stay very crowded.

Pamplona is not a beach destination.


Is Pamplona or Livorno Better for its Old Town?

Pamplona
Livorno

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

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Livorno does not have a historic old town.

Is Pamplona or Livorno Better for Hiking?

Pamplona
Livorno

Pamplona is great for hiking. However, Livorno is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Pamplona for the hiking trails. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Livorno is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pamplona or Livorno?

Pamplona
Livorno

Both Pamplona and Livorno are good shopping destinations.

Pamplona offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Livorno has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The main shopping street in town is Via Grande. It's generally filled with major chain stores and familiar brands.


Is Pamplona or Livorno Better for Families?

Pamplona
Livorno

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Pamplona or Livorno.

Pamplona is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Livorno is a family-friendly city. The city has a nice aquarium as well as outdoor recreational activities like cycling and boating. There's a beach and parks where kids can stretch their legs and run around as well.

Is Pamplona or Livorno Better for Couples?

Pamplona
Livorno

With fun activities for couples, both Pamplona and Livorno make for a good place to visit.

Pamplona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Livorno is a good city for couples to visit. There are some nice museums as well as parks and boat rides that couples can enjoy. There's also an aquarium and a beach.

Is Pamplona or Livorno Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pamplona
Livorno

Pamplona is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Livorno is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pamplona. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Livorno is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this city, so you won't find many hostels around town. It's a relatively affordable place to stay with some fun entertainment options if you do pass through.


Is Pamplona or Livorno Better for Students?

Pamplona
Livorno

Pamplona is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Livorno is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Livorno is not popular with students.

Is Pamplona or Livorno Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pamplona
Livorno

Both Pamplona and Livorno offer good public transit options.

Pamplona has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Livorno has some public transit options. There are buses around town including lines that run from the central train station to the port.

Is Pamplona or Livorno a more walkable city?

Pamplona
Livorno

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

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

Livorno is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but if you're arriving by cruise ship, you'll want to take a shuttle bus from the port.


For even more information, also check out Is Pamplona Worth Visiting? and Is Livorno Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Livorno or Pamplona?

How long in Pamplona or Livorno?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Pamplona or Livorno to fill your time. In our opinion, Pamplona has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Pamplona than Livorno. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pamplona than Livorno 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 Pamplona.


  • How many days in Pamplona or Livorno? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pamplona 1-2 
    Livorno 1-2

One day in Pamplona or Livorno?

In Pamplona, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The port city of Livorno offers nightlife and food. 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 Pamplona or Livorno?

In Pamplona, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pamplona has to offer.

Livorno is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Livorno, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Pamplona or Livorno?

Pamplona is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Livorno 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 Pamplona or Livorno?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamplona. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pamplona. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Livorno is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Livorno or Pamplona?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pamplona is €131, while the average daily cost in Livorno is €135. 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 Pamplona and Livorno in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pamplona 67
    Livorno 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pamplona 134
    Livorno 150
Compare Hotels in Pamplona and Livorno

Looking for a hotel in Pamplona or Livorno? 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 Pamplona


Hotels in Livorno


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: Pamplona Hotel Prices and Livorno Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pamplona 24
    Livorno 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pamplona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Pamplona:

  • Private Transfer from Pamplona Airport to Laguardia town: $282
  • Private Transfer from Pamplona city to San Sebastian: $244
  • Private Transfer from Pamplona city to San Sebastian Airport: $244

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Livorno

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

  • From Bus Transfer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa: $20
  • From Livorno Cruise Port: Bus Transfer to Pisa and Lucca: $34
  • From Florence and Pisa Roundtrip Transfer: $48
  • Livorno Cruise Port to Pisa city hotels -Arrival Private Transfer: $100
  • Livorno Port to Pisa Airport (PSA) - Arrival Private Transfer: $100
  • Private Transfer from Livorno Cruise Port to Florence City Hotels: $110
  • Private Transfer - Livorno Cruise Port to Florence Airport (FLR): $110
  • Livorno Private Arrival Transfer: Cruise Port to Central Florence: $173
  • Private Transfer from Livorno Port to Florence Hotels: $197

Is it cheaper to fly into Pamplona or Livorno?

Prices for flights to both Livorno and Pamplona 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
    Pamplona 41
    Livorno 42
Typical Food Prices in Pamplona

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pamplona are as follows:


  • Lunch for 2
    10
  • Ice Cream
    4.50
  • Coffee
    1.30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Livorno

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

  • Private Home Cooking Class and Meal with a Local: $155
  • Cesarine: Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Livorno: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pamplona 34
    Livorno 26

Tours and Activities in Pamplona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pamplona are as follows:

  • Biarritz and French Basque coast small group tour, lunch included: $260
  • Bilbao and Guggenheim Museum small group tour: $218
  • From San Sebastian: Pamplona City Tour: $91
  • Logroño historic&cultural guided walking tour: $32
  • Pamplona - Private Historic Walking Tour: $427
  • Pamplona Private Tour with Castle of Javier : $240
  • Pamplona pintxo tasting paired with Spanish wines small group tour: $72
  • Private City Tour Pamplona: $174
  • Private tour of Fuenterrabia and San Sebastian.: $283
  • Private tour of Getaria, Zumaia, Zarautz and Orio. : $204
  • Private tour of Lourdes and the three sacred temples: $240
  • Private tour of the jewels of Bilbao, with Guggenheim and pintxos tasting. : $251

Tours and Activities in Livorno

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

  • Aquarium Entrance Ticket: $16
  • 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket Experience: $20
  • Shore Excursion to Pisa and Livorno Bus Tour: $35
  • 2-Hour Private Guided Tour with Tasting of Bolgheri DOCs: $38
  • Night Bike Tour in Bolgheri with Tasting: $65
  • Half Day Pisa and Jewel of the Cinque Terre Tour From Livorno: $68
  • Livorno Food and Market Tour: $87
  • Epicurean Experience Private Diner with a Local and Local Food: $150
  • Cinque Terre small group tour max 15 people from Livorno port: $168
  • Full-Day Private Tour of Cinque Terre with Personal Photographer from Pisa: $196
  • Private Walking Tour in Livorno with Personal Photographer from Pisa: $218
  • 2-Hour Private Tour with Photo Shoot in 500 to Bolgheri: $272

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pamplona 31
    Livorno 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Pamplona

Also in Pamplona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Half Day Rioja Wine Tour: $218
  • Wine tour of La Rioja, with two winery visits, and La Guardia. : $221
  • Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Logroño: $240
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Pamplona: $240
  • Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Logroño: $251
  • Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Pamplona: $251
  • Rioja Wine Tour: $283

Sample the Local Flavors in Livorno

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

  • Wine Tour Experience at Agricola Tamburini: $49
  • PRIVATE EXCURSION: Pisa and Lucca with Lunch and wine tastings : $272
  • From Siena and Chianti Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $477


When comparing the travel costs between Pamplona and Livorno, we can see that Livorno 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 Pamplona Expensive? and Is Livorno Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pamplona or Livorno?

Pamplona has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Livorno. When comparing the sizes of Pamplona and Livorno, 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 Pamplona or Livorno?

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 Pamplona or Livorno in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pamplona as well as Livorno. Many travelers come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Livorno in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pamplona is cooler than Livorno. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pamplona in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Livorno averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Livorno. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamplona this time of the year. In the summer, Pamplona often gets less sunshine than Livorno. Pamplona gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Livorno receives 316 hours of full sun.

Pamplona usually gets more rain in July than Livorno. Pamplona gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 24 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pamplona 20°C (68°F) 
    Livorno 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Pamplona or Livorno in the Autumn?

Both Livorno and Pamplona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Pamplona in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Livorno for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Pamplona is generally around the same temperature as Livorno. Daily temperatures in Pamplona average around 16°C (60°F), and Livorno fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Pamplona usually receives less sunshine than Livorno during autumn. Pamplona gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Livorno receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Livorno. It's quite rainy in Pamplona. In October, Pamplona usually receives more rain than Livorno. Pamplona gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pamplona 16°C (60°F) 
    Livorno 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Pamplona or Livorno in the Winter?

Both Livorno and Pamplona during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Pamplona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Livorno because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Pamplona is a little warmer than Livorno in the winter. The daily temperature in Pamplona averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Livorno fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Pamplona often gets less sunshine than Livorno. Pamplona gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Livorno receives 105 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. Pamplona usually gets more rain in January than Livorno. Pamplona gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pamplona 8°C (47°F) 
    Livorno 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Pamplona or Livorno in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pamplona and Livorno. The spring months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Livorno this time of year.

In the spring, Pamplona is around the same temperature as Livorno. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pamplona in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Livorno averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Pamplona usually receives less sunshine than Livorno during spring. Pamplona gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Livorno receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Pamplona usually receives more rain than Livorno. Pamplona gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pamplona 12°C (54°F) 
    Livorno 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Livorno and Pamplona

Pamplona Livorno
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)