A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Pisa vs. Amalfi for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Pisa or Amalfi?

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

Should I visit Pisa or Amalfi? 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.

Pisa

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

Amalfi

Amalfi is a picturesque, stunning, and dramatic town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Pisa and Amalfi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pisa or Amalfi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Amalfi than Pisa, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Amalfi is better known for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pisa is more popular for its museums and shopping. Amalfi is more touristy than Pisa and is popular for its dramatic views, charming character, and excellent limoncello. Also, Amalfi is famous for the dramatic coastline. Pisa is well known for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere.

How is Pisa different from Amalfi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pisa is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Pisa. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Amalfi. The town is an attraction in and off itself. It's filled with charm and character and visitors spend much of their time simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere.

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

Amalfi 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, Amalfi is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The town's access to the beautiful sea means that many dishes use a variety of seafood. Eggplant is also a common ingredient and you'll find everything from pastas to elegant desserts around town.

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 Pisa or Amalfi Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Pisa and Amalfi.

The nightlife in Pisa has something for everybody. 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.

Amalfi offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a good number of bars and clubs in town that often have live music or DJs. Alternatively, there are also clubs that dot the entire coastline.

Is Pisa or Amalfi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Amalfi is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pisa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Amalfi has a few good snorkeling spots. You'll find snorkeling trips that take you along the coastline and stop at several places so you can take a peak at the underwater world.

Pisa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pisa or Amalfi Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Pisa and Amalfi are notable choices.

Pisa is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people head to Amalfi to enjoy the beach. The beaches tend to be pebbly and rocky. During the summer months they can get very crowded, but taking a swim is a great way to escape the heat for a bit.

Is Pisa or Amalfi Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the excellent old towns in both Pisa and Amalfi.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Amalfi. The town is charming and filled with great shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

Is Pisa or Amalfi Better for Hiking?

Amalfi is a great town for hiking. However, Pisa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Amalfi for the hiking trails. The coastline is filled with great trails that offer stunning views. Hiking is a top way to see the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and catch a glimpse at some of the best beaches.

Pisa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pisa or Amalfi?

Pisa is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Pisa is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Amalfi has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find many great shops that sell everything from clothing to fine wine, local foods, or limoncello.

Is Pisa or Amalfi Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Pisa or Amalfi.

Pisa offers lots of family activities. 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.

Amalfi is a family-friendly place to visit. The town is positioned in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, making it a great base for exploring the area. It's also one of the larger towns so you'll find more energy and things to do with kids, including the Museum of Paper.

Is Pisa or Amalfi Better for Couples?

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

Amalfi makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The Amalfi Coast is a world class honeymoon destination and couples will enjoy staying in the lively town of Amalfi. It's a quaint and beautiful town in the middle of everything, so you'll have access to all that the area has to offer.

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 Pisa or Amalfi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pisa is well known for backpackers. However, Amalfi is not particularly known 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.

Amalfi is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The area has a couple of hostels around, but in general this is a difficult place to visit as a backpacker. There are SITA buses that offer transportation, and because the town is in the middle of the coastline, it offers decent access to everything.

Is Pisa or Amalfi Better for Students?

Pisa is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Amalfi is not popular with students.

Pisa is a very popular city 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.

Amalfi is not popular with students.

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

Pisa and Amalfi both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Pisa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

Amalfi has a few public transit options. The SITA buses offer transit between many of the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

Is Pisa or Amalfi a more walkable city?

Amalfi 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.

Amalfi is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a compact and charming town that is a bit flatter than some nearby villages so it's easy to explore 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 Pisa Worth Visiting? and Is Amalfi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amalfi or Pisa?

How long in Pisa or Amalfi?

Both Pisa and Amalfi have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amalfi than in Pisa. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Pisa, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amalfi.

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

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

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

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Amalfi. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Pisa or Amalfi?

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.

Amalfi is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. 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.

Five days in Pisa or Amalfi?

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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Amalfi. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Pisa or Amalfi?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the picturesque town of Amalfi. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Pisa or Amalfi?

Pisa has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Amalfi. When comparing the sizes of Pisa and Amalfi, 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 Pisa or Amalfi?

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 Pisa or Amalfi in the Summer?

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

Pisa is around the same temperature as Amalfi in the summer. The daily temperature in Pisa averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Amalfi fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amalfi. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pisa this time of the year. In the summer, Pisa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi. Pisa gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 313 hours of full sun.

Pisa usually gets more rain in July than Amalfi. Pisa gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pisa or Amalfi in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Pisa is around the same temperature as Amalfi. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pisa in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Amalfi averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Pisa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi during autumn. Pisa gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Amalfi. It's quite rainy in Pisa. In October, Pisa usually receives more rain than Amalfi. Pisa gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Pisa or Amalfi in the Winter?

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

In January, Pisa is generally cooler than Amalfi. Daily temperatures in Pisa average around 7°C (45°F), and Amalfi fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Pisa often gets less sunshine than Amalfi. Pisa gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 115 hours of full sun.

Amalfi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pisa usually gets less rain in January than Amalfi. Pisa gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pisa or Amalfi in the Spring?

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

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

Pisa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi during spring. Pisa gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

Pisa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Pisa usually receives more rain than Amalfi. Pisa gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amalfi and Pisa