A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Rome vs. Pisa for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Rome or Pisa?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Rome and Pisa can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Rome

Rome is a bustling, fun-filled, and popular city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Pisa

Pisa is a iconic, world-famous, and classic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Rome and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rome or Pisa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Pisa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Pisa is known for its beaches and historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Pisa and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum. Pisa is popular for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere.

The Colosseum

How is Rome different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rome is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Rome are world-renowned. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

Many visitors head to Pisa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Rome or Pisa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rome 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, Rome is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

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

Rome is a must-see party destination. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome or Pisa Better for Music?

Rome is terrific for its live music scene. However, Pisa is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Rome. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Pisa is not a live music destination.

Is Rome or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a city with good options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Pisa. 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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Rome or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Pisa is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

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.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rome or Pisa?

Rome 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, Rome draws large crowds to its stores. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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 Rome or Pisa Better for Families?

Rome is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Rome is very family-friendly. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

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.

Is Rome or Pisa Better for Couples?

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

Rome is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

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 Rome or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Rome is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

Pisa is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Rome or Pisa Better for Students?

Rome and Pisa are terrific places to visit for students.

Rome is a very popular city for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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.

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

Rome 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 Rome can take you anywhere. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around 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 Rome or Pisa a more walkable city?

Rome 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.

Rome is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Rome?

How long in Rome or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Rome and Pisa. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Pisa. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Rome, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pisa.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome than Pisa 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 Rome.

One day in Rome or Pisa?

Rome is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Pisa. 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.

A weekend in Rome or Pisa?

Rome is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pisa 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.

Five days in Rome or Pisa?

Rome is a archeological big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the world-famous destination of Pisa. 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.

A week in Rome or Pisa?

Rome is a ancient city where you can fill many days. 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.

The charming city of Pisa 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Rome or Pisa?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Rome 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 Rome 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 Rome or Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa and Rome during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pisa in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Rome is generally around the same temperature as Pisa. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 25°C (77°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Pisa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Rome. In the summer, Rome often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pisa. Rome gets 338 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets less rain in July than Pisa. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Pisa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Rome and Pisa. Many visitors come to Rome in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Pisa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Rome is around the same temperature as Pisa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Pisa fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Rome usually receives more sunshine than Pisa during autumn. Rome gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pisa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Rome usually receives less rain than Pisa. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rome or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Rome as well as Pisa. Most visitors come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Pisa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Rome is a little warmer than Pisa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rome in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Pisa averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Rome often gets more sunshine than Pisa. Rome gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets more rain in January than Pisa. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Pisa in the Spring?

Both Pisa and Rome are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

In April, Rome is generally around the same temperature as Pisa. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 14°C (57°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. Rome usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pisa during spring. Rome gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pisa. In April, Rome usually receives less rain than Pisa. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Rome