A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Ventimiglia vs. Pisa for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Pisa?

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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Pisa? 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.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a classic, authentic, and elegant seaside town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Pisa

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

Ventimiglia and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa


Is there more to do in Ventimiglia or Pisa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pisa. Although Ventimiglia and Pisa are both popular with visitors, Pisa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pisa is more popular for its museums and nightlife, while Ventimiglia is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Pisa is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. It is also home to The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa

How is Ventimiglia different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ventimiglia
Pisa

Pisa is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Ventimiglia
Pisa

Foodies will find both Ventimiglia and Pisa both to be high quality destinations.

Dining out in Ventimiglia is an experience not to be missed. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Pisa. 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 Ventimiglia or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Ventimiglia
Pisa

Pisa is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Pisa know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Ventimiglia or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Ventimiglia
Pisa

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Ventimiglia and Pisa are good choices.

Ventimiglia is a good option for a beach vacation. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Many people head to Pisa to enjoy the beach. 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.


Is Ventimiglia or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Ventimiglia
Pisa

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Ventimiglia and Pisa.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

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 Ventimiglia or Pisa?

Ventimiglia
Pisa

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pisa and Ventimiglia.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Ventimiglia or Pisa Better for Families?

Ventimiglia
Pisa

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ventimiglia or Pisa.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ventimiglia. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

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.


Is Ventimiglia or Pisa Better for Couples?

Ventimiglia
Pisa

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

Ventimiglia is a great seaside town if you're traveling as a couple. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Pisa is a good seaside town 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 Ventimiglia or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ventimiglia
Pisa

Pisa is a great destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Pisa Better for Students?

Ventimiglia
Pisa

Pisa is a world-class destination for students. However, Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Pisa. 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.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.


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

Ventimiglia
Pisa

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ventimiglia and Pisa.

You'll find some public transit in Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

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.

Is Ventimiglia or Pisa a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia
Pisa

Ventimiglia and Pisa both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable destination. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Ventimiglia?

How long in Ventimiglia or Pisa?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Ventimiglia or Pisa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ventimiglia 1-2 
    Pisa 1-3

One day in Ventimiglia or Pisa?

Ventimiglia is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the classic city of Pisa. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Ventimiglia or Pisa?

Ventimiglia 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Pisa. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Ventimiglia or Pisa?

Ventimiglia is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This seaside town 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.

The classic city of Pisa offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ventimiglia or Pisa?

Because Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pisa. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pisa or Ventimiglia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ventimiglia is €121, while the average daily cost in Pisa is €120. 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 Ventimiglia and Pisa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ventimiglia 51
    Pisa 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ventimiglia 102
    Pisa 120
Compare Hotels in Ventimiglia and Pisa

Looking for a hotel in Ventimiglia or Pisa? 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 Ventimiglia


Hotels in Pisa


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: Ventimiglia Hotel Prices and Pisa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ventimiglia 49
    Pisa 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pisa

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

  • Departure Private Transfer from Pisa to La Spezia by car or van: $203
  • Florence: Private Transfer from Pisa Airport (PSA): $396
  • From Florence: Round-trip Transfer to Pisa & Cinque Terre: $1,230
  • PRIVATE TRANSFER: from Pisa to Florence with private chauffeur: $120
  • Pisa Airport (PSA) to Florence - Arrival Private Transfer: $74
  • Pisa Airport (PSA) to Florence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $148
  • Pisa Airport (PSA) to La Spezia Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Pisa Private Transfer from Pisa city centre to Pisa Airport: $87
  • Private Sightseeing Transfer from Pisa to Florence: $245
  • Private Transfer From Pisa To Florence, English Speaking Driver: $209
  • Private Transfer from Calambrone to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $79
  • Private Transfer from Calci to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $79

Is it cheaper to fly into Ventimiglia or Pisa?

Prices for flights to both Pisa and Ventimiglia 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
    Ventimiglia 38
    Pisa 50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Typical Food Prices in Pisa

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Pisa:


  • Dinner
    75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pisa

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

  • Chianni: wine and oil tasting with lunch or dinner: $39
  • Home-made Pasta Cooking Class: $75
  • Private Home-Made Pasta Cooking Class in Pisa.: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Pontedera with cooking demo: $93
  • Pisa Food Tour: $95
  • Pisa Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $101
  • Hands-On Cooking Class at a Local's Home: $155
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Pisa: $158
  • Authentic Italian Food Tour in Pisa: $521

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ventimiglia 27
    Pisa 20

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Tours and Activities in Pisa

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

  • Tower of Pisa & Square of Miracles self guided audio tour: $4.27
  • From Italy eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.81
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Pisa: $8.72
  • Pisa Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Pisa Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.95
  • The Best of Pisa Self Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Pisa Cathedral Guided Tour and Optional Leaning Tower Ticket: $16
  • Square of Miracles guided tour with Leaning Tower ticket (option): $17
  • Camposanto and Cathedral Entry Tickets and Audio Guide: $19
  • Baptistery and Cathedral Ticket with Audio Guide: $19
  • Guided Walking Tour with Optional Leaning Tower Ticket: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ventimiglia 7.19
    Pisa -

Sample the Local Flavors in Pisa

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

  • Cathedral Guided Tour & Wine Tasting & Optional Tower: $48
  • Pisa guided tour and Wine tasting with Leaning Tower ticket (option): $50
  • Winery Tour and Wine Tasting with Local Food Pairing: $75
  • From Pisa or Lucca: Half-Day Tuscany Chianti Wine Tasting: $90
  • Chianti Half-day Wine Tour in the Tuscan's Hills from Pisa: $97
  • Guided tour in San Miniato and wine tasting!: $99
  • Tuscan Wine Tour in Pisa by shuttle: $163
  • Pisa & Lucca with wine Tasting and Lunch from Livorno: $663


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


Which is Bigger, Ventimiglia or Pisa?

Pisa has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia or Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa and Ventimiglia during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

In July, Ventimiglia is generally around the same temperature as Pisa. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 23°C (73°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 Ventimiglia. In the summer, Ventimiglia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pisa. Ventimiglia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets less rain in July than Pisa. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F) 
    Pisa 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Pisa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Pisa. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pisa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pisa during autumn. Ventimiglia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pisa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Ventimiglia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Ventimiglia usually receives less rain than Pisa. Ventimiglia gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F) 
    Pisa 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Pisa. Many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Pisa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Ventimiglia is a little warmer than Pisa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ventimiglia in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Pisa averages at about 7°C (45°F).

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

Ventimiglia usually gets more rain in January than Pisa. Ventimiglia gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F) 
    Pisa 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Pisa in the Spring?

Both Pisa and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Pisa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Ventimiglia is generally around the same temperature as Pisa. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 13°C (56°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pisa during spring. Ventimiglia gets 198 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, Ventimiglia usually receives less rain than Pisa. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F) 
    Pisa 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Pisa and Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia Pisa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 8°C (46°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)