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

Should you visit Windsor or Pisa?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a touristy, beautiful, and royal 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 food, museums, and nightlife.

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 beaches, shopping, and museums.

Windsor and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Windsor or Pisa?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pisa than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pisa is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Windsor is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is well known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Pisa is well known for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. Also, Pisa is famous for The Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa

How is Windsor different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Windsor
Pisa

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Windsor and Pisa.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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 Windsor or Pisa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Pisa

Pisa is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Pisa

Pisa is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Pisa is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Windsor or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Windsor
Pisa

Pisa is a popular place for the beache. However, Windsor is not a beach destination.

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.

Windsor is not a beach destination.


Is Windsor or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Pisa

Pisa is well known for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Pisa?

Windsor
Pisa

Pisa is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Pisa Better for Families?

Windsor
Pisa

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Pisa.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

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 Windsor or Pisa Better for Couples?

Windsor
Pisa

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

Windsor is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Pisa is a good 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 Windsor or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Pisa

Pisa is well known for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Pisa Better for Students?

Windsor
Pisa

Pisa is a world-class destination for students. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.


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

Windsor
Pisa

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

You'll find some public transit in Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

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 Windsor or Pisa a more walkable city?

Windsor
Pisa

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

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Pisa?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pisa than Windsor 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 Windsor or Pisa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Pisa 1-3

One day in Windsor or Pisa?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Pisa, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.


A weekend in Windsor or Pisa?

Windsor is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

In Pisa, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pisa has to offer.

Five days in Windsor or Pisa?

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Pisa is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Windsor or Pisa?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pisa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pisa. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pisa or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Pisa is £103. 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 Windsor and Pisa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Pisa £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Pisa £102
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Pisa

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Pisa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Pisa £9.38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

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 Airport (PSA)to Montecatini Terme Resorts-RoundTrip Transfer: $127
  • 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

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Pisa?

Prices for flights to both Pisa and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Pisa £43
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Typical Food Prices in Pisa

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


  • Dinner
    £64

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.
    Windsor £26
    Pisa £17

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

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
  • Baptistery and Cathedral Ticket with Audio Guide: $19
  • Camposanto and Cathedral Entry Tickets and Audio Guide: $19
  • Guided Walking Tour with Optional Leaning Tower Ticket: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Windsor and Pisa, we can see that Windsor 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 Windsor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Windsor 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 Windsor Expensive? and Is Pisa Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Pisa?

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

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

Windsor is cooler than Pisa in the summer. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Pisa fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Pisa, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets more rain in July than Pisa. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Pisa 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Pisa in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Windsor is cooler than Pisa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Windsor in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Pisa averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during autumn. Windsor gets 107 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, Windsor usually receives less rain than Pisa. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Pisa 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Pisa in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Windsor. In January, Windsor is generally much colder than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 4°C (40°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in January than Pisa. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Pisa 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Pisa in the Spring?

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

Windsor is cooler than Pisa in the spring. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during spring. Windsor gets 147 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, Windsor usually receives less rain than Pisa. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Pisa 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Pisa and Windsor

Windsor Pisa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)