A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Gran Canaria vs. Pisa for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Gran Canaria or Pisa?

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

Should I visit Gran Canaria 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.

Where Should I go: Gran Canaria or Pisa?

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is one of Spain's Canary Islands, located just off the coast of northwestern Africa. It is the third largest of the islands, and is known for its variety of volcanic beaches. This island is sometimes called a "Miniature Continent" due to the different climates and variety of landscapes found, which allow for a range of activities like hiking, biking, surfing, and scuba diving.

Pisa

Located in Tuscany, Pisa is most famous for its Leaning Tower. The city has a population of about 100,000 people and there are a surprising number of impressive sights that you might miss if you simply pass through to see the tower. There are many architectural and artistic sights that make the city noteworthy as well. The atmosphere of Pisa is also influenced by its university. Of the 100,000 person population, about 60,000 are students. The students bring the city to life with many parties, shows, and interesting cultural events. They stay active into the night and entertainment options are not limited. The student presence is most obvious once you're outside of the touristy Campo dei Miracoli.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best Luxury Tours to Spain, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pisa or Gran Canaria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Gran Canaria Prices
    Spain Prices
    Pisa Prices
    Italy Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Gran Canaria 150
    Pisa 239

The average daily cost (per person) in Gran Canaria is €150, while the average daily cost in Pisa is €239. 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 Gran Canaria and Pisa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Gran Canaria 63
    Pisa 104
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Gran Canaria 126
    Pisa 208
Compare Hotels in Gran Canaria and Pisa

Looking for a hotel in Gran Canaria 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 Gran Canaria


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: Pisa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Gran Canaria 46
    Pisa 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Gran Canaria

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

  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Fataga to Las Palmas (LPA) airport: $215
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Las Palmas airport (LPA) to Fataga: $215
  • From Playa del Inglés: Guided Jet Ski Tour & Hotel Transfers: $176
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Las Palmas airport (LPA) to Valsequillo: $173
  • Maspalomas: Jet Ski Tour with Hotel Transfer: $153
  • Gran Canaria Port to Las Palmas - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $151
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Las Palmas airport (LPA) to Monte León: $125
  • Playa Del Ingles: Discover Scuba Diving - Free Transfers: $105
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Tauro to Las Palmas (LPA) airport: $100
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Firgas to Las Palmas (LPA) airport: $98
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Teror to Las Palmas (LPA) airport: $98
  • Gran Canaria Private Transfer from Playa del Cura to Las Palmas (LPA) airport: $98

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pisa

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

  • Florence: Private Transfer from Pisa Airport (PSA): $432
  • Pisa Airport (PSA) to Florence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $270
  • Private transfer from Pisa to Florence with 2h stop in Lucca: $269
  • Private Transfer from Pisa (PSA) Airport to Lido di Camaiore: $264
  • Private Transfer from Pisa (PSA) Airport to Lucca: $262
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Pisa Airport to Florence Hotel: $241
  • Private Transfer From Pisa To Florence, English Speaking Driver: $229
  • Pisa to Florence Airport (FLR) - Departure Private Transfer: $173
  • Private Transfer from Pisa (PSA) Airport to Tirrenia: $158
  • Private Transfer from Pisa (PSA) Airport to Marina di Pisa: $153
  • Pisa Airport to Florence Private Transfer: $151
  • Private Transfer from Marina di Pisa to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $145

Is it cheaper to fly into Gran Canaria or Pisa?

Prices for flights to both Pisa and Gran Canaria 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
    Gran Canaria 59
    Pisa 102

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Gran Canaria

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

  • Origen Dinner Show at Sala Scala: $73
  • Sunset Tour with Champagne & Optional Dinner.: $81
  • Gran Canaria Food Tour with Distillery Visit and Local Lunch: $105
  • Sala Scala Gran Canaria Dinner Show : $110

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: $59
  • Pisa’s Ultimate Food Tour: Full Tuscan Meal by Do Eat Better: $89
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Pontedera with cooking demo: $102
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Carrara with Show Cooking: $102
  • Ultimate Food Tour with Full Tuscan Meal with a Local: $104
  • Pisa Private Cooking Class: $106
  • Authentic Full dinner & Wine Experience with a Sommelier in Pisa: $112
  • Pisa Traditional Food Tour: $142
  • Private Show Cooking and Social Dining Experience: $152
  • Private Home-made Pasta Cooking Class: $152
  • Private Home-Made Pasta Cooking Class in Pisa.: $155
  • Hands-On Cooking Class at a Local's Home: $169

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Gran Canaria 20
    Pisa 43

Tours and Activities in Gran Canaria

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

  • Firgas, Tejeda, Guayadeque - VIP Tour Gran Canaria: $59
  • Gran Canaria 7 Highlights Small Group Tour with Tapas Picnic: $117
  • 1 hour relaxing horse riding tour in Gran Canaria: $41
  • 2 hours Green Mountains Horse Riding Tour: $100
  • 2-Hour Segway Tour: Maspalomas Dunes, Playa Ingles,S.Agustin: $70
  • 3 Wheel Motorcycle like Quad/Buggy Tour Gran Canaria (Maspalomas): $90
  • 3-Hour Hiking Experience in Roque Nublo: $80
  • 3-Hour Sunset Climbing Adventure Experience: $78
  • 3-Hours Astronomy Hiking Experience in Roque Nublo Mountains: $71
  • 30 minutes tour with 2 jetskis in Maspalomas: $188
  • 4 Hour Boat Tour with Snorkeling from Puerto Rico and Mogan: $90
  • 7-hour Hop on Hop off Tour of Historic Gran Canaria: $84

Tours and Activities in Pisa

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

  • Pisa Leaning Tower and Complex Entry Tickets with Audio Guide: $54
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Walking Tour of Pisa Off The Beaten Path: $31
  • Best of Pisa Guided Walking Tour with Leaning Tower Entry Ticket: $59
  • Best of Pisa and Leaning Tower Guided Tour for Kids and Families: $299
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Best of Small Group Tour with Admission Tickets: $59
  • Carrara Marble Quarries Tour by Land Rover: $90
  • Carrara: Exclusive Marble Cave Tour Adventure in a 4x4: $90
  • Cinque Terre tour in Small Group from Pisa: $202
  • Discover Tower Admission & Iconic Landmark Tour: $181
  • E-bike guided tour. The surroundings of History, Nature, and Secret Glimpses: $87
  • Excursions / Van Tours / Sightseeing: $128

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Gran Canaria 7.14
    Pisa 21

Sample the Local Flavors in Gran Canaria

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

  • Guided Tour at Ron Arehucas Distillery: $13
  • Las Palmas: Gourmet Tapas and Wine Tour in the Old Town: $47
  • Gourmet Tapas and Wine Tour in the Old Town of Las Palmas: $48
  • Spanish Cured Meats & Wine Tasting Tour in Mogan: $58
  • Spanish Tapas and Wine Tasting Tour in Mogan: $65
  • Private GRAN CANARIA WINE TASTING, TAPAS lunch & best sightseeing: $247

Sample the Local Flavors in Pisa

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

  • Winery Tour and Wine Tasting with Local Food Pairing: $41
  • Wine Tasting with Local Bites in Pisa near the Tower: $46
  • Wine Tasting with Local Bites in Pisa near the Tower: $47
  • Soiana: Vineyard & Cellar Tour with Wine Tasting near Pisa: $52
  • Cathedral Guided Tour & Wine Tasting & Optional Tower: $85
  • From Pisa or Lucca: Half-Day Tuscany Chianti Wine Tasting: $98
  • Chianti Half-day Wine Tour in the Tuscan's Hills from Pisa: $106
  • Guided tour in San Miniato and wine tasting!: $108
  • Tuscan Wine Tour by van from Pisa: $185
  • Chianti Classico Wine Tour and San Gimignano Visit Half Day: $215
  • "Ramble Through The Rolling Hills Of Chianti" with lunch & Wine Tastings: $299
  • PRIVATE TOUR: Full-Day in Volterra & San Gimignano with Wine Tasting Experience: $299


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Gran Canaria and Pisa, we can see that Pisa is more expensive. And not only is Gran Canaria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Gran Canaria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Gran Canaria 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 Pisa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pisa than you might in Gran Canaria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Gran Canaria Expensive? and Is Pisa Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Gran Canaria or Pisa?

Gran Canaria has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Gran Canaria 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 Gran Canaria or Pisa?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Gran Canaria or Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa and Gran Canaria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Pisa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gran Canaria. Gran Canaria usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during summer. Gran Canaria gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Gran Canaria usually receives less rain than Pisa. Gran Canaria gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Gran Canaria or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa and Gran Canaria during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pisa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Gran Canaria is a little warmer than Pisa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Gran Canaria averages around 23°C (73°F) in October, and Pisa fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Gran Canaria. In the autumn, Gran Canaria often gets more sunshine than Pisa. Gran Canaria gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 177 hours of full sun.

Pisa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Gran Canaria usually gets less rain in October than Pisa. Gran Canaria gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Gran Canaria 23°C (73°F) 
    Pisa 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Gran Canaria or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Gran Canaria and Pisa. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pisa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Gran Canaria is much warmer than Pisa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Gran Canaria in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Pisa averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Gran Canaria usually receives more sunshine than Pisa during winter. Gran Canaria gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Gran Canaria usually receives less rain than Pisa. Gran Canaria gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Gran Canaria 18°C (64°F) 
    Pisa 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Gran Canaria or Pisa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Gran Canaria as well as Pisa. Additionally, most visitors come to Pisa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Gran Canaria is generally a little warmer than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Gran Canaria average around 19°C (66°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gran Canaria this time of the year. In the spring, Gran Canaria often gets more sunshine than Pisa. Gran Canaria gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pisa. Gran Canaria usually gets less rain in April than Pisa. Gran Canaria gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Gran Canaria 19°C (66°F) 
    Pisa 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Pisa and Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria Pisa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (64°F) 25 mm (1 in) 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 18°C (64°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 19°C (66°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 1 mm (0 in) 16°C (61°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 0 mm (0 in) 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 0 mm (0 in) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 24°C (75°F) 0 mm (0 in) 23°C (73°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Nov 21°C (70°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 19°C (66°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)