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

Should you visit Porto or Pisa?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Porto and Pisa can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a dynamic, historic, and cultural port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of Porto is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Porto travel costs.

Pisa

Pisa is a world-famous, classic, and charming city. Pisa is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Pisa travel costs.

Porto and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Pisa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Porto than Pisa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Porto is very popular for its food and big city activities, while Pisa attracts visitors for its beaches and shopping. Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also well known for Cais da Ribeira. Pisa is famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere.

How is Porto different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Porto or Pisa.

Many visitors head to Porto specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Pisa can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Porto or Pisa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Porto 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, Porto is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

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 Porto or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Porto has something for everybody. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

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 Porto or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is very good for its beaches. However, Porto is not a beach destination.

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.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Porto or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Porto and Pisa are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Porto. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Many visitors go to Pisa to see the historical old town. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Pisa?

Pisa is a great city for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Porto or Pisa More Beautiful?

Porto and Pisa both are comparable with their great scenery and beauty.

Porto is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city sits beautifully on the water and it has a charming atmosphere.

The beauty of Pisa is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. While most people think of the city's iconic Leaning Tower, the city itself is filled with its own beauty and charm.

Is Porto or Pisa Better for Families?

Porto is a great port 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, Porto is very family-friendly. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

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 Porto or Pisa Better for Couples?

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

Porto is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

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

Porto 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, Porto is extremely popular for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Pisa is a very popular port 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 Porto or Pisa Better for Students?

Pisa is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Porto is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

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

Porto is a great port city 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 public transit in Porto can get you around easily. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

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 Porto or Pisa a more walkable city?

Porto and Pisa are great when it comes to walkability.

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Porto?

How long in Porto or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Porto and Pisa. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Porto than in Pisa. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Porto, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pisa.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Porto 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 Porto.

One day in Porto or Pisa?

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

In Pisa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this classic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Porto or Pisa?

Porto 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pisa. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Porto or Pisa?

Porto is a cosmopolitan big city where you can fill many days. This port city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Pisa is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Pisa. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Porto or Pisa?

The historic port city of Porto 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the classic destination of Pisa. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Porto and Pisa, we can see that Pisa is more expensive. And not only is Porto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Porto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Porto 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 Porto.

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

Which is Bigger, Porto or Pisa?

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

Both Pisa and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Pisa because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Porto is cooler than Pisa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Porto in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Pisa averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Pisa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pisa during summer. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Porto usually receives less rain than Pisa. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Porto or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa and Porto during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

In October, Porto is generally around the same temperature as Pisa. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 17°C (62°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Porto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pisa. Porto gets 184 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets less rain in October than Pisa. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Pisa. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pisa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Porto is a little warmer than Pisa in the winter. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Porto usually receives more sunshine than Pisa during winter. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Porto usually receives more rain than Pisa. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Porto or Pisa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Porto as well as Pisa. Many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Pisa in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Porto is around the same temperature as Pisa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Porto in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Pisa averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In the spring, Porto often gets more sunshine than Pisa. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pisa. Porto receives a lot of rain in the spring. Porto usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Pisa. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Porto