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

Should you visit Tartu 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 Tartu 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.

Tartu

Tartu is a lively, intellectual, and student-oriented university town. Tartu is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the nightlife. See Tartu travel costs.

Pisa

Pisa is a world-famous, classic, and charming city. With stunning beauty, Pisa attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Pisa travel costs.

Tartu and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa


Is there more to do in Tartu or Pisa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pisa. Although Tartu and Pisa are both popular with visitors, Pisa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pisa is more touristy than Tartu and is known for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. It is also home to The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Tartu is popular for its vibrant student population and long running university.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa

How is Tartu different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tartu
Pisa

Pisa is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Pisa. 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.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tartu
Pisa

Pisa is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Pisa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Tartu
Pisa

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

The nightlife in Tartu has something for everybody. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

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 Tartu or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Tartu
Pisa

Pisa is a city with good options for the beach. However, Tartu 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.

Tartu is not a beach destination.


Is Tartu or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Tartu
Pisa

Both Tartu and Pisa have excellent historic old towns worth visiting.

Tartu is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

There are many historical things to see 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 Tartu or Pisa?

Tartu
Pisa

Pisa is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Tartu or Pisa More Beautiful?

Tartu
Pisa

Pisa is a great city for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Pisa attracts visitors from all around. While most people think of the city's iconic Leaning Tower, the city itself is filled with its own beauty and charm.

Tartu is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a beautiful city with a long history and a number of unique historical buildings.


Is Tartu or Pisa Better for Families?

Tartu
Pisa

Both Tartu and Pisa are good to visit with kids.

Tartu offers lots of family activities. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

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 Tartu or Pisa Better for Couples?

Tartu
Pisa

Pisa is a city with good options for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

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.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Tartu or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu
Pisa

For backpackers, both Tartu and Pisa are excellent places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Pisa. 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 Tartu or Pisa Better for Students?

Tartu
Pisa

For students, both Tartu and Pisa are terrific places to visit.

Tartu is a very popular university town for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

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

Tartu
Pisa

Tartu and Pisa both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Tartu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

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 Tartu or Pisa a more walkable city?

Tartu
Pisa

Tartu and Pisa are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Tartu is a very walkable destination. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tartu and Pisa. In our opinion, Pisa has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Pisa than Tartu. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Pisa than Tartu. 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 Tartu. 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 Tartu 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 Tartu or Pisa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tartu 1-3 
    Pisa 1-3

One day in Tartu or Pisa?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Tartu. 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.

In Pisa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this iconic 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 Tartu or Pisa?

Tartu 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.

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 Tartu or Pisa?

You'll find nightlife around the lively destination of Tartu. This university 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.

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 Tartu or Pisa?

The historical university town of Tartu offers nightlife. 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 charming 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pisa or Tartu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tartu is €132, 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 Tartu and Pisa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tartu 47
    Pisa 104
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tartu 94
    Pisa 208
Compare Hotels in Tartu and Pisa

Looking for a hotel in Tartu 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 Tartu


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: Tartu Hotel Prices and Pisa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tartu 27
    Pisa 44

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 Tartu or Pisa?

Prices for flights to both Pisa and Tartu 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
    Tartu 65
    Pisa 102
Typical Food Prices in Tartu

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


  • Danishes
    0.76
  • Lunch for Two
    4.93
  • Ice Cream
    1.27
  • Cookies
    0.51
  • Coffee & Cake
    3.47

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.
    Tartu 16
    Pisa 43
Typical Entertainment Prices in Tartu

For Tartu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Art Museum ticket
    0.95
  • Movie Ticket
    3.47

Tours and Activities in Tartu

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

  • Around Viljandi bike tour: $30
  • Charming Viljandi Private Walking Tour for Couples: $260
  • Dazzling Tartu City Cultural Private Walking Tour: $751
  • Magical Tartu Romantic Private Walking Tour: $751
  • TARTU COUNTRY: SLED DOG TOUR AND KENNEL VISIT: $141

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
    Tartu 16
    Pisa 21

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 Tartu and Pisa, we can see that Pisa is more expensive. And not only is Tartu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tartu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tartu 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 Tartu.

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


Which is Bigger, Tartu or Pisa?

Tartu has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Tartu 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 Tartu 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 Tartu or Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tartu for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pisa in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tartu is generally cooler than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 17°C (62°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 Tartu. Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during summer. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tartu usually receives more rain than Pisa. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tartu 17°C (62°F) 
    Pisa 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa and Tartu during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tartu in the autumn for the shopping 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.

Tartu is much colder than Pisa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 6°C (43°F) in October, and Pisa fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Tartu gets 86 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. Tartu usually gets less rain in October than Pisa. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tartu 6°C (43°F) 
    Pisa 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Pisa. Most visitors come to Tartu for 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.


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