A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Saint-Etienne for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne? 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.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a authentic, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a historic, park-filled, and industrial city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Aberdeen and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aberdeen. Although Aberdeen and Saint-Etienne are roughly the same size, Aberdeen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aberdeen is very popular for its museums & sights, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint-Etienne attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Aberdeen is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also well known for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen. Saint-Etienne is famous for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Aberdeen different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

Aberdeen is great for its historical sights. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Aberdeen. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint-Etienne. There are several great museums in town including the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, Musée de la Mine, Musée des Verts, and the planetarium.

Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aberdeen is a good destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Saint-Etienne may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Try the many local cheeses which are a defining part of the cuisine in the area. You'll find some local restaurants around town where you can sample local flavors.

Is Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Both Aberdeen and Saint-Etienne are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint-Etienne. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

Is Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen is great for its old town. However, Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Is Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for hiking. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

Aberdeen is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aberdeen. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Saint-Etienne has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. Shopping malls and several boutique shopping areas make up the city's shopping scene.

Is Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Aberdeen is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Aberdeen is very family-friendly. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Saint-Etienne is a family-friendly place to visit. There are several kid-friendly museums as well as plenty of natural settings just outside of town. Your kids can run around and stretch their legs nearby at Crest of the Partridge or on a rainy day, the planetarium is a fun place to visit.

Is Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Aberdeen is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for couples.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Saint-Etienne is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are museums, parks, gardens, and beautiful architecture that make this a wonderful place for couples.

Is Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

Aberdeen is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

Is Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Aberdeen and Saint-Etienne offer nice public transit options.

Aberdeen has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Saint-Etienne has some public transit options. There are tram and bus options available in town.

Is Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Aberdeen is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Aberdeen is a very walkable city. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Saint-Etienne is a somewhat walkable city. There are several walkable areas in the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Saint-Etienne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint-Etienne or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Aberdeen than Saint-Etienne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint-Etienne.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aberdeen than Saint-Etienne 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 Aberdeen.

One day in Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Aberdeen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The city of Saint-Etienne offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Saint-Etienne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint-Etienne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Aberdeen. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

Saint-Etienne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Aberdeen. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Saint-Etienne is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Saint-Etienne, 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 Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne?

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 Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Aberdeen is much colder than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aberdeen in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint-Etienne. In the summer, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Saint-Etienne. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne in the Autumn?

Both Saint-Etienne and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

In October, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 9°C (49°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during autumn. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint-Etienne. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne in the Winter?

Both Saint-Etienne and Aberdeen during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Saint-Etienne. It's quite cold in Aberdeen in the winter. Aberdeen is cooler than Saint-Etienne in the winter. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in January than Saint-Etienne. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Saint-Etienne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Saint-Etienne. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Aberdeen is much colder than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aberdeen in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during spring. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aberdeen usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Aberdeen