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

Should you visit Bamberg or Saint-Etienne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Bamberg or Saint-Etienne, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a storybook, historic, and beautiful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Saint-Etienne

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

Bamberg and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bamberg than Saint-Etienne. While Saint-Etienne is larger than Bamberg, Bamberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bamberg is very popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saint-Etienne attracts visitors for its nightlife and hiking. Bamberg is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. It is also well known for the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Saint-Etienne is famous for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Bamberg different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

Both Bamberg and Saint-Etienne have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Bamberg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.

Saint-Etienne offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Bamberg or Saint-Etienne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

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

Bamberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

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 Bamberg or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint-Etienne. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

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

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its old town. However, Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Bamberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.


Is Bamberg or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

Saint-Etienne has hiking trails worth exploring. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bamberg or Saint-Etienne?

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

Bamberg 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 Bamberg. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

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 Bamberg or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

Bamberg and Saint-Etienne are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Bamberg is a family-friendly place to visit. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Saint-Etienne is a family-friendly town. 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 Bamberg or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for couples.

Bamberg is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

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 Bamberg or Saint-Etienne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

Bamberg is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Saint-Etienne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the backpacker trail, but there are hostels and plenty of activities to enjoy.

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

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

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

Bamberg has a few public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

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


Is Bamberg or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Bamberg
Saint-Etienne

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit 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.

Bamberg is a very easy town to get around on foot. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Bamberg or Saint-Etienne?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Bamberg or Saint-Etienne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bamberg 1-3 
    Saint-Etienne 1-2

One day in Bamberg or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the storybook destination of Bamberg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Saint-Etienne, you'll find nightlife and museums. 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 Bamberg or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. 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.

In Saint-Etienne, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint-Etienne has to offer.


Five days in Bamberg or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the storybook destination of Bamberg. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town 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 great place to explore. 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 Bamberg or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful town of Bamberg. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Etienne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint-Etienne. 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 Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Etienne or Bamberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bamberg is €127, while the average daily cost in Saint-Etienne is €108. 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 Bamberg and Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bamberg 75
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bamberg 150
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Bamberg and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Bamberg or Saint-Etienne? 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 Bamberg


Hotels in Saint-Etienne


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: Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bamberg 14
    Saint-Etienne 44

Is it cheaper to fly into Bamberg or Saint-Etienne?

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne and Bamberg 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
    Bamberg 41
    Saint-Etienne 34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bamberg 17
    Saint-Etienne 25

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bamberg are as follows:

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bamberg 19
    Saint-Etienne 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bamberg and Saint-Etienne, we can see that Bamberg 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 Bamberg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bamberg 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 Bamberg Expensive? and Is Saint-Etienne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bamberg or Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Bamberg 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 Bamberg 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 Bamberg or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bamberg as well as Saint-Etienne. Many travelers come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bamberg is cooler than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bamberg in July average around 19°C (67°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. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In the summer, Bamberg often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Bamberg gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Bamberg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bamberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Bamberg is generally cooler than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Bamberg average around 11°C (51°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Bamberg usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during autumn. Bamberg gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bamberg usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Bamberg during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bamberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Saint-Etienne can be very cold. Bamberg can be very cold during winter. Bamberg is much colder than Saint-Etienne in the winter. The daily temperature in Bamberg averages around 0°C (33°F) in January, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Bamberg often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Bamberg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun.

Bamberg usually gets less rain in January than Saint-Etienne. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bamberg and Saint-Etienne. The spring months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

In the spring, Bamberg is cooler than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bamberg in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Bamberg usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during spring. Bamberg gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bamberg usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Bamberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Bamberg

Bamberg Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)