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

Should you visit Berlin or Saint-Etienne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berlin 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.

Berlin

Berlin is a artsy, creative, and eclectic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a industrial, undiscovered, and authentic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Berlin and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


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

You'll generally find more things to do in Berlin than Saint-Etienne. Berlin is bigger than Saint-Etienne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Berlin is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint-Etienne is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Berlin is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is known for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. Also, Berlin is famous for the Brandenburg Gate. Saint-Etienne is well known for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Berlin different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Berlin are world-renowned. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

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 Berlin or Saint-Etienne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

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

Berlin has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

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 Berlin or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Berlin has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

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.

Is Berlin or Saint-Etienne Better for Music?

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Saint-Etienne is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Berlin. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Saint-Etienne is not a live music destination.


Is Berlin or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Berlin 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.

Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or Saint-Etienne?

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Berlin draws large crowds to its stores. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

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 Berlin or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

Berlin 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, Berlin is very family-friendly. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

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 Berlin or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

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

Berlin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

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

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Berlin is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

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 Berlin or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

Berlin is a very popular place to visit for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.


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

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Berlin is top-notch. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

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

Is Berlin or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Berlin
Saint-Etienne

Berlin and Saint-Etienne are notable when it comes to walkability.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable place. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

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

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

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

How long in Berlin or Saint-Etienne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Berlin or Saint-Etienne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Berlin than Saint-Etienne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Berlin, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint-Etienne.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Berlin or Saint-Etienne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Berlin 2-7 
    Saint-Etienne 1-2

One day in Berlin or Saint-Etienne?

Berlin is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Saint-Etienne. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Berlin or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berlin. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Berlin or Saint-Etienne?

Berlin is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Etienne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Berlin or Saint-Etienne?

Berlin is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the industrial destination of Saint-Etienne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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 Berlin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Berlin is €137, 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 Berlin and Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berlin 64
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berlin 128
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Berlin and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Berlin 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 Berlin


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: Berlin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berlin 18
    Saint-Etienne 44
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Berlin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Berlin:


  • Short Trip Metro Ticket
    1.40
  • Bahn Ticket
    3.00
  • Short Taxi Ride
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berlin

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

  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague: $727
  • Private Highlights Tour with Hotel Transfers: $367
  • Trabi Limousine Airport Transfer with City Tour: $358
  • Private Minivan Transfer with Driver and Guide: $321
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Berlin APT-HTL (SXF): $300
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Berlin HTL-APT (SXF): $300
  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague with stops at Potsdam + Sanssouci Palace: $295
  • Private Transfer from Berlin to Nuremberg with 2h of Sightseeing: $276
  • Private Transfer, Berlin to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing, 8 pax: $273
  • Classic Remise Private Tour with Transfer: $271
  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague with Terezin Concentration Camp stop: $267
  • Private Transfer: Berlin to River Cruise Dock Nuremberg - Port/Harbor transport: $263

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

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne and Berlin 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
    Berlin 52
    Saint-Etienne 34
Typical Food Prices in Berlin

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


  • Sandwich and Coffee To Go
    5.00
  • Turkish Sandwich
    2.00
  • Currywurst
    2.00
  • 2 Pho Noodles
    9.00
  • Restaurant Dinner and Beers (for 2)
    60
  • Mauer Park (2)
    11
  • Coffees at Impala
    7.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berlin

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

  • English Stand-Up Comedy with Pizza and Shots: $19
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • English Comedy Showcase Including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $28
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin With Set Lunch or Dinner : $34
  • Kreuzberg kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Berlin Mitte kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • No Diet Club - Street Food Tour with many Tastings !: $59
  • Evening Yacht Cruise with Aperitif & Optional Dinner: $63
  • Sicilian Cooking Workshop with unlimited drinks: $70
  • Evening Food Tour by Bike: $70
  • Sharing plate food tour in Berlin: $76
  • Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berlin 22
    Saint-Etienne 25
Typical Entertainment Prices in Berlin

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


  • Berlin Zoo (2)
    20

Tours and Activities in Berlin

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

  • East Berlin and the Berlin Wall 2-Hour Walking Tour : $22
  • Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour from Berlin.: $32
  • (E) Bike Tour for Non Bikers option Rickshaw Shared Guide: $48
  • 2 Hours Berlin City Guided Electric Trike Tour: $59
  • 2 Hours E-Scooter Tour: $60
  • 2-Hour Private Berlin Walking Tour, Berlin in the Third Reich and Cold War: $213
  • 2-Hour Segway Discovery Tour Berlin: $75
  • 3 Hours Berlin City Guided Electric Trike Tour: $73
  • 3-Hour Bike Tour of Tiergarten and Berlin's Hidden Places: $35
  • 3-Hour Private Berlin Bike Tour: Vibes of Berlin: $184
  • 3D Adventure black light mini golf (Berlin): $21
  • 4 Hours 2 Person Highlights Berlin Rickshaw Tour with Guide : $207

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berlin 16
    Saint-Etienne 10
Typical Alcohol Prices in Berlin

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Berlin from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Show
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Berlin

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

  • Original One80 Berlin Pub Crawl: $16
  • VIP Pub Crawl with Drinks and Challenges: $16
  • brewery tour with beer tasting: $19
  • Vagabund Brauerei Beer Tasting & Guided Brewery Tour: $24
  • Pub Crawl with Skip-the-Line Club Entry: $24
  • Berlin Pub Crawl and Nightlife Clubbing tour: $26
  • The Showgirls of Burlesque: $46
  • Showgirls of Burlesque Entry Ticket: $69
  • Berlin:sunset boat trip with Argentine wine tasting and food: $214
  • German Wine Tasting Tour at the Best Wine Bars in Berlin: $250
  • German Wine Tasting Tour at the Best Wine Bars in Berlin: $255
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


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


Which is Bigger, Berlin or Saint-Etienne?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Berlin 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 Berlin or Saint-Etienne?

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 Berlin or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

Both Saint-Etienne and Berlin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Berlin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Berlin is cooler than Saint-Etienne in the summer. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Saint-Etienne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Berlin. Berlin usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during summer. Berlin gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Berlin usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Berlin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Berlin 19°C (66°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Berlin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Berlin in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Berlin is cooler than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Berlin in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Berlin often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Berlin gets 106 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets less rain in October than Saint-Etienne. Berlin gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Berlin 10°C (50°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Berlin and Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Berlin 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. Berlin can be very cold during winter. In January, Berlin is generally much colder than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around -0°C (31°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Berlin usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during winter. Berlin gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Berlin usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Berlin -0°C (31°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Berlin as well as Saint-Etienne. The spring months attract visitors to Berlin because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

Berlin is cooler than Saint-Etienne in the spring. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Berlin often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Berlin gets 160 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Etienne. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Berlin 9°C (47°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Berlin

Berlin Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 52 mm (2 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 51 mm (2 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)