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

Should you visit Bristol or Saint-Etienne?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bristol and Saint-Etienne 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.

Bristol

Bristol is a diverse, cultural, and friendly 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 undiscovered, authentic, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and hiking.

Bristol and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bristol than Saint-Etienne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bristol is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint-Etienne is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Bristol is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies. It is also home to The Bristol Harbour. Saint-Etienne is popular for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Bristol different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bristol
Saint-Etienne

Bristol 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 Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

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

Bristol
Saint-Etienne

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

Bristol has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

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 Bristol or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Bristol
Saint-Etienne

Bristol is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Bristol for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

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 Bristol or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Bristol
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a city with good options for hiking. However, Bristol is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint-Etienne. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Bristol is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Saint-Etienne?

Bristol
Saint-Etienne

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

Bristol is well-known for its shopping. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

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 Bristol or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Bristol
Saint-Etienne

Both Bristol and Saint-Etienne are good to visit with kids.

Bristol offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

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 Bristol or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Bristol
Saint-Etienne

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

Bristol makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.

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 Bristol or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

Bristol
Saint-Etienne

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

It's common for students to visit Bristol. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

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

Bristol
Saint-Etienne

Bristol and Saint-Etienne both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Bristol offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

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

Is Bristol or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Bristol
Saint-Etienne

Bristol 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.

Bristol is a very walkable city. The city center is well designed for walking.

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


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

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

How long in Bristol or Saint-Etienne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bristol or Saint-Etienne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bristol 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 Bristol, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint-Etienne.

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

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

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


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

One day in Bristol or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Bristol. 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 Bristol or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bristol. 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 Bristol or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Bristol. 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 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 Bristol or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Bristol. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Etienne or Bristol?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bristol is £91, while the average daily cost in Saint-Etienne is £92. 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 Bristol and Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bristol £49
    Saint-Etienne £39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bristol £98
    Saint-Etienne £78
Compare Hotels in Bristol and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Bristol 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 Bristol


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: Bristol Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Saint-Etienne £38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bristol

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

  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Transfer to Southampton city hotels: $781
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to London city: $680
  • Private Transfer from Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton City : $205
  • Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton hotels - Arrival Transfer: $172
  • Bristol Airport to London City Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $160
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to Bristol City: $148
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Car: $108
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Luxury Van: $99
  • Departure Private Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90
  • Departure Private Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90

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

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne and Bristol 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
    Bristol £32
    Saint-Etienne £29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bristol

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

  • (Thur 7pm) Comedy Magic Show includes 1x Pizza & 2 glasses of Prosecco: $25

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Saint-Etienne £22

Tours and Activities in Bristol

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

  • 2 Hours Private Walking to Bristol Cider Tour with Cheese: $45
  • Afternoon Bath City Tour - Private tour from Bristol with a local guide: $280
  • Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol: $17
  • Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Sketching Tour for Beginners and Improvers: $38
  • Bristol Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Bristol private pub hopping and sightseeing with local guide: $114
  • Bristol's Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City: $6.99
  • Bristol's Time-Honored Pubs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Bristol’s Darkest Secrets Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bristol £11
    Saint-Etienne £8.68

Sample the Local Flavors in Bristol

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bristol:

  • Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99


When comparing the travel costs between Bristol and Saint-Etienne, we can see that Saint-Etienne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Bristol or Saint-Etienne?

Bristol has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

Both Saint-Etienne and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bristol is generally cooler than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 18°C (64°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In July, Bristol usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bristol 18°C (64°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Bristol during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bristol is around the same temperature as Saint-Etienne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in October than Saint-Etienne. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bristol 13°C (55°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Saint-Etienne. Many visitors come to Bristol in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Saint-Etienne can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bristol is much warmer than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bristol in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In January, Bristol usually receives more rain than Saint-Etienne. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bristol 6°C (43°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Bristol for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the natural beauty.

In April, Bristol is generally cooler than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 10°C (50°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Bristol usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Etienne. Bristol 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
    Bristol 10°C (50°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Bristol

Bristol Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)