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

Should you visit Cagliari or Saint-Etienne?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cagliari and Saint-Etienne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a under-rated, laid back, and relaxed city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Saint-Etienne

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

Cagliari and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cagliari than Saint-Etienne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cagliari is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint-Etienne is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cagliari is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is known for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. Also, Cagliari is famous for Castello. Saint-Etienne is well known for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Cagliari different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

Cagliari 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 Cagliari. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology 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 Cagliari or Saint-Etienne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

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

Cagliari has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

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 Cagliari or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

Cagliari 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 Cagliari for the nightlife scene. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

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 Cagliari or Saint-Etienne Better for Beaches?

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

Cagliari is great for the beache. However, Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Cagliari for it's beautiful beaches. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.


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

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

Cagliari 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 Cagliari. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Is Cagliari or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is very good for its hiking trails. However, Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint-Etienne. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Saint-Etienne?

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

Cagliari 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 Cagliari. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few 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 Cagliari or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

Cagliari 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, Cagliari is very family-friendly. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

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 Cagliari or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

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

Cagliari is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.

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

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Cagliari. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

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 Cagliari or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

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

It's common for students to visit Cagliari. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

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

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Cagliari and Saint-Etienne.

Cagliari has some public transit options. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

You'll find some public transit in Saint-Etienne, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are tram and bus options available in town.

Is Cagliari or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Cagliari
Saint-Etienne

Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is a very walkable city. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

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


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

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

How long in Cagliari or Saint-Etienne?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Cagliari or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Cagliari. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

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 Cagliari or Saint-Etienne?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed destination of Cagliari. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Cagliari or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Cagliari. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Etienne or Cagliari?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cagliari is €120, 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 Cagliari and Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cagliari 66
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cagliari 132
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Cagliari and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Cagliari 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 Cagliari


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: Cagliari Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cagliari 31
    Saint-Etienne 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cagliari

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

  • Private Transfer Cagliari airport City - Orosei city Marina: $513
  • Cagliari Elmas Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Cagliari: $65
  • Transfer / taxi Cagliari Airport - Cagliari city: $60
  • Private Transfer from Cagliari hotels to Cagliari Cruise Port: $26

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

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne and Cagliari 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
    Cagliari 35
    Saint-Etienne 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cagliari

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

  • Sardinia Cooking Class: Fresh Handmade Pasta: $75
  • Cooking Class and Wine Tasting: $80
  • Homemade fresh pasta cooking: $82
  • Sardinia Traditional Food Tour: $87
  • Sardinian Cooking Class with Meal and Drinks: $96
  • Traditional Sardinian Lunch and Cooking Class In Cagliari: $116
  • Romantic sunset dinner experience with private chef: $159

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

Tours and Activities in Cagliari

For Cagliari, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Guided Tour of San Pancras and Castello: $43
  • 3 Hours Guided Tour of the Historical Cagliari: $64
  • Archaeological tour of Nora: $91
  • Barumini Unesco Site and Giara of Gesturi Tour from Cagliari: $98
  • Beach Tour Porto Pino & Piscinnì from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour Marina Rei & Sant'Elmo from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour Porto Giunco & Cala Sinzias from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour to Chia & Tuerredda from Cagliari: $91
  • Boat Tour at Devil's Saddle: 4 Swim Stops, Snorkeling & Prosecco: $60
  • Boat Tour in the Gulf of Cagliari with aperitif on board: $84
  • Cagliari : Highlights & Hidden gems Private Walking Tour: $70
  • Cagliari : Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Guide: $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cagliari 7.57
    Saint-Etienne 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Cagliari

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

  • Guided Artisanal Food and Wine Tasting Experience: $48
  • WINE TOUR with sommelier in a winery near Cagliari: $66
  • Small-Group Food and Wine Tour from Cagliari: $98
  • Wine Tour Sardinia: $107
  • Wine tour aroud vineyards of Cagliari : $109
  • Wine Tasting & Winery Tour: $266
  • Full-Day Private Wine Tasting with Lunch: $641


When comparing the travel costs between Cagliari and Saint-Etienne, we can see that Cagliari 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 Cagliari Expensive? and Is Saint-Etienne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari 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 Cagliari 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 Cagliari or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Saint-Etienne. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cagliari is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne in the summer. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Etienne this time of the year. In Cagliari, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during summer. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cagliari 24°C (75°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cagliari is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cagliari in October average around 18°C (65°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in October than Saint-Etienne. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cagliari 18°C (65°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

It's quite cold in Saint-Etienne in the winter. In January, Cagliari is generally much warmer than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 10°C (50°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during winter. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cagliari 10°C (50°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Cagliari during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the natural beauty.

Cagliari is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne in the spring. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. In the spring, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Etienne. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cagliari 14°C (57°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Cagliari

Cagliari Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 10°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 24°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 26 mm (1 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 18°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)