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

Should you visit Cologne or Saint-Etienne?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Saint-Etienne? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cologne

Cologne is a accessible, vibrant, and colorful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a historic, park-filled, and industrial city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and hiking.

Cologne and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Saint-Etienne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Saint-Etienne is known for its hiking. Cologne is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also home to The Cologne Cathedral. Saint-Etienne is popular for its industrial and manufacturing past.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne 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 Cologne. At the heart of the city is Cologne Cathedral, which is stunningly intricate and highlights High Gothic architecture. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Other famous sights around town include Cologne City Hall, the Wallraf-Richartz & Ludwig Museums, and Hohenzollern Bridge.

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

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

Cologne has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The food scene consists mostly of brewhouses and pubs, where you'll find local cuisine. There are also a number of international restaurants around town if you want something a little different. In particular, you'll find many Turkish kebab shops near the train station. Local dishes from Cologne include Halve Hahn (an open face sandwich), Hämmche (pork with sauerkraut or potatoes), and Mettbrütche (minced pork bread roll). For a sweet treat, there is no shortage of donut shops with decadently decorated toppings.

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 Cologne or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne 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 Cologne for the nightlife scene. Head to one of the many beerhalls to check out the local nightlife scene. Make sure you try the local beer, Kölsch. Some of the most popular places for night include Ona Mor, Pepe, and Engel & Weiss.

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 Cologne or Saint-Etienne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a good destination for its old town. However, Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Cologne. The Old Town is large, but its mostly been rebuilt with modern buildings. There are plenty of shopping areas where you can buy name brand clothing or sample sweets.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Is Cologne or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Cologne is not a hiking destination.

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

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Saint-Etienne?

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

Cologne is well-known for its shopping. There is no shortage of clothing shops around Cologne. You'll find all of the major European chains with many souvenir shops mixed in. Schildergasse is a major shopping street in town, but there are also many shopping malls to choose from. For local markets, head to Wilhemplatz.

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 Cologne or Saint-Etienne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Saint-Etienne does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Cologne is a top place to visit during Christmas. Cologne is one of the top Christmas destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Saint-Etienne does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Saint-Etienne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Saint-Etienne does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit Cologne because of the beautiful Christmas markets. Cologne is one of the top Christmas market destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Saint-Etienne does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Cologne 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, Cologne is very family-friendly. In addition to the stunning cathedral and impressive bridge, this city has many great playgrounds including Rheinpark, right across the river from old town. Kids who like high places will enjoy the view from the top of KölnTriangle. Popular kid-friendly museums in town include Odysseum and the Chocolate Museum. And if you have a day to spare, head to the indoor waterpark at Aqualand.

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 Cologne or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

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

Cologne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a number of activities that couples will enjoy such as walks along the river, dining at nice restaurants, and Rhein River cruises. Also make sure you put a lock on the Hohenzollern Bridge to declare your commitment to each other.

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

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Cologne. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

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 Cologne or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

Cologne is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

Many students visit Cologne. The city is large enough to attract international students for all types of studies. It's also well connected to the German train system so it's easy to get out and explore the area.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

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

Cologne 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 Cologne is top-notch. KVB operates the system that includes trains, trams, and buses. The city is also easily connected to other nearby towns so it makes a great base for exploring the entire area.

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

Is Cologne or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Cologne 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.

Cologne is a very walkable city. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Cologne or Saint-Etienne?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cologne or Saint-Etienne?

Cologne is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Cologne or Saint-Etienne?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful big city of Cologne. 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 Cologne or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Cologne. 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 Luxury Tours to Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Germany, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Saint-Etienne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Cologne 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 Cologne 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 Cologne or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

Both Saint-Etienne and Cologne during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cologne is generally cooler than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Saint-Etienne, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in July than Saint-Etienne. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Saint-Etienne. The autumn months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

Cologne is cooler than Saint-Etienne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cologne usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Saint-Etienne. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Saint-Etienne. It's quite cold in Cologne in the winter. In the winter, Cologne is cooler than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in January than Saint-Etienne. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cologne usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Cologne