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

Should you visit Hamburg 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 Hamburg and Saint-Etienne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a historic, energetic, and cultural port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Saint-Etienne

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

Hamburg and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hamburg than Saint-Etienne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hamburg is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Saint-Etienne is known for its hiking. Hamburg is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. It is also home to St. Michael's Church. Saint-Etienne is popular for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Hamburg different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

Hamburg 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 Hamburg. The city's most famous district is the port area, which has a number of cultural sights and a pedestrian trail. There are also many museums and architectural landmarks around town.

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

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

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

Hamburg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has a mix of cosmopolitan restaurants and traditional places where you can enjoy a classic German dish like currywurst or labskaus (a type of stew).

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 Hamburg or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

Hamburg 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 Hamburg for the nightlife scene. The city is often overlooked, but it's nightlife scene is actually among the best. There are techno concerts, music festivals, and nightclubs that appeal to all personalities.

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 Hamburg or Saint-Etienne Better for Music?

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

Hamburg is an amazing port 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 Hamburg. The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Saint-Etienne is not a live music destination.


Is Hamburg or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Hamburg 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.

Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Saint-Etienne?

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

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

Hamburg is well-known for its shopping. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

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 Hamburg or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

Hamburg 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, Hamburg is very family-friendly. The city has a surprising number of opportunities to see wildlife nearby including a zoo and a wildlife park just outside of town. The city also has great playgrounds that are fun for kids who need a break from sightseeing.

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 Hamburg or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

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

Hamburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic activities in town include taking a boat ride or harbor cruise or grabbing a cocktail at one of the city's many bars.

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

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Hamburg. Many backpackers overlook the city, but there are a number of good hostels and a relaxing vibe that makes for a nice visit.

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 Hamburg or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

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

It's common for students to visit Hamburg. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.


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

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

Hamburg is great 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 Hamburg can get you to some places easily. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

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

Is Hamburg or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Hamburg
Saint-Etienne

Hamburg 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.

Hamburg is a very walkable port city. Most tourist areas can easily be explored on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Hamburg or Saint-Etienne?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Hamburg or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the energetic destination of Hamburg. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Hamburg or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Hamburg or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the energetic destination of Hamburg. This port 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 Hamburg or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and shopping around the port city of Hamburg. 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 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Etienne or Hamburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hamburg is €117, 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 Hamburg and Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hamburg 54
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hamburg 108
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Hamburg and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Hamburg 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 Hamburg


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: Hamburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hamburg 29
    Saint-Etienne 44
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hamburg

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Hamburg:


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hamburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hamburg:

  • Hamburg Airport(HAM): Transfer to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: $645
  • Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg city: $585
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM): Transfer to Fredericia Cruise Port: $585
  • Private One-Way Transfer to or from Kiel Port: $422
  • Private Direct Transfer From Hamburg to Berlin, English Speaking Driver: $300
  • Private Direct Transfer From Hamburg to Wolfsburg; English Speaking Driver: $289
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hannover with 2h of Sightseeing: $271
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers : $267
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers: $262
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $235
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Bremen with an English Speaking Driver: $234
  • Private Transfer From Hamburg To Bremen With a 2 Hour Stop: $233

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

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne and Hamburg 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
    Hamburg 35
    Saint-Etienne 34
Typical Food Prices in Hamburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hamburg:


  • Pink Thai Soup Dinner and Spring Rolls
    15
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    5.00
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    6.00
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    15
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    4.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    6.00
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    3.50
  • Coffee and Donut
    4.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hamburg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hamburg.

  • St. Pauli kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Elphi Plaza und HafenCity kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $59
  • Original Musical Dinner Cruise 2024: $117
  • Hamburg Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $186
  • St. Pauli: Guided Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $481
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $588
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $588

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hamburg 39
    Saint-Etienne 25
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hamburg

Here are a few typical costs in Hamburg for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Tower at St. Michael's Church
    3.50

Tours and Activities in Hamburg

Here are a few actual costs in Hamburg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Hamburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $287
  • Safari tour in St Pauli: $33
  • "Cruise in the City" - Sailing Yacht Event, Hamburg/Elbe: $69
  • "Hafengeburtstag Hamburg" 2024. Cruise&Sail from/to Wedel: $181
  • "Highlights of Hamburg" Biketour: $39
  • 1 Hour Kiez Speed Tour for Adults: $19
  • 1-Day Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour of Hamburg Line D: $20
  • 10 secrets of Hamburg's old town - exciting scavenger hunt tour: $34
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg E-Scooter Tour: $71
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Night Tour: $93
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Tour: $75
  • 2 Hours Hamburg E-scooter Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hamburg 17
    Saint-Etienne 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Hamburg

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

  • Night Pub Crawl through The Repperbahn: $21
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through the Reeperbahn: $34
  • Pub Crawl - Ultimate party pub crawl incl. One-hour drinks flat rate: $44
  • Hamburg Pub Crawl including 1 hour flatrate for beer: $51
  • Bachelor(ette) Premium Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $513


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


Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Saint-Etienne?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg 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 Hamburg 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 Hamburg or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

Both Saint-Etienne and Hamburg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hamburg is generally cooler than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 17°C (62°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Saint-Etienne, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hamburg. In the summer, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in July than Saint-Etienne. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area 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.

Hamburg is cooler than Saint-Etienne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during autumn. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

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

The winter brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Saint-Etienne. The winter months attract visitors to Hamburg 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. The weather in Hamburg can be very cold. In the winter, Hamburg is much colder than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hamburg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 4°C (39°F).

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

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


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

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the natural beauty.

In April, Hamburg is generally much colder than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 8°C (46°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during spring. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Hamburg

Hamburg Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)