A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Saint-Etienne for Hiking, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Saint-Etienne. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a diverse, dramatic, and scenic island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a authentic, historic, and park-filled city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Isle of Skye. Although Isle of Skye and Saint-Etienne are popular destinations, Isle of Skye has more sights and attractions for tourists. Isle of Skye is very popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saint-Etienne attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. It is also well known for The Old Man of Storr. Saint-Etienne is famous for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Isle of Skye different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Saint-Etienne is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Isle of Skye has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint-Etienne. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is great for the beache. However, Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye for it's beautiful beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is an amazing island to visit for hiking. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Isle of Skye is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for shopping. Shopping malls and several boutique shopping areas make up the city's shopping scene.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Both Isle of Skye and Saint-Etienne are nice family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Saint-Etienne. 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 Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

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

Isle of Skye is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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 Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint-Etienne or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Isle of Skye than Saint-Etienne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint-Etienne.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.

One day in Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the stunning destination of Isle of Skye. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

In Saint-Etienne, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this industrial city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, 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.

Saint-Etienne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the scenic destination of Isle of Skye. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This island 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Saint-Etienne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food around the beautiful island of Isle of Skye. 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 popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, 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 Isle of Skye and Saint-Etienne, we can see that Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Saint-Etienne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Saint-Etienne. The summer months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is much colder than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Etienne this time of the year. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Saint-Etienne. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Saint-Etienne. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in October than Saint-Etienne. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne in the Winter?

Both Saint-Etienne and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Saint-Etienne can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Isle of Skye. Isle of Skye is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Saint-Etienne. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Saint-Etienne in the Spring?

Both Saint-Etienne and Isle of Skye during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is much colder than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Saint-Etienne. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Etienne. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Isle of Skye