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

Should you visit Leipzig or Saint-Etienne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Leipzig or Saint-Etienne, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a cultural, historic, and growing city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Etienne

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

Leipzig 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 backpackers and budget travelers
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 Leipzig or Saint-Etienne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Leipzig than Saint-Etienne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Leipzig is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Saint-Etienne attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Leipzig is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is known for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner. It is also well known for The Old City Hall. Saint-Etienne is famous for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Leipzig different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Leipzig
Saint-Etienne

Leipzig 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 Leipzig. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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

Leipzig
Saint-Etienne

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

Leipzig has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy 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 Leipzig or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Leipzig
Saint-Etienne

The vibe at night is nice in both Leipzig and Saint-Etienne.

If you're looking for night time activities Leipzig has a few options to choose from. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

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 Leipzig or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Leipzig
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Leipzig is not a hiking destination.

Saint-Etienne has hiking trails worth exploring. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Leipzig is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Leipzig or Saint-Etienne?

Leipzig
Saint-Etienne

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

Leipzig is well-known for its shopping. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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 Leipzig or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Leipzig
Saint-Etienne

Leipzig and Saint-Etienne are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Leipzig offers lots of family activities. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

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 Leipzig or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Leipzig
Saint-Etienne

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

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

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

Leipzig
Saint-Etienne

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Leipzig. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

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

Leipzig
Saint-Etienne

Leipzig 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 Leipzig can get you to some places easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

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

Is Leipzig or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Leipzig
Saint-Etienne

Leipzig and Saint-Etienne are nice when it comes to walkability.

Leipzig is somewhat walkable. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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


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

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

How long in Leipzig or Saint-Etienne?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Leipzig or Saint-Etienne?

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

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

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

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Leipzig. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Etienne or Leipzig?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Leipzig is €166, 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 Leipzig and Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Leipzig 91
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Leipzig 182
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Leipzig and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Leipzig 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 Leipzig


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: Leipzig Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Leipzig 27
    Saint-Etienne 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

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

  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93
  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34

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

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne and Leipzig 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
    Leipzig 53
    Saint-Etienne 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

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

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Leipzig 36
    Saint-Etienne 25

Tours and Activities in Leipzig

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

  • 1.5-Hour Historical Tour of Leipzig with Costumed Guide: $21
  • 2 hours Leipzig exclusive: Private city tour with Panorama Tower: $217
  • Big city tour Leipzig Hop on hop off: $20
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig Südvorstadt - independent discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig city center - independent city tour: $44
  • City tour on foot, by S-Bahn and tram: $24
  • Combo Tour in Guided City Tour & City Sightseeing: $21
  • Corpses, Leprosy, Lucifer 75-minute Tour at the Old Cemetery: $19
  • From Day Tour to the Green Belt: $631
  • From Markkleeberg: Full-Day Guided Cycling Tour by the Lakes: $48
  • Gruseltour Leipzig 90-minute walking tour about the Dark Secrets of Leipzig: $19
  • Gruseltour A Haunted Guided Tour: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Leipzig 26
    Saint-Etienne 10


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


Which is Bigger, Leipzig or Saint-Etienne?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Leipzig 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

Both Saint-Etienne and Leipzig are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Leipzig for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Leipzig is cooler than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Leipzig in July average around 19°C (67°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Saint-Etienne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Leipzig. Leipzig usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during summer. Leipzig gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Leipzig gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Leipzig during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Leipzig in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Leipzig is generally cooler than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Leipzig average around 11°C (52°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Leipzig often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Leipzig gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets less rain in October than Saint-Etienne. Leipzig gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Leipzig and Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Leipzig for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Saint-Etienne can be very cold. Leipzig can be very cold during winter. Leipzig is much colder than Saint-Etienne in the winter. The daily temperature in Leipzig averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Leipzig usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during winter. Leipzig gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Leipzig gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Leipzig as well as Saint-Etienne. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

In the spring, Leipzig is cooler than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Leipzig in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Leipzig often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Leipzig gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Etienne. Leipzig gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Leipzig

Leipzig Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)