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

Should you visit Munich or Saint-Etienne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich 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.

Munich

Munich is a high energy, multicultural, and economically thriving city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Saint-Etienne

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

Munich and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Munich than Saint-Etienne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Munich is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint-Etienne is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Munich is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace. Saint-Etienne is popular for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Munich different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Munich
Saint-Etienne

Munich 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 Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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

Munich
Saint-Etienne

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

Munich has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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 Munich or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Munich
Saint-Etienne

Munich is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Munich has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich or Saint-Etienne Better for Music?

Munich
Saint-Etienne

Munich is an amazing 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 Munich. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Saint-Etienne is not a live music destination.


Is Munich or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Munich
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Munich 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.

Munich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Saint-Etienne?

Munich
Saint-Etienne

Munich is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Munich draws large crowds to its stores. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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 Munich or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Munich
Saint-Etienne

Munich 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, Munich is very family-friendly. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

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 Munich or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Munich
Saint-Etienne

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

Munich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

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

Munich
Saint-Etienne

Munich is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Munich is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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 Munich or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

Munich
Saint-Etienne

Munich is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

Munich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.


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

Munich
Saint-Etienne

Munich 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 Munich is top-notch. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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

Is Munich or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Munich
Saint-Etienne

Munich 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.

Munich is a very walkable city. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

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

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

How long in Munich or Saint-Etienne?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Munich or Saint-Etienne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Munich 2-5 
    Saint-Etienne 1-2

One day in Munich or Saint-Etienne?

Munich is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Saint-Etienne. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Munich or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Munich or Saint-Etienne?

Munich is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Etienne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Munich or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Munich. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the historic destination of Saint-Etienne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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 Munich?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Munich is €148, 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 Munich and Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Munich 89
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Munich 178
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Munich and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Munich 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 Munich


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: Munich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Munich 19
    Saint-Etienne 44
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

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


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    2.30
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    5.20
  • City transport day ticket
    11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • Private transfer from Munich to Vienna: $930
  • Private transfer from Munich to Prague: $706
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer from/to Munich airport: $292
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 3h on Eagle's Nest: $284
  • Private Car from Munich to Prague: Transfer with 2h Sightseeing: $284
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing with Local Driver: $279
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 4h of Sightseeing: $272
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Munich to Nuremberg with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Salzburg to Munich Transfer: $267
  • Transfer Munich to Kaprun,Zell am See,Flachau,Stubai,Kitzbuhel,Innsbruck & Other: $259
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 2 hours for sightseeing: $257
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Passau, 2 Hour Stop in Dachau: $257

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

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne and Munich 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
    Munich 27
    Saint-Etienne 34
Typical Food Prices in Munich

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


  • Bratwurst
    5.00
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • Food Tour Beer- 3 small beers & "Brotzeit" in GERMAN: $79
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $99
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $136
  • Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $141
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Private - Viktualienmarkt Food Tour and Beyond - best Munich tastings: $229
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265
  • Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner : $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Munich 29
    Saint-Etienne 25
Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

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


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    4.00
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    9.00
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    14
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    24

Tours and Activities in Munich

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

  • 2 Hours VIP Private Segway Tour: $91
  • 2-hour Private Walking Tour in Munich: $214
  • 2-hour city tour by bike in Munich to the hotspots of the Isar metropolis: $35
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $210
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $211
  • A Tour inside Munich's Justizpalast: $24
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $202
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $207
  • Andechs Monastery Beer Hike Food Experience Private Tour (departs Munich): $208
  • Art & Heritage: Private Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $202
  • Art & Heritage: Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $395
  • Bad Tölz Private Guided Walking Tour: $220

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Munich 37
    Saint-Etienne 10
Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

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

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $28
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $37
  • Max & Moritz: Interactive Wine Tasting Experience: $37
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $141
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $288
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $294
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


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


Which is Bigger, Munich or Saint-Etienne?

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Munich during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Munich for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Munich is generally around the same temperature as Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 20°C (68°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 Munich. In the summer, Munich often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Munich 20°C (68°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Saint-Etienne. Many visitors come to Munich in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music 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.

Munich is cooler than Saint-Etienne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Munich averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Munich usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during autumn. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Munich usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

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

The winter brings many poeple to Munich as well as Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Munich 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. Munich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Munich is much colder than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Munich in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Munich often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in January than Saint-Etienne. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Munich -1°C (31°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Munich because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

In April, Munich is generally around the same temperature as Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 11°C (53°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Munich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint-Etienne during spring. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Munich usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Munich gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Munich 11°C (53°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Munich

Munich Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)