A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palma de Mallorca vs. Saint-Etienne for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a historic, beautiful, and stunning island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

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.

Palma de Mallorca and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palma de Mallorca than Saint-Etienne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Palma de Mallorca is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saint-Etienne attracts visitors for its museums. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is known for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. It is also well known for the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Saint-Etienne is famous for its industrial and manufacturing past.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Palma de Mallorca has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

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

Palma de Mallorca has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is great for its live music scene. However, Saint-Etienne is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Palma de Mallorca draws a good crowd. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Saint-Etienne is not a live music destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is great for its luxury resorts. However, Saint-Etienne is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Palma de Mallorca to choose from. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Saint-Etienne is not a resort destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Saint-Etienne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Palma de Mallorca. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Saint-Etienne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is an amazing island to visit for the beache. However, Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Palma de Mallorca offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne Better for its Old Town?

Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca and Saint-Etienne are both places where visitors can find nice hiking trails.

Palma de Mallorca has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint-Etienne. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne?

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Palma de Mallorca. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca 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, Palma de Mallorca is very family-friendly. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

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

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palma de Mallorca is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Palma de Mallorca. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Palma de Mallorca and Saint-Etienne.

Palma de Mallorca has some public transit options. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

You'll find some public transit in Saint-Etienne, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are tram and bus options available in town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Palma de Mallorca and Saint-Etienne are nice when it comes to walkability.

Palma de Mallorca is somewhat walkable. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Saint-Etienne or Palma de Mallorca?

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Palma de Mallorca than Saint-Etienne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint-Etienne.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the cultural destination of Palma de Mallorca. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

With nightlife and museums around the destination of Saint-Etienne, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palma de Mallorca. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the authentic city of Saint-Etienne, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the cultural destination of Palma de Mallorca. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the undiscovered destination of Saint-Etienne. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful island of Palma de Mallorca. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 choice for travelers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 2-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, 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 Palma de Mallorca and Saint-Etienne, we can see that Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca Expensive? and Is Saint-Etienne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne?

Palma de Mallorca has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Palma de Mallorca and Saint-Etienne. Many travelers come to Palma de Mallorca for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Palma de Mallorca is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in July average around 24°C (76°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. In Palma de Mallorca, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during summer. Palma de Mallorca gets 334 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Palma de Mallorca gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Palma de Mallorca as well as Saint-Etienne. Many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, 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, Palma de Mallorca is generally a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 19°C (66°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palma de Mallorca this time of the year. In the autumn, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Palma de Mallorca gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in October than Saint-Etienne. Palma de Mallorca gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne in the Winter?

Both Saint-Etienne and Palma de Mallorca are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for 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. Palma de Mallorca is much warmer than Saint-Etienne in the winter. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during winter. Palma de Mallorca gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Palma de Mallorca gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Saint-Etienne in the Spring?

Both Saint-Etienne and Palma de Mallorca during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Palma de Mallorca because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

In the spring, Palma de Mallorca is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 11°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Palma de Mallorca. In the spring, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Palma de Mallorca gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Etienne. Palma de Mallorca gets 46 mm (1.8 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 Palma de Mallorca