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

Should you visit Saint-Etienne or Amalfi?

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 Saint-Etienne and Amalfi. 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.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a undiscovered, authentic, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Amalfi

Amalfi is a picturesque, stunning, and dramatic town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Etienne and Amalfi: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the dramatic coastline
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Amalfi than Saint-Etienne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Amalfi is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its dramatic views, charming character, and excellent limoncello. Also, Amalfi is famous for the dramatic coastline. Saint-Etienne is well known for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Saint-Etienne different from Amalfi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Saint-Etienne and Amalfi.

Saint-Etienne offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Amalfi. The town is an attraction in and off itself. It's filled with charm and character and visitors spend much of their time simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere.


Is the Food Better in Saint-Etienne or Amalfi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Amalfi is an amazing town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Amalfi, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The town's access to the beautiful sea means that many dishes use a variety of seafood. Eggplant is also a common ingredient and you'll find everything from pastas to elegant desserts around town.

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 Saint-Etienne or Amalfi Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Amalfi 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 Amalfi for the nightlife scene. There's a good number of bars and clubs in town that often have live music or DJs. Alternatively, there are also clubs that dot the entire coastline.

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 Saint-Etienne or Amalfi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Amalfi 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 Amalfi. You'll find snorkeling trips that take you along the coastline and stop at several places so you can take a peak at the underwater world.

Saint-Etienne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Saint-Etienne or Amalfi Better for Beaches?

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Amalfi is a good destination for the beache. However, Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Amalfi offers a nice beach destination. The beaches tend to be pebbly and rocky. During the summer months they can get very crowded, but taking a swim is a great way to escape the heat for a bit.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Is Saint-Etienne or Amalfi Better for its Old Town?

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Amalfi is great for its old town. However, Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Amalfi. The town is charming and filled with great shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint-Etienne or Amalfi Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Amalfi is great for hiking. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Amalfi for the hiking trails. The coastline is filled with great trails that offer stunning views. Hiking is a top way to see the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and catch a glimpse at some of the best beaches.

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 Saint-Etienne or Amalfi?

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Amalfi 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 Amalfi. You'll find many great shops that sell everything from clothing to fine wine, local foods, or limoncello.

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 Saint-Etienne or Amalfi Better for Families?

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Both Saint-Etienne and Amalfi are notable family-friendly destinations.

Saint-Etienne offers lots of family activities. 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.

Amalfi is a family-friendly place to visit. The town is positioned in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, making it a great base for exploring the area. It's also one of the larger towns so you'll find more energy and things to do with kids, including the Museum of Paper.

Is Saint-Etienne or Amalfi Better for Couples?

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Amalfi is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for couples.

Amalfi is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The Amalfi Coast is a world class honeymoon destination and couples will enjoy staying in the lively town of Amalfi. It's a quaint and beautiful town in the middle of everything, so you'll have access to all that the area has to offer.

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

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Saint-Etienne and Amalfi both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Saint-Etienne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are tram and bus options available in town.

Amalfi has a few public transit options. The SITA buses offer transit between many of the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

Is Saint-Etienne or Amalfi a more walkable city?

Saint-Etienne
Amalfi

Amalfi is an amazing town to visit 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.

Amalfi is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a compact and charming town that is a bit flatter than some nearby villages so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Saint-Etienne or Amalfi?

Both Saint-Etienne and Amalfi have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amalfi than in Saint-Etienne. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Saint-Etienne, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amalfi.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Saint-Etienne or Amalfi? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint-Etienne 1-2 
    Amalfi 2-7

One day in Saint-Etienne or Amalfi?

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the picturesque destination of Amalfi. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the food, 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.


A weekend in Saint-Etienne or Amalfi?

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.

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

Five days in Saint-Etienne or Amalfi?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the dramatic destination of Amalfi. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town 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.

A week in Saint-Etienne or Amalfi?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the industrial 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful town of Amalfi. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Amalfi or Saint-Etienne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint-Etienne is €108, while the average daily cost in Amalfi is €201. 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 Saint-Etienne and Amalfi in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint-Etienne 46
    Amalfi 98
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint-Etienne 92
    Amalfi 196
Compare Hotels in Saint-Etienne and Amalfi

Looking for a hotel in Saint-Etienne or Amalfi? 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 Saint-Etienne


Hotels in Amalfi


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: Amalfi Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 44
    Amalfi 67

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amalfi

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amalfi:


  • Bus
    4.00
  • Train to Naples
    14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amalfi

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amalfi:

  • From Amalfi Coast: Transfer to Naples with Pompeii Tour: $388
  • Private transfer from Salerno to Positano or vice versa: $292
  • Private Transfer from Amalfi to Naples Airport ,Naples station: $251
  • Mount Vesuvio Organic Wine Tasting & Lunch with Transfer from Amalfi Coast: $240
  • Departure Private Transfer Amalfi to Fiumucino Rome Airport (FCO): $224
  • Private transfer from Salerno to Amalfi: $219
  • Transfer from Amalfi Caost everywhere to Naples area: $216
  • Transfer Amalfi - Naples: $207
  • Private Transfer - Amalfi to Naples with 2h of Sightseeing: Vesuvius or Pompeii: $197
  • Transfer from Amalfi Coast to Sorrento or back: $186
  • Transfer from and to Naples (city, train station, airport) From Amalfi Coast: $186
  • Amalfi to Naples airport/station Private departure transfer: $176

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

Prices for flights to both Amalfi and Saint-Etienne 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
    Saint-Etienne 34
    Amalfi 62

Typical Food Prices in Amalfi

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


  • Dinner
    35
  • Snacks
    4.00
  • Bread
    1.00
  • Dinner
    41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amalfi

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

  • OnLine Genuine Cooking Class: $74
  • Amalfi Coast: Mozzarella, Pasta, and Tiramisu Cooking Class: $80
  • Cooking Class on the Amalfi Coast with Tasting Included: $87
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Salerno with Show Cooking: $93
  • Small-group Street food tour in Cava de' Tirreni: $97
  • Pizza Napoletana Cooking Class and Dinner in Scafati: $104
  • Italian cooking class and lunch near the Pompeii excavations: $114
  • Amalfi Coast Home Cooking Class with Meal & Drinks Included: $134
  • Genuine Home Cooking Class + Olive Oil Tasting: $139
  • Cooking Class and Farmhouse Visit With Meal: $148
  • Hands-on Cooking Class & Farmhouse visit in the Amalfi Coast: $152
  • Private cooking class with lunch or dinner in Vietri sul Mare: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 25
    Amalfi 27

Tours and Activities in Amalfi

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

  • 2-Hour Tour to Amalfi and Atrani, Among the Labyrinths In Fuga dai Pirati: $64
  • 4 Hour Cruise Tour of the Amalfi Coast with Aperitif: $49
  • 4-hour boat tour of the Amalfi Coast: $148
  • Amalfi & Atrani: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $158
  • Amalfi Coast - Maiori: Path of Lemons, Tour with Tasting: $55
  • Amalfi Coast Boat Tour small group with Aperitif: $272
  • Amalfi Coast Boat tour Small Group: $169
  • Amalfi Coast Kayak & Snorkeling Tour to the Pandora's Cave : $75
  • Amalfi Coast Kayak Tour along Arches, Beaches and Sea Caves: $75
  • Amalfi Coast Path of the Lemon private walking tour: $127
  • Amalfi Coast Sunset Boat Tour in Small Group: $97
  • Amalfi Coast Swim Experience with Lifeguard: $93

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint-Etienne 10
    Amalfi 20

Typical Alcohol Prices in Amalfi

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Amalfi from other travelers:


  • Wine
    6.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Amalfi

Also in Amalfi, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting Cantina Basileo: $66
  • Wine tasting at the Apicella winery: $71
  • Wine Tasting and excursion to the Mt. Vesuvius from Pompeii: $93
  • Positano: Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with a Sommelier: $101
  • Half-Day Irpinia Wine Tour from SALERNO: $142
  • Wine Tasting at Basileo Cellar with Lunch: $169
  • Wine Tour (lunch included): $197
  • Exploring a Cilento village by e-bike with wine tasting: $211
  • Mount Vesuvius & Wine Tasting with Lunch Private Tour: $252
  • Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Wine Tasting Private Tour from Amalfi: $273
  • From Positano: Pompeii, Vesuvius, & Wine Tasting with Lunch: $275
  • Amalfi Coast: Pompeii, Vesuvius, & Wine Tasting with Lunch: $285


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


Which is Bigger, Saint-Etienne or Amalfi?

Saint-Etienne has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Amalfi. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Etienne and Amalfi, 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 Saint-Etienne or Amalfi?

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 Saint-Etienne or Amalfi in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint-Etienne as well as Amalfi. Most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Amalfi because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint-Etienne is around the same temperature as Amalfi in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Amalfi fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amalfi. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Etienne this time of the year. In the summer, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Amalfi. Saint-Etienne gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 313 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets more rain in July than Amalfi. Saint-Etienne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F) 
    Amalfi 23°C (74°F)

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

Both Amalfi and Saint-Etienne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Amalfi this time of year.

In the autumn, Saint-Etienne is cooler than Amalfi. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint-Etienne in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Amalfi averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Amalfi during autumn. Saint-Etienne gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Amalfi. In October, Saint-Etienne usually receives less rain than Amalfi. Saint-Etienne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F) 
    Amalfi 17°C (63°F)

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

Both Amalfi and Saint-Etienne during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amalfi for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Saint-Etienne in the winter. In January, Saint-Etienne is generally much colder than Amalfi. Daily temperatures in Saint-Etienne average around 4°C (39°F), and Amalfi fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Amalfi. Saint-Etienne gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 115 hours of full sun.

Amalfi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saint-Etienne usually gets less rain in January than Amalfi. Saint-Etienne gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F) 
    Amalfi 8°C (47°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Etienne and Amalfi. Many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Amalfi in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Saint-Etienne is cooler than Amalfi in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Amalfi fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Amalfi during spring. Saint-Etienne gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint-Etienne usually receives less rain than Amalfi. Saint-Etienne gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F) 
    Amalfi 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Amalfi and Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne Amalfi
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)