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

Should you visit Saint-Etienne or Rome?

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 Rome. 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and hiking.

Rome

Rome is a archeological, bustling, and fun-filled city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Saint-Etienne and Rome: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Less walkable
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
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Colosseum


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Saint-Etienne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Saint-Etienne is known for its hiking. Rome is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum. Saint-Etienne is popular for its industrial and manufacturing past.

The Colosseum
The Colosseum

How is Saint-Etienne different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rome 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 Rome?

Saint-Etienne
Rome

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Rome are world-renowned. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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

Saint-Etienne
Rome

Rome is an amazing city 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 Rome, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Etienne
Rome

Rome 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.

Rome has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome Better for Music?

Saint-Etienne
Rome

Rome 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 Rome. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Saint-Etienne is not a live music destination.


Is Saint-Etienne or Rome Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne
Rome

Saint-Etienne is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Rome is not a hiking destination.

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.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Etienne or Rome?

Saint-Etienne
Rome

Rome 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, Rome draws large crowds to its stores. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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 Rome Better for Families?

Saint-Etienne
Rome

Rome 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, Rome is very family-friendly. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

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 Saint-Etienne or Rome Better for Couples?

Saint-Etienne
Rome

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

Rome is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

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 Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint-Etienne
Rome

Rome 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, Rome is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Saint-Etienne or Rome Better for Students?

Saint-Etienne
Rome

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

Rome is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.


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

Saint-Etienne
Rome

Rome 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 Rome is top-notch. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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

Is Saint-Etienne or Rome a more walkable city?

Saint-Etienne
Rome

Rome is an amazing city 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.

Rome is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Saint-Etienne or Rome?

Both Saint-Etienne and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Saint-Etienne. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Saint-Etienne, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Saint-Etienne or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint-Etienne 1-2 
    Rome 3-7

One day in Saint-Etienne or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Saint-Etienne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Rome 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.


A weekend in Saint-Etienne or Rome?

Saint-Etienne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. 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.

Five days in Saint-Etienne or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Saint-Etienne. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rome 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.

A week in Saint-Etienne or Rome?

The industrial city of Saint-Etienne offers nightlife and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Rome 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 Rome is €170. 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 Rome in more detail.



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

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


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: Rome Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 44
    Rome 21

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

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


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    2.00
  • Train to the Airport
    15
  • Taxi to Airport
    45
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • Trieste Port: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Rome Hotels: $2,535
  • Fiumucino Rome Airport (FCO): 1-Way Transfer To Trieste Port: $2,535
  • Rome Airport (FCO): Transfer to/from Venice Port: $2,007
  • Luxury Private Transfer Siena to Rome Fiumicino Airport: $973
  • Private luxury transfer Siena to Rome city center: $936
  • Luxury private transfer Siena to Rome Ciampino airport: $936
  • Private Transfer from Amalfi to Rome or viceversa: $839
  • From Sorrento: Private Transfer to Rome or Vice Versa: $813
  • Verona Airport (VRN) : One-Way Private Transfer to Ravenna: $706
  • Sorrento to Rome 1-Way Private Transfer: $663
  • Private Transfer from Naples to Rome or viceversa: $620
  • From Private Transfer to Naples or Vice Versa: $588

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

Prices for flights to both Rome 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
    Rome 47

Typical Food Prices in Rome

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


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    14
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches
    2.99
  • Cafe e doce
    4.00
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    2.65
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    32
  • Cheese and bread
    10
  • Espresso
    2.00
  • Dinner
    58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rome

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

  • Award-Winning Roman Food Tours: $16
  • Tipsy Food Crawl Walking Tour with Dinner: $31
  • Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32
  • Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
  • Rome Food Tour with Wine Tasting and Farmers Market in Prati Area: $32
  • Guided Food Tour with Food and Drink Tastings: $33
  • Roman Master Chef Cooking Class with Wine: $36
  • Roman Dinner & History Tour: An Epic Journey Through Time: $37
  • Painting & Pizza Party with Unlimited Wine: $40
  • Campo dei Fiori & Jewish Ghetto area Street Food Tour: $42
  • Rome Food Tour : Street Food Testings with Local Guide: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Food Tour at Vatican and Trionfale Farmers: $43

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Rome

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


  • Rome Museum Vaticano (for 2)
    69
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    33
  • Roma Pass
    30
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    20
  • Segway Tour
    75

Tours and Activities in Rome

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

  • Appian Way and Aqueducts Electric Bike Tour: $82
  • Castel Sant Angelo Skip the Line Tickets: $39
  • Colosseum Arena Floor Guided Tour with Ancient Rome Access : $195
  • Colosseum Gladiator Arena Floor Complete Guided Tour : $206
  • Colosseum Tour With Kids: $195
  • Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tour with Circus Maximus and Forums: $16
  • Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill Professional Guided Tour: $161
  • Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour: $184
  • Complete St Peters Basilica Tour with Dome Climb and Crypt: $43
  • Cruise into Rome?! Full-Day Rome Discovery from Civitavecchia : $96
  • Fast Track Colosseum with Arena and afternoon Vatican Museums Tour: $191
  • Golf Cart Driving Tour: Rome City Highlights in 2.5 hrs: $104

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint-Etienne 10
    Rome 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

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


  • Bottle of Wine
    6.50
  • Pint of Beer
    6.34
  • Beer
    10

Sample the Local Flavors in Rome

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

  • Trionfale and Prati Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $31
  • Trionfale Farmers Market and Vatican Quarter Food and Wine Tour: $32
  • Vatican Food and Wine Tasting Tour next to the Sistine Chapel: $32
  • Cabaret & Burlesque Show: $32
  • Vatican Quarter and Trionfale Farmers Market Food and Wine Tour: $43
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $52
  • Tipsy Tour: Fun Bar Crawl In Rome With Local Guide : $53
  • Wine Tour in Historic Center of Rome: $55
  • Frascati Wine Tasting Experience & Vineyards Tour : $61
  • Pasta Making Class & Wine Tasting in a Trasteve Villa: $68
  • E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $68
  • Private Wine Tasting in Trastevere: $71


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


Which is Bigger, Saint-Etienne or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Etienne and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Rome in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint-Etienne as well as Rome. Most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Rome because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint-Etienne is cooler than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint-Etienne in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. 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 Rome. Saint-Etienne gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Saint-Etienne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F) 
    Rome 25°C (77°F)

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

Both Rome 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 city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

In October, Saint-Etienne is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Saint-Etienne average around 14°C (56°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Saint-Etienne gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint-Etienne usually receives less rain than Rome. Saint-Etienne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

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

Both Rome 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Saint-Etienne in the winter. Saint-Etienne is much colder than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Rome. Saint-Etienne gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets less rain in January than Rome. Saint-Etienne gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Etienne and Rome. Many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rome in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint-Etienne is cooler than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint-Etienne in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Rome during spring. Saint-Etienne gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint-Etienne usually receives more rain than Rome. Saint-Etienne gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F) 
    Rome 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne Rome
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)