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

Should you visit Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo. 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 authentic, historic, and park-filled city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a cultural, beautiful, and overlooked city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Saint-Etienne and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


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

You'll generally find more things to do in Sarajevo than Saint-Etienne. Sarajevo is bigger than Saint-Etienne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Saint-Etienne is well known for its industrial and manufacturing past. Sarajevo is well known for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. Also, Sarajevo is famous for The Old Town.

How is Saint-Etienne different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

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 Sarajevo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

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 Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

The vibe at night is notable in both Saint-Etienne and Sarajevo.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint-Etienne has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sarajevo. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

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

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Sarajevo offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.


Is Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is an amazing city to visit for hiking. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Sarajevo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

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 Sarajevo?

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

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

Sarajevo is well-known for its shopping. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

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 Sarajevo Better for Families?

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Saint-Etienne is a family-friendly city. 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.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.


Is Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

Neither Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo is generally regarded as a top spot for a couple to visit.

Most people don't think of Saint-Etienne as a couple's destination. There are museums, parks, gardens, and beautiful architecture that make this a wonderful place for couples.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

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

Many backpackers visit Sarajevo. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

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 Sarajevo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Sarajevo can get you to some places easily. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

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


Is Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Saint-Etienne
Sarajevo

Saint-Etienne and Sarajevo are notable when it comes to walkability.

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

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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

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

How long in Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint-Etienne and Sarajevo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sarajevo than in Saint-Etienne. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Saint-Etienne, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

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

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

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


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

One day in Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo?

The city of Saint-Etienne offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Sarajevo. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo?

Saint-Etienne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint-Etienne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarajevo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Sarajevo?

Saint-Etienne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Sarajevo. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo?

Saint-Etienne is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Sarajevo. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.


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 Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo is €66. 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 Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint-Etienne 46
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint-Etienne 92
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in Saint-Etienne and Sarajevo

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


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: Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 44
    Sarajevo 6.58

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sarajevo

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


  • Tram Tickets (for 2)
    1.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarajevo

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

  • Private 1-Way Transfer to/from Split: $321
  • Split Private Transfer Service: $299
  • Dubrovnik Private Transfer Service: $299
  • Transfer from/to Sarajevo - Belgrade: $288
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Lukavac: $271
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Doboj: $271
  • Transfer from city of Sarajevo to city of Mostar: $251
  • Private transfer (FROM-TO) Sarajevo - Kotor - Budva : $245
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Travnik: $232
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Živinice grad: $232
  • Private transfer (FROM-TO) Sarajevo - Dubrovnik: $229
  • Sarajevo ⇄ Mostar / Private Transfer: $203

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

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo 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
    Sarajevo 29

Typical Food Prices in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sarajevo

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

  • Sarajevo Local Food Tour: $27
  • Walking Food Tour with Local Craft Experience: $43
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with your Host Family: $44
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Host Family: $53
  • Bosnian Cooking Lessons: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 25
    Sarajevo 11

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sarajevo

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Sarajevo's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • National Museum (for 2)
    7.16

Tours and Activities in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Days Private Guided Tour in Sarajevo and Mostar: $163
  • 4-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour with Food Tastings and Craft Experience: $44
  • 8 to 9 Hours Daily Tour To Travnik and Jajce From Sarajevo: $104
  • Amazing Prokoško jezero - Full day Tour: $82
  • Assassination Tour: $27
  • BOSNIAN PYRAMIDS TOUR (nature, history & archeology): $64
  • Best of Sarajevo - Full Day All Inclusive Tour: $76
  • Bijambare Cave & Bosnia Spring Park: Half-Day Tour from Sarajevo: $81
  • Bijambare Cave & Bosnia Spring Park: Tour from Sarajevo: $79
  • Bijambare Cave and Spring of River Bosna Tour: $45
  • Bosnia's Treasures: 7-Day Private Tour: $1,310
  • Bosnian Castles Tour: Vranduk Tešanj Srebrenik from Sarajevo: $161

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint-Etienne 10
    Sarajevo 6.88

Sample the Local Flavors in Sarajevo

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

  • Small-group Wine Tasting Expiriance, with lunch in vineyard: $70


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint-Etienne and Sarajevo, we can see that Saint-Etienne is more expensive. And not only is Sarajevo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sarajevo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sarajevo 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 Saint-Etienne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint-Etienne than you might in Sarajevo.

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 Sarajevo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Etienne and Sarajevo, 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 Sarajevo?

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 Saint-Etienne or Sarajevo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Etienne and Sarajevo. The summer months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

Saint-Etienne is cooler than Sarajevo in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarajevo this time of the year. In Saint-Etienne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during summer. Saint-Etienne gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint-Etienne usually receives more rain than Sarajevo. Saint-Etienne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F) 
    Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint-Etienne as well as Sarajevo. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saint-Etienne is cooler than Sarajevo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint-Etienne in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Saint-Etienne gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Saint-Etienne usually gets less rain in October than Sarajevo. Saint-Etienne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

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

Both Sarajevo and Saint-Etienne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Saint-Etienne. In January, Saint-Etienne is generally much colder than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Saint-Etienne average around 4°C (39°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during winter. Saint-Etienne gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In January, Saint-Etienne usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Saint-Etienne gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F) 
    Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)

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

Both Sarajevo and Saint-Etienne during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Saint-Etienne is cooler than Sarajevo in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Saint-Etienne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Saint-Etienne gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun.

Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saint-Etienne usually gets less rain in April than Sarajevo. Saint-Etienne gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F) 
    Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)