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

Should you visit Saint-Etienne or Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza. 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 industrial, undiscovered, and authentic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and hiking.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a authentic, cultural, and historical city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Etienne and Zaragoza: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zaragoza than Saint-Etienne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Zaragoza is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saint-Etienne is known for its hiking. Zaragoza is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene. It is also home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar. Saint-Etienne is popular for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Saint-Etienne different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

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 Zaragoza? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Zaragoza has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

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 Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Saint-Etienne and Zaragoza.

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 Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

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

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint-Etienne or Zaragoza Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Saint-Etienne has hiking trails worth exploring. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Etienne or Zaragoza?

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

Zaragoza is well-known for its shopping. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

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 Zaragoza Better for Families?

Both Saint-Etienne and Zaragoza are good 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.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly place to visit. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Is Saint-Etienne or Zaragoza Better for Couples?

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

Zaragoza is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

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 Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Zaragoza. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

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 Zaragoza Better for Students?

Zaragoza is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Zaragoza. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

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

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around the city.

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

Is Saint-Etienne or Zaragoza a more walkable city?

Zaragoza is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Zaragoza is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable.

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 Zaragoza Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Saint-Etienne or Zaragoza?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint-Etienne and Zaragoza. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza.

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

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

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

One day in Saint-Etienne or Zaragoza?

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 historical destination of Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Zaragoza?

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 cultural destination of Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza. 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 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Saint-Etienne or Zaragoza?

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

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 Zaragoza in the Summer?

Both Zaragoza and Saint-Etienne during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Saint-Etienne is cooler than Zaragoza. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint-Etienne in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 26°C (79°F).

In Zaragoza, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint-Etienne. In the summer, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Zaragoza. Saint-Etienne gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 344 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets more rain in July than Zaragoza. Saint-Etienne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Etienne and Zaragoza. Most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Zaragoza during autumn. Saint-Etienne gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint-Etienne usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Saint-Etienne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Saint-Etienne as well as Zaragoza. The winter months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year.

The weather in Saint-Etienne can be very cold. Saint-Etienne is much colder than Zaragoza in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Zaragoza. Saint-Etienne gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 131 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets more rain in January than Zaragoza. Saint-Etienne gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Zaragoza and Saint-Etienne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zaragoza for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint-Etienne is cooler than Zaragoza. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint-Etienne in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Zaragoza. Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Zaragoza during spring. Saint-Etienne gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint-Etienne usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Saint-Etienne gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Saint-Etienne