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

Should you visit Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne?

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

Should I visit Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Stuttgart

Stuttgart is a diverse, dynamic, and modern city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a historic, park-filled, and industrial city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and hiking.

Stuttgart and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stuttgart than Saint-Etienne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Stuttgart is more popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint-Etienne is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Stuttgart is popular for its many automobile museums including the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum. It is also home to The Mercedes-Benz Museum. Saint-Etienne is popular for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Stuttgart different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Saint-Etienne and Stuttgart.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Stuttgart. The city's influence over the car industry is reflected in the museums in town. You can visit both the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. Also check out Schlossplatz, the Ludwigsburg Palace, and Altes Schloss and Landesmuseum while you're in town.

Saint-Etienne is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several great museums in town including the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, Musée de la Mine, Musée des Verts, and the planetarium.


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

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

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

Stuttgart has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city blends traditional German flavors with modern twists. You'll find much more than the standard bratworsts that so many people associate with German cuisine. One favorite dish is maultaschen, which is like a ravioli. Also make sure you try spätzle, zwiebelrostbraten (roast and onions) and flädlesuppe (soup with long pasta).

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 Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene stays active late into the evening. You'll find no shortage of clubs, bars, music venues, and beer gardens. You'll meet a combination of locals, tourists, students, and expats at many venues.

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 Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Stuttgart is not a hiking destination.

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.

Stuttgart is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne?

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

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

Stuttgart is well-known for its shopping. The city is filled with pedestrian shopping streets as well as flea markets and major shopping malls. The main shopping street in town is Koenigstrasse, where you'll find many upscale boutiques. For a local food market head to Markthalle Stuttgart. The flagship store of the Breuninger chain is also found in Stuttgart.

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 Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne.

Stuttgart is a family-friendly city. Like many German city's, there's a great zoo to explore. There's also some unique museums like the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum. Kids will also enjoy taking in the view from the top of the Fernsehturm.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Saint-Etienne. 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 Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

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

Stuttgart makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is large enough to have some nice romantic hotels, spas, luxury restaurants, and other activities that make for a great date night.

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 Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Stuttgart. It's not on the backpacker circuit for most people but there are still plenty of hostels and affordable accommodation options. You'll also find plenty of activities and affordable restaurants to choose from.

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 Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

Stuttgart is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

Many students visit Stuttgart. It's an international city with great universities and a friendly and central location. There's also a lively nightlife and plenty of things to do.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

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

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart can get you to some places easily. The city's transit system includes buses, the U‑Bahn and the S‑Bahn. The U-Bahn is a denser train system in the city center and the S-Bahn covers more distance and reaches into the suburbs with stops that are more spread out.

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


Is Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Stuttgart
Saint-Etienne

Stuttgart and Saint-Etienne are good when it comes to walkability.

Stuttgart is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are more walkable than others.

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

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

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

How long in Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Stuttgart than Saint-Etienne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Stuttgart, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint-Etienne.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stuttgart 2-4 
    Saint-Etienne 1-2

One day in Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne?

Stuttgart 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.

You'll find nightlife and museums around the city of Saint-Etienne. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint-Etienne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Saint-Etienne. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the commercial big city of Stuttgart. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the park-filled city of Saint-Etienne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Stuttgart. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Saint-Etienne is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Etienne or Stuttgart?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Stuttgart is €164, while the average daily cost in Saint-Etienne is €108. 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 Stuttgart and Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stuttgart 101
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stuttgart 202
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Stuttgart and Saint-Etienne

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


Hotels in Saint-Etienne


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: Stuttgart Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stuttgart 25
    Saint-Etienne 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stuttgart

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

  • Transfer from Stuttgart Airport to Baden-Baden: $291
  • Stuttgart Airport to Oberstdorf Alpse Grünten Round Trip Transfer: $175
  • Stuttgart Airport(STR) to Baden-Baden Thermal Round-Trip Transfer: $153
  • Stuttgart Airport to Titisee-Neustadt Thermal Private Transfer: $153
  • Private Transfer from Stuttgart City to Frankfurt City: $139
  • Private Transfer Stuttgart Airport STR to Stuttgart by Luxury Car: $108
  • Private Transfer Stuttgart to Stuttgart Airport STR by Luxury Car: $108
  • Private Transfer to/from Stuttgart Airport (STR): $103
  • Private Transfer: Stuttgart to Stuttgart Airport STR by MB Sedan: $91
  • Private Transfer: Stuttgart Airport STR to Stuttgart by MB Van: $91
  • Private Transfer: Stuttgart Airport STR to Stuttgart by MB Sedan: $91
  • Special Private Transfer from Stuttgart to Mercedes-Benz Museum: $91

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

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne and Stuttgart 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
    Stuttgart 37
    Saint-Etienne 34
Typical Food Prices in Stuttgart

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


  • Panini To Go
    2.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stuttgart 24
    Saint-Etienne 25

Tours and Activities in Stuttgart

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

  • City Tour Heilbronn in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Mulled winetour before christmas in Stuttgart: $46
  • Private Guided Walking Tour in Stuttgart: $71
  • Private Shopping Tour from Stuttgart City to Outletcity Metzingen: $163
  • Private Shopping Tour from Stuttgart to Outletcity Metzingen: $147
  • Private digital puzzle tour in the Stuttgart Höhenpark Killesberg: $37
  • SUP BASIC COURSE Stuttgart Neckar Stand Up Paddling / Paddling Adventure Jones Tours: $54
  • Stuttgart 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour: $21
  • Stuttgart City walk - Private tour: $356
  • Stuttgart Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Stuttgart Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Stuttgart Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stuttgart 22
    Saint-Etienne 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Stuttgart

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

  • Vineyard hike along one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Stuttgart with wine tasting: $28
  • Wine hike with wine tasting: $31
  • Guided Wine Walk & Wine Tasting: $44
  • Wine Tour with wines of the best winemakers: $46
  • Fußball Weintour - Football & Wine Tour: $46
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513


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


Which is Bigger, Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne?

Stuttgart has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Stuttgart and Saint-Etienne, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Stuttgart or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stuttgart and Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Stuttgart for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Stuttgart is generally around the same temperature as Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Stuttgart average around 22°C (71°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Etienne this time of the year. In Stuttgart, it's very sunny this time of the year. Stuttgart usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during summer. Stuttgart gets 238 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stuttgart usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint-Etienne. Stuttgart gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stuttgart 22°C (71°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Stuttgart as well as Saint-Etienne. The autumn months attract visitors to Stuttgart because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

Stuttgart is around the same temperature as Saint-Etienne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stuttgart averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Stuttgart often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Saint-Etienne. Stuttgart gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun.

Stuttgart usually gets less rain in October than Saint-Etienne. Stuttgart gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stuttgart 13°C (56°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Stuttgart are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Stuttgart this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Saint-Etienne. It's quite cold in Stuttgart in the winter. In the winter, Stuttgart is cooler than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stuttgart in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Stuttgart usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint-Etienne during winter. Stuttgart gets 60 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stuttgart usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Stuttgart gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stuttgart 3°C (38°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Stuttgart during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stuttgart for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Stuttgart is generally around the same temperature as Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Stuttgart average around 11°C (53°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Stuttgart often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Stuttgart gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun.

Stuttgart usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Etienne. Stuttgart gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stuttgart 11°C (53°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Stuttgart

Stuttgart Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)