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

Should you visit Taormina or Saint-Etienne?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Taormina and Saint-Etienne can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Taormina

Taormina is a beautiful, exclusive, and opulent town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Saint-Etienne

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

Taormina and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Taormina. Although Taormina and Saint-Etienne are both popular with visitors, Taormina has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Taormina is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Saint-Etienne is known for its hiking. Taormina is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is known for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. It is also home to The Greek Theater. Saint-Etienne is popular for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Taormina different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Taormina. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

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

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

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

Taormina has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

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 Taormina or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

Taormina 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 Taormina for the nightlife scene. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

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 Taormina or Saint-Etienne Better for Resorts?

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

Taormina is great for its luxury resorts. However, Saint-Etienne is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Taormina to choose from. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Saint-Etienne is not a resort destination.


Is Taormina or Saint-Etienne Better for Beaches?

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

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

Taormina offers a nice beach destination. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Is Taormina or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a city with good options for hiking. However, Taormina 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.

Taormina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Taormina or Saint-Etienne?

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Taormina. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

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 Taormina or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a city with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Is Taormina or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

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

Taormina is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

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

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

Taormina and Saint-Etienne both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Taormina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

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


Is Taormina or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Taormina
Saint-Etienne

Taormina 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.

Taormina is a very walkable town. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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

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

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

How long in Taormina or Saint-Etienne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Taormina or Saint-Etienne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Taormina 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 Taormina, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint-Etienne.

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


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

One day in Taormina or Saint-Etienne?

Even though Taormina is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

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.

A weekend in Taormina or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taormina. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

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.


Five days in Taormina or Saint-Etienne?

Taormina is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town 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.

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.

A week in Taormina or Saint-Etienne?

Taormina is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Etienne or Taormina?

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

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



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taormina 70
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taormina 140
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Taormina and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Taormina 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 Taormina


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: Taormina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taormina 4.29
    Saint-Etienne 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

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

  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41
  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49

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

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne and Taormina 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
    Taormina 33
    Saint-Etienne 34

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

Tours and Activities in Taormina

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Taormina.

  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Lovers Tour: 8 Days: $2,668
  • Small Group Tour of Sicily Highlights: 8 Days: $2,668
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Taormina 8.57
    Saint-Etienne 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Taormina

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

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299


When comparing the travel costs between Taormina and Saint-Etienne, we can see that Taormina is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Taormina Expensive? and Is Saint-Etienne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Taormina or Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Taormina 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 Taormina 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 Taormina or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

Both Saint-Etienne and Taormina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Taormina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Taormina is generally a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 27°C (80°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Saint-Etienne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Taormina. Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during summer. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Taormina usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Taormina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Taormina 27°C (80°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Taormina during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Taormina for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Taormina is much warmer than Saint-Etienne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Taormina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Taormina. Taormina usually gets more rain in October than Saint-Etienne. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Taormina 21°C (69°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Taormina and Saint-Etienne. Many visitors come to Taormina in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Saint-Etienne can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Taormina is much warmer than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Taormina in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during winter. Taormina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Taormina usually receives more rain than Saint-Etienne. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Taormina 13°C (55°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Taormina as well as Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the natural beauty.

In April, Taormina is generally a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 16°C (60°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Taormina this time of the year. In the spring, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Taormina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Etienne. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Taormina 16°C (60°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Taormina

Taormina Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)