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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a historic, vibrant, and high energy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Etienne

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

Thessaloniki and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

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

You'll generally find more things to do in Thessaloniki than Saint-Etienne. Thessaloniki is bigger than Saint-Etienne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Thessaloniki is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint-Etienne is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Also, Thessaloniki is famous for The Monument of Rotonda. Saint-Etienne is well known for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Thessaloniki different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

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

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

Thessaloniki has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

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 Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki for the nightlife scene. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

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 Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is adequate for the beache. However, Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Thessaloniki. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne?

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

Thessaloniki is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

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 Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

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

Thessaloniki is a family-friendly city. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

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 Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

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

Thessaloniki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

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

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

Many backpackers visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Thessaloniki. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Thessaloniki and Saint-Etienne.

Thessaloniki has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

You'll find some public transit in Saint-Etienne, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are tram and bus options available in town.

Is Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

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

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable place. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne?

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

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

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy destination of Thessaloniki. 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.

In Saint-Etienne, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this historic city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. 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 fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Thessaloniki. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the park-filled destination of Saint-Etienne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Thessaloniki. 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 place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

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

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, 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 Thessaloniki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

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

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Saint-Etienne. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki 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. In January, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

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

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Etienne. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Thessaloniki