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

Should you visit Utrecht or Saint-Etienne?

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

Should I visit Utrecht 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.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a historic, park-filled, and industrial city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Utrecht and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Utrecht than Saint-Etienne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Utrecht is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Saint-Etienne attracts visitors for its hiking. Utrecht is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. It is also well known for the Dom Tower. Saint-Etienne is famous for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Utrecht different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Utrecht and Saint-Etienne have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Utrecht is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

Saint-Etienne offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Utrecht or Saint-Etienne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

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 Utrecht or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Utrecht 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 Utrecht for the nightlife scene. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

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 Utrecht or Saint-Etienne Better for its Old Town?

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

Utrecht offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Is Utrecht or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Saint-Etienne?

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

Utrecht is well-known for its shopping. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

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 Utrecht or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

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

Utrecht is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Saint-Etienne is a family-friendly . 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 Utrecht or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

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

Utrecht is a great if you're traveling as a couple. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at 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 Utrecht or Saint-Etienne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Utrecht. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

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 Utrecht or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Utrecht. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.

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

Utrecht 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 Utrecht can get you to some places easily. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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

Is Utrecht or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Utrecht is an amazing to visit 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.

Utrecht is a very easy to get around on foot. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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

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

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

How long in Utrecht or Saint-Etienne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Utrecht or Saint-Etienne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Utrecht than Saint-Etienne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Utrecht, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint-Etienne.

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

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

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

One day in Utrecht or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Utrecht. 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.

In Saint-Etienne, you'll find nightlife and museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Utrecht or Saint-Etienne?

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

In Saint-Etienne, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint-Etienne has to offer.

Five days in Utrecht or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Utrecht. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This 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 great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Utrecht or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful of Utrecht. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Etienne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint-Etienne. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands, 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 Utrecht and Saint-Etienne, we can see that Utrecht 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 Utrecht would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Utrecht 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 Utrecht Expensive? and Is Saint-Etienne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Saint-Etienne?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 65% larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht 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 Utrecht or Saint-Etienne?

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 Utrecht or Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Utrecht for 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 the summer, Utrecht is cooler than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Utrecht in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint-Etienne. In the summer, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets more rain in July than Saint-Etienne. Utrecht gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. 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.

In October, Utrecht is generally cooler than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 11°C (51°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during autumn. Utrecht gets 100 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Utrecht usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Saint-Etienne and Utrecht during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year. Furthermore, 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 Utrecht in the winter. Utrecht is much colder than Saint-Etienne in the winter. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Utrecht gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets more rain in January than Saint-Etienne. Utrecht gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Saint-Etienne. Many travelers come to Utrecht for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Utrecht is much colder than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Utrecht in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during spring. Utrecht gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Utrecht usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Utrecht