Saint-Etienne is an undiscovered city known for its industrial and manufacturing past. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Saint-Etienne?
You should plan to spend around $139 (€132) per day on your vacation in Saint-Etienne. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $61 (€58) on meals
- $46 (€44) on local transportation
- $96 (€91) on hotels
A one week trip to Saint-Etienne for two people costs, on average, $1,940 (€1,848). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$970
€924
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,940
€1,848
-
One Month
Per person
$4,157
€3,960
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,940
€1,848
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$3,880
€3,696
-
One Month
For a couple
$8,313
€7,920
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Saint-Etienne cost?
A one week trip to Saint-Etienne usually costs around $970 (€924) for one person and $1,940 (€1,848) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Saint-Etienne on average costs around $1,940 (€1,848) for one person and $3,880 (€3,696) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Saint-Etienne will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Saint-Etienne on average costs around $4,157 (€3,960) for one person and $8,313 (€7,920) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Saint-Etienne expensive to visit?
Saint-Etienne is a smaller city that attracts a broad range of travelers, encompassing various travel styles, spending practices, and budget options. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Saint-Etienne has the potential to be expensive, but you can manage your budget by taking public transit and enjoying the free hiking trails.
On average, budget travelers spend $60 (€58) per day, mid-range travelers spend $136 (€132) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $261 (€253) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Saint-Etienne.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Saint-Etienne is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Linkoping or Hvar.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Saint-Etienne Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Saint-Etienne?
The average Saint-Etienne trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Saint-Etienne travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Saint-Etienne cost?
Saint-Etienne on a Budget
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$21
(€20)
|
$48
(€46)
|
$92
(€87)
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$20
(€19)
|
$46
(€44)
|
$89
(€85)
|
Food 2
|
$27
(€25)
|
$61
(€58)
|
$116
(€111)
|
Entertainment 1
|
$12
(€11)
|
$27
(€25)
|
$51
(€49)
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-7
(€2-7)
|
$5-16
(€5-15)
|
$10-31
(€10-29)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Saint-Etienne on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $60 per day that backpackers often spend.
Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.
Are You Considered an Average Traveler?
Couples and families enjoying a vacation will probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular dining spots, and explore the key museums and attractions that have entry fees. A trip to Saint-Etienne wouldn't be complete without visiting its major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities cost money. Thus, it's reasonable to expect your daily budget to be around $136 per person, per day.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
If you're looking for a higher-end vacation filled with high-end amenities and exceptional service, plan for a daily expense of approximately $261. Staying at nicer hotels, savoring meals at top-rated restaurants, splurging on lavish outings, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the city means you'll need a more luxurious budget.
Accommodation Budget in Saint-Etienne
In Saint-Etienne, the price of hotels can really surprise you. Some are much more expensive, offering higher luxury and amenities. Peak season rates soar, with off-season averages around $0 and peak summer season rising to an average of $0. Prices typically range from $0 to $0, but hostels remain cheaper, especially in dorms. To save money, book during the low season or take advantage of special promotions and advance deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Saint-Etienne for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $96 (€91). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $48 (€46) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Saint-Etienne? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The great public transit system in Saint-Etienne gives you the option to stay outside the city, but keep in mind that while it may save you on lodging, it could cost more in transit.
If you avoid summer and go during the low or shoulder season, you'll find better hotel deals and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Saint-Etienne
Saint-Etienne has a solid public transit system that covers many major attractions. There are tram and bus options available in town. If you're looking to save time and money, public transit is a great choice as long as it's close to your destination. Taxis and rideshares are also available throughout town.
Saint-Etienne has walkable areas that can facilitate your exploration of various attractions. There are several walkable areas in the city.
Public Transit: 



(good)
Walkability: 



(good)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $46 (€44) per person, per day, on local transportation in Saint-Etienne. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Saint-Etienne is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$46
€44
If you're driving, check that your hotel has parking available.
How much does it cost to go to Saint-Etienne? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Saint-Etienne will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Saint-Etienne
The food scene in Saint-Etienne isn't very expansive, and the quality isn't stellar. Consider saving your money for more rewarding activities rather than dining out. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Saint-Etienne can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Saint-Etienne is $61 (€58) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$61
€58
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Saint-Etienne is around $60 (€58) per person, with previous travelers spending from $26 to $114. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Saint-Etienne are as follows:
- Breakfast: $6 to $18
- Lunch: $9 to $24
- Dinner: $18 to $42
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $9
Saint-Etienne has a great food scene with many fantastic restaurant options offering delicious fresh, locally sourced products. While there are plenty of great choices, here are a few ideas to help you get started: Le Gros Roger, for a taste of American cuisine, Pizzeria la Grotte Azzura, if your in the mood for pizza and Italian cuisine, or Aux Deux Pommes de Pin, for some traditional French options.
Many accommodations throw in breakfast at no extra cost, though others might charge you for it. The price and quality can greatly vary by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you figure out if you need to spend more money. You might find the hotel's buffet is worth it, or you may prefer to grab a cheaper bite at a local bakery or cafe.
Choose to carry a water bottle instead of buying drinks all day. It's a good choice for the environment.
Before you head out on a tour, be sure to find out which meals are included. You could end up paying for some meals out of pocket, which can impact your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Saint-Etienne
Tourists are naturally attracted to Saint-Etienne due to its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Saint-Etienne typically cost an average of $27 (€25) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$27
€25
Saint-Etienne has both cultural and natural sights, so there's something for everyone. For those interested in natural sights, the Gorges de la Loire Nature Reserve and the Barrage du Gouffre d'Enfer offer some great options like lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and forested areas.
For those more interested in cultural sightseeing, Saint-Etienne has plenty to offer there as well. Architecture dating as far back as the 1500's, interestingly decorated shops and homes, spectacular churches and monuments, and more. Saint- Etienne includes sights such as: decorated factories and shops, the Paul Landowski monument, The Church of Our Lady, The Joan of Arc statue, the Grand'Eglise, the Church of Saint Marie, and more.
Saint-Etienne hosts the forward-looking Biennale Internationale Design (Bi-Annual International Design) fair during March and April in every odd-numbered year. Since its very first edition in 1998, the Saint-Etienne International Design Biennial has taken stock of the state of design and creativity worldwide and given its visitors food for thought on changes in society and new lifestyles. This could be an interesting event to attend for those interested in art, design, and creativity.
Also, for art lover's, Saint Etienne's Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is an excellent option. It is the country's second largest Art Moderne museum after Paris' Centre Pompidou, this museum features an exceptional collection of 20th-century and contemporary paintings, sculptures and photographs. Another great museum which also offers displays of some of the pieces features at the Biennale Internationale Design is the Cite du Design. Find out about the Biennale Internationale Design fair and browse diverse, regularly changing exhibitions here, in a gleaming glass-and-steel building.
Nightlife Budget in Saint-Etienne
For nightlife seekers, Saint-Etienne has some activities, but it lacks the vibrancy of other more favored destinations. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $11 (€10) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Saint-Etienne per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$11
€10
Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but if you want to save money, drinking less is an easy way to do it.
When enjoying the nightlife, stay alert and cautious, as you may attract the attention of pickpockets or other criminals. It's best to stay with a group of people you trust.
Travel cost data last updated: Dec 30, 2024
Traveling in Saint-Etienne
Saint-Etienne (Saint Stephen), a city southwest of Lyon, is drawing on its Industrial Revolution origins and its history of arms, bicycle, textile and ribbon production, to reinvent itself as design city. And the change is noticeable. After almost 30 years of decline, the city is now looking optimistically towards the future. Its center and suburbs are smartening up at a rapid pace. There are plenty of good surprises, including two great museums and a great eating scene.
Neighborhoods & Around
The Saint-Etienne city center is where most of the main sights and attractions are located. It is also where most of the shops and restaurants are found. The center is broken up into three neighborhoods.
The Jacquard neighborhood is one of the city center neighborhoods and has been on the map as a neighborhood since 1840. The woven fabric contributed to the development of this district during the nineteenth century. Many manufacturers built workshops in this area, easily recognizable by their high windows and the decoration of their facades in the open spaces. The silk condition building as well as some of the other factories with their decorations are one of the sight in this area. The national school of architecture is also located in this neighborhood along with the synagogue and the Place Jacquard with the sculpture monument of Paul Landowski.
Also in the city center, the neighborhood of Chavanelle is centered around the rue des Martyrs de Vingre - the old rue St-Jacques - which used to take the pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostela. The architecture here is mainly from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Some of the main sights here are the group of houses of the seventeenth century, rue Escoffier, the house of Feugerolles composed of a very beautiful staircase, the Place Chavanelle - a former bus station of the city which was renovated and returned to pedestrians and has works by contemporary artists highlighted on the square, and The Church of Our Lady with a Jesuit facade of the 19th century. This church houses a sculpted wooden pulpit by Desire Claude and the Callinet organ (1837), classified as a historical monument, restored by Gaston Kern in 1995. The bell tower houses a mechanical bell, restored in 2001.
The third neighborhood in the city center is the Old Town, which is where the majority of the sights and attractions are found including such locations as: The Grand'Eglise built in the 15th century , Gothic style structure in coal sandstone, the statue of Joan of Arc of Fremiet which is a reproduction of the statue place des Pyramides in Paris, The Rue de Lyon which is an old historical axis of the city and the church of Sainte-Marie, and The Francis I House built in 1547 in the primitive nucleus of the city.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.