A Fabulous 2-Day Trip to Saint-Étienne, France

Discover the charm of Saint-Étienne, where history meets modernity.

03 May 2023

Saint-Étienne is a rustic and charming French city known for its industrial heritage, green spaces, and lively cultural scene. Tourists can visit the sprawling Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, explore the winding alleys of the historic district, or take in a concert at the emblematic Zenith arena. A trip to Saint-Étienne promises a delightful mix of history, nature, and vibrant urban culture.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Saint-Étienne's History

  • Hotel: Book a room at the stylish and modern Hotel Le National for a comfortable stay.
  • Breakfast: Get your caffeine fix and taste some delicious French pastries at Les Délices du Roy.
  • Visit the Musée de la Mine to learn about Saint-Étienne's mining past.
  • Take a stroll in the beautiful Jardin des Plantes botanical garden.
  • Head to the Saint-Étienne Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.
  • Enjoy a traditional French lunch at Le Chaudron, known for its hearty stews and cassoulets.
  • Check out the modern art exhibitions at the Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain.
Day 2

Food and Shopping

  • Breakfast: Indulge in some croissants and crepes at the cozy Café des Arts in the city center.
  • Shop for local specialties like cheeses and saucissons at the vibrant indoor market, La Halle.
  • Have lunch at Le Poêlon Gourmand, a popular restaurant serving Savoyard-style dishes.
  • Wander around the charming Old Town, with its narrow streets and colorful buildings.
  • Discover contemporary design at the Cité du Design, housed in a former arms factory.
  • End your day with a dinner at La Table de Suzanne, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative French cuisine with a twist.
  • Note: Don't forget to try the local specialty, the Saint-Etienne sausage, during your trip to this dynamic and historic French city.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Saint-Étienne by plane is to fly to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport and then take a train or bus to Saint-Étienne. From the airport, take the Rhônexpress tram to Lyon Part-Dieu train station where you can catch a train to Saint-Étienne. Alternatively, take the Navette Aéroport bus to Lyon Perrache bus station where you can then take a bus to Saint-Étienne.

Car

The best way to get to Saint-Étienne by car is to take the A72 motorway from Lyon, which takes approximately 45 minutes. Other major cities such as Grenoble and Clermont-Ferrand are also connected by motorway to Saint-Étienne.

Train

Saint-Étienne has good train links with cities across France. The best way to get there by train is to catch a direct train from Paris Gare de Lyon, which takes approximately two hours. Other cities such as Marseille and Bordeaux also have direct train links to Saint-Étienne.

Boat

Unfortunately, Saint-Étienne is not accessible by boat as it is located inland and does not have a river or sea port.

Bus

Saint-Étienne is well-connected by bus with cities across France. The best way to get there by bus is to catch a bus from Lyon Perrache bus station, which takes approximately 1 hour. There are also bus services from other major cities such as Paris, Marseille and Bordeaux.

Destination

Saint-Étienne

Welcome to a city where the baguette is as sacred as the Mona Lisa and the wine flows like the River Loire. Saint-Étienne is the perfect destination for those who want to experience French culture without breaking the bank (or their diets).

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

3 Days of Fun in Saint-Étienne, France

A trip to Saint-Étienne, France as a tourist promises a mix of modern and historic experiences. Visitors can experience the architectural marvels of La Cité du Design and Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain, delve into the town's industrial history through a visit to the Mine Museum, and enjoy nature walks in the Pilat Regional Nature Park. The city is also famous for its cuisine, with a wide range of dining options offering specialties like charcuterie, cheeses and wines.

Saint-Étienne: A Day of French Culture & Charm

Saint-Étienne offers a blend of modern and traditional French culture. Visitors can explore the unique architecture of the Cité du Design, wander through the lush landscapes of Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat, and sample delicious local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes. With its laid-back atmosphere and artistic charm, Saint-Étienne is a destination worth exploring for any tourist.

A Day of Delight: Exploring Saint-Étienne's Vibrant Streets

Saint-Étienne, located in central France, is the perfect family-friendly destination offering a mix of cultural and outdoor activities. Explore the enchanting Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium, home to the renowned Saint-Étienne football club, or visit the delightful Musée de la Mine, a fascinating museum showcasing the region's mining history. For outdoor enthusiasts, the beautiful Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat provides numerous hiking trails, picnic spots, and breathtaking panoramic views for the whole family to enjoy.

Discover Saint-Étienne: 3 Days on a Shoestring!

Experience the rich and vibrant French culture on a limited budget by visiting Saint-Étienne. Explore the historic landmarks and picturesque architecture while taking advantage of affordable accommodation and local cuisine. Immerse yourself in the local community and enjoy a cost-effective trip without compromising the quality of your experience.