Discover Saint-Étienne: 3 Days on a Shoestring!

Experience the charm of Saint-Étienne without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Street Art and Local Museums

  • Check in at Hotel Furania, a cozy budget hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Start the day with a walking tour of the city's street art scene. You'll be mesmerized by the vibrant colors and stunning design.
  • Visit the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, which features a broad collection of contemporary artworks and exhibitions.
  • Head to the Museum of Mine, where you can explore Saint-Étienne's rich mining history and learn about the daily lives of miners.
  • In the evening, sample traditional French cuisine at Le France, a charming restaurant known for its delicious food and cozy atmosphere.
Day 2

Parks and Gardens

  • Spend the morning at Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden featuring over a hundred different species of plants.
  • Take a walk through Parc de l'Europe and admire the beautiful lake and verdant surroundings.
  • Visit the Château de Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, a stunning castle with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
  • In the evening, enjoy dinner at L'Atelier Gourmand, a cozy restaurant that specializes in classic French dishes. Be sure to try the chocolate mousse for dessert!
Day 3

Architecture and History

  • Start the day with a visit to the Saint-Étienne Cathedral, a gorgeous Gothic structure that dates back to the 14th century.
  • Explore the Cité du Design, a fascinating museum that showcases the city's history of innovation and design.
  • Check out the impressive architecture of the Palais de Justice, a grand courthouse located in the heart of the city.
  • End the day with a stroll through Place Jean Jaurès, a bustling square where you can grab a drink at one of the many outdoor cafes and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
  • You'll leave Saint-Étienne feeling like you've experienced the best of French culture and history on a budget.

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.

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.

A Romantic Weekend in Saint-Étienne, France

Saint-Étienne, France, is an idyllic destination for a romantic trip, nestled among the stunning mountain landscapes of the region. Delight in romantic walks along the banks of the Loire river, take a visit to Musée d'Art et d'Industrie and admire the remarkable collection of art and industry. End your day by relishing in the traditional cuisine and charming atmosphere of the numerous bistros and cafés scattered throughout the city.

Saint-Étienne: A Day of Romance & Charm

A romantic trip to Saint-Étienne, France promises to be charming and enchanting. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets, explore the local cafes for delightful French cuisine, and immerse yourself in the art and architecture of this beautiful city. With its historical beauty and romantic atmosphere, Saint-Étienne is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.

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.