A Romantic Long Weekend in Saint-Étienne, France

Discover romance and charm in Saint-Étienne, France.

22 April 2023

Saint-Étienne, France offers the perfect romantic getaway with its charming streets, picturesque parks, and fabulous restaurants. Couples can stroll hand-in-hand through the historic district, marveling at the city's architecture and stopping for a romantic kiss on the Pont des Amours. Whether it's exploring the local markets, discovering the city's art scene, or simply savoring one another's company, Saint-Étienne provides an unforgettable romantic experience.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Chateau de Montrond and Romantic Dinner

  • Visit the stunning Chateau de Montrond, known for its beautiful gardens and rich history
  • Explore the castle's interiors and learn about its past with a guided tour
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at Restaurant Le Léonard, famous for its delicious French cuisine and intimate setting
Day 2

Le Corbusier Tour and Local Market

  • Take a Le Corbusier inspired architecture tour and discover some of the city's most iconic buildings
  • Visit Saint-Étienne's local market, Marché de Beaulieu, and experience the vibrant culture
  • Try some of the market's delicious produce, from freshly baked bread to local cheese
Day 3

Museums and Rooftop Drinks

  • Visit the Musée d'art et d'industrie for a taste of the city's industrial heritage
  • Explore the Cité du design and become immersed in the world of contemporary design
  • Head to the top of the Cité Hôtel-Restaurant for rooftop drinks and stunning views of the city
Day 4

Saint Victor Pilgrimage and Farewell Dinner

  • Visit the Saint Victor pilgrimage site and learn about its history and religious significance
  • Explore the nearby medieval town of Saint-Bonnet-le-Château, with its charming streets and picturesque architecture
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Bistrot 188, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious French cuisine.
  • Hotel recommendation: Hotel Astoria, with its chic design and central location, is the perfect spot for a romantic stay in Saint-Étienne.

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

Saint-Étienne, France: Your 5-Day Local Adventure

Saint-Étienne on a budget can be an affordable French adventure. Cheap accommodation can be found at the Hostellerie du Forez, the city’s great museums and galleries offer free entry, and budget-friendly eateries serve hearty regional dishes. Explore the city’s industrial history with a trip to the Cité du Design and enjoy the breathtaking views atop the Mont Pilat.

The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure in Saint-Étienne

Saint-Étienne, France offers a delightful family-friendly trip, with an abundance of fun-filled activities for all ages. Explore Le Corbusier's architectural masterpiece, the modernist Saint-Pierre Church, or indulge in a day of thrilling adventure at the Accrobranche Park. Spend quality time with your loved ones while discovering the city's rich industrial history at the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, making Saint-Étienne an ideal destination for a memorable family getaway.

Saint-Étienne on a Budget: Adventures & Eats

Saint-Étienne, located in the central-eastern region of France, is a great destination for budget travelers looking to escape the tourist crowds. There are plenty of affordable accommodation options in the city and visitors can explore its rich cultural heritage by visiting the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Saint-Étienne Cathedral. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore the nearby Pilat Regional Nature Park and enjoy hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.

Exploring Saint-Étienne: A Family Adventure on a Budget

Saint-Étienne, France offers a wonderful destination for a family-friendly trip. Known for its vibrant culture and rich history, visitors can explore the Musée de la Mine to learn about the city's industrial past or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Parc de l'Europe. Additionally, the Cité du Design provides an interactive experience for kids and adults alike, making Saint-Étienne an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation.