5 Days of Fun in Saint-Étienne, France

Discover the industrial charm of Saint-Étienne, France.

22 April 2023

Saint-Étienne is a beautiful city located in the Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. It is famous for its industrial heritage, rich architecture, and beautiful natural scenery. A trip to Saint-Étienne as a tourist can include visiting historical landmarks, exploring the city's vibrant art scene, and trying out delicious French cuisine in local restaurants.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Settling in and Exploring

  • Check into the charming Hotel Furania, located in the heart of the city
  • Walk around the lively pedestrian streets and soak in the city’s artistic vibe
  • Visit the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art for a glimpse into France’s contemporary art scene
  • Take a stroll up to the hillside church of Sainte-Croix for stunning panoramic views
  • Have dinner at Les Frères Barbet, a local eatery specializing in traditional French cuisine
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Grab breakfast at the quirky and colorful Café J’En Suis, J’Y Reste
  • Visit the Cité du Design, a former arms factory turned cultural hub
  • Take a guided tour of the Saint-Étienne Historical Museum to learn about the city's industrial past
  • Check out the iconic Le Corbusier-designed housing development, Cité du Soleil
  • Sample some regional wines and cheeses at La Cave des Voyageurs
Day 3

Nature and Relaxation

  • Head out to the scenic Pilat Regional Nature Park for some hiking and nature appreciation
  • Visit the small village of Saint-Bonnet-le-Château and wander through its old streets and castle ruins
  • Enjoy a picnic in the lush Parc de l'Europe, surrounded by tranquil gardens and lakes
  • Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa session at the elegant Hotel Le H, followed by dinner at their Michelin-starred Le Carré d'Aléthius restaurant
Day 4

Fashion and Shopping

  • Start the day with coffee and croissants at the chic and stylish Gaspard G, located in the heart of Saint-Étienne’s fashion district
  • Walk around Rue de la République for some upscale shopping at local boutiques and designer stores
  • Check out the Musée de la Mine, an underground mining museum that showcases the city’s industrial heritage
  • Take a break from all the shopping and walk along the lovely banks of the River Loire
  • Have dinner at the unique and quirky Le Boudoir, a retro-themed restaurant that serves up creative dishes with a twist
Day 5

Day Tripping

  • Rent a car or take a short train ride to the nearby city of Lyon, known for its gastronomy and culture
  • Visit the UNESCO-listed Old Town and stroll through the colorful traboules, hidden passageways between buildings
  • Check out the world-renowned Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon for an impressive art collection that spans centuries
  • Enjoy a lunch of traditional Lyonnais cuisine at the brasserie À la Marquise
  • Take a scenic boat ride on the River Saône before heading back to 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

Budget Fun in Saint-Étienne: A 4-Day Adventure!

A trip to Saint-Étienne, France on a limited budget would involve exploring the city's rich industrial history, enjoying local cuisine at affordable restaurants, and visiting free attractions such as the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Accommodation options include budget hotels and hostels, while transportation can be easily accessed through the city's tram and bus network.

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: 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.

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.