A Day of Delight: Exploring Saint-Étienne's Vibrant Streets
Uncover family fun in Saint-Étienne, France's treasure trove of enjoyment.
19 July 2023
Raymonde Gagnon
France Travel Writer
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.
Day trip plan
Getting latest place information
- Start your day with a delightful burst of energy at the cozy Café des Arts, a charming café known for its heavenly croissants and aromatic coffee.
- Embark on a fascinating journey through time at the Musée de la Mine, where you can explore the rich industrial heritage of Saint-Étienne and even descend into a real coal mine.
- Stroll through the colorful streets of Rue des Martyrs de Vingré, abuzz with vibrant shops and local boutiques. Pick up some whimsical souvenirs or fashionable trinkets along the way.
- For a delightful lunch, head to Le Bistrot de la Colline, a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the city. Treat yourself to their scrumptious regional specialties, like the succulent sausage cheese tart.
- Afterward, take a leisurely walk in the peaceful Parc de l'Europe, a lovely oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city. Bask in the beauty of the lush greenery and enjoy a picnic with your family.
- Round off your day with a visit to the iconic Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, home to the legendary AS Saint-Étienne football team. Soak up the electric atmosphere during a thrilling match or join a stadium tour for a glimpse behind the scenes.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.
