A Romantic Weekend in Saint-Étienne, France

Experience romance in the heart of Saint-Étienne, France.

03 May 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Saint-Étienne

  • Take a stroll through the charming Old Town, featuring historic architecture and winding narrow streets.
  • Visit the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, showcasing a collection of avant-garde pieces from the 20th and 21st centuries.
  • Head to the Cite du Design, a museum and cultural center dedicated to innovation and creativity in the field of design.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch at Parc des Frenes, a lovely green space with scenic views of the city.
  • Spend the afternoon shopping at Rue de la République, home to a variety of boutiques and shops with unique finds.
  • Dine at Le Comptoir du Marché, a cozy restaurant known for its inventive French cuisine and extensive wine list.
  • Hotel Recommendation Hotel Astoria Saint-Étienne
  • This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms, a cozy lounge area, and a delicious breakfast buffet. Perfect for a romantic getaway!
Day 2

Nature and Relaxation

  • Escape into nature with a peaceful hike at Mont Pilat, a stunning mountain range with panoramic views and picturesque trails.
  • Relax at the Thermal baths of Saint-Galmier, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and jacuzzis.
  • Head to Saint-Étienne's Botanical Garden to explore the lush gardens and diverse plant life.
  • Grab a bite to eat at Bistrot Jul, a popular restaurant serving up traditional French cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Spend the evening sipping cocktails and taking in the view at Le Bistrot des Passants, a rooftop bar offering stunning vistas of the city.
  • Saint-Étienne may not be the most well-known destination in France, but it certainly has plenty to offer for a unique and memorable romantic getaway. From exploring vibrant cultural institutions to escaping into nature, this charming city has something for everyone.

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

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

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.

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.

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 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.