Saint-Étienne on a Budget: Adventures & Eats

Discover the hidden gems of Saint-Étienne without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Saint-Étienne's Culture

  • Hotel:
  • Stay at Hotel Terminus du Forez for a comfortable and budget-friendly stay.
  • Activities:
  • Start the day at the Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain for a dose of modern art.
  • Walk to the Place Jean Jaurès and admire the beautiful fountain and impressive buildings.
  • Visit the Saint-Étienne Cathedral, a stunning Gothic-style church with intricate details and rich history.
  • Stroll through the Parc de l'Europe for a relaxing break and enjoy the greenery and sculptures.
  • End the day at the Cité du Design to feast your eyes on innovative designs and exhibitions.
  • Eats:
  • Have a traditional meal at Chez Grand-Mère for authentic French cuisine.
  • Treat yourself to some delicious pastries at Pâtisserie Cyrille Lorho.
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures and Local Foods

  • Activities:
  • Hike up to the Pilat Regional Nature Park for some breathtaking views of the city.
  • Visit the Mine Museum to learn about Saint-Étienne's mining history and see the impressive machinery.
  • Take a walk across the Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle Bridge and marvel at its unique design.
  • Wander through the Marché Saint-Charles for a taste of local produce and specialty foods.
  • End the day with a trip to the Cité du Chocolat to indulge in some delectable chocolate treats.
  • Eats:
  • Enjoy some pizza and wine at Le Petit Carré for a cozy atmosphere and delicious food.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with some macarons from La Maison Sève.
  • Saint-Étienne offers a diverse range of activities and culinary delights, perfect for a memorable budget-friendly getaway.

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.

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.

A Day of Delight: Exploring Saint-Étienne's Vibrant Streets

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.

4 Days of Fun in Saint-Étienne, France

Saint-Étienne, France is an ideal destination for travelers who want to explore the rich industrial heritage of this charming city. Visitors can take a stroll through the quaint old town, visit the famous Cité du Design and explore the iconic architecture of the city. With plenty of museums, galleries and cultural events on offer, Saint-Étienne has something to offer to every tourist's taste.