4 Days of Fun in Saint-Étienne, France

Discover the industrial charm and artistic flair of Saint-Étienne.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Sightseeing and Sweets

  • Check in at the trendy Hotel Le National and drop off bags.
  • Wander through the charming streets of the historic city center.
  • Visit the Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain for some avant-garde art.
  • Stop by the legendary pastry shop Maison Baum for a taste of their famous Saint-Étienne cake.
  • Admire the panoramic view of the city from the top of the Saint-Étienne Observatory.
Day 2

Industrial Heritage Tour

  • Take a guided tour of the iconic Cité du Design, a former armaments factory transformed into a creative hub.
  • Discover the fascinating history of mining at the Musée de la Mine.
  • Get a glimpse of Saint-Étienne's industrial past at the Manufacture d'Armes.
  • Enjoy a lunch of hearty local specialties at Le Luxembourg.
  • Wrap up the day with a visit to the innovative Cité du Design Biennale.
Day 3

Nature and Architecture

  • Take a scenic drive to the Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat for a hike or a bike ride.
  • Admire the unusual architecture of the Saint-Pierre Market Hall.
  • Visit the Sainte-Marie Chapel, a stunning example of Gothic revival style.
  • Savor some authentic French cuisine at the cozy Le Parc de l'Europe.
  • Indulge in some retail therapy at the Centre Commercial Centre Deux.
Day 4

Artistic Interlude

  • Explore the labyrinthine courtyards and galleries of the Cité du Design Courtyards.
  • Discover contemporary art at the Galerie d'Art de la Ville de Saint-Étienne.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at Chocolatier Tholoniat, a family-run chocolatier.
  • Take a stroll along the Saint-François neighborhood, known for its street art.
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at the elegant Le Krystal, with a stunning view of the city.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Saint-Étienne

Welcome to a city where the baguette is as sacred as the Mona Lisa and the wine flows like the River Loire. Saint-Étienne is the perfect destination for those who want to experience French culture without breaking the bank (or their diets).

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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.

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.

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.

A Romantic Weekend in Saint-Étienne, France

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.