Budget-Friendly Fun: A Day Trip to Saint-Étienne

Discover the charm of Saint-Étienne without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Saint-Étienne is an affordable French city that offers plenty of unique cultural experiences for travelers on a budget. Visit the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, explore the historic architecture of the city, and indulge in delicious local cuisine without breaking the bank. Don't forget to take a stroll in the beautiful parks and gardens around the city.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring Saint-Étienne on a Budget

  • Start your day with a cup of coffee at Café République, a cozy café with a vintage vibe.
  • Head to the Musée de la Mine to learn about the city's industrial past. Admission is free on the first Sunday of the month.
  • Take a stroll in the Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden with over 6,000 species of plants.
  • Grab a budget-friendly lunch at Le Boutic' Resto, a local restaurant serving homemade dishes with fresh ingredients.
  • Visit the Cité du Design, a creative hub with exhibitions and workshops exploring design and innovation.
  • End your day with a drink at Le Barathym, a quirky bar with a retro decor and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Saint-Étienne may not be as well-known as some of France's bigger cities, but it has a lot to offer for those who are willing to explore. With its industrial heritage, creative scene, and beautiful parks, it's a great destination for a day trip. Plus, with a few budget-friendly options, you can enjoy the city without breaking the bank. Bon voyage!

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

5 Days of Fun in Saint-Étienne, France

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.

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: 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.

A Romantic Long Weekend in Saint-Étienne, France

Saint-Étienne is a charming city nestled in the heart of France, offering couples the perfect romantic getaway. With its medieval architecture, quaint cafes, and stunning scenery, visitors can lose themselves in the city's charm. Saint-Étienne also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous galleries and museums to explore, making it an idyllic destination for any couple seeking a romantic escape.