How to get to Saint-Étienne

Located in the picturesque Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, Saint-Étienne is renowned as the only UNESCO City of Design in France, where a rich industrial heritage harmoniously blends with modern art. This destination attracts travelers with its authentic atmosphere, rolling landscapes, and vibrant cultural life. Getting here is effortless: the city enjoys excellent transport accessibility thanks to the proximity of major airports, high-speed railway lines, and a network of highways.

Although Saint-Étienne has its own small airport (Andrézieux-Bouthéon), the number of scheduled flights there is limited. Therefore, for most tourists, the most convenient option remains flying into Lyon-Saint Exupéry International Airport in the city of Lyon, which is located just 50 km away and receives flights from many countries around the world.

Alternatively, you can consider the airports of neighboring cities such as Le Puy-en-Velay or Valence, located within a radius of 60–70 km. However, it is the Lyon aviation hub that ensures the most stable and frequent connections to the region, allowing you to easily plan your onward journey.

The railway is one of the most popular ways to get to the city. The main station, Châteaucreux (Gare de Saint-Étienne-Châteaucreux), is a major transport hub receiving both regional trains and high-speed TGV services, including direct routes from Paris. This disproves the myth that the city is difficult to reach by rail.

A train journey from the neighboring city of Lyon takes less than an hour thanks to frequent connections. Tourists can also travel comfortably by rail from stations in the cities of Le Puy-en-Velay and Valence, enjoying scenic views of the French countryside on the way to their final destination.

Bus service is an economical and comfortable option for those who are in no rush. A trip from the city of Lyon (a distance of about 65 km) usually takes around 2 hours. Approximately the same amount of time will be required to get there from the city of Le Puy-en-Velay, covering a distance of 80 km along picturesque roads.

For travelers departing from the city of Valence, the route will be longer: the bus covers the distance of 168 km in approximately 3.5–4 hours. Modern carriers offer comfortable cabins, making even a long drive a pleasant part of your journey to France.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and allows you to reach Saint-Étienne as quickly as possible. The shortest route is from the city of Lyon: the 63 km journey can be covered in just 50–55 minutes if there is no traffic. The road from Le Puy-en-Velay will take slightly longer — about 1 hour 10 minutes.

If you are driving from the direction of the city of Valence, expect to spend approximately 1.5 hours on the road (about 121 km). Using a taxi or a rental car is especially convenient for those traveling with luggage or wishing to make stops at beautiful locations in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

To ensure your trip to Saint-Étienne goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth noting a few local features in advance. Here is a list of useful recommendations for guests of the city.

1. Clothing and Weather: The climate here can be changeable. It is recommended to dress in layers (the "onion" principle) to easily adapt to temperature changes. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking on the hilly streets.
2. Transport: Do not miss the opportunity to ride the local tram — the network has been operating since 1881 and is one of the oldest in France. Tickets must be validated upon entry.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted in most places, but it is better to carry some cash for small purchases in bakeries or markets.
4. Health: Pharmacies are easily recognized by the flashing green cross. Tap water in the city is generally of high quality and suitable for drinking unless stated otherwise.
5. Language: The main language of communication is French. Knowledge of basic phrases (greetings, thank you) is highly appreciated by locals, even if you switch to English afterwards.
6. Etiquette: When entering shops, it is customary to say "Bonjour" to the shopkeeper, and "Au revoir" when leaving. This is an important part of French politeness.
7. Restaurant Opening Hours: Avoid trying to dine at 17:00 or 18:00. Most kitchens open for dinner only after 19:00, and during the day many establishments close for a break between lunch and dinner service.
8. Souvenirs: As a City of Design, Saint-Étienne is famous for unique shops and workshops. Look for items labeled as locally produced — this is the best gift from your trip.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to feel the rhythm of the city faster and enjoy its unique atmosphere without unnecessary hassle.