Experience in Saint-Etienne, France by Laurène

What is it like to live in Saint-Etienne? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Saint Etienne is a little town where you can walk almost everywhere, without taking common transport. It is nice but everyone quickly knows everyone. It is this type of city. The architecture of the city is not very beautiful, but rather grey..
For an Erasmus student, I wouldn't recommend it for these reasons. But night live is great, and people are sympatic, i think!

What is the student lifestyle like in Saint-Etienne?

Saint Etienne's students like practicing sport (university offers lot of advantages), and relaxing on terrace's bar.

How much does it cost to live in Saint-Etienne?

Rents are not too expensive : between 200 and 400 € you can find a nice flat. I think that with 700€ per month permit a very correct like for a student.
All sports at university cost 25€/ year, cafetaria meal costs 3€/4€, internet is free on the campus and in the library, a journey by tram (=transport) costs 1€30 but you can buy a season ticket.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Saint-Etienne? Is there any advice you can give?

I think it is not difficult to find accomodation in Saint Etienne. Appartment out of the way are cheaper but less well frequented to my mind, and are not in alive district.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Local speciality is frog's legs with grated potatoes, but restaurants are varied with lot of Kebab, snack, and Italian restaurants.

What places would you recommend visiting in Saint-Etienne?

You have to visit the modern art museum

Is it good to eat out in Saint-Etienne? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

"The little Rock" does great hamburgers (Rue des Martyrs de Vingré) , "Le Bistrot de Paris" (more expansive) cooks marvelous meats. I like "nota bene", "Nouai Borfa" (Pace Jean Jaurès), and "Le café de l'opéra" (place des Ursulles).

Is the nightlife good in Saint-Etienne? Where is good to go?

Yes so great! Bars: Pirates can go to the "Barberousse" (Rue Léon Nautin), beer lovers: to the "smoking dog" or the "Saint Patrick"!
Night club : "tribeca" (Rue de la Mulatière), "Mainstage" , "Cuba libre" (place Fourneyron), and for older people : "Club in Box".

What advice would you give future students heading to Saint-Etienne?

No advice, but enjoy! I think there are great people to meet, and interested activities to do ;)