Saint Etienne offers a surprising variety of tours that give visitors a chance to explore both nearby attractions and personal stories. While the city itself is well-known for its industrial heritage, nearby excursions reveal stunning landscapes and historic sites. We particularly like the From Lyon: Le Puy-en-Velay Mountains and Fortress Day Trip for its breathtaking views and cultural highlights—especially the climb up the Rocher Saint-Michel d’Aiguilhe. For a more personalized experience, the Portrait That Tells Your Story offers a chance to create meaningful, high-quality portraits that capture your journey in a very personal way. Both options show how versatile the region is, whether you’re after scenic excursions or memorable keepsakes.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best tours in Saint Etienne, ranging from scenic day trips into the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region to intimate portrait sessions. Each offers a unique way to experience the area, tailored to different interests and travel styles.
1. From Lyon: Le Puy-en-Velay Mountains and Fortress Day Trip
At number one on our list, this full-day tour (see details here) is perfect if you want to experience some of France’s most stunning landscapes and historic sites outside Saint Etienne. Starting from Lyon, the trip covers approximately 9 hours of sightseeing, including visits to Le Puy-en-Velay, a town famous for its unique volcanic architecture and spiritual sites.
Highlights include the Rocher Saint-Michel d’Aiguilhe, a volcanic plug topped with an ancient chapel that offers panoramic views—climb it if you’re feeling energetic. The Notre-Dame-du-Puy Cathedral is another highlight, still a pilgrimage destination, with its impressive façade and intricate interior. The tour also takes you to the Crozatier Museum, housing regional artworks and artifacts, and the Polignac Fortress, which provides sweeping views over the region. This trip is especially appealing if you’re interested in combining scenic beauty with cultural history. The tour is flexible, with options for a regional lunch in Le Puy-en-Velay, and it’s suitable for those prepared for a full day of exploration.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for travelers who love history, stunning views, and a bit of spiritual ambiance—perfect for a full immersion into the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
2. The Portrait That Tells Your Story
For those wanting a deeply personal keepsake, this unique photo session (see details here) lasts about 1.5 hours and costs $363 per person. You’ll collaborate with Thierry, an accomplished art photographer, to craft portraits that reflect your personal journey. This isn’t just about snapping pictures; it’s about creating a visual narrative that captures your emotions and experiences.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on location and meaning. You choose settings that resonate with your story—whether that’s a favorite park, a historic site, or a special landmark—and Thierry guides you through poses and expressions that reveal your personality. It’s ideal for anyone looking to produce a lasting memory or gift a loved one with a truly personal piece of art. The images are high-quality, fine art portraits, designed to be timeless. These sessions are especially suited for couples, families, or solo travelers wanting a creative and intimate experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a one-of-a-kind way to immortalize your journey in Saint Etienne through artful photography tailored to your story.
How to Choose Between These Tours
Choosing the right experience depends on your travel style. If you’re eager to explore historic sites and scenic views outside Saint Etienne, the Le Puy-en-Velay day trip offers a comprehensive cultural experience with beautiful landscapes and a manageable day’s outing. If you’re more interested in personal storytelling and capturing your essence in a personalized portrait, Thierry’s photo session provides a meaningful keepsake that’s especially perfect for celebrating milestones or simply treating yourself.
Consider your budget—while the day trip is likely more affordable and suits travelers who want to see more in a day, the portrait session is a more intimate and tailored experience worth the investment if you value personal mementos. Booking early is recommended, especially for the portrait session, which is popular among those wanting a special gift or memory.
Final Thoughts
Saint Etienne and its surroundings offer a variety of ways to enrich your visit. The Le Puy-en-Velay day trip is perfect for history buffs and scenery lovers, while the portrait experience appeals to those seeking a deeply personal souvenir. For travelers who enjoy combining cultural exploration with breathtaking views, the day trip from Lyon is hard to beat. Meanwhile, if you want a creative keepsake that captures your personal story, Thierry’s portrait session is an excellent choice.
If you’re planning a trip to the area, consider booking these tours early. They provide not just sightseeing but meaningful memories—whether through breathtaking landscapes or a piece of art that’s uniquely yours. Whichever you choose, Saint Etienne’s diverse options won’t disappoint.
