Is Saint-Étienne France's Most Underrated City? PLUS: Tips for Learning French!

Is Saint-Étienne France's Most Underrated City? PLUS: Tips for Learning French! If you love discovering hidden gems in France, this episode is for you! Annie Sargent chats with Brooke Koss Cunningham , a French professor and passionate Francophile, about Saint-Étienne —a city most travelers overlook but absolutely shouldn't. Once known for its coal mines and heavy industry, Saint-Étienne has transformed into a vibrant hub of design, innovation, and affordability . Brooke shares why this working-class city, nestled between the Livradois-Forez and Parc du Pilat , is one of France's best-kept secrets. Listen to this episode ad-free Saint-Étienne is cheap to visit, easy to explore, and packed with surprises . Brooke takes us to the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie , where you can see everything from historic bicycles to intricate ribbons—a hit with kids and adults alike. She raves about Weiss Chocolates , a local favorite where you can even take workshops, and the faisselle cheese , a fresh, creamy specialty you won't find outside of France. For outdoor lovers, the Gouffre d'Enfer offers thrilling zip-lining, while Saint-Victor-sur-Loire delivers stunning views of the Loire River without the tourist crowds. But Saint-Étienne isn't just about sights—it's about experiencing real French life . Brooke explains how the city's tram system makes getting around a breeze, and why its strong local accent and gaga patois add to its authentic charm. She also shares practical tips for learning French , from immersing yourself in conversations to using resources like Radio France and the Alliance Française's Culturethèque . Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or someone dreaming of moving to France, this city offers a welcoming, unpretentious vibe that's hard to find in bigger tourist hotspots. After the chat, Annie dives into an exciting update: JR's 2026 art installation on Paris's Pont Neuf , turning the bridge into a 120-meter "cave" made of fabric. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Paris next summer!

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Is Saint-Étienne France's Most Underrated City? PLUS: Tips for Learning French! is an episode from Join Us in France Travel Podcast: Plan Your Paris Vacation & Learn About France by Annie Sargent.

This episode is 01:01:22 long.

This episode was published on Jan 25, 2026.

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