Affordable holidays in Saint-Pierre: our top tips for accommodation and activities
It is possible to organise an affordable holiday in Saint-Pierre. And it can even be a real pleasure, provided you know the right places to go, the best spots and the local tips. Whether you’re a student on the road, a young couple on a weekend getaway, or a local family looking for some fresh air, here are our tips for making the most of southern Réunion without breaking the bank.
Saint-Pierre, with its Creole atmosphere, colourful markets, volcanic beaches, and proximity to major natural sites, is perfect for a low-budget holiday. Follow the guide!
1. Where to stay on a budget in Saint-Pierre? Our budget-friendly address
The local tip: the Terre Sainte hotel
Nestled in a quiet alley in the Terre Sainte district, a stone’s throw from the beach and the marina, the Terre Sainte is a little gem of affordable accommodation in Saint-Pierre. With an artistic and relaxed atmosphere, it offers several types of rooms to suit all budgets, including shared dormitory rooms, ideal for groups, solo travellers or students.
A dormitory room in Réunion in a charming hotel? Yes, it’s possible. And with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, cosy bedding, a swimming pool and a shaded terrace to chill out between outings.
The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious. It’s the kind of place where you can chat over a coffee, exchange hiking tips, or head to Terre Sainte beach with a samosa in hand. An affordable hotel in Saint-Pierre, but full of character.
Special offers for residents and discounted stays
Do you live in Réunion? Good news: Exsel hotels regularly offer discounted rates for residents on weekends or during school holidays. Ideal for a break in the south without having to travel around the island.
Currently, unmissable offers are available until 31 August 2025. The affordable offer applies to all establishments in the group except Créolia, which offers a discovery offer.
Be sure to check out the special offers page on the exsel.re website.
2. Visiting Saint-Pierre on a budget: 5 ideas for affordable activities
1. Stroll through the open-air market or covered market
On Saturday mornings, head to the Saint-Pierre open-air market, one of the liveliest on the island. You’ll find everything there: vanilla, local fruit, stuffed peppers, spices, crafts… It’s the perfect time to get a feel for the soul of Saint-Pierre, with its smells of bouchons and tropical flowers. The rest of the week, the covered market also offers local delicacies at low prices.
2. Enjoy the beaches and lagoon… for free
Saint-Pierre Bay and Terre Sainte Beach are ideal for taking a dip, reading in the shade of a filaos tree, or snorkelling in Réunion. All without spending a penny. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the seafront, perfect at sunset to admire the colours that set the Indian Ocean ablaze.
3. Explore the heritage of the south
Visiting Saint-Pierre also means delving into the history of Réunion. Free access: the narrow streets of Saint-Pierre town centre, the Creole façades, the renovated seafront, the Tamil temple and the Terre Sainte church. These are the must-see sights of southern Réunion, to be discovered during a typical day in Saint-Pierre.
For a few euros, visit the Stella Matutina museum or organise a day trip to see the active volcano Piton de la Fournaise.
4. Eat well (and cheaply)
Reunionese street food is one of the pleasures of our island. Whether you choose a curry in a tray or a gratinated bread roll from the snack bar next door, you’ll enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. Try the food trucks on the seafront for a guaranteed Creole atmosphere.
And to end the day, a ti punch in a southern-style bar won’t cost you an arm and a leg either.
5. Take a walk in nature… just a stone’s throw away
There’s nothing like a hike in the south of Réunion to reconnect with nature. Around Grand Anse, the Langevin River or the Entre-Deux trails, the landscapes are magnificent, accessible and often free.
3. Mobility tips and local tricks to save money
Here are a few simple tips for getting around on a budget and experiencing the south like a true local.
Public transport and car hire
Alternéo buses provide excellent service to Saint-Pierre and the surrounding area. For just a few euros, you can reach Grande Anse beach, the city centre or Entre-Deux. Check timetables online or via the Alternéo Réunion app. Tip: some accommodations, such as Le Terre Sainte, are close to bus stops, which is convenient for getting around without a car.
For more freedom, consider renting a car by the day, which is often more affordable than you might think. Some local agencies offer small models from €25/day. And for those who are more connected, Réunion carpooling apps such as Karos allow you to travel smart (and socially).
Live like a local: our smart tips
- Buy local: fruit and vegetables from the market, snacks from the neighbourhood, Creole shops… You’ll save money while supporting small local businesses.
- Think about picnics: between a homemade salad at Terre Sainte beach or a homemade curry at Grand Anse beach, the zero-stress (and zero-spend) meal option is always a winner.
- Take part in free events: concerts at the seaside bandstand, exhibitions, cultural evenings in the media libraries… The cultural agenda in the south is often free and accessible.
Example of a budget-friendly day in Saint-Pierre
8:00 a.m.: Breakfast on the terrace of the Le Terre Sainte hotel, near the pool.
9:00 a.m.: Take the bus to the market to stock up on local fruit and samosas.
11:00 a.m.: Swim and relax on Saint-Pierre beach. The lagoon is calm, perfect for snorkelling.
12:30 p.m.: Lunch on the seafront at a local snack bar – chicken or American curry tray: €5.
2:30 p.m.: Walk through the centre of Saint-Pierre or along the seafront.
5.30pm: Watch the sunset over the port of Terre Sainte with a sorbet in your hand.
8pm: Enjoy a convivial meal with musical entertainment at a local restaurant.
A maximum programme for a minimum budget: that’s the spirit of Saint-Pierre, the smart way.
FAQ – Cheap accommodation in Saint-Pierre
Where can I find cheap accommodation in Saint-Pierre?
The Exsel Terre Sainte hotel is one of the best value for money hotels in the area, with affordable dormitory rooms.
What are the best deals for a budget stay in the south?
Keep an eye out for Exsel’s great deals for residents and low season promotions on exsel.re.
Are there shared rooms in Saint-Pierre?
Yes, it’s quite rare, but the Exsel Terre Sainte hotel offers a dormitory room in Réunion, perfect for solo travellers or those on a tight budget.
