A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Mont-Saint-Michel for Attractions, Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a architectural, authentic, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a historic, breathtaking, and inspiring island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Aberdeen and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aberdeen. Although Aberdeen and Mont-Saint-Michel are popular destinations, Aberdeen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aberdeen is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Mont-Saint-Michel attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Aberdeen and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Aberdeen is famous for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also well known for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Aberdeen different from Mont-Saint-Michel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mont-Saint-Michel and Aberdeen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Mont-Saint-Michel that are not to be missed. Visitors come to see the iconic Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel which has been the inspiration for tourists and religious pilgrims for centuries. Make sure you see the Ramparts and La Grande Rue.

Many visitors head to Aberdeen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.


Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Dining out at restaurants in both Aberdeen and Mont-Saint-Michel can be an enjoyable experience.

Aberdeen offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Mont-Saint-Michel has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of local restaurants to choose from that serve authentic French cuisine including the pre-salted sheep, which is a local specialty.

Is Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Aberdeen is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Aberdeen has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Mont-Saint-Michel Most people visit the island as a daytrip and nightlife is essentially nonexistent.

Is Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Aberdeen is a great destination for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.


Is Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for hiking. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Aberdeen is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Aberdeen offers some nice shopping areas. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Aberdeen is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Aberdeen is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

For families, Mont-Saint-Michel is not always the best place to visit. Kids may enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride or exploring the grounds, but it can make for a long day for kids with short attention spans.


Is Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Mont-Saint-Michel makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a stunning setting and makes a romantic backdrop for a couples holiday, whether it's part of a longer trip to France or a short weekend away.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Is Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Mont-Saint-Michel. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Students?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Aberdeen is very good for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Aberdeen is popular with students. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.


Is Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Both Aberdeen and Mont-Saint-Michel offer nice public transit options.

Aberdeen has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Mont-Saint-Michel has some public transit options. There's a free shuttle bus that connects Mont-Saint-Michel to the mainland.

Is Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Aberdeen
Mont-Saint-Michel

Aberdeen and Mont-Saint-Michel both are great when exploring on foot.

Aberdeen is very walkable. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a very walkable city. There are many stunning walks in the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Aberdeen than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

Families should spend more time in Aberdeen than Mont-Saint-Michel. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Aberdeen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Aberdeen. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mont-Saint-Michel that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Aberdeen if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Mont-Saint-Michel.


  • How many days in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aberdeen 2-3 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2

One day in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Aberdeen, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

The beautiful island of Mont-Saint-Michel offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the architectural city of Aberdeen, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mont-Saint-Michel, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Aberdeen is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Mont-Saint-Michel or Aberdeen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aberdeen is £121, while the average daily cost in Mont-Saint-Michel is £134. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aberdeen and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aberdeen £65
    Mont-Saint-Michel £60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aberdeen £130
    Mont-Saint-Michel £120
Compare Hotels in Aberdeen and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Aberdeen


Hotels in Mont-Saint-Michel


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aberdeen Hotel Prices and Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aberdeen £34
    Mont-Saint-Michel £60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Aberdeen change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Aberdeen £35
    Mont-Saint-Michel £38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aberdeen £19
    Mont-Saint-Michel £26

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Aberdeen are as follows:

  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Skip the Line: The Gordon Highlanders Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $60
  • Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside 1-Day Tour from Aberdeen: $64
  • From Adventure to St Andrews & Dundee: $65
  • St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $67

Tours and Activities in Mont-Saint-Michel

Here are a few actual costs in Mont-Saint-Michel for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self Guided Audio Tour around Mont Saint-Michele island: $5.45
  • Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in the Middle Ages: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Airborne Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Entrance ticket to the Battle of the Hedges Museum: $11
  • Normandy Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Abbey du Mont Saint-Michel Priority Entrance Tickets: $16
  • Walking Tour in the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel: $16
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel : $33
  • Cherbourg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $44
  • Mont-St-Michel: Shared Tour (10 max) "Abbey Ticket Included": $162
  • Private walking tour of Mont Saint Michel with a licensed guide: $215
  • Mont-St-Michel: Private Walking Tour "Abbey Ticket Included": $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aberdeen £3.57
    Mont-Saint-Michel £6.72

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401


When comparing the travel costs between Aberdeen and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Mont-Saint-Michel is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aberdeen Expensive? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 2300 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Mont-Saint-Michel, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Mont-Saint-Michel. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Aberdeen is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aberdeen in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mont-Saint-Michel this time of the year. Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 9°C (49°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Winter?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Aberdeen can get quite cold in the winter. Aberdeen is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Spring?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Aberdeen during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Aberdeen is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aberdeen in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Aberdeen

Aberdeen Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


Related Articles for Aberdeen
Related Articles for Mont-Saint-Michel