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

Should you visit Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Alicante and Mont-Saint-Michel can help you decide which place is right for you.

Alicante

Alicante is a colorful, authentic, and vibrant city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a breathtaking, inspiring, and iconic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Alicante and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Alicante than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Alicante is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Alicante and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Alicante is well known for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic restaurants. Also, Alicante is famous for the Castillo de Santa Bárbara.

How is Alicante 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 Alicante. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Mont-Saint-Michel are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Alicante can be an interesting and educational experience. This port city has a number of cultural and historical sights that are worth checking out. Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante, and Basilica de Santa María are among the most well known.

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

Alicante is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Alicante. It's by the sea, so you'll find plenty of seafood. Rice is the main staple for many dishes in town. This is also a vegetable growing region, so many recipes incorporate fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include arroz a banda, arroz con costra, and olleta alicantina.

Mont-Saint-Michel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

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

Alicante has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. For the city's best nightlife, head to El Barrio Antiguo, which is the old district. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars and clubs, many of them having live music.

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

Is Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Beaches?

Alicante is very good for the beache. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Alicante to enjoy the beach. If you step away from the touristy areas, you'll find some nice sandy beaches with blue water. Playa la Fustera is northeast of the city and popular with families and couples. If you have a car you can drive to the town of Moraira, which is near several nice beaches as well.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

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

Alicante is very good for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Alicante to see the old town. The old district is filled with charming streets and some interesting museums. There are also a number of good restaurants in the area.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Alicante is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Alicante is not a hiking destination.

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

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

Alicante offers some nice shopping areas. The city is known for its leather goods, but you'll also find international brands and shopping streets with fashion and different European names.

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

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

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

Alicante is a very kid-friendly city. This seaside city has many kid-friendly resorts, long sandy beaches, and adrenaline-filled theme parks. There's the Terra Mitica Park as well as a waterpark - Aqua Natura. Tabarca Island is also well worth a visit.

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 Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Mont-Saint-Michel has plenty to offer. 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.

Alicante is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Nice resorts, long sandy beaches, and nearby vineyard tours make this a wonderful place for a couple's getaway. There are good restaurants and nice places where couples can take a stroll, hand in hand.

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

Alicante and Mont-Saint-Michel are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Alicante is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels around town, as well as many budget-friendly hotels, so this is an affordable oceanfront destination for the budget-minded.

It's common for backpackers to visit Mont-Saint-Michel. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

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

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

Alicante is popular with students. It's by the water and it's an affordable city, making it a good option for students. The beaches and active nightlife will keep you entertained when you take a break from your studies.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Alicante and Mont-Saint-Michel.

You'll find some public transit in Alicante, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system through the city and region.

While Mont-Saint-Michel offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free shuttle bus that connects Mont-Saint-Michel to the mainland.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Alicante is a somewhat walkable city. There are many parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

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

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

How long in Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Alicante than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alicante, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

Couples should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Alicante. 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 Alicante than Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Alicante.

One day in Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Alicante, there's plenty to do. 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 Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the colorful city of Alicante, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic destination of Alicante. 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 Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Alicante is a popular choice for travelers. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alicante and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Mont-Saint-Michel is more expensive. And not only is Alicante much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alicante would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alicante and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mont-Saint-Michel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mont-Saint-Michel than you might in Alicante.

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

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

Alicante has a larger population, and is about 3950 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Alicante 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 Alicante 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 Alicante or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Alicante are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Alicante because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

Alicante is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in Alicante averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Mont-Saint-Michel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alicante. Alicante usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Alicante gets 341 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alicante usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Alicante gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Alicante during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Alicante this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Alicante is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alicante in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Alicante. In the autumn, Alicante often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Alicante gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Alicante usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Mont-Saint-Michel. Alicante gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Alicante and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Alicante for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Alicante is generally much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Alicante average around 11°C (52°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Alicante usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Alicante gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alicante usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Alicante gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Alicante as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Alicante in the spring for the beaches. Additionally, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty during these months.

Alicante is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in Alicante averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alicante this time of the year. In the spring, Alicante often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Alicante gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Alicante usually gets less rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Alicante gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Alicante