A Travel Price Comparison for France Annecy vs. Mont-Saint-Michel for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Hiking

Should you visit Annecy 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 Annecy and Mont-Saint-Michel can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a storybook, charming, and stunning alpine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of Annecy is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Annecy travel costs.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a breathtaking, inspiring, and iconic island. Many visitors also come to Mont-Saint-Michel because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food. See Mont-Saint-Michel travel costs.

Annecy and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums and attractions. Annecy is well known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Mont-Saint-Michel is well known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base.

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

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

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Mont-Saint-Michel are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.


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

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Annecy has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

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 Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Annecy has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

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

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

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

Annecy is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Annecy is revered around the world. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

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


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

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

Annecy is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Annecy. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Mont-Saint-Michel has hiking trails worth exploring. There's a 4.2 mile (6.5k) out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

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

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Annecy offers some nice shopping areas. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

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

Is Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel More Beautiful?

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

Annecy and Mont-Saint-Michel are somewhat similar when it comes to the fantastic scenery.

Many visitors also come to Annecy because of it's amazing beauty. A mix of natural beauty and small town charm make this a scenic and beautiful destination.

You'll find world class beauty in Mont-Saint-Michel as well. It's a beautiful but touristy destination on a tidal island in Normandy. The highlight is the dramatic abbey that has attracted tourists and visitors for centuries.


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

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Annecy is a very kid-friendly alpine town. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

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 Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

Both Annecy and Mont-Saint-Michel are fantastic destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Annecy has plenty to offer. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Mont-Saint-Michel has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

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

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

For backpackers, both Annecy and Mont-Saint-Michel are notable places to visit.

Annecy is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

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


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

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

Annecy and Mont-Saint-Michel both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

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

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

Annecy
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its ease of walking around.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a very easy island to get around on foot. Not only is the walk through the town and castle stunning, there are also many beautiful walks in the natural areas nearby.

Annecy is a very walkable destination. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Annecy 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 Annecy, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Annecy 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 Annecy.


  • How many days in Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Annecy 2-4 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2

One day in Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Even though Annecy is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mont-Saint-Michel. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Annecy is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One of the main draws to the area is the food. This alpine town 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the breathtaking destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


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

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Annecy Prices
    France Prices
    Mont-Saint-Michel Prices
    France Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Annecy 220
    Mont-Saint-Michel 189

The average daily cost (per person) in Annecy is €220, while the average daily cost in Mont-Saint-Michel is €189. 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 Annecy and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Annecy 92
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Annecy 184
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
Compare Hotels in Annecy and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Annecy 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 Annecy


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: Annecy Hotel Prices and Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Annecy 37
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

Also for Annecy, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer to/from Mont Blanc Airport and City: $207
  • Geneva: Full-Day Trip to Annecy with Hotel/Airport Transfers: $828
  • Private transfer from Geneva airport to Annecy: $298

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Annecy 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
    Annecy 100
    Mont-Saint-Michel 76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Annecy

For Annecy, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner cruise on Lake Dragonfly Menu: $102
  • Annecy Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $106
  • Private Market Tour and Cooking Class in Annecy with a Local: $109
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Annecy Old Town with Local Guide: $150
  • Private Walking Food Tour: $370

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Annecy 41
    Mont-Saint-Michel 30

Tours and Activities in Annecy

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Annecy.

  • Annecy Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $7.72
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Luxury Private Concierge - Annecy Bespoke Experience : $55
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Private guided tour with a native resident: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $80
  • Lunch cruise on Lake Dragonfly Menu: $102
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102
  • Private Photoshoot Tour in Annecy: $111

Tours and Activities in Mont-Saint-Michel

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

  • 2 Hour Guided Tour of Mont Saint Michel: $60
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour of Mont Saint Michel: $200
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel : $33
  • Abbey du Mont Saint-Michel Priority Entrance Tickets: $19
  • Airborne Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Cherbourg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $44
  • Entrance ticket to the Normandy Victory Museum: $11
  • Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in the Middle Ages: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Mont-St-Michel: Private Walking Tour "Abbey Ticket Included": $277
  • Mont-St-Michel: Shared Tour (10 max) "Abbey Ticket Included": $197
  • Mt St. Michel Private Tour with Abbey tickets and tour guide: $278
  • Private Guided Tour in WW2 Jeep of the Landing Beaches: $278

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Annecy 34
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86

Sample the Local Flavors in Annecy

Also in Annecy, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver: $852


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Annecy and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Mont-Saint-Michel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mont-Saint-Michel would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy than you might in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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


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

Annecy has a larger population, and is about 620 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Annecy 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 Annecy or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

The summer brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The summer months attract visitors to Annecy because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

Annecy is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mont-Saint-Michel. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Annecy this time of the year. In the summer, Annecy often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets more rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Annecy 22°C (71°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Annecy is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Annecy in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Annecy usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Annecy usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Annecy 14°C (56°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Annecy during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Annecy for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Annecy. In January, Annecy is generally cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 4°C (39°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets less rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Annecy 4°C (39°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Annecy in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty during these months.

Annecy is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Annecy usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Annecy usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Annecy 11°C (53°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Annecy

Annecy Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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