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

Should you visit Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a inspiring, iconic, and religious island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Arachova and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Mont-Saint-Michel are popular destinations, Arachova has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arachova is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Mont-Saint-Michel attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Arachova and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Arachova is famous for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also well known for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort.

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

Is Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

Arachova is very good for winter skiing. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

Arachova 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 Arachova. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

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 Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

Arachova is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Arachova know how to have a good time. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

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


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

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

Arachova 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 Arachova. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

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

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

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

Arachova 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 Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

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

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

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Arachova offers some nice shopping areas. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

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


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

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Arachova is a very kid-friendly town. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

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 Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

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

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


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

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

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 Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Arachova
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

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

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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


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

One day in Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Arachova, 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 Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and skiing around the bustling town of Arachova, there's plenty to do. 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 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 Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the bustling destination of Arachova. 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 Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Arachova is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This 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.

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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Mont-Saint-Michel is €156. 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 Arachova and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Arachova 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 Arachova


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: Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    Mont-Saint-Michel 44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Mont-Saint-Michel 30

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
    Arachova 6.43
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arachova and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Mont-Saint-Michel is more expensive. And not only is Arachova much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Arachova would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Arachova 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 Arachova.

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


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

Arachova has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arachova is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Mont-Saint-Michel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Arachova during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Arachova because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In October, Arachova is generally much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the autumn, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Mont-Saint-Michel. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine.

Arachova is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Arachova for the small town charm. Additionally, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Arachova is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the spring, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Arachova gets 25 mm (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
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Arachova

Arachova Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


Related Articles for Arachova
Related Articles for Mont-Saint-Michel