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

Should you visit Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bristol and Mont-Saint-Michel can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bristol

Bristol is a friendly, 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 iconic, religious, and historic island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Bristol and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bristol. Although Bristol and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Bristol has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bristol is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Bristol and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Bristol is popular for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies. It is also home to The Bristol Harbour.

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

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

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Mont-Saint-Michel has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.


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

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Bristol is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Mont-Saint-Michel offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

Bristol 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 Bristol know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

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

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

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with good options for hiking. However, Bristol is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Mont-Saint-Michel. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Bristol is not a hiking destination.


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

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

Bristol is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bristol is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

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

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

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

Bristol is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bristol. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

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 Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Bristol is a nice destination for couples. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.


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

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good island to visit for backpackers. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Bristol is popular with students. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

Bristol and Mont-Saint-Michel both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Bristol offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

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


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

Bristol
Mont-Saint-Michel

Bristol and Mont-Saint-Michel are superb when it comes to walkability.

Bristol is a very walkable destination. The city center is well designed for walking.

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

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

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

How long in Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Bristol. 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 Bristol 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 Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bristol 1-3 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2

One day in Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Bristol, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the diverse city of Bristol, 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.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mont-Saint-Michel has to offer.


Five days in Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Bristol. 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 great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Bristol 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mont-Saint-Michel. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bristol is £91, 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 Bristol and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bristol £49
    Mont-Saint-Michel £60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bristol £98
    Mont-Saint-Michel £120
Compare Hotels in Bristol and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Bristol 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 Bristol


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Mont-Saint-Michel £60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bristol

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol by Business Car: $78
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol by Luxury Car: $85
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Business Car: $90
  • Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton hotels - Arrival Transfer: $172
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to Bristol City: $148
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to London city: $680
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Transfer to Southampton city hotels: $781
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Car: $108
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport to London City Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $160

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Bristol 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
    Bristol £32
    Mont-Saint-Michel £38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bristol

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

  • (Thur 7pm) Comedy Magic Show includes 1x Pizza & 2 glasses of Prosecco: $25

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Mont-Saint-Michel £26

Tours and Activities in Bristol

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

  • Self-Guided Sightseeing Audio Tour: $5.31
  • Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour with Optional Tasting: $5.31
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of Bristol's Harbourside History: $5.99
  • The Harbourside's Hidden History Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Bristol's Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City: $6.99
  • Brunel’s A Self-Guided Tour from SS Great Britain to Clifton Bridge: $7.99
  • Brunel’s Iconic Engineering Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Bristol's Time-Honored Pubs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults Experiences: $12

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 Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel : $33
  • Abbey du Mont Saint-Michel Priority Entrance Tickets: $16
  • Airborne Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Cherbourg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $44
  • Entrance ticket to the Battle of the Hedges 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": $261
  • Mont-St-Michel: Shared Tour (10 max) "Abbey Ticket Included": $162
  • Mt St. Michel Private Tour with Abbey tickets and tour guide: $272
  • Normandy Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Private Guided Tour in WW2 Jeep of the Landing Beaches: $272
  • Private walking tour of Mont Saint Michel with a licensed guide: $215

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bristol £11
    Mont-Saint-Michel £6.72

Sample the Local Flavors in Bristol

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bristol:

  • Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99


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

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


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

Bristol has a larger population, and is about 5380 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Bristol in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bristol is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 18°C (64°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

Bristol usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Mont-Saint-Michel. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bristol 18°C (64°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Bristol is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In October, Bristol usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Bristol during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Bristol because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In the winter, Bristol is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bristol in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bristol 6°C (43°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Mont-Saint-Michel. The activities around the city are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty.

In April, Bristol is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 10°C (50°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In April, Bristol usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Bristol

Bristol Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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