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

Should you visit Bruges or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bruges and Mont-Saint-Michel. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bruges

Bruges is a beautiful, historic, and charming city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a religious, historic, and breathtaking island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Bruges and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bruges. Although Bruges and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Bruges has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bruges is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its museums and hiking. Bruges is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. It is also home to Bruges' Markt (The Main Square). Mont-Saint-Michel is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Bruges 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.

Bruges offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

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

Bruges 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 Bruges. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

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 Bruges or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

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

Bruges has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

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

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

Bruges 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 Bruges is revered around the world. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for hiking. However, Bruges is not a hiking destination.

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

Bruges is not a hiking destination.

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

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

Bruges offers some nice shopping areas. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

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

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

Bruges 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 Bruges. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are 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 Bruges or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for couples. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Mont-Saint-Michel is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Bruges is a very popular place to visit for couples. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

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

Bruges is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bruges is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

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

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

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

While Bruges offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

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

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

Bruges is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Bruges on foot is easy. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Bruges or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

One day in Bruges or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Bruges, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. 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 Bruges or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the historic city of Bruges, 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 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 Bruges or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Bruges 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the inspiring 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

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

Bruges has a larger population, and is about 1460 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Bruges 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 Bruges 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 Bruges or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Bruges for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bruges is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 17°C (63°F), 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 Bruges this time of the year. In the summer, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bruges in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Bruges is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bruges usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bruges 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.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Bruges during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bruges for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the museums and the cuisine.

Bruges can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bruges is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bruges in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Mont-Saint-Michel. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Mont-Saint-Michel. The spring months attract visitors to Bruges because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In April, Bruges is generally cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 8°C (47°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bruges usually receives around the same amount of rain as Mont-Saint-Michel. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Bruges