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

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a iconic, impressive, and spectacular destination. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, museums, and food.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a historic, breathtaking, and inspiring island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Cape Sounion and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
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 family-friendly


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mont-Saint-Michel. Although Cape Sounion and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Mont-Saint-Michel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Cape Sounion is known for its nightlife and beaches. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. It is also home to . Cape Sounion is popular for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

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

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

Cape Sounion
Mont-Saint-Michel

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Mont-Saint-Michel and Cape Sounion.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Sounion has many famous sights for visitors. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

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.


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

Cape Sounion
Mont-Saint-Michel

Both Cape Sounion and Mont-Saint-Michel offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

Cape Sounion is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

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 Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Cape Sounion is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

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

Is Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Many people head to Cape Sounion to enjoy the beach. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Cape Sounion
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for hiking. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Mont-Saint-Michel

Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

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 Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Mont-Saint-Michel makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.


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

Cape Sounion
Mont-Saint-Michel

Cape Sounion and Mont-Saint-Michel are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cape Sounion. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

Mont-Saint-Michel is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

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

Cape Sounion
Mont-Saint-Michel

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cape Sounion and Mont-Saint-Michel.

Cape Sounion has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

You'll find some public transit in Mont-Saint-Michel, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a free shuttle bus that connects Mont-Saint-Michel to the mainland.

Is Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.


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

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

How long in Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


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

One day in Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

In Mont-Saint-Michel, many people enjoy the museums and food that this iconic island offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this island.

A weekend in Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and food around the iconic destination of Cape Sounion, 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 fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the spectacular destination of Cape Sounion. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the religious destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cape Sounion is a popular choice for travelers. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. This destination 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 popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Mont-Saint-Michel or Cape Sounion?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, 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 Cape Sounion and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion


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.
    Cape Sounion 26
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Cape Sounion 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
    Cape Sounion 41
    Mont-Saint-Michel 44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    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:

  • 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
    Cape Sounion 23
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Sounion and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Cape Sounion is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cape Sounion has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Cape Sounion during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cape Sounion is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 27°C (81°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In Mont-Saint-Michel, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the summer, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Cape Sounion is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Cape Sounion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

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

The winter brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Cape Sounion in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Cape Sounion is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Sounion in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the natural beauty.

In April, Cape Sounion is generally much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 16°C (60°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion
Related Articles for Mont-Saint-Michel