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

Should you visit Chania 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 Chania 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.

Chania

Chania is a charming, picturesque, 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 food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

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. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Chania and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chania. Although Chania and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Chania has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chania is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its museums and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Chania and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Chania is popular for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Mont-Saint-Michel on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Chania. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

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

Chania 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.

Chania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

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 Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

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

Chania has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

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

Is Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Chania. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Beaches?

Chania is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Chania is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

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

Chania 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 Chania. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

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

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

Chania 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 Chania. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

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 Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Chania offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

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

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

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

Chania is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

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 Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Chania is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

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

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

Chania is a great city to visit for backpackers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Chania, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

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

Chania and Mont-Saint-Michel both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Chania is a very walkable destination. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.

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

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

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

How long in Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chania than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

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

One day in Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Chania, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the historic city of Chania, 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. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picturesque destination of Chania. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Chania is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. 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 religious 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 Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

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

Chania has a larger population, and is about 680 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Chania 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 Chania 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 Chania or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chania for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, 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 July, Chania is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 26°C (80°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Mont-Saint-Michel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Chania during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Chania because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

Chania is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Chania often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

In the winter, Chania is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Chania usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Chania as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Chania for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Chania is generally much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 17°C (62°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chania this time of the year. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Chania