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

Should you visit Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre 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.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a picturesque, idyllic, and quaint coastal region. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. 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 beaches, hiking, and food.

Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Cinque Terre and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Cinque Terre and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Cinque Terre has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cinque Terre is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its museums. Cinque Terre is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also home to Vernazza Harbor. Mont-Saint-Michel is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base.

Vernazza Harbor

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is renowned for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cinque Terre 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.

Cinque Terre has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Like much of Italy, the area focuses on local flavors that include lots of seafood, as well as local fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The towns are known for their focaccia, which actually originated in nearby Genoa. Anchovies are a favorite here as well, and don't be turned off by your experience with anchovies outside of Italy. They don't compare. Also make sure you sample the pesto, mussels, and any fresh caught seafood.

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 Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Neither Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel offer decent nightlife.

Cinque Terre doesn't offer many options. The whole point of a trip to the area is to soak up the quiet village atmosphere. There is basically no nightlife in most of the towns, but you will find a few bars in Monterosso.

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

Is Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not so good for its resorts. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a resort destination.

There isn't the widest selection of resorts in Cinque Terre, but you'll find a few options to choose from. Most people stay in apartments or rooms in local hotels or family homes. There aren't many resorts in the traditional sense, but again, that's part of the charm of the area.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre. The surrounding waters are part of the of the Pelagos Sanctuary. The area has many rocky coves which are fun to explore with a mask and snorkel. There are also boat excursions available that may let you stop to snorkel, as well as a few dive spots in the area.

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

Is Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Cinque Terre to enjoy the beach. The area is more about the towns than the beaches. The most typical beach setting is in the newer part of Monterosso. There's a long sandy beach with chairs and umbrellas available. There's also a beach near the town's old town. Several of the other towns have swimming areas, including a small stretch of pebbly sand in Vernazza. It's fun to swim between the months of May and October, when the water temperatures are fairly warm.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

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

Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre is revered around the world. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

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

Is Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Many people visit Cinque Terre specifically for its hiking. The five towns are part of Cinque Terre National Park and there are 120 kilometers of hiking trails in the park. Most people hike along the trails that follow the coastline and connect the towns. There are fees for the most popular stretch of trails which connect Monterosso to Vernazza and then go from Vernazza to Corniglia. All other hiking is free in the area.

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 Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cinque Terre is a coastal region with a few options for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Cinque Terre has some nice offerings. The towns are more about the atmosphere than the shops, but the best shopping can be found in the largest town of Monterosso. You'll find jewelry, clothing, and local food items that are fun to take home as souvenirs.

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

Is Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre. The five towns are all about exploring on foot, so if that's your kid's thing, then they're in for a treat. The hilly terrain can be a bit tricky, particularly for the little ones, but for older kids this area offers the perfect amount of challenge. There are also a couple of beaches and swimming spots as well as a playground or two around. Food, like most of Italy, is very kid-friendly.

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 Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre and Mont-Saint-Michel are both terrific to visit as a couple.

Cinque Terre has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. These stunning five Italian villages are perched precariously on the water's edge. They're surrounded by beautiful vineyards and connected by impressive hiking trails. This area is truly a dream honeymoon destination and it is sure to make a memorable vacation for any couple who enjoys exploring charming village.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great coastal region 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.

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

Cinque Terre and Mont-Saint-Michel are both good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cinque Terre. There are a number of rooms available in the towns and there are even a couple of hostels including one in Riomaggiore and one in Corniglia. It's possible to find affordable food and accommodation, and your entertainment is simply wandering the area, which is perfect for budget travelers.

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

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cinque Terre and Mont-Saint-Michel.

Cinque Terre has some public transit options. Most people arrive by train but there are also ferries available.

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 Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre on foot is easy. Vehicle traffic in the towns are heavily restricted so it's very enjoyable to explore on foot. The terrain is hilly and uneven, but that's part of the charm. There are also hiking trails that connect each of the five towns.

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

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

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

How long in Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cinque Terre than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cinque Terre, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre.

One day in Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Even though Cinque Terre is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, many people enjoy the museums and food that this breathtaking 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 Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cinque Terre is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. 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 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 Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have five days, this coastal region makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

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 Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cinque Terre is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This coastal region 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Cinque Terre and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Cinque Terre Expensive? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cinque Terre has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre 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 Cinque Terre or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Cinque Terre during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cinque Terre is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 24°C (75°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 Cinque Terre. In the summer, Cinque Terre often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cinque Terre gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre usually gets less rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cinque Terre gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cinque Terre and Mont-Saint-Michel. The autumn months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

Cinque Terre is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cinque Terre averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Cinque Terre usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Cinque Terre gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cinque Terre gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cinque Terre gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Cinque Terre as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cinque Terre is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cinque Terre in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Cinque Terre often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cinque Terre gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the winter. Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cinque Terre gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Cinque Terre are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Cinque Terre is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 14°C (57°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Cinque Terre usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Cinque Terre gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cinque Terre gets 85 mm (3.3 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 Cinque Terre