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

Should you visit Fez 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 Fez 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.

Fez

Fez is a colorful, cultural, and ancient city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Fez and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fez than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fez is better known for its food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its hiking. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Fez and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Fez is well known for its ancient medina, gorgeous riads, and amazing local dishes. Also, Fez is famous for the Chouara Tannery.

The Chouara Tannery

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Fez and Mont-Saint-Michel.

The museums and tourist attractions in Fez are world-renowned. Tucked into the medina are ancient mosques, historic universities, and beautiful gardens. Highlights of the city include Al Quaraouiyine Mosque, Dar Batha (a palace and museum), and Medersa Bou Inania (a former theological college). Another not to be missed sight is the tanneries. You'll likely smell them before you see them, but the history is truly impressive.

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.

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

Fez 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.

Fez has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Some of the best food in Morocco can be found in Fez. Head away from the main gates and the major tourist routes to find more local restaurants. Every visitor must try tagine. It's not actually a recipe but instead a cooking pot and technique. If you order a tagine, you'll enjoy a stew like dish that's slow cooked and usually made with lamb or chicken although vegetarian options are often available. Other dishes to try include couscous and pastilla. Pastilla is a pastry covered chicken dish that is seasoned with cinnamon and sugar.

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 Fez or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Neither Fez or Mont-Saint-Michel offer decent nightlife.

Fez doesn't offer many options. It's a conservative city and the nightlife reflects that. You'll find some bars in the major hotel chains and you can often find alcohol at the more expensive restaurants.

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

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

Fez 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 Fez is revered around the world. The walled medina offers a maze of streets that are lined with shops selling perfume, spices, street food, and trinkets.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with good options for its hiking trails. However, Fez 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.

Fez is not a hiking destination.

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

Fez is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Fez make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to the medina and try your hand at negotiating. There are impressive art shops and hidden gems spread between more touristy shops selling souvenir trinkets.

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

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

Fez 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 Fez. Kids will enjoy wandering the medina, sampling Moroccan dishes, and trying their hand at bartering for a good price. There are several gardens that offer a quiet oasis from the chaotic streets. There's also baklava and other sweet treats that kids can taste. Many kids enjoy taking a tour to the nearby countryside where they can feed monkeys, hike, and visit local villages.

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 Fez or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Fez is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Fez frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who like an adventure will enjoy soaking up the medina, visiting the gardens, and taking a trip into the countryside.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Fez. Prices are very affordable and there are riads that range in price and style. Many restaurants cater to different budgets and most of the entertainment involves wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Fez is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Fez. There's a basic public transportation system with buses and a train station, but you'll likely need to take taxis if you can't walk to a destination. Taxis are affordable and abundant.

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

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

Fez is a very walkable city. The medina can be explored on foot, but it's easy to get lost so allow a lot of time. There are several walking routes through the medina that are marked with colors but you'll likely find yourself wandering on and off the routes as you explore. Outside of the medina, you'll likely want to take a taxi.

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

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

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

How long in Fez or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Fez or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fez than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Fez, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

One day in Fez or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Fez, people usually allow for lots of time. 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.

With food and museums around the iconic destination of Mont-Saint-Michel, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Fez or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Fez, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many people visit Mont-Saint-Michel for a weekend. With museums and food around the inspiring island of Mont-Saint-Michel, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Fez or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Fez, people usually allow for lots of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have five days, this city 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.

The destination of Mont-Saint-Michel offers food and museums. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Fez or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Fez 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Morocco, The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fez and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Mont-Saint-Michel is more expensive. And not only is Fez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Fez is in Africa and Mont-Saint-Michel is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Fez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fez 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 Fez.

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

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

Fez has a larger population, and is about 12060 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Fez 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.