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

Should you visit Ghent 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 Ghent 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a high energy, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a religious, historic, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Ghent and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ghent. Although Ghent and Mont-Saint-Michel are popular destinations, Ghent has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ghent is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel attracts visitors for its museums and hiking. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also well known for The Fortress of Gravensteen.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Ghent offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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

Ghent 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 Ghent. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

People head to Ghent just to party. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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

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

Ghent 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 Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent 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.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

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

Ghent is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Ghent is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

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

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

Ghent 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 Ghent. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

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 Ghent or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Ghent makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

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

Both Ghent and Mont-Saint-Michel are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Mont-Saint-Michel. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

Is Ghent or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Students?

Ghent is a world-class destination for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Ghent is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Ghent can get you around easily. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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

Ghent and Mont-Saint-Michel both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

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

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

How long in Ghent or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

One day in Ghent or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Ghent, 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.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, many people enjoy the food and museums that this religious destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Ghent or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the historic city of Ghent, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mont-Saint-Michel. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Ghent or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy destination of Ghent. 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Ghent or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Ghent is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the inspiring destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Ghent and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Mont-Saint-Michel is more expensive. And not only is Ghent much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ghent would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ghent 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 Ghent.

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

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

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 2890 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Ghent 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 Ghent 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 Ghent or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ghent is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ghent in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mont-Saint-Michel this time of the year. In Ghent, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Ghent is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 12°C (54°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Ghent gets 78 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 Ghent or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Winter?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the museums and the cuisine.

Ghent can be very cold during winter. Ghent is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ghent usually receives around the same amount of rain as Mont-Saint-Michel. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Ghent during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In the spring, Ghent is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ghent in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Mont-Saint-Michel. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 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 Ghent