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

Should you visit Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a scenic, character-filled, and historic town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a religious, historic, and breathtaking island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Heidelberg and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heidelberg. Although Heidelberg and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Heidelberg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Heidelberg is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its museums and hiking. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Heidelberg and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. It is also home to The Heidelberg Castle.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is an amazing island to visit for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

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 Heidelberg or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Heidelberg know how to have a good time. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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

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

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is revered around the world. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for hiking. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

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

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

Heidelberg offers some nice shopping areas. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

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

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

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

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 Heidelberg or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

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.

Heidelberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

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

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

Heidelberg is a great town to visit for backpackers. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

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

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

Heidelberg is very good for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Heidelberg is popular with students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Heidelberg is a great 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.

Heidelberg has some very good public transit options. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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

Heidelberg and Mont-Saint-Michel are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

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

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

How long in Heidelberg or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

One day in Heidelberg or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Heidelberg, 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.

With museums and food around the historic island of Mont-Saint-Michel, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mont-Saint-Michel, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With food and shopping around the energetic town of Heidelberg, 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.

With food and museums around the destination of Mont-Saint-Michel, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Heidelberg or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the historic destination of Heidelberg. 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, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Heidelberg is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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 that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg Expensive? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Expensive?.

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

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 1790 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heidelberg is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 21°C (69°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mont-Saint-Michel. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heidelberg this time of the year. In the summer, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets more rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Heidelberg is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Heidelberg during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for 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.

Heidelberg can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Heidelberg is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heidelberg in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets less rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Mont-Saint-Michel. The spring months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In April, Heidelberg is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 11°C (52°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heidelberg usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 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 Heidelberg