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

Should you visit Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a accessible, bustling, 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Heraklion and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heraklion is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Heraklion and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Mont-Saint-Michel are world-renowned. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Heraklion. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

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

Heraklion 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 Heraklion. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

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 Heraklion or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion 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 Heraklion know how to have a good time. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

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

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

Heraklion is a great destination for the beache. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

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

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

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

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

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

Heraklion offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

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

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

Heraklion 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 Heraklion. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

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 Heraklion or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Heraklion 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 Heraklion frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

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

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

Heraklion is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

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

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Heraklion and Mont-Saint-Michel.

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

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

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

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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

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

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

How long in Heraklion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Heraklion, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and museums around the island of Mont-Saint-Michel. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mont-Saint-Michel has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the bustling city of Heraklion, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Heraklion. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic island of Mont-Saint-Michel. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Heraklion 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 1710 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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 Heraklion or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, 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 Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Heraklion is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The winter months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty.

Heraklion is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 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 Heraklion