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

Should you visit Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hydra

Hydra is a quaint, picturesque, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a historic, breathtaking, and inspiring island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Hydra and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Mont-Saint-Michel are popular destinations, Hydra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Mont-Saint-Michel attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Hydra and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also well known for The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Many visitors head to Hydra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

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

Foodies will find both Hydra and Mont-Saint-Michel both to be nice destinations.

Hydra offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Mont-Saint-Michel has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

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

Hydra is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

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

Is Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Resorts?

Hydra is very good for its resorts. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Hydra makes a nice vacation spot. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a resort destination.

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

Hydra 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 Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

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

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

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

Many people head to Hydra to enjoy the beach. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

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

Hydra 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 Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

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

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

Hydra is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hydra. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

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 Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Hydra is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

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

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

Hydra is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Hydra is a very kid-friendly island. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

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 Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Mont-Saint-Michel make for a world-class place to visit.

Hydra makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

For those traveling as a couple, Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

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

Hydra 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 Hydra on foot is easy. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. In our opinion, Hydra has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hydra than Mont-Saint-Michel. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hydra 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 Hydra.

One day in Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Even though Hydra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 historic 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 Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums 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.

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 Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Hydra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Hydra is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This island 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 historic 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 Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hydra and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Mont-Saint-Michel is more expensive. And not only is Hydra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hydra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hydra 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 Hydra.

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

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

Hydra has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Mont-Saint-Michel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hydra is generally much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Hydra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Hydra is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hydra is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 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 Hydra