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

Should you visit Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Should I visit Imperia 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.

Imperia

Imperia is a charming, undiscovered, and authentic town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a historic, breathtaking, and inspiring island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Imperia and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mont-Saint-Michel. Although Imperia and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Mont-Saint-Michel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Imperia is known for its nightlife and shopping. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. It is also home to . Imperia is popular for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

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

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

Imperia
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Imperia
Mont-Saint-Michel

Both Imperia and Mont-Saint-Michel offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Imperia area. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Mont-Saint-Michel. 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 Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Imperia
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Imperia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

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

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

Imperia
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for hiking. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.


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

Imperia
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Imperia offers some nice shopping areas. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

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

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

Imperia
Mont-Saint-Michel

Imperia 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 Imperia. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

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 Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Imperia
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Mont-Saint-Michel makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


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

Imperia
Mont-Saint-Michel

Both Imperia and Mont-Saint-Michel are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Imperia. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Mont-Saint-Michel is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

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

Imperia
Mont-Saint-Michel

Both Imperia and Mont-Saint-Michel offer good public transit options.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

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

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

Imperia
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.


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

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

How long in Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Imperia 1-2 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2

One day in Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the authentic town of Imperia, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mont-Saint-Michel has to offer.

Five days in Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming destination of Imperia. 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 great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Imperia is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mont-Saint-Michel. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Mont-Saint-Michel or Imperia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Imperia is €108, while the average daily cost in Mont-Saint-Michel is €156. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Imperia and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Imperia 51
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Imperia 102
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
Compare Hotels in Imperia and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Imperia


Hotels in Mont-Saint-Michel


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Imperia Hotel Prices and Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Imperia 36
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70

Is it cheaper to fly into Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Imperia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Imperia 35
    Mont-Saint-Michel 44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Imperia 13
    Mont-Saint-Michel 30

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Tours and Activities in Mont-Saint-Michel

Here are a few actual costs in Mont-Saint-Michel for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self Guided Audio Tour around Mont Saint-Michele island: $5.45
  • Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in the Middle Ages: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Airborne Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Entrance ticket to the Battle of the Hedges Museum: $11
  • Normandy Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Abbey du Mont Saint-Michel Priority Entrance Tickets: $16
  • Walking Tour in the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel: $16
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel : $33
  • Cherbourg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $44
  • Mont-St-Michel: Shared Tour (10 max) "Abbey Ticket Included": $162
  • Private walking tour of Mont Saint Michel with a licensed guide: $215
  • Mont-St-Michel: Private Walking Tour "Abbey Ticket Included": $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Imperia 7.50
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86


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

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


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

Imperia has a larger population, and is about 490 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Imperia 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 Imperia 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 Imperia or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Imperia and Mont-Saint-Michel. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Imperia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Imperia is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 25°C (76°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mont-Saint-Michel this time of the year. In Imperia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Imperia usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Imperia gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Imperia usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Imperia gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Imperia 25°C (76°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Imperia as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Imperia for the shopping scene 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.

Imperia is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Imperia often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Imperia gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Imperia gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Imperia 19°C (66°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Imperia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Imperia 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.

In the winter, Imperia is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Imperia in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Imperia usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Imperia gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Imperia usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Imperia gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Imperia 11°C (51°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Imperia during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Imperia for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the natural beauty.

In April, Imperia is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 15°C (58°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Imperia often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Imperia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets more rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Imperia gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Imperia 15°C (58°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Imperia

Imperia Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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