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

Should you visit Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Mont-Saint-Michel can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a local, historic, and cultural city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a breathtaking, inspiring, and iconic island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Inverness and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Home to Loch Ness
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Inverness than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Inverness is better known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Inverness and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Inverness is well known for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. Also, Inverness is famous for Loch Ness.

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

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

Inverness
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Mont-Saint-Michel are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Inverness can be an interesting and educational experience. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.


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

Inverness
Mont-Saint-Michel

Inverness 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 Inverness. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

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 Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Inverness
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Inverness has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

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

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

Inverness
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Inverness is not a hiking destination.


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

Inverness
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Inverness is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

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

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

Inverness
Mont-Saint-Michel

Inverness 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 Inverness. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

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 Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Inverness
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.


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

Inverness
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.

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

Inverness
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.

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

Inverness
Mont-Saint-Michel

Inverness and Mont-Saint-Michel both are very good when exploring on foot.

Inverness is a very walkable city. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town 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 Inverness Worth Visiting? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Inverness. 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 Inverness 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 Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inverness 1-3 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2

One day in Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Inverness, there's plenty to do. 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 Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

You'll find museums and food around the religious 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 Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Inverness. 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 Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Inverness is a popular choice for travelers. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Inverness is £168, while the average daily cost in Mont-Saint-Michel is £134. 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 Inverness and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inverness £91
    Mont-Saint-Michel £60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inverness £182
    Mont-Saint-Michel £120
Compare Hotels in Inverness and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Inverness 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 Inverness


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: Inverness Hotel Prices and Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inverness £33
    Mont-Saint-Michel £60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $374
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $623

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Inverness 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
    Inverness £49
    Mont-Saint-Michel £38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Inverness £44
    Mont-Saint-Michel £26

Tours and Activities in Inverness

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

  • City Discovery App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $15
  • Inverness City Daily Walking Tour (11:30am, 2pm & 5:30pm): $15
  • Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $17
  • SEA LIFE Loch Lomond General Admission Ticket: $20
  • Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass: $25
  • Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views: $27
  • Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch: $38
  • Glenaladale Cruise - Great for wizard spotting!: $38
  • Inverness Bike Tour a 2 hours guided bike tour around the Waterways of Inverness: $39
  • Gaskan cruise - Golden Eagles!: $44
  • Puffin Tour: $57

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
    Inverness £23
    Mont-Saint-Michel £6.72

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

Also in Inverness, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $203
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,124


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Inverness and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Inverness is more expensive. And not only is Mont-Saint-Michel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mont-Saint-Michel would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Inverness would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Inverness than you might in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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


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

Inverness has a larger population, and is about 510 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Inverness 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 Inverness 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 Inverness or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Inverness and Mont-Saint-Michel. The summer months attract visitors to Inverness because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

Inverness is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in Inverness averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, 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. Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Inverness gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Inverness usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Inverness gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Inverness 14°C (58°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Inverness as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Inverness this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Inverness is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Inverness in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Inverness gets 84 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Inverness gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Inverness 9°C (49°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Inverness are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Inverness for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Inverness. In January, Inverness is generally much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 3°C (38°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Inverness gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Inverness usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Inverness gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Inverness 3°C (38°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Inverness during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Inverness in the spring for the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty during these months.

Inverness is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in Inverness averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Inverness gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Inverness gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Inverness 7°C (44°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Inverness

Inverness Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)