A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Mont-Saint-Michel for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a religious, historic, and breathtaking island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Isle of Skye have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Isle of Skye is very popular for its food, beaches, and hiking, while Mont-Saint-Michel attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Isle of Skye and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Isle of Skye is famous for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Mont-Saint-Michel is terrific for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Mont-Saint-Michel from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a good area for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel doesn't offer many options. Most people visit the island as a daytrip and nightlife is essentially nonexistent.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Beaches?

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

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

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 Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

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 Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is terrific for romance. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

Is Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Isle of Skye is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Isle of Skye than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

Couples should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.

One day in Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With food around the destination of Isle of Skye, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, many people enjoy the museums and food that this historic island offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this island.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With food around the scenic island of Isle of Skye, there's plenty to do. 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With food around the stunning destination of Isle of Skye, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

You'll find museums and food around the iconic destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Isle of Skye is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Isle of Skye has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In Mont-Saint-Michel, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the museums and the cuisine.

Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. Isle of Skye is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Spring?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 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 Isle of Skye