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

Should you visit Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. 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 nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a inspiring, iconic, and religious island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Istanbul and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Mont-Saint-Michel are popular destinations, Istanbul has more sights and attractions for tourists. Istanbul is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Mont-Saint-Michel attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Istanbul is famous for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Mont-Saint-Michel is famous for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base.

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

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

Both Istanbul and Mont-Saint-Michel have terrific landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Istanbul that are not to be missed. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

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.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Istanbul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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 Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul 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 Istanbul know how to have a good time. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

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

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Istanbul is revered around the world. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

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.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

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

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

Istanbul is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

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

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

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

Istanbul is a very kid-friendly city. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones 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 Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Mont-Saint-Michel has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Istanbul. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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

Is Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Students?

Istanbul is a great destination for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Istanbul is very popular with students. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Istanbul can get you around easily. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Mont-Saint-Michel offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free shuttle bus that connects Mont-Saint-Michel to the mainland.

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

Istanbul and Mont-Saint-Michel both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Istanbul is very walkable. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

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

How long in Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

One day in Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Istanbul, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

The beautiful island of Mont-Saint-Michel offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Istanbul, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mont-Saint-Michel, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Istanbul, people usually allow for lots of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have five days, this city 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

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

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 139680 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mont-Saint-Michel this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The autumn months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In October, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Istanbul is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 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 Istanbul