A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Mont-Saint-Michel for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a spiritual, dramatic, and historic destination. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

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. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Mont-Saint-Michel than Kalampaka (Meteora), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Kalampaka (Meteora) and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is famous for . Kalampaka (Meteora) is well known for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Mont-Saint-Michel

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Mont-Saint-Michel.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kalampaka (Meteora) are world-renowned. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

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.


Is the Food Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Mont-Saint-Michel

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Mont-Saint-Michel.

Kalampaka (Meteora) has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Mont-Saint-Michel area. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Mont-Saint-Michel

Neither Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel offer decent nightlife.

Kalampaka (Meteora) doesn't offer many options. This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

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

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.

Mont-Saint-Michel offers some nice hiking trails. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Mont-Saint-Michel

Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora). There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a good destination for couples to visit. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With food and museums around the destination of Kalampaka (Meteora), there's plenty to do. 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 food and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and food around the dramatic destination of Kalampaka (Meteora), 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.

Many people visit Mont-Saint-Michel for a weekend. Lots of people come for the museums. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the dramatic destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). 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.

The beautiful destination of Mont-Saint-Michel offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular choice for travelers. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. This destination 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. This island offers something for everyone. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Mont-Saint-Michel or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134, 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
Compare Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora) and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)


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: Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $43
  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $274

Is it cheaper to fly into Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Kalampaka (Meteora) 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39
    Mont-Saint-Michel 44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44
    Mont-Saint-Michel 30

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Varlaam Monastery Greece Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $17
  • Meteora: Self-Guided App-Based Driving Tour: $17
  • Meteora: Hermit Caves Sunset Hiking Experience: $38
  • Sunset Meteora Tour on E-Bike: $40
  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $43
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $44
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $44
  • Midday Meteora Monastery tour from Kalabaka's train station : $44
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Morning Monastery E-bike Tour: $46

Tours and Activities in Mont-Saint-Michel

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

  • 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel : $33
  • Abbey du Mont Saint-Michel Priority Entrance Tickets: $16
  • Airborne Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Cherbourg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $44
  • Entrance ticket to the Battle of the Hedges Museum: $11
  • Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in the Middle Ages: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Mont-St-Michel: Private Walking Tour "Abbey Ticket Included": $261
  • Mont-St-Michel: Shared Tour (10 max) "Abbey Ticket Included": $162
  • Mt St. Michel Private Tour with Abbey tickets and tour guide: $272
  • Normandy Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Private Guided Tour in WW2 Jeep of the Landing Beaches: $272
  • Private walking tour of Mont Saint Michel with a licensed guide: $215

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76


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

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


Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Kalampaka (Meteora) has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Kalampaka (Meteora) during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In Mont-Saint-Michel, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kalampaka (Meteora). In the summer, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 330 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 26°C (78°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the autumn for 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 the autumn, Kalampaka (Meteora) is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 17°C (62°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Winter?

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

In January, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 6°C (42°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 6°C (42°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Spring?

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kalampaka (Meteora). Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 14°C (56°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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