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

Should you visit Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny and Mont-Saint-Michel can help you decide which place is right for you.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient 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 breathtaking, inspiring, and iconic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Kilkenny and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kilkenny than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kilkenny is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Kilkenny and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Kilkenny is well known for its medieval castle and long running history. Also, Kilkenny is famous for The Kilkenny Castle.

The Kilkenny Castle

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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 Kilkenny can be an interesting and educational experience. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum.

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

Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

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 Kilkenny or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

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

Kilkenny has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

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

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

Kilkenny is a great destination for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Kilkenny. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Kilkenny 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.

Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

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

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

Kilkenny offers some nice shopping areas. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

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

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

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

Kilkenny is a very kid-friendly town. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.

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 Kilkenny or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Kilkenny is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.

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

Kilkenny and Mont-Saint-Michel are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kilkenny is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

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

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Kilkenny and Mont-Saint-Michel.

You'll find some public transit in Kilkenny, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses through town.

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 Kilkenny or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

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

Kilkenny is a very walkable town. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored 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 Kilkenny Worth Visiting? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Kilkenny or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

One day in Kilkenny or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Kilkenny, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. 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 Kilkenny or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the active town of Kilkenny, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 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 Kilkenny or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the medieval destination of Kilkenny. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 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 Kilkenny or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Kilkenny is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

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 Ireland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

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

Kilkenny has a larger population, and is about 270 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Kilkenny are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

Kilkenny is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in Kilkenny averages around 15°C (60°F) in July, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Mont-Saint-Michel. Kilkenny usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Kilkenny gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kilkenny usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kilkenny gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Kilkenny during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Kilkenny is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kilkenny in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Kilkenny often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kilkenny gets 83 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Kilkenny usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kilkenny gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kilkenny and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Kilkenny 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.

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

Kilkenny usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Kilkenny gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kilkenny usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kilkenny gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Kilkenny as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Kilkenny in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty during these months.

Kilkenny is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in Kilkenny averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Kilkenny often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kilkenny gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Kilkenny usually gets more rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Kilkenny gets 53 mm (2.1 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 Kilkenny