A Travel Price Comparison for France Le Mans vs. Mont-Saint-Michel for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

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

Le Mans

Le Mans is a historic, quaint, and small town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the nightlife and museums.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a breathtaking, inspiring, and iconic island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Le Mans and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with couples
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 Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mont-Saint-Michel. Although Le Mans and Mont-Saint-Michel are popular destinations, Mont-Saint-Michel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for its museums, food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans attracts visitors for its nightlife and small town charm. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. It is also well known for . Le Mans is famous for being the location of the annual 24 Hours of Le Mans, which is one of the world's greatest sports-car races.

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

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

Le Mans
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Le Mans offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's most famous as the location of the 24 hour car race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and on some days it's possible to visit the race track which has a museum with simulators and other activities. Around town you'll find museums and activities affiliated with the racing culture, and there's also a cathedral as well as several nice museums relating to the automotive industry among other things.


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

Le Mans
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Le Mans is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Mont-Saint-Michel. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Le Mans. It's not known for its food scene, but there is one dish in particular that you should try. The local specialty is les rillettes de porc, which is a pork paté.

Is Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Le Mans
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Le Mans has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find bars and clubs in the city center around Saint-Nicolas Quarter, rue des Ponts-neufs, Place de la Sirène and around the Republic Square.

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

Is Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Le Mans
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for hiking. However, Le Mans 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.

Le Mans is not a hiking destination.


Is Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

Le Mans
Mont-Saint-Michel

Le Mans 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 Le Mans. Make sure you visit on a day when Le Mans Karting International and the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum is open to visitors. Families can ride on high speed go-carts and train like professionals with special game simulators. This is a popular destination for adults and kids alike. The town also has indoor play areas, waterparks, and beautiful parks to explore.

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 Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Le Mans
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

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.

Le Mans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a small town, but racing enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum.

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

Le Mans
Mont-Saint-Michel

For backpackers, both Le Mans and Mont-Saint-Michel are nice places to visit.

Le Mans is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While there aren't many hostels specifically designed for backpackers, it is possible to find affordable accommodation at most times.

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


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

Le Mans
Mont-Saint-Michel

Le Mans and Mont-Saint-Michel both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Le Mans offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a tram service around town that provides access to many places including the race track via the T1 line (Antarès-Stade Marie Marvingt and exit at the East Entrance).

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

Is Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Le Mans
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is great for its walkability. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

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

Le Mans is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are walkable.

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

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

How long in Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

One day in Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With nightlife and museums around the destination of Le Mans, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the historic town of Le Mans, 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.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mont-Saint-Michel has to offer.

Five days in Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the historic destination of Le Mans. 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 great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Le Mans is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mont-Saint-Michel. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to France, The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Mont-Saint-Michel or Le Mans?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Le Mans is €83, 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 Le Mans and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Le Mans 37
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Le Mans 74
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
Compare Hotels in Le Mans and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Le Mans 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 Le Mans


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: Le Mans Hotel Prices and Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Le Mans 30
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Le Mans 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
    Le Mans 27
    Mont-Saint-Michel 44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Le Mans 15
    Mont-Saint-Michel 30

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": $260
  • 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: $223

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Le Mans 12
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86


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

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


Which is Bigger, Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Le Mans has a larger population, and is about 1810 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Le Mans 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 Le Mans 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 Le Mans or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Le Mans as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The summer months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In the summer, Le Mans is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Le Mans in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 19°C (65°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mont-Saint-Michel. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Le Mans this time of the year. In the summer, Le Mans often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel. Le Mans gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets more rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Le Mans gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Le Mans are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The small town atmosphere are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Le Mans is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Le Mans average around 13°C (55°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Le Mans usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Le Mans gets 117 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Le Mans usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Le Mans gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Le Mans during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Le Mans for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Le Mans. Le Mans is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter. The daily temperature in Le Mans averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Le Mans often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Le Mans gets 54 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets more rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Le Mans gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Le Mans and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Le Mans in the spring for the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Le Mans is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Le Mans in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

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

In April, Le Mans usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Le Mans gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Le Mans

Le Mans Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


Related Articles for Le Mans
Related Articles for Mont-Saint-Michel