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

Should you visit Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a inspiring, iconic, and religious island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Lillehammer and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
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 Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lillehammer. Although Lillehammer and Mont-Saint-Michel are popular destinations, Lillehammer has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lillehammer is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Mont-Saint-Michel attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Lillehammer and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics. It is also well known for Lillehammer Olympic Park.

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

Is Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

Lillehammer is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a skiing destination.

People head to Lillehammer specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a skiing destination.


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

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Mont-Saint-Michel that are not to be missed. 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.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

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

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

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 Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Lillehammer has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

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


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

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

Lillehammer is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Lillehammer. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

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 the Shopping Better in Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Lillehammer offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

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

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

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Lillehammer is a very kid-friendly city. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

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 Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lillehammer is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

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

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

Lillehammer and Mont-Saint-Michel are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Lillehammer. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good city to visit for backpackers. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

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

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

Lillehammer is very good for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Lillehammer is popular with students. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.


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

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

You'll find some public transit in Lillehammer, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

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

Lillehammer
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is well known for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

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

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

How long in Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lillehammer than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Lillehammer, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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


  • How many days in Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lillehammer 2-4 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2

One day in Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Lillehammer, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic island of Mont-Saint-Michel. Most people visit for the museums. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and skiing around the adventure-filled city of Lillehammer, 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the inspiring destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the natural destination of Lillehammer. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 iconic island of Mont-Saint-Michel offers food and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Lillehammer or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Lillehammer is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city 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. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Mont-Saint-Michel or Lillehammer?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lillehammer is $102, while the average daily cost in Mont-Saint-Michel is $168. 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 Lillehammer and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lillehammer $61
    Mont-Saint-Michel $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lillehammer $122
    Mont-Saint-Michel $150
Compare Hotels in Lillehammer and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer


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: Lillehammer Hotel Prices and Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lillehammer $3.92
    Mont-Saint-Michel $75

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Lillehammer 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
    Lillehammer $35
    Mont-Saint-Michel $47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lillehammer $16
    Mont-Saint-Michel $32

Tours and Activities in Lillehammer

Here are a few actual costs in Lillehammer for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Maihaugen Open-Air Museum, Lillehammer. Entry Ticket: $15

Tours and Activities in Mont-Saint-Michel

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

  • Self Guided Audio Tour around Mont Saint-Michele island: $5.45
  • Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in the Middle Ages: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Airborne Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Entrance ticket to the Battle of the Hedges Museum: $11
  • Normandy Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Abbey du Mont Saint-Michel Priority Entrance Tickets: $16
  • Walking Tour in the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel: $16
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel : $33
  • Cherbourg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $44
  • Mont-St-Michel: Shared Tour (10 max) "Abbey Ticket Included": $162
  • Private walking tour of Mont Saint Michel with a licensed guide: $215
  • Mont-St-Michel: Private Walking Tour "Abbey Ticket Included": $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lillehammer $12
    Mont-Saint-Michel $8.42


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

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


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

Lillehammer has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Lillehammer 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.