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

Should you visit Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a historic, breathtaking, and inspiring island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Lisbon and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its hiking. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge.

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

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

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Mont-Saint-Michel and Lisbon.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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.

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

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

People head to Lisbon just to party. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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

Is Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Music?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Lisbon The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is very good for the beache. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon is revered around the world. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for hiking. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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

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

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

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Mont-Saint-Michel makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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

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

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

Lisbon is very popular with students. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon can get you around easily. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Lisbon on foot is easy. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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

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

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

How long in Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Lisbon than Mont-Saint-Michel. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lisbon that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Lisbon, 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Lisbon, 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Lisbon, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mont-Saint-Michel. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Lisbon 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

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

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 6470 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), 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 Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the natural beauty.

In April, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Lisbon