A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mont-Saint-Michel vs. Cairngorms National Park for Couples, Hiking, Families, and Food

Should you visit Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Mont-Saint-Michel and Cairngorms National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a remote, beautiful, and serene national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Mont-Saint-Michel and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mont-Saint-Michel. Although Mont-Saint-Michel and Cairngorms National Park are both popular with visitors, Mont-Saint-Michel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and impressive beauty, while Cairngorms National Park is known for its hiking. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Cairngorms National Park and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. It is also home to . Cairngorms National Park is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains.

How is Mont-Saint-Michel different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park and Mont-Saint-Michel. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park?

Mont-Saint-Michel
Cairngorms National Park

Mont-Saint-Michel is renowned for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Mont-Saint-Michel has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Mont-Saint-Michel
Cairngorms National Park

Foodies will find both Mont-Saint-Michel and Cairngorms National Park both to be good destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Cairngorms National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Mont-Saint-Michel
Cairngorms National Park

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a good area for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel doesn't offer many options. Most people visit the island as a daytrip and nightlife is essentially nonexistent.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Mont-Saint-Michel
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

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 Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Mont-Saint-Michel
Cairngorms National Park

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

Cairngorms National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

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 Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel
Cairngorms National Park

Mont-Saint-Michel is renowned for couples. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Cairngorms National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Is Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mont-Saint-Michel
Cairngorms National Park

Mont-Saint-Michel and Cairngorms National Park are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mont-Saint-Michel is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.


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

Mont-Saint-Michel
Cairngorms National Park

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Mont-Saint-Michel
Cairngorms National Park

Mont-Saint-Michel is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Mont-Saint-Michel?

How long in Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Mont-Saint-Michel, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Cairngorms National Park 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 Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park?

With museums and food around the breathtaking island of Mont-Saint-Michel, there's plenty to do. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food around the destination of Cairngorms National Park, 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.


A weekend in Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and museums around the historic destination of Mont-Saint-Michel, there's plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With food around the remote national park of Cairngorms National Park, 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. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and food around the breathtaking island of Mont-Saint-Michel. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

With food around the picturesque destination of Cairngorms National Park, there's plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you have five days, this national park 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.

A week in Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best River Cruises in France, The Best Bicycle Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mont-Saint-Michel is €156, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Mont-Saint-Michel and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Mont-Saint-Michel and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Mont-Saint-Michel


Hotels in Cairngorms National Park


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 and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
    Cairngorms National Park 62

Is it cheaper to fly into Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park and Mont-Saint-Michel 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
    Mont-Saint-Michel 44
    Cairngorms National Park 35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mont-Saint-Michel 30
    Cairngorms National Park 31

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

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83


When comparing the travel costs between Mont-Saint-Michel and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Mont-Saint-Michel is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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



When is the best time to visit Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Mont-Saint-Michel is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mont-Saint-Michel in July average around 19°C (65°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mont-Saint-Michel this time of the year. In the summer, Mont-Saint-Michel often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Mont-Saint-Michel gets 246 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Mont-Saint-Michel usually gets less rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Mont-Saint-Michel gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

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

In October, Mont-Saint-Michel is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Mont-Saint-Michel average around 13°C (55°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Mont-Saint-Michel usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Mont-Saint-Michel gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Mont-Saint-Michel usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Mont-Saint-Michel gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

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

Cairngorms National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Mont-Saint-Michel is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Mont-Saint-Michel averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Mont-Saint-Michel often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Mont-Saint-Michel gets 70 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Mont-Saint-Michel usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Mont-Saint-Michel gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Mont-Saint-Michel or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Mont-Saint-Michel is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mont-Saint-Michel in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Mont-Saint-Michel usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Mont-Saint-Michel gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Mont-Saint-Michel usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Mont-Saint-Michel gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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