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

Should you visit Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Outer Hebrides and Mont-Saint-Michel. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides is a spectacular, natural, and tranquil archipelago. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a religious, historic, and breathtaking island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Outer Hebrides and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less family-friendly


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mont-Saint-Michel. Although Outer Hebrides 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, nightlife, and impressive beauty, while Outer Hebrides attracts visitors for its food, beaches, and hiking. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Outer Hebrides and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. It is also well known for . Outer Hebrides is famous for its scenic beauty, fresh seafood, and distilleries.

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

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

Outer Hebrides
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Outer Hebrides
Mont-Saint-Michel

Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides. You'll find plenty of seafood, smokehouses, distilleries and crofting produce in the area. Most islands have independent restaurants as well as pubs and other local eateries 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 Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Outer Hebrides
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a good area for nightlife. However, Outer Hebrides 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.

Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Beaches?

Outer Hebrides
Mont-Saint-Michel

Outer Hebrides is a great destination for the beache. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

Outer Hebrides is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. From white sand beaches to hidden coves, you'll enjoy a completely serene beach experience on these islands. You can get lost in the nature and soak up the surprisingly blue waters at any of the remote beaches. Favorite beaches in the area include Vatersay Bay, Coilleag a’Phrionnsa, West Coast Beach, and Crabhadail.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.


Is Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Outer Hebrides
Mont-Saint-Michel

Outer Hebrides is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Many people visit Outer Hebrides specifically for its hiking. The islands offer some of the area's best hiking. You'll pass by stunning beaches, see unique wildlife, and enjoy a remote and tranquil setting. Follow the Hebridean Way, which covers the full length of the archipelago. It spans 156 miles and goes through 10 islands with 2 ferry trips.

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 Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

Outer Hebrides
Mont-Saint-Michel

Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides. The beautiful outdoor setting is great for kids and adults alike. There are beaches to explore as well as kid-friendly museums. You can also try your hand at digging for cockles or head out on the water to watch for dolphins.

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 Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Outer Hebrides
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Outer Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Mont-Saint-Michel is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Outer Hebrides frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Go island hopping and discover the countless beautiful beaches. You can take a boat trip or simply soak up the peaceful coastal setting.


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

Outer Hebrides
Mont-Saint-Michel

Outer Hebrides and Mont-Saint-Michel are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Outer Hebrides. You'll need to take either a plane of ferry to reach the islands but once you're there you can camp and hike and soak up the tranquil setting.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Mont-Saint-Michel. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

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

Outer Hebrides
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides. There are buses that run doing the day between Monday and Saturday. In Stornoway you may be able to find some evening buses as well.

Is Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Outer Hebrides
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.


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

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

How long in Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Outer Hebrides than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-10 days is a good amount of time for Outer Hebrides, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

Couples should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Outer Hebrides. 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 Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Outer Hebrides 4-10 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2

One day in Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With food around the destination of Outer Hebrides, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find museums and food. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With food around the serene archipelago of Outer Hebrides, 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With food around the remote destination of Outer Hebrides, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have five days, this archipelago 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. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Outer Hebrides is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. This archipelago 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 island of Mont-Saint-Michel. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Mont-Saint-Michel or Outer Hebrides?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Outer Hebrides is £123, while the average daily cost in Mont-Saint-Michel is £134. 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 Outer Hebrides and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Outer Hebrides £62
    Mont-Saint-Michel £60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Outer Hebrides £124
    Mont-Saint-Michel £120
Compare Hotels in Outer Hebrides and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides


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: Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Outer Hebrides £51
    Mont-Saint-Michel £60

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Outer Hebrides 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
    Outer Hebrides £31
    Mont-Saint-Michel £38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Outer Hebrides £20
    Mont-Saint-Michel £26

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Outer Hebrides £6.36
    Mont-Saint-Michel £6.72


When comparing the travel costs between Outer Hebrides and Mont-Saint-Michel, 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 Outer Hebrides Expensive? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Outer Hebrides during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Outer Hebrides for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Outer Hebrides is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Outer Hebrides in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In Mont-Saint-Michel, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Outer Hebrides often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Outer Hebrides gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Outer Hebrides gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Outer Hebrides 13°C (55°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Outer Hebrides and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Outer Hebrides in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Outer Hebrides is generally cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 9°C (49°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Outer Hebrides gets 83 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Outer Hebrides gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Outer Hebrides gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Outer Hebrides 9°C (49°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Outer Hebrides as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to Outer Hebrides for the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the museums and the cuisine.

Outer Hebrides can be very cold during winter. Outer Hebrides is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Outer Hebrides often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Outer Hebrides gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides receives a lot of rain in the winter. Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Outer Hebrides gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Outer Hebrides 4°C (40°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Outer Hebrides are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Outer Hebrides because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In the spring, Outer Hebrides is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Outer Hebrides in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Outer Hebrides gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Outer Hebrides gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Outer Hebrides 7°C (44°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 107 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 126 mm (5 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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