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

Should you visit Paphos 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 Paphos 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.

Paphos

Paphos is a overlooked, ancient, and beautiful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Paphos and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Mont-Saint-Michel are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Paphos and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Paphos is famous for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park.

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

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

Both Paphos and Mont-Saint-Michel have terrific landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paphos that are not to be missed. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

The museums and tourist attractions in Mont-Saint-Michel are world-renowned. 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 Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos 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.

Paphos has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

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 Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

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

Paphos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

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

Is Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Resorts?

Paphos is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Paphos is a perfect choice. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Paphos. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Paphos is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Paphos is a very popular vacation destination. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

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

Paphos is very good for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Paphos to see the old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Paphos is not a hiking destination.

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.

Paphos is not a hiking destination.

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

Paphos is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Paphos is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

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

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

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

Paphos is a very kid-friendly town. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

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 Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Paphos and Mont-Saint-Michel are both terrific to visit as a couple.

Paphos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great town for couples, as it 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.

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

Paphos is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paphos is a great town to visit for backpackers. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

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

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

Paphos is a great 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.

Paphos has some very good public transit options. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Paphos 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.

Paphos is a somewhat walkable place. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paphos than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

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

One day in Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Paphos, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the overlooked town of Paphos, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With nightlife and food around the overlooked destination of Paphos, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this town 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 Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Paphos is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the iconic 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

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

Paphos has a larger population, and is about 450 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Paphos 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 Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Paphos or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Mont-Saint-Michel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In October, Paphos is generally much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Mont-Saint-Michel. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine.

Paphos is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives around the same amount of rain as Mont-Saint-Michel. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Paphos is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Paphos