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

Should you visit Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Should I visit Paris 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.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling 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 museums, theater, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a historic, breathtaking, and inspiring island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Paris and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris. Although Paris and Mont-Saint-Michel are popular destinations, Paris has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paris is very popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Mont-Saint-Michel attracts visitors for its hiking. Paris is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Mont-Saint-Michel is famous for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base.

The Eiffel Tower

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

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

Spend time exploring the world-class sights and museums in either Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel.

Travelers visit Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Mont-Saint-Michel are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Theater?

Paris is a world-class destination for its theatre productions. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Paris is world-class. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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.

Paris has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Paris 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 Paris just to party. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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

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

Paris 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 Paris Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for hiking. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

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

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

The abundance of shops in Paris make it a world-class shopping destination. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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

Is Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Christmas?

Paris is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a world class destination for shoppers. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Mont-Saint-Michel does not offer Christmas activities.

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

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

Paris is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Paris and Mont-Saint-Michel make for a world-class place to visit.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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.

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

Paris 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 Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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

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

Paris is a world-class destination for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Paris 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 Paris can get you around easily. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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

Paris and Mont-Saint-Michel are great when it comes to walkability.

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

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

One day in Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Paris, people usually allow for lots of time. 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, many people enjoy the food and museums that this religious destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Paris, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mont-Saint-Michel. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel?

When visiting Paris, people usually allow for lots of time. 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Paris is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the religious destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paris and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Mont-Saint-Michel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mont-Saint-Michel would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

Paris has a larger population, and is about 26730 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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 Paris 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 Paris or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paris as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paris is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paris in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 19°C (65°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mont-Saint-Michel. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paris this time of the year. In the summer, Paris often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets more rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Paris is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 13°C (56°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Paris usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paris usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Paris during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. Paris is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Paris often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Paris is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paris in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Paris usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paris usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 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 Paris