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

Should you visit Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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 Pompeii and Mont-Saint-Michel can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a iconic, one-of-a-kind, and ancient archeological site. And you can't forget about the museums.

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.

Pompeii and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pompeii. Although Pompeii and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Pompeii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pompeii is more popular for its shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Pompeii is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It is also home to the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins. Mont-Saint-Michel is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base.

The Pompeii Archaeological Ruins

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

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Mont-Saint-Michel and Pompeii.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Pompeii has many famous sights for visitors. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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 Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Neither Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel offer decent nightlife.

Pompeii doesn't offer many options. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

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

Pompeii is not so good for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

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

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

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

Pompeii is a very kid-friendly archeological site. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

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 Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

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

Pompeii and Mont-Saint-Michel are both good destinations for backpackers.

Pompeii is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

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

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

Pompeii is very good for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Pompeii and Mont-Saint-Michel.

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

You'll find some public transit in Mont-Saint-Michel, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a free shuttle bus that connects Mont-Saint-Michel to the mainland.

Is Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Pompeii 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 Pompeii on foot is easy. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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

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

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

How long in Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. In our opinion, Pompeii has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Pompeii than Mont-Saint-Michel. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Pompeii. 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 Pompeii 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 Pompeii.

One day in Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums around the destination of Pompeii, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums around the iconic archeological site of Pompeii, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mont-Saint-Michel has to offer.

Five days in Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the one-of-a-kind destination of Pompeii. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pompeii or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Pompeii is a popular choice for travelers. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. This archeological site 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mont-Saint-Michel. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Expensive?.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Pompeii during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In July, Pompeii is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 23°C (74°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 Pompeii. In the summer, Pompeii often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Pompeii gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Pompeii usually gets less rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Pompeii gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pompeii and Mont-Saint-Michel. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Pompeii is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pompeii averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Pompeii usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Pompeii usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Pompeii gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Pompeii as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Pompeii for the museums. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Pompeii is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pompeii in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Pompeii often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Pompeii gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the winter. Pompeii usually gets more rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Pompeii gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Pompeii are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Pompeii is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 13°C (55°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Pompeii usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pompeii usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Pompeii gets 71 mm (2.8 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 Pompeii