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

Should you visit Reims 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 Reims 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.

Reims

Reims is a cultural, beautiful, and relaxing city. The beauty of Reims is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Reims travel costs.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a inspiring, iconic, and religious island. The famous beauty of Mont-Saint-Michel is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking. See Mont-Saint-Michel travel costs.

Reims and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Reims. Although Reims and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Reims has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Reims is more popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Reims and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Reims is popular for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. It is also home to The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims.

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

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

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Mont-Saint-Michel on the map. 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.

Reims is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Sights around town include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, Palais du Tau, Basilique Saint-Rémi, and Musée des Beaux-Arts.


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

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

Reims 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.

Reims has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. While its famous for its Champagne, the city also has Michelin starred restaurants, local produce, and an amazing regional cuisine. The region is known for its ham, cheese, mustard, and truffles.

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 Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Reims has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is relaxing but active. Most locals hang out with friends at local bars near Place Drouet d'Erlon or the Rue Chanzy area. Bars have a combination of local beers and Champagne.

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

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

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Mont-Saint-Michel has hiking trails worth exploring. There's a 4.2 mile (6.5k) out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Reims is not a hiking destination.


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

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Reims is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find not only Champagne, but also jewellry, designer fashion, and chocolate. The best shopping is located around the Place Drouet d'Erlon which is a pedestrian area. Also check out the shopping streets of Rue de Vesle and Cours Langlet.

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

Is Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel More Beautiful?

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Mont-Saint-Michel is one of the main draws. It's a beautiful but touristy destination on a tidal island in Normandy. The highlight is the dramatic abbey that has attracted tourists and visitors for centuries.

Reims is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Filled with history and character, this is a truly beautiful part of France. It's fun to see it from above as well and hot air balloon rides are a popular activity.

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

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

Most people don't think of either Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel as a family destination.

Reims doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Kids will enjoy exploring the historical city center or visiting the Palace of Tau. For a unique activity, view the region from above with a hot air balloon ride.

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 Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Reims has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This romantic area is perfect for couples who enjoy wine and history. There is beautiful architecture as well as wine tours and breathtaking hot air balloon rides. Visiting the Champagne Houses is a must for any couple visiting the area.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great city 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 Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

Reims and Mont-Saint-Michel are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Reims. It's located in the Champagne region, which isn't often associated with backpackers, but it's still not to be missed.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good city to visit for backpackers. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

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

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Reims and Mont-Saint-Michel.

You'll find some public transit in Reims, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. In town there are buses and trams, but to get into the countryside you'll need your own car.

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

Reims
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Mont-Saint-Michel on foot is easy. Not only is the walk through the town and castle stunning, there are also many beautiful walks in the natural areas nearby.

Reims is very walkable. You can explore the city on foot and reach many local Champagne Houses. If you really want to explore everything in depth, you'll need a car.

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

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

How long in Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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


  • How many days in Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Reims 2-5 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2

One day in Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Reims, there's plenty to do. 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 inspiring 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 Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Reims, 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.

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 Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With nightlife and food around the relaxing destination of Reims, there's plenty to do. 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 Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Reims is a popular choice for travelers. One of the main draws to the area is the food. This city 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.

You'll find museums and food around the iconic 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, The Best Historical Tours in France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Mont-Saint-Michel or Reims?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Reims Prices
    France Prices
    Mont-Saint-Michel Prices
    France Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Reims 160
    Mont-Saint-Michel 189

The average daily cost (per person) in Reims is €160, while the average daily cost in Mont-Saint-Michel is €189. 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 Reims and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Reims 66
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Reims 132
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
Compare Hotels in Reims and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Reims 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 Reims


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: Reims Hotel Prices and Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Reims 39
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mont-Saint-Michel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mont-Saint-Michel:

  • Private Transfer from Mont Saint-Michel to Rennes - Up to 7 People: $292

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Reims 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
    Reims 70
    Mont-Saint-Michel 76

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Reims 19
    Mont-Saint-Michel 30

Tours and Activities in Reims

Here are a few actual costs in Reims for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Reims Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $6.25
  • Self guided tour of Cathedral of Notre Dame de Reims: $6.96
  • Reims Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Experience: $10
  • Reims Cathedral of Notre Dame Guided Tour: $11
  • Discovery tour (2 tastings): $19
  • Entrance ticket to Pressoria in the heart of Champagne with Tasting: $19
  • Champagne Tour and Tasting with a friendly guide in Marne Valley: $26
  • Champagne Lamiable: Traditional Tour & Tasting: $33
  • Champagne Cellar tour and tasting: $41
  • Champagne Guy De Chassey : Premium Tour and Tasting: $42
  • Guided tour of the Aÿ vineyard and Champagne tasting: $57
  • Champagne experience with a vintage van from Epernay - 3 hours: $84

Tours and Activities in Mont-Saint-Michel

Here are a few actual costs in Mont-Saint-Michel for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self Guided Audio Tour of Mont Saint-Michele island (no ticket): $5.22
  • Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in the Middle Ages: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Entrance ticket to the Normandy Victory Museum: $10
  • Airborne Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Quicksand Experience Mont Saint Michel: $13
  • Abbey du Mont Saint-Michel Priority Entrance Tickets: $18
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel : $31
  • Skip-the-Line Ticket Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Audio-Visual Tour: $41
  • Cherbourg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $42
  • 2 Hour Guided Tour of Mont Saint Michel: $57
  • Jeep Tour to Holy Mother Church: $177
  • Mont-St-Michel: Shared Tour (10 max) "Abbey Ticket Included": $190

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Reims 22
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86


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

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


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

Reims has a larger population, and is about 2460 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Reims 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 Reims 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 Reims or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Reims are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Reims for 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 July, Reims is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Reims average around 19°C (65°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Mont-Saint-Michel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Reims. Reims usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Reims gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Reims usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Reims 19°C (65°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

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

Reims is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Reims averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Reims often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Reims gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Reims usually gets less rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Reims 12°C (53°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

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

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

It's quite cold in Reims in the winter. In the winter, Reims is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Reims in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Reims usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Reims gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Reims usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Reims gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Reims 3°C (37°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Reims as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Reims for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Reims is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Reims average around 9°C (49°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Reims often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel. Reims gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Reims usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Mont-Saint-Michel. Reims gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Reims 9°C (49°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Reims

Reims Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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