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

Should you visit Rhodes 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 Rhodes 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.

Rhodes

Rhodes is a active, world famous, and ancient island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a religious, historic, and breathtaking island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Rhodes and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rhodes than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Rhodes and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Rhodes is well known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. Also, Rhodes is famous for Rhodes Old Town.

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

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

Plenty of people visit the first-rate sights and museums in both Rhodes and Mont-Saint-Michel.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Rhodes are among the most recognizable in the world. Many of the villages feel like outdoor museums, with churches and archaeological sites throughout. Some of the most well known sites include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Hospital of the Knights, Süleyman Mosque, and Roloi Clock Tower.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Mont-Saint-Michel has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Rhodes or Mont-Saint-Michel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rhodes 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.

Rhodes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The island offers Greek classics with a local flair. Common ingredients include wheat, olives, legumes, wine, and cheese. Many dishes are flavored with cumin, which is more heavily used here than elsewhere in Greece. Popular local dishes include matsi (a pasta cooked in meat broth and prepared with cheese, butter, and legumes), tsouka (a veal and pasta casserole), and lakani (veal, goat, or lamb meat that is slow-cooked in tomato 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 Rhodes or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

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

Rhodes has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's not the most party-oriented island, but you'll find plenty to do at night. Most of the clubs are found in Rhodes Town near Hippocrates Square, along Menekleous Street, or near Orfanidou Street. Faliraki has long been a popular nightlife area that brings in the British crowd, but it's not as lively as it once was. Some resorts offer more of a nightlife scene than others so if that's a priority, do your research before you book.

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

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

Rhodes 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, Rhodes is a perfect choice. It is a large and diverse island with a variety of resorts and towns to choose from. There are quiet areas like those around Kallithea Beach, Kolymbia, and Kalathos, as well as more lively areas like Faliraki. There are a number of all-inclusive resorts around the island but there are also boutique hotels and apartments if that's more your style.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a resort destination.

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

Rhodes is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Rhodes. The island has many snorkeling and dive spots where you can enjoy the underwater world. There are plenty of snorkeling or scuba diving trips that you can organize in advance as well. Because of the island's large size, there's a diversity of vendors and areas to pick between.

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

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

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

With world-famous beaches, Rhodes is a very popular vacation destination. The island has spectacular beaches with crystal blue waters. Many of the beaches are sandy with swimming or snorkeling opportunities. The island is also known for its watersports and several beaches are great windsurfing or kite surfing locations. There are countless beaches to choose from but some of the favorites are Tsambika, Saint Paul's Bay, Ladiko, and Kallithea.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

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

Rhodes 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 Rhodes specifically for its hiking. The breathtaking landscapes, sweeping views, and beautiful waters make this an amazing hiking island. There are a wide range of trails to choose from with easy, moderate, and challenging options available. The many quaint villages and unique archaeological sites all make this a fantastic place to hike.

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 the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

The abundance of shops in Rhodes make it a world-class shopping destination. For a unique shopping experience head to Nea Agora (The New Market), which has a mix of shops and restaurants. You can also pick up fresh produce or pastries there. Sprinkled around the island you'll find many local artisan shops where you can buy ceramics, jewelry, soaps, leather goods, and more.

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

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

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

Rhodes is a very kid-friendly island. It's large size, varied activities, and wonderful outdoor setting makes this one of the most kid-friendly islands in Greece. There are many local villages that everyone will enjoy as well as beautiful walks and stunning beaches. Kids will appreciate the diversity of water activities that are available and the family-friendly restaurants ensure everyone can eat out comfortably.

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 Rhodes or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Rhodes and Mont-Saint-Michel both first-rate destinations for a couple.

Rhodes is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The larger size and diversity of activities make this island a great option for a honeymoon. The beaches are breathtaking, but there are also a number of water sports that couples will enjoy. The hiking, archaeological sites, and amazing restaurants will make for an unforgettable honeymoon.

Mont-Saint-Michel makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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 Rhodes or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Rhodes is a great island to visit for backpackers. The island has something for everyone, and because it's one of the larger islands, there are more hostels and budget restaurants to choose from. You'll find all kinds of travelers on the island and there really is something that everyone can enjoy.

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

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

Rhodes 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.

Rhodes has some very good public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Rhodes is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Rhodes is generally not a very walkable island. The island is large so unless you're interested in hiking, most places are best reached with a vehicle.

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

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

How long in Rhodes or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

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

One day in Rhodes or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Rhodes, 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 Rhodes or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the world famous island of Rhodes, 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. 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 Rhodes or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Rhodes is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This island 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 inspiring 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 2-Week Tours in Greece, The Best Bicycle Tours in Greece, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 7250 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes 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.