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

Should you visit San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a splendid, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a inspiring, iconic, and religious island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

San Sebastian and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Sebastian than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Sebastian is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than San Sebastian and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Also, San Sebastian is famous for La Concha Bay.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around San Sebastian. Head to Castillo de la Mota for nice views and walks. Museo San Telmo offers an overview of Basque culture and Palacio de Miramar is another interesting place to visit.

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

San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It is a famed culinary capital of not just Spain, but the entire world. The city has many Michelin-starred restaurants where you can experience modern or traditional recipes prepared by world class chefs. There are also pintxo bars, food markets, and gourmet food shops, that sell local ingredients and dishes. Much of the cuisine includes seafood, but you'll also find a local twist on traditional tapas. Dining is a true experience in this town.

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 San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in San Sebastian know how to have a good time. You can expect a lively nightlife scene around town with many bars and places to hang out. Some of the best nightlife is found in and around Parte Vieja, Centro, Reyes Católicos and Gros.

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

Is San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is very good for its resorts. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, San Sebastian makes a nice vacation spot. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a resort destination.

Is San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a great destination for the beache. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

San Sebastian is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has three urban beaches that are a huge attraction during the summer months. For surfing and a lively atmosphere, head to the Playa de la Zurriola. The playa de la Concha is the most photographed and famous beach in town and Ondarreta is another beautiful option.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

Is San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

San Sebastian is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. A mix of familiar brands and locally made items make shopping a fun activity. You'll also find many artisan food shops around town where you can take home some local wine or other culinary treats.

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

Is San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

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

San Sebastian is a very kid-friendly city. This city is surprisingly family-friendly. Not only is there the beach, but there are playgrounds everywhere. There's also the fun Monte Igueldo San Sebastian Amusement Park and the San Sebastian Aquarium. You could also take a boat ride or explore the many parks and gardens around town. And, of course, there are the many ice cream shops to check out.

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 San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Mont-Saint-Michel has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

San Sebastian makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its nice beaches, stunning view points, and world class restaurants, this city makes an excellent couple's destination. There are Michelin star restaurants to dine in and many parks and gardens where you can take a stroll as well.

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

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

San Sebastian is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town, and you'll find enough other backpackers looking to meet up so you'll never be lonely.

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

Is San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a great destination for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

San Sebastian is very popular with students. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Both San Sebastian and Mont-Saint-Michel offer notable public transit options.

San Sebastian has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

Mont-Saint-Michel has some public transit options. There's a free shuttle bus that connects Mont-Saint-Michel to the mainland.

Is San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

San Sebastian and Mont-Saint-Michel both are excellent when exploring on foot.

San Sebastian is a very walkable city. It's a great city for walking, with many pedestrian areas and places where you can take a stroll along the river or seaside.

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

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

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

How long in San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

One day in San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of San Sebastian, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 food and museums when visiting the iconic destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of San Sebastian, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy destination of San Sebastian. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the religious destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel?

San Sebastian is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. 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 beautiful island of Mont-Saint-Michel. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 2290 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches 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.

San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mont-Saint-Michel this time of the year. In San Sebastian, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In the autumn, San Sebastian is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Sebastian in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, San Sebastian often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the autumn. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and San Sebastian are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine.

In January, San Sebastian is generally much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 8°C (47°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

San Sebastian usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. San Sebastian gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In January, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and San Sebastian during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring for the natural beauty.

San Sebastian is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. San Sebastian gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 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 San Sebastian