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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a bustling, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a historic, breathtaking, and inspiring island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Thessaloniki and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Thessaloniki is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Also, Thessaloniki is famous for The Monument of Rotonda.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Mont-Saint-Michel are world-renowned. 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.

Many visitors head to Thessaloniki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

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

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Thessaloniki. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

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 Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki know how to have a good time. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

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

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

Thessaloniki is a city with a few options for the beache. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Thessaloniki. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a beach destination.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

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

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

Thessaloniki is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

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

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

Thessaloniki is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thessaloniki. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

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 Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

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

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

Thessaloniki is a great city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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

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

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

Thessaloniki is very popular with students. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Thessaloniki and Mont-Saint-Michel.

Thessaloniki has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

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

How long in Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Thessaloniki than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Thessaloniki, 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 museums and food that this iconic island offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this island.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the high energy city of Thessaloniki, 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling destination of Thessaloniki. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Thessaloniki is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

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

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

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

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 4430 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, 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 Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the natural beauty.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 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 Thessaloniki