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

Should you visit Urbino or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Urbino and Mont-Saint-Michel can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Urbino

Urbino is a laid back, historic, and undiscovered town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a iconic, religious, and historic island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Urbino and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Urbino. Although Urbino and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Urbino has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Urbino is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Urbino and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Urbino is popular for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere. It is also home to Palazzo Ducale di Urbino.

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

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

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an amazing island to visit for its historical sights. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Urbino is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.


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

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

Urbino 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 Urbino. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

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 Urbino or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Urbino has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

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

Is Urbino or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for its Old Town?

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

Urbino is very good for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Urbino to see the old town. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.


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

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with good options for hiking. However, Urbino is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Mont-Saint-Michel. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Urbino is not a hiking destination.

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

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Urbino offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

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

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

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

Neither Urbino nor Mont-Saint-Michel are considered to be the most family-friendly destination.

For families, Urbino is not always the best place to visit. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not the most family-friendly destination. 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 Urbino or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great island 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.

Urbino is a very popular place to visit for couples. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

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

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.

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

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Urbino is very popular with students. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.


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

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.

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

Urbino
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Urbino or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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


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

One day in Urbino or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Urbino, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. 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 Urbino or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the laid back town of Urbino, 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 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 Urbino or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the undiscovered destination of Urbino. 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.

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 Urbino or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Urbino is a popular choice for travelers. This town 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 historic 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 Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


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

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Urbino is €118, while the average daily cost in Mont-Saint-Michel is €156. 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 Urbino and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Urbino 53
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Urbino 106
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
Compare Hotels in Urbino and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Urbino 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 Urbino


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Urbino 44
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

Also for Urbino, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Urbino 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
    Urbino 39
    Mont-Saint-Michel 44

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Urbino 15
    Mont-Saint-Michel 30

Tours and Activities in Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour with certified guide: $139
  • Private Walking Tour with Ducal Palace Ticket: $150
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184

Tours and Activities in Mont-Saint-Michel

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

  • 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel : $33
  • Abbey du Mont Saint-Michel Priority Entrance Tickets: $16
  • Airborne Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Cherbourg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $44
  • Entrance ticket to the Battle of the Hedges Museum: $11
  • Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in the Middle Ages: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Mont-St-Michel: Private Walking Tour "Abbey Ticket Included": $261
  • Mont-St-Michel: Shared Tour (10 max) "Abbey Ticket Included": $162
  • Mt St. Michel Private Tour with Abbey tickets and tour guide: $272
  • Normandy Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Private Guided Tour in WW2 Jeep of the Landing Beaches: $272
  • Private walking tour of Mont Saint Michel with a licensed guide: $215

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Urbino 14
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86


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

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


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

Urbino has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Urbino 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 Urbino 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 Urbino or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Urbino as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Urbino in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Urbino is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Urbino average around 23°C (73°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

Urbino usually gets more rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Urbino gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Urbino 23°C (73°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Urbino are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Urbino for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Urbino is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Urbino averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In October, Urbino usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Urbino gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Urbino 15°C (59°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Urbino during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Urbino because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

The weather in Urbino can be very cold. In the winter, Urbino is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Urbino in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Urbino usually gets less rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Urbino gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Urbino and Mont-Saint-Michel. The natural beauty are the main draw to Urbino this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty.

In April, Urbino is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Urbino average around 12°C (54°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In April, Urbino usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Urbino gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Urbino 12°C (54°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Urbino

Urbino Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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