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

Should you visit Varenna 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 Varenna 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.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Varenna and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Varenna than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Varenna is better known for its food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Varenna and is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Also, Varenna is famous for Lake Como.

Lake Como

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Varenna 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Varenna. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

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

Varenna 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.

Varenna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around 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 Varenna or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Varenna is a village with a few options for nightlife and partying. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

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

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

Varenna is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

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 Varenna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Varenna offers some nice shopping areas. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

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

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

Varenna 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 Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

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 Varenna or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

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

Varenna is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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

Varenna and Mont-Saint-Michel are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Mont-Saint-Michel. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

Is Varenna 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 Varenna and Mont-Saint-Michel.

Varenna has some public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

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

Varenna is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Varenna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

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

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

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

One day in Varenna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With food and shopping around the destination of Varenna, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Varenna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the scenic village of Varenna, 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. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mont-Saint-Michel has to offer.

Five days in Varenna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the scenic destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Varenna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Varenna is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the food. This village 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mont-Saint-Michel. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Varenna and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Varenna 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 Varenna Expensive? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Expensive?.

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

Varenna has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Varenna 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 Varenna 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 Varenna or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Varenna during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Varenna is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 23°C (73°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 Varenna. In the summer, Varenna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. Varenna usually gets more rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Varenna and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Varenna in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Varenna is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Varenna in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Varenna usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Varenna gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Varenna usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Varenna as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the museums and the cuisine.

Varenna can be very cold during winter. In January, Varenna is generally around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 5°C (41°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Varenna often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Varenna usually gets more rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Varenna are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Varenna because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

Varenna is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Varenna usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Varenna gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. In April, Varenna usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 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 Varenna