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

Should you visit Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Venice and Mont-Saint-Michel can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a cultural, magical, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Venice and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Venice. Although Venice and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Venice has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Venice is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its hiking. Venice is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Mont-Saint-Michel is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base.

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

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Mont-Saint-Michel and Venice.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Venice has many famous sights for visitors. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Mont-Saint-Michel that are not to be missed. 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 Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Venice and Mont-Saint-Michel both to be good destinations.

Venice is becoming an appealing option for foodies. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Mont-Saint-Michel offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

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

Venice is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

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

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

Venice is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for hiking. However, Venice is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Venice is not a hiking destination.

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

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

The abundance of shops in Venice make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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

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

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

Venice is a very kid-friendly city. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Both Venice and Mont-Saint-Michel are fantastic destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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.

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

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

Venice is a great city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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

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

Venice is a world-class destination for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Venice is a world-class 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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Venice can get you around easily. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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

Venice 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 Venice on foot is easy. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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

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

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

How long in Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Venice than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Venice, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

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

One day in Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With food and shopping around the destination of Venice, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the cultural city of Venice, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and food around the magical destination of Venice, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have five days, this city 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 Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Venice is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Venice and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Venice is more expensive. And not only is Mont-Saint-Michel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mont-Saint-Michel would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice than you might in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

Venice has a larger population, and is about 3390 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Venice 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 Venice 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 Venice or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Venice as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The summer months attract visitors to Venice because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mont-Saint-Michel. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Venice this time of the year. In the summer, Venice often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets more rain in July than Mont-Saint-Michel. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Venice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Venice is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Venice usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during autumn. Venice gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Venice usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Venice during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Venice for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Venice. In the winter, Venice is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Venice in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Venice often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Venice gets 88 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets less rain in January than Mont-Saint-Michel. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Venice in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Venice is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 13°C (55°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Venice usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during spring. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Venice usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 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 Venice