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

Should you visit Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a historic, breathtaking, and inspiring island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Windsor and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
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 Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Windsor have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Windsor is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums and hiking. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Windsor and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Windsor is well known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

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

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

Windsor
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Many visitors head to Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.


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

Windsor
Mont-Saint-Michel

Foodies will find both Windsor and Mont-Saint-Michel both to be notable destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

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 Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

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

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

Windsor
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Many people head to Windsor to see the old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

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


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

Windsor
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

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

Windsor
Mont-Saint-Michel

Windsor 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 Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

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 Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Windsor
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Windsor is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.


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

Windsor
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor
Mont-Saint-Michel

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Windsor and Mont-Saint-Michel.

You'll find some public transit in Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

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

Windsor
Mont-Saint-Michel

Windsor and Mont-Saint-Michel both are great when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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


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

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

How long in Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Windsor 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 Windsor. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Windsor. 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2

One day in Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and museums. 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.

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 Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Windsor 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.

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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Mont-Saint-Michel is £134. 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 Windsor and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Mont-Saint-Michel £60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Mont-Saint-Michel £120
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Mont-Saint-Michel £60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Mont-Saint-Michel £38
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Mont-Saint-Michel £26

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

Tours and Activities in Mont-Saint-Michel

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

  • Self Guided Audio Tour around Mont Saint-Michele island: $5.45
  • Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in the Middle Ages: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Airborne Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Entrance ticket to the Battle of the Hedges Museum: $11
  • Normandy Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Abbey du Mont Saint-Michel Priority Entrance Tickets: $16
  • Walking Tour in the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel: $16
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel : $33
  • Cherbourg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $44
  • Mont-St-Michel: Shared Tour (10 max) "Abbey Ticket Included": $162
  • Private walking tour of Mont Saint Michel with a licensed guide: $215
  • Mont-St-Michel: Private Walking Tour "Abbey Ticket Included": $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Mont-Saint-Michel £6.74


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


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

Windsor has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Windsor is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Mont-Saint-Michel. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Windsor during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Windsor is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Windsor in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Mont-Saint-Michel. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Windsor in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Windsor can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Windsor is generally cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 4°C (40°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the natural beauty.

Windsor is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Mont-Saint-Michel. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Windsor

Windsor Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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