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

Should you visit Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a compact, authentic, and cultural city. 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 inspiring, iconic, and religious island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Zaragoza and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
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 Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zaragoza. Although Zaragoza and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Zaragoza has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene. It is also home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar.

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

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

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an amazing island to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Mont-Saint-Michel on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the AljaferĂ­a Palace, among others.


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

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

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 Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Zaragoza has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

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

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

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

Zaragoza is a great destination for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Zaragoza. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

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


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

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

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.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

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

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

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

Zaragoza is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

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

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

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

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 Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Zaragoza makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

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

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

Both Zaragoza and Mont-Saint-Michel are good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Zaragoza. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

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

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

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

Zaragoza is very good for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Zaragoza is popular with students. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.


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

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

Zaragoza is a great 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.

Zaragoza has some very good public transit options. There are buses and trams around the city.

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

Zaragoza
Mont-Saint-Michel

Zaragoza and Mont-Saint-Michel both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Zaragoza is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable.

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

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

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

How long in Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zaragoza than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Zaragoza, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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


  • How many days in Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zaragoza 1-3 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 1-2

One day in Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Zaragoza, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

The beautiful island of Mont-Saint-Michel offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the historical city of Zaragoza, 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mont-Saint-Michel, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic destination of Zaragoza. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Zaragoza 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 may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Zaragoza is €126, 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 Zaragoza and Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zaragoza 65
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zaragoza 130
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
Compare Hotels in Zaragoza and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zaragoza 23
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zaragoza

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zaragoza:

  • Private transfers Airport-hotel Zaragoza.: $65
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $54
  • Zaragoza Downtown hotels to Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from Zaragoza Airport to City centre: $65
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from the city centre to Zaragoza Airport: $65

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

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel and Zaragoza 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
    Zaragoza 41
    Mont-Saint-Michel 44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zaragoza

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zaragoza.

  • Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zaragoza 35
    Mont-Saint-Michel 30

Tours and Activities in Zaragoza

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zaragoza are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.75
  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.94
  • Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket: $19
  • Zaragoza Aquarium Admission Ticket: $20
  • Combo Amusement Park and Aquarium entry ticket: $33
  • Kayaking in Fluvial EcoTourism with ebroNAUTAS: $44
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $48
  • Zaragoza : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $48

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
    Zaragoza 14
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86

Sample the Local Flavors in Zaragoza

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Zaragoza:

  • Wine Tasting and Tapas: $102
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza: $104


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

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


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

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 8120 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zaragoza and Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zaragoza is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 26°C (79°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mont-Saint-Michel this time of the year. In Zaragoza, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Zaragoza gets 344 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zaragoza gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zaragoza 26°C (79°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Zaragoza as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The autumn months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

Zaragoza is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zaragoza averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zaragoza gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Zaragoza usually gets less rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zaragoza gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zaragoza 17°C (63°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Zaragoza are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Zaragoza is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zaragoza in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Zaragoza gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zaragoza gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zaragoza 8°C (46°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Zaragoza during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zaragoza for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Zaragoza is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 15°C (58°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

It's quite sunny in Zaragoza. In the spring, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zaragoza gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Zaragoza usually gets less rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zaragoza gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zaragoza 15°C (58°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Zaragoza

Zaragoza Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 25 mm (1 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 39 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 8°C (47°F) 26 mm (1 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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