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

Should you visit Zurich 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 Zurich 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.

Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal 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 religious, historic, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Zurich and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zurich than Mont-Saint-Michel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zurich is better known for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Zurich and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Zurich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in 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 Zurich or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Zurich know how to have a good time. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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

Is Zurich or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Music?

Zurich is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a live music destination.

Zurich has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a live music destination.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich is revered around the world. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

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

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Mont-Saint-Michel offers some nice hiking trails. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

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

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

The abundance of shops in Zurich make it a world-class shopping destination. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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

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

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

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Mont-Saint-Michel is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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

Both Zurich and Mont-Saint-Michel are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

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

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

Zurich 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 Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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

Zurich 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.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Zurich and Mont-Saint-Michel both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

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

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

How long in Zurich or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zurich or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zurich than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

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

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

One day in Zurich or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Zurich, 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 Zurich or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the historic city of Zurich, 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 Zurich or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With nightlife and live music around the historic destination of Zurich, 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 Zurich or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the iconic 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 Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zurich and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Zurich 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 Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich 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 Zurich Expensive? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Expensive?.

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

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 4270 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Zurich is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, 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 Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Zurich is around the same temperature as Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zurich 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.

Zurich can be very cold during winter. In January, Zurich is generally much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

Zurich is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Zurich