mont st michel how to visit

How to Visit Mont Saint Michel from Paris

• By Katherine Miller
• February 23, 2024

A mystical island one thousand years old, disappearing and reappearing with the tides, built on instruction from an angel in a dream… Mont St-Michel is one of those places that doesn’t quite seem real… and is all the more incredible because it is. A tidal island just off the coast of Normandy with a breathtaking stone abbey rising above its picturesque fortified medieval village, like a fairytale castle rising up from the sea, Mont St-Michel celebrates its millennial birthday this year. And there’s a reason why people have flocked to the small island to experience its magic for the past thousand years, and why they will want to continue to visit Mont St-Michel in 2024, and for hundreds of years to come.

Visiting Mont-Saint-Michel

In the early 8th century, the bishop of a coastal village in Normandy had a dream that would change the course of history. 

Bishop Aubert of Avranches claimed that the Archangel Michael had come to him in his dream, and ordered that an abbey be built atop the island just off the coast. Beginning in the year 1023, generations of dukes of Normandy and French kings supported the construction of the Mont Saint Michel abbey rising steadily up out of the sea. As it continued to grow, with ever more magnificent gothic turrets and towers being added, Mont Saint-Michel took on many different purposes. 

Christian believers came from across Europe on religious pilgrimages along chemins de paradis , or “roads to paradise” to pay homage to the important holy site. The village’s fortified stone rampart walls kept out invading Vikings, and then English forces during the Hundred’s Years War, and even withstood a thirty year siege. Perhaps more than anything, the abbey’s crowning spire, rising an incredible 500 feet, shone like a beacon to intellectuals of the age, attracting some of the greatest minds of Europe to its rich library for centuries, making the Mont Saint Michel abbey a renowned center of learning. Later on, during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Empire, the Benedictine abbey was used as a prison. 

Due to the significant restoration required after its turbulent time as a fortress and prison, Mont Saint-Michel was already recognized for its cultural and historical significance nearly 150 years ago, in 1874, when it was placed under the protective care of the French Historic Monuments Department. 

Today, the island often known simply as Le Merveille , or “the Wonder,” welcomes over three million visitors a year into its steep village streets, lined with medieval homes now converted into restaurants, shops, and hotels. This year, those millions have included the French President, Emmanuel Macron, who was visiting Mont St Michel to commemorate the site’s millennial anniversary. French First Lady Brigitte Macron also visited the site, accompanied by U.S. First Lady Jill Biden.  

How to get to Mont Saint-Michel

Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most visited tourist sites in France, following only the Eiffel Tower, the Palace of Versailles, and the Louvre – an impressive feat considering all three of the other sites are located in Paris and are very easily accessible. Getting to Mont Saint-Michel is a bit more of a journey, but as millions demonstrate each year, it is one that is well worth it. However, Mont Saint-Michel’s popularity also means that visitors should carefully consider the best time to go and how to avoid the crowds in order to get the most out of their trip. 

How to Get There :

Mont Saint-Michel is located roughly four hours from Paris , and can be accessed by car, guided tour bus, or by a combination of train and shuttle bus.

There are two different ways to drive to Mont Saint-Michel from Paris; either by taking the A13 highway towards Caen, then the A84 towards Avranches Rennes, or by taking the A11 towards Le Mans, followed by the A81 towards Fougères, and finally the A84 to Caen.  

Visitors can also take the TGV train from Paris to the city of Rennes in Brittany, leaving from the Paris Montparnasse train station, which takes roughly 2 hours. From Rennes, visitors can then take a shuttle bus roughly another hour to travel the rest of the way to Mont Saint-Michel. Bus tickets , which cost 15 euros, can be purchased online, at the Rennes train station, or on the bus itself.  

Another option for accessing and exploring Mont Saint-Michel is to go with a guided tour company . For many tourists, especially those who wish to explore the island as a day trip from Paris, this is the ideal option. Guided tour companies offer chauffeured round trip transportation to and from Mont Saint-Michel via coach bus, as well as a walking tour through the village of Mont Saint-Michel and an entrance ticket and guided tour of the abbey of Mont St Michel.   

No matter the mode of transportation, once visitors arrive, the mystical island is still a bit out of reach – cars (and coach buses) must park in Beauvoir, the village on the mainland, located roughly 3 kilometers from Mont Saint-Michel. (Parking lots were pushed further inland in a 2015 preservation effort designed to conserve the historic landscape of the area.) From the parking lots, follow signs for La Place des Navettes, where the free shuttle bus (called Passeur s) runs frequently from 7:30am to midnight, and takes visitors across the surrounding bay to the island of Mont Saint-Michel. Alternatively, visitors can also walk all the way to the island directly from the parking area.

Visitors who are handicapped or require special accommodations should note that unfortunately, given Mont Saint-Michel’s ancient origins and concentrated efforts by the French government to maintain its authenticity, the site is not handicap accessible. The shuttle bus stop is about half a mile from the parking lots, and the buses drop off visitors around a quarter mile away from the island itself. Once arrived on the island, there are also many (steep!) stone steps to the abbey at the top. Recent efforts to allow as much accessibility as possible for those in wheelchairs, can be seen here .  

Best time to visit Le Mont Saint-Michel

After considering how best to arrive at Mont Saint-Michel, visitors also need to reflect on when exactly to plan their trip. There are several different factors that could influence this decision: the first is the most obvious, avoiding crowds. The site’s massive popularity coupled with its ancient streets and accommodations make visiting the island extremely crowded during the peak tourist season of June, July, and August. While you still may not have the island all to yourself, visitors are advised to travel to Mont Saint-Michel on weekdays rather than on the weekend, and to come either early in the morning or in the late afternoon or evening, rather than late morning and early afternoon. Consider coming in March/April, or September/October, when the island will still have good weather, but be much less crowded. It’s also helpful to book tickets in advance , although they are also available onsite.

The other factor to consider is a bit less common for organizing most travel, however it is of particular importance when planning a visit to Le Mont Saint-Michel. Visitors who wish to fully experience the magic of the tidal island, and witness the sea surround its rampart walls at high tide, as well as watch as land is once more revealed when the tides pull away, should make note of the tidal schedule in order to take in the full process.

Where to stay at Mont Saint-Michel

It’s worth setting some time aside to travel to Mont Saint-Michel, particularly if you want to see the tidal island at both high and low tides, and explore the village and the abbey. Many decide that a day trip is simply not enough, and that they would like to extend their trip for at least one night.

The biggest question when planning an overnight trip to Mont Saint-Michel is whether to stay on the island, or nearby. The difference comes primarily down to price point – because there are few options for accommodation on the island itself, the cost tends to be higher than staying in accommodations in the surrounding area. That said, spending the night on Mont Saint-Michel means being able to enjoy the ancient island after the crowds depart, spending the night in a historic place and having the time to experience the full extent of the tides – experiences that some find well worth the extra cost. There are many different accommodation options both on and off the island , however, the most famous is undoubtedly the Auberge de la Mère Poulard , a historic inn and restaurant in the heart of the medieval village, begun in 1888 by Annette Poulard, just twenty years old at the time.

Things To Do in Mont Saint-Michel

Once arrived on this mystical island, visitors won’t lack in things to do.  Here are just a few of our top picks:  

Walk along the Ancient Rampart Walls  

Mont Saint-Michel transcends centuries, and a walk along the ancient stone rampart walls that surround the island will take visitors back through time to the Middle Ages, when the island was a fortress and its thick walls protected against invading armies. Today, visitors can see the seven ancient watchtowers used as lookouts against enemies, as well as take advantage of beautiful, sweeping views across the Bay of Saint Michel. Visitors can also use the rampart walls to reach the abbey at the top of the Mount, and watch the tides flow in and out of the bay.

Visit the Abbey

Just as religious faithfuls have done for a thousand years, today’s visitors can make the climb to the famous abbey at the top of Mont Saint-Michel. The Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel is an architectural marvel due to its challenging location on a tidal island, and its construction during the Middle Ages. Despite limited resources and the constant opposition of changing tides, the abbey inspired by an angel in a dream was built over 600 years, between the 10th and the 16th centuries, one stone at a time, and became a prime example of 13th century gothic architecture. The abbey’s church, cloisters, and sanctuary are spaces of exceptional calm and serenity with hidden gardens and staircases that lead to expansive views across the sea, while spacious chambers like the Salle des Chevaliers, where noble knights were received, hint at the many different roles the abbey has played throughout history.

La Grande Rue

La Grande Rue is the main street in the Medieval village of Mont Saint-Michel. Its winding cobblestone path is lined with homes from the 15th and 16th centuries, which have now been converted into restaurants , shops, and hotels. After strolling through the boutiques, to avoid the crowds which gather along La Grande Rue, and make discoveries of your own, visitors should take the time to wander off the main road and down the ancient side streets. There they can find museums detailing the island’s fascinating history, like the Musée Historique , which houses ancient weapons, Medieval torture instruments, secret dungeons, and paintings and sculptures that show what life was like during the early days of the Mount as an active fortress, prison, and abbey. Down still another side street visitors can discover the historic home of a 14th century knight , or down yet another, the Musée Maritime, which educates visitors about the unique environment of the area, its preservation, and the highest tides in Europe.

Normandy Regional Attractions

Visitors to Mont Saint-Michel who would like to extend their trip should keep in mind all of the attractions that the Normandy and Brittany regions have to offer .  The surrounding area boasts everything from seaside resort towns, to quaint fishing villages, dramatic seaside landscapes, an impressive military history, and historic towns dating from the Middle Ages – in short, something for everyone.

Tips for Visiting Mont Saint-Michel

Go on an authentic guided journey across the bay.

One of the most exceptional things about visiting a place that is one thousand years old, is that travelers today can still have the same experience as people who made the ancient pilgrimage to Mont Saint-Michel centuries ago. Mont Saint-Michel tourism offers official guides to safely cross the bay by foot , just as the pilgrims did hundreds of years ago. Many faithful still make this journey on September 29th, Saint Michael’s Day , when Mont Saint-Michel celebrates the archangel who inspired the construction of the island’s abbey. The journey across the bay by foot takes roughly two hours, and offers unique views of the bay and island. It’s important to note that it is NOT advisable to attempt to cross the bay without an official guide for safety reasons – tides are unpredictable for those not familiar with the area, and the bay is also prone to dangerous quicksand.  

Experience Mont Saint-Michel by Night

During the summer months of July and August, Mont Saint-Michel is illuminated every evening (except Sundays) by the Chronicles of the Mount sound and light show, which features video projections that create an immersive experience plunging visitors into the island’s history as they stroll through the medieval streets to the abbey at the top. Visitors can enjoy the show from 7pm until Midnight.

Frequently Asked Questions – Mont Saint-Michel

Why is mont saint-michel so famous  .

Mont Saint-Michel represents an incredible feat of architecture and an astonishingly well-preserved piece of France’s history in a beautiful, natural setting.

How long does it take to walk around Mont St Michel?

It’s best to plan on spending at least 3-5 hours onsite to get the most out of your time at Mont Saint-Michel. This should give you plenty of time to explore the town and visit the abbey, as well as see the changing tides.

Is Mont St Michel worth seeing?

OUI!  Mont Saint-Michel has been one of the top tourist attractions in the world for hundreds of years, and for good reason. Just make sure to follow our tips to avoid the crowds and to get the full experience of the island at high and low tide.  

Is Mont Saint-Michel a day trip?  

From Paris, the trip to Mont Saint-Michel is 4 hours, so it’s a bit of a longer journey. However, it is still entirely possible to visit as a full day length trip or, even better, extend your travel into an overnight stay.

How much does it cost to visit Mont Saint-Michel?

Adult tickets to the abbey cost €10; visitors should also factor in the cost of their transportation (gas, train tickets/guided tour), and whether they plan to spend the night on or near the island.

Katherine Miller  has lived most of her adult life in either Paris or New York, and her world has become a beautiful mélange of French and American culture, a mixture she loves sharing with those who also harbor her passion and curiosity for travel, language, and culture.

Frenchly newsletter.

Get your weekly dose of frenchly’s news..

Between Earth and Sea: a Picturesque Summer Holiday in France with Explore Cognac

Noovo plus: capturing the essence of french elegance on american roads, exploring international education in paris: embrace the ermitage way of life , paris weather by month: average temperatures and packing tips.

You love France? This is your site! As an Amazon Associate, Frenchly earns from qualify purchases.

• Subscribe to the Newsletter
• Editorial Guidelines
• Privacy Policy
• Get in Touch
• Advertise with us

Frenchly Newsletter.

Get your weekly dose of frenchly stuff..

Tips on Visiting and Buying Tickets for Le Mont St Michel in Normandy, France

Published on February 23, 2024

by Henk Bekker

in France , Mont St Michel , N24 , NAdX , Normandy

The island abbey on Le Mont St Michel is one of the top sights to see when visiting Normandy and Brittany in France — buy skip-the-line tickets online in advance to visit the abbey.

Le Mont Saint Michel is one of the most picturesque historical sights to see in France. Medieval Mont St Michel abbey famously perches on top of a rocky island near the coasts of Normandy and Brittany. This UNESCO World Cultural Heritage-listed site is hugely popular and always busy. The Romanesque-Gothic abbey complex is absolutely worth seeing but most of the other museums on the island are of little real interest. The restaurants and shops aim squarely at the tourist market and few would regret eating elsewhere. Hiking around the island on the mudflats is very popular too and affords fantastic views. All visitors arrive at the island either by walking or on the free shuttle buses. Buy skip-the-line tickets for the abbey in advance to avoid queuing — access to the ramparts and old town is free. Transportation to Mont St Michel is easy, if a bit slow by bus and train, or book a day trip from Paris (or select towns in Normandy during the summer season).

Note:  In 2024, advance tickets are the sensible way to visit the Abbey of Mont St Michel to skip the notoriously slow-moving on-site ticket queues. Online tickets for same-day use are simpler and allow for direct access without passing by the ticket counter. Time-slot reservations are only used in busy periods — tickets may be valid all day, or allow entrance within the two-hour period stated on the ticket. (In summer, shorter admission periods are sometimes used.) Some transportation options are only available during busier periods — an organized tour is a good day-trip option from Paris .

Visiting Le Mont Saint Michel in Basse Normandie in France

Le Mont St Michel is a small island off the coast of Normandy and Brittany in France that is most famous for its magnificent Romanesque-Gothic abbey buildings. Annually, around 2.5 million people visit Mont St Michel of whom around half visit the abbey complex as well.

Mont St Michel is a fortified island – once through the admission gates (free, no admission charged here), a single steep road leads up past the tiny village to the abbey complex at the top of the rock. In this street – Grand Rue – are endless tourism-related shops selling souvenirs and overpriced food. A few small museums and attractions are hardly worth entering.

Despite the crowds, the tiny village and especially the abbey are well worth visiting. The crowded Grand Rue can be avoided by using the walkways on the ramparts – with magnificent views – to head up to the abbey. Either way, expect loads of stairs and steep gradients.

Visiting the Abbey of Le Mont St Michel in France

The former Benedictine abbey of Mont St Michel is an absolute masterpiece of medieval architecture – both as a religious center and military stronghold. It is surprising, if fortunate, that only around half of all visitors to Mont St Michel enter the abbey itself, which is absolutely worth the admission charge.

The abbey may be seen without a guided tour – audio guides are available but the free pamphlet (in various languages) is sufficient for most visitors. The occasional official guided tours are free and often in English.

The history of Mont St Michel as a Christian center goes back to at least AD 708 – visitors can see architecture ranging from Carolingian to the present but most of the abbey complex is Romanesque and Gothic.

Some of the highlights of the abbey complex include:

• The west terrace with marvelous views of the bay.
• The 1000-year-old Romanesque abbey church was built 80 m above sea level with a fifteenth-century High Gothic chancel.
• Cloisters with light double-row pillars and the most magnificent views.
• The Merveille (marvel) – a huge thirteenth-century three-level construction in two blocks that were built to help support the weight of the massive church at the top of the rock.

The huge statue of the archangel Saint Michel crowning the 32-m high steeple of the church can be seen from far away. The statue dates from the end of the nineteenth century.

Mont St Michel famously held out against the English during the Hundred Years’ War. After the French Revolution, the abbey was used as a prison until 1863.

Since 1874, Mont St Michel has been a national monument and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list in 1979.

Practical Tips for Visiting Le Mont Saint Michel in France

Buying Tickets for Le Mont Saint Michel Abbey in France

During quieter periods, tickets to visit the Abbey of Mont St Michel are sold with timeslot reservations for admission within a two-hour window starting at the time stated on the ticket. Tickets sold online through resellers such as Tiqets cost the same but usually are valid for admission at any time during the day. However, double-check tickets to confirm the system is still in place — shorter time slots may return in peak periods. When selecting a time slot keep in mind that it will take at least 45 minutes to an hour to travel from the parking lot to the abbey entrance!

Admission to the  Abbaye du Mont Saint Michel is €13 for adults and free for EU citizens or permanent residents of France up to age 25 (otherwise €8 for 18 to 25-year-olds and free for all children under 18). Everybody needs a ticket to enter so book free tickets for children at the official website even if adult tickets are bought elsewhere.

Tickets are only sold at the abbey entrance if time slots are still available, so expect to queue, or much more sensible buy online from Tiqets  or GetYourGuide for mobile phone tickets scannable directly at the entrance — sometimes even for same-day or immediate use. Download mobile tickets, or screenshot the barcode / QR, as mobile phone reception is notoriously patchy at the abbey entrance.

Small discounts are available if buying combination tickets to the Abbey and Alligator Bay or arriving on certain ferries or the Nomad train from Paris.

Opening Hours to Visit Mont St Michel Abbey

There are no opening hours or admission tickets for the old town area of Mont St Michel. The village is particularly pleasant early morning or in the evening after the day-trippers have left.

Opening hours for the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel are 9:30 am to 6 pm from September to April and 9 am to 7 pm from May to August. The last admissions are an hour earlier, 90 minutes for using an audio guide.

The abbey complex is open year-round except on December 25, January 1, and May 1.

In summer, a light and sound display on the abbey grounds lasts from around 7 to 10:30 pm. Visitors, who entered before 6 pm may linger for free, otherwise, purchase separate tickets for the night event.

Tips on Visiting Le Mont St Michel in France

With 2.5 million annual visitors, it is prudent to expect crowds most days. On the whole, it is best to avoid Mont St Michel in summer, during school holidays, and on weekends, especially long weekends. Visitor numbers are the lowest in November, early December, late January, February, and March.

If busy periods cannot be avoided, it is best to arrive late afternoon (after around 3 pm) or early morning, although queues can already form before opening time during summer. Visiting late afternoon makes it also pleasant to stay until after dark when much of the island is romantically lit.

Prices on the island carry a tourist markup and without repeat customers, the restaurants have little incentive to provide good quality or service. Few would regret carrying a picnic lunch or even better, eat elsewhere.

Walking around the island on the mudflats is popular but best done with a guide, as the fast and very dangerous tides of the bay have already been recorded in the Bayeux tapestry . Enquire from the tourist office about guides – the price can be as low as €5 per person — or book a tour in advance .

No Luggage Storage Lockers or Dogs in the Abbey

Currently, there are no lockers or left-luggage facilities at Mont St Michel or the parking area. Only day-trip size backpacks are allowed inside the Abbey itself.

The luggage lockers at the tourist information center at the parking lots on the mainland may reopen in 2024 but there is only a very limited number available.

Dogs are allowed on Mont Saint Michel island but not in the abbey or on the free shuttle buses – kennels (€8) may be used during the opening hours of the information center.

It is no longer possible to drive all the way to Mont St Michel. All visitors have to take the free shuttle bus or walk the last few kilometers via a bridge to the island. Plan on 45 minutes to an hour for the journey from the parking lot to the abbey entrance when selecting a time slot.

See Transportation to Mont St Michel for more details. Buy tickets for the Abbey in advance from Tiqets  to avoid queuing.

About the author:

Henk Bekker

Henk Bekker is a freelance travel writer with over 20 years of experience writing online. He is particularly interested in history, art, and culture. He has lived most of his adult life in Germany, Switzerland, and Denmark. In addition to European-Traveler.com , he also owns a travel website on the Lake Geneva region of Switzerland and maintains statistical websites on car sales and classic car auction prices . Henk holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and an MSc in Development Finance from the University of London.

Home » France » Normandy » Mont St Michel » Tips on Visiting and Buying Tickets for Le Mont St Michel in Normandy, France

To provide the best experiences, we and our partners use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us and our partners to process personal data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site and show (non-) personalized ads. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.

Click below to consent to the above or make granular choices. Your choices will be applied to this site only. You can change your settings at any time, including withdrawing your consent, by using the toggles on the Cookie Policy, or by clicking on the manage consent button at the bottom of the screen.

Atlas & Boots

The UK's most popular outdoor travel blog

Mont Saint-Michel tips: 10 dos and don’ts

Essential Mont Saint-Michel tips for visiting the most fantastical building in France

When it comes to French architecture, there are myriad contenders for the throne. The most notable is the Eiffel Tower, a world-famous symbol of Gallic ingenuity. Then there’s the Louvre, possibly the world’s most famous museum. After that we have the Notre Dame and, in any chosen order, the Arc de Triomphe, Sacre Coeur, Palace de Versailles and the Panthéon.

Less famous but more impressive is Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy’s abbey on a rock in a bay.

The fairytale complex of Mont Saint-Michel dates back as far as the 8th century. Legend has it, the archangel Michael appeared in 708 AD to the bishop of Avranches and instructed him to build a church on the rocky islet.

A monastery and abbey were erected over subsequent centuries, complete with fairytale flourishes: soaring spires and hulking ramparts that rise dramatically from the sea.

Historically, Mont Saint-Michel was connected to the mainland via a tidal causeway (a path accessible only at low tide). Today, it is reached via a permanent walkway raised above the water below.

Mont Saint-Michel tips

We spent two days at Mont Saint-Michel and gathered the following tips for readers and future visitors.

1. Do check the tides

Mont Saint-Michel becomes an island only when the tides are very high – AKA, a supertide . As such, you will likely see the site as shown in the first picture below instead of the second.

If you are keen to see Mont Saint-Michel as an island, check the tide information  and plan your visit around the very highest tides (on the right in the schedule).

It’s worth noting that we visited at normal tide and were delighted nonetheless, so don’t be put off visiting outside of highest tide.

2. Do stay on the island itself

Most tourist advice will tell you to spend a day on the island. Our advice is to spend the day and night.

Staying on the island is more expensive but gives you early morning and late night access away from the tourist masses.

Staying on the mainland offers extraordinary views of Mont Saint-Michel and costs less, but doesn’t give you the eerie, magical experience of staying on the island itself.

We chose the first option and were deeply glad that we did. We enjoyed late evening walks around the complex and had much of it to ourselves.

3. Don’t get caught out by the car park

If you are visiting by car, note that you must park on the mainland and take a (free) shuttle across the bridge. There is a separate car park for those staying overnight so make sure you obtain the access code from your hotel beforehand.

Note that parking prices work on a 24hr basis so if you leave even five minutes after your 24 hours is up, you will have to pay for a full extra day.

4. Don’t take the horse and carriage

This is subjective but we thought that the customer load per carriage was high. We saw carriages of 10-20 people being pulled by two horses and felt that this was too much. As such, we encourage readers to take the free shuttle across the bridge, or indeed, walk!

5. Do explore the surrounding land – carefully!

The land around Mont Saint-Michel offers extraordinary views when the tide is out. Peter spent some hours exploring the area and photographed some stunning scenes.

Be careful if you venture out. Mont Saint-Michel is famed for its tidal variations; the waters sweep in at an incredible pace, said to be as fast as a galloping horse. The surrounding plains are also said to harbour indiscernible patches of quicksand.

There are guided tours around the area so do book onto one if you are keen to explore beyond the immediate vicinity.

6. Don’t lose your patience

Despite its relative obscurity, Mont Saint-Michel still attracts almost three million tourists per year. This is an average of 8,000 per day(!) so do expect crowds.

On immediate entry to the complex, you may find yourself at a standstill among the masses. Be patient. After all, you’re part of the masses too!

The large coach groups tend to arrive around 9.30am and leave by 4pm so you may wish to visit the abbey outside of these times ( €11 EUR per person ).

7. Do try the famous Mont Saint-Michel omelette

We stayed at La Mère Poulard , arguably the island’s most famous abode. The adjoining restaurant was founded by Anne Boutiaut who married the eponymous Victor Poulard and had the idea of creating giant omelettes in a wooden hearth to preserve them.

The restaurant became famous for this signature dish (more a souffle than an omelette) and today serves them to tourists from far and wide.

The omelette which comes as a starter, main or dessert isn’t cheap (up to €49 EUR a plate) but is worth sampling if you have the budget. The cosy restaurant is lined with autographs of famous diners and bursts with Gallic charm.

8. Do explore Mont Saint-Michel after dark

If you stay on the island as advised, do explore after dark – inside and outside its walls. We recommend dining at Le Relais Saint Michel on the mainland for a stunning twilight view of Mont Saint-Michel and returning to the island after dark.

We explored eerily empty alleys and pathways late into the evening where all was quiet but the wishing of the waves.

9. Do walk over the bridge

We recommend walking over the bridge at least once. It is long and cold (and so, so windy!) but it’s worth it for the varying views and angles.

We walked over the bridge once during the day and once at night (2km / 1.2mi). Needless to say, there were countless stops for photo opportunities.

10. Don’t forget your coat!

Given its position, Mont Saint-Michel is regularly buffeted by wind and water which makes for a brisk temperature even in the height of summer.

We gravely underestimated how cold it would be and I was in serious danger of losing my temper seeing as Peter broke my ‘keep me fed, keep me warm and I’m happy’ rule. Don’t make the same mistake. Take multiple layers and if you plan to walk over the bridge, gloves and a scarf as well!

A few more shots from our visit

The essentials.

What: Essential Mont Saint-Michel tips for visiting the most fantastical building in Normandy, France .

Where: We stayed at the famed hotel and restaurant La Mère Poulard . Located on the island itself, the hotel is the epitome of old European charm. The rooms cannot be described as modern but the classic decor and historical setting are whimsical and charming in a slapdash sort of way. Think of a Wes Anderson caper set in Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s France.

We dined at La Mère Poulard for our first night and tried Le Relais Saint Michel  on the mainland for our second. The former is worth a visit for its famous omelette while the latter provides a perfect view of the fairytale abbey. Highly recommended.

La Mère Poulard

When: The best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel is March to October when the weather is at its best. July to August is the high season so crowds are at their highest. The low season runs from November to February when the weather is at its worst.

If you would like to see Mont Saint-Michel fully surrounded by water, check the tide schedule before planning your visit.

How: Brittany Ferries operates a route between Portsmouth in the UK and St Malo in France, the nearest port to Mont Saint-Michel. Return fares for a car are priced at £589 and include a comfortable four-berth cabin with TV, en-suite facilities and entrancing views of the Channel.

Our ferry from Portsmouth to St Malo

Mont Saint-Michel is 56km (35mi) from St Malo. Car parks are available on the mainland for day visitors and overnight visitors. Note that parking prices work on a 24hr basis so if you leave even five minutes after your 24 hours is up, you will have to pay for a full extra day.

Visiting the island is free but the entrance fee to Mont Saint-Michael Abbey is €10 EUR per person ( prices here ).

You cannot drive right up to the island. Instead, take a free shuttle or opt to walk over the bridge (approximately 2km / 1.2mi).

DFDS Seaways also operate several routes between the UK and France, the nearest one to Mont Saint-Michel being the Newhaven-Dieppe route. Although it is a much longer drive at 3.5 hours / 306km (190mi), return fares for a car are cheaper starting at £102.50.

Enjoyed this post? pin it for later…

Stay charged and connected with the Ceptics Universal Travel Adapter which fuels your global journey across 100+ countries handling six devices at once with ease.

Lead image: Atlas & Boots

You might also like:.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Normandie Lovers

To awaken your senses in Normandy - Claire et Manu’s Blog

Visiting Mont Saint-Michel (2024): 35 tips

by Claire ROBINSON , Region Lovers | January 8, 2024 | no intrusive ads, no sponsored content, just some affiliate links - if you use them, we get a small commission (read more)

A fortified village, an imposing abbey, an isolated island… visiting Mont-Saint-Michel is a unique (and somewhat magical!) experience. We have visited it from top to bottom… and we bring you all our advice on how to visit the Mont-Saint-Michel:

• When to visit and for how long,
• How to get there, parking, access, shuttle,
• best things to do: abbeys, museums, ramparts…
• Sleeping and eating: best hotels
• Maps and plan…

We hope to answer all your questions and wish you an unforgettable trip!

Top 10 tips for visiting Mont-Saint-Michel

If you don’t want to read the whole article with all our tips for an unforgettable experience, here are our top 10:

• Visit early or late in the day to avoid the crowds . The main street is very narrow and it’s unbearable to not be able to move forward when it is full of people.
• Wear good walking shoes . It’s an old village on a rocky islet… there are cobblestones and many (many!) steps.
• Book your time to visit the abbey , it is a must and a beauty – book here
• Don’t take a big bag . Again, the streets are narrow and crowded.
• Consider spending a night on the mountain . It is a magical experience to explore the alleys after dark. The atmosphere is unique. See our article with the 7 hotels on Mont-Saint-Michel and our review of the experience.

• Spend more than 2 hours on Mont-Saint-Michel – the streets and ramparts are worth exploring. It takes a little time to soak up the atmosphere and visualize its history. It’s a shame to stay only 2 hours.
• Speaking of history, a guided tour can teach you a lot more about the mountain with fun anecdotes (like why the houses are narrower down there…) – see this tour
• Don’t miss walking on the ramparts . Everyone rushes up the main street to the abbey, but the ramparts offer exceptional views of the village, the abbey and the bay.

• If you want to discover local specialties, avoid the stores on the mountain. Stop by Maison Pélerin , a 5-minute drive away, for a wide selection of products and a more leisurely experience: caramels, black garlic from the bay, cookies from the sisters of the Abbey… We were pleasantly surprised by the presentation of the products (even if it remains a store for tourists).
• Take a breath! You are at the seaside, in a unique place in the world. Take your time, breathe the fresh air, listen to the stones and birds of the bay, admire the lights! Enjoy the magic of the place (with a Harry Potter twist, for the fans).

OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy

• Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
• Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
• Think of the complete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
• There is a lot of demand, book it early .

A quick history

To give you some context, here are some highlights of its history:

Mont-Saint-Michel was originally called Mont-Tombe. Since the 6th century, hermits lived there with a small chapel. According to a manuscript of the 9th century, the archangel Saint Michael ordered in 708 a bishop of Avranches to build a church there. It became a place of pilgrimage. It developed strongly from the 10th century, when it was attached to Normandy. A monastery on 3 levels (because of the slope of the rock) was built. Over the centuries, fires, the Hundred Years’ War, the Revolution and collapses have caused the abbey to evolve. The place was always rebuilt until the “Wonder” that we see today.

A few figures to put it into perspective

• The mountain is 900m in circumference
• Its highest point is at 80m
• The tides around can reach an amplitude of 15km
• The statue of Saint Michael slaying the dragon is 4.5m high
• It is perched at 156m high
• In 2019, the municipality counts 29 inhabitants per year

Best Time: when to visit Mont-Saint-Michel

The best time depends of course on what you are looking for: the absence of crowds, the sun, the high tides? Don’t worry, no matter when you visit, you will be amazed!

1. Best months / season

There is really no better season as the winter lights, autumn colors and summer sun all bring something special to the views of Mont-Saint-Michel.

Finally you have to ask yourself:

If you want warmth, you should visit during the summer months. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during winter (November to March). The main street is narrow and it’s one of the most visited places in France, so we’re not kidding when we talk about crowds!

Just be aware that some hotels and restaurants close during the winter season.

Personally, we particularly like the month of October. Beautiful colors, quite long days, and a little less tourists than in summer.

But avoid the French school vacations!

2. Best days

Similarly, if you want to avoid the crowds, don’t visit on a weekend. On the days of the week, it is about the same in attendance.

The abbey is open every day of the year except January 1st , May 1st and December 25th. The shuttle from the parking lots runs every day of the year.

3. Best hours – Opening hours

The Mont-Saint-Michel remains open at all hours. The shuttle operates from 7:30 a.m. to at least 11:00 p.m. in summer and from 8:30 a.m. to at least 10:00 p.m. in winter. The abbey is open at least from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm – reserve your entry slot The museums are open at least from 10 am to 5 pm. Parking is cheaper after 7pm, but the stores and the abbey are closed.

To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit early or late.

Even better, we recommend you to spend a night on the Mont-Saint-Michel. Walking through the streets and ramparts at night is an entirely different experience, like traveling back in time. You will be able to better appreciate this historical site. See our section below on where to sleep at Mont-Saint-Michel.

4. Sunrises and sunsets

For sunrises and sunsets, photographers will surely prefer not to be on the mountain. It is more interesting to take the mountain with the sun shaving! Just be aware that it is not always easy to find a place with the right alignment depending on the season.

5. Visit during high tides

The mountain is known for its changes during the high tides. At this moment the water rises of 15m on 15km and the mountain becomes again an island surrounded by water. It’s fascinating to see the place transform! A coefficient of at least 110 is required. They take place:

• end of March
• end of September
• and perhaps mid-April, mid-August and mid-October

And every twenty years or so the “tide of the century” takes place. The coefficient exceeds 118. The next ones will take place on Thursday, March 3, 2033 and Tuesday, March 14, 2051.

6. How much time should I allow for Mont-Saint-Michel

Contrary to some websites, we do not recommend 2 hours. The place is so unique that running to see a few streets and take a few pictures is not worth it. Our advice is to plan for a large minimum of half a day. A full day is preferable. But our favorite choice is 1 and a half days with a night on the intramural mountain (see our article on our experience ). And 2 days if you also want to do a guided walk in the bay.

Some ideas of duration:

• 45min to 1h to reach the entrance of the abbey from the parking lots with the shuttle (depending on the number of people)
• Walk to the entrance to see the dam and enjoy the beautiful views: 40 to 50 minutes (worth doing once!)
• 1 to 2 hours to explore the abbey (depending on your interest in history and architecture
• 15 to 45 minutes to walk along the ramparts
• 2h to 3h to visit the 4 museums
• 1h to 8h for the different hikes in the bay

For more info: see our article on the best period and duration

Do I have to make a reservation to visit Mont-Saint-Michel?

No need to reserve for:

• the parking lot
• the shuttle
• visit the village and the ramparts
• the museums

On the other hand it is necessary:

• Reserve a time to visit the abbey – reserve your entry slot
• Make reservations for restaurants on the mountain, especially in summer
• Book very early to get a hotel on or near the Mont-Saint-Michel (especially in summer) – book your hotel

USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A DREAM TRIP TO Normandy

All the information you need for your trip:

• 8 maps that make planning easier
• 160+ pre-selected locations
• Practical advice
• 300+ photos to help you choose

Understanding prices

7. the free part.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a village in France. This is a non-paying venue. You can enter for free. Its access is free. Stroll through the narrow streets, climb the ramparts, admire from the dam… it’s free. The shuttle from the parking lots is also free.

8. What you can pay for at Mont-Saint-Michel

• parking as close as possible to the mountain – then you have to walk or take the shuttle
• the visit of the Merveille (the abbey), a must – reserve your entrance time
• entrance to the museums – there are 4 museums in the village. They round out the experience a bit with history and artifacts. But they are small private museums… Buy a combination ticket
• And of course the restaurants that have higher prices, given their location in a tourist area.

How to get to Mont-Saint-Michel

Here is an introduction on how to get to Mont Saint Michel. To learn more see our dedicated article with all our more detailed tips.

9. How to get to Mont-Saint-Michel by car – Map

It is very easy to reach Mont-Saint-Michel by car: Motorway A84 from Caen or from Rennes, N176 from Saint-Malo. Plan:

• Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel = 3h30 to 4h30 drive (depending on traffic jams)
• Caen to Mont-Saint-Michel = 1h20
• Bayeux to Mont-Saint-Michel = 1h20
• Nantes to Mont-Saint-Michel = 2h30
• Rennes to Mont-Saint-Michel = 1h

Be careful, there are a lot of radars at the approach of the Mont-Saint-Michel!

For parking see tip 11.

10. Going to Mont Saint-Michel by train and bus

It is impossible to get to the foot of Mont-Saint-Michel by train. Your nearest train station is Pontsorson (on the Caen to Rennes line). Then you have to take the bus just at the exit of the station (just on the right when you go out) to connect to the departure of the shuttles of the Mont-Saint-Michel. The bus lasts 25 minutes. There are 3 to 7 trips per day. See the schedule.

It is quite easy from Caen or Rennes.

See available timetables and book your train and coach tickets now .

11. How to visit the Mont Saint-Michel from Paris

If you only have one day, the easiest way is to join an organized tour from Paris. You can sit, watch the scenery or sleep on the bus, to make the most of your time there. See tour options on Viator or Getyourguide .

If you are going for a longer period, we recommend renting a car. The road is easy. See the offers on our preferred car rental platform.

Otherwise, in summer there is a train that goes to Villedieu les Poêles with a shuttle included until Mont-Saint-Michel. Or you can take the TGV to Rennes and then the shuttle to Mont-Saint-Michel.

More info in our article on excursions from Paris

Parking, access, shuttle, bicycle… how to visit the Mont-Saint-Michel

11. understanding parking lots – parking on the mountain.

Follow the arrows when you arrive at Mont-Saint-Michel. There are several parking areas surrounded by trees.

• P2 is for people with reduced mobility (with a card)
• P5, P6, P7, P10, P11, P12 and P13 are the parking lots. If they are not full, we recommend P10 and P11 for quick access to the shuttle.
• P8 is for motorhomes
• P9 for motorcycles
• P3 is for people who spend a night on the mountain (a code is given by the hotel.

The parking lots are all paid. Count 9 to 20 euros for a 24h package. See the prices .

More tips in our article on parking at Mont-Saint-Michel .

12. Take advantage of the free shuttle

The Shuttle is included with the parking. To protect the bay, the parking lots are far from the island. A shuttle has been set up to get you there easily. It is called “Le Passeur” and is very practical. In less than 15 minutes you reach the entrance of the mountain (after 2 stops). Schedules:

• summer: 7:30 am to 1 am
• spring / fall : 7h30 to 23h
• winter: 8:30 am to 10 pm

13. Walking access – walk to get there!

We recommend that you walk there and return by shuttle bus. The walk to the Mont-Saint-Michel is splendid with sometimes sheep in the fields, then the sand of the bay and sometimes some pools of water which offers reflections. The path is well maintained and easy. This step raises the anticipation! It takes 40 to 50 minutes to walk to the entrance.

Here is a map to better understand the access to the village:

14. Bicycle access

You can also go to the Mont-Saint-Michel by bike. The mountain is located on 3 major cycling routes in France: – The Channel to North Sea Bikeway (EuroVélo4) – The Véloscénie, 450km from Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel – The Véloroute from the landing beaches to Mont-Saint-Michel Hoops are in place near the entrance to the mountain and also at the dam.

15. The reality of visiting the Mount – accessibility

The Mount is not easy to visit. It is a very old village on a rocky islet. So there are old cobblestones, steep slopes and stairs.

Wear flat shoes. And if you have knee problems, take walking sticks. Avoid strollers, prefer backpacks. We saw people really struggling with strollers.

Regarding the visit of the Mont-Saint-Michel in a wheelchair. We were able to talk to a lady who was doing just that. She was delighted with her experience. The shuttle is well adapted, she has already been able to appreciate the view on the Mount when she arrived. And with someone to push her she was able to see the bottom of the main street (the gaps between the cobblestones have been filled in, so it is possible to drive). On the other hand, it could not have access to the ramparts, the abbey or the rest of the village.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

• Get away from it all with Region Lovers’ beautiful destinations!
• Once a month
• Advertising-free

Best things to do at Mont-Saint-Michel

Simply admiring it can be enough. It is really a fascinating place. Here are our top 5 things to do at Mont-Saint-Michel – you will find more ideas in our dedicated article

Map of Mont-Saint-Michel

Here is an overview to help you find your way around. It includes the different sections of the village: Grande Rue, abbey, ramparts…

16. Visit the Abbey

It is really a must. This structure built during the centuries on a small rocky island is an architectural marvel. It is called “La Merveille”.

Reservation of a time slot is required – choose here

Once there, we recommend the audioguide to better understand all the details around you (3 euros).

Learn more about the visit of the abbey .

17. Walking on the ramparts

We love ramparts and fortifications. And those of the Mont-Saint-Michel are no exception. They date from the 13th to 15th centuries. They have the advantage of offering you views of the houses, the alleys, the abbey and the bay all around (including the rock of Tombelaine). Some of the most beautiful views of the village can be seen along the ramparts. Access is free, and it is a very good alternative route to go up to the abbey and avoid the crowds on the main street.

18. Explore the alleys, not just the main street

The main street is very nice with its tarabiscotated houses (granite or timber-framed from the 15th and 16th centuries) and its air of a street straight out of Harry Potter. But many are content with crossing to the abbey and coming back down without exploring. If you have the courage, there are many other alleys, passages and stairs to discover around the main street. The smallest passage is the cuckold’s alley. Just the width of a person, the smallest in the village. It is said that one could not pass with horns. At the bend of some you will discover small gardens or views of the bay with the roofs in the foreground. Take the time to explore! And don’t worry, you won’t get lost. It’s small, so all roads lead back to the main street! Learn more in our article on the streets of Mont-Saint-Michel.

19. Choose a guided tour: village or bay

To understand more about the mountain and its history or the bay and its ecosystem, a guided tour is worth considering.

On the mountain, you will learn more about the different periods, its use and its architecture. The guides always have lots of fascinating details to tell, like why the houses are narrower downstairs… – see this guided tour

Or choose a guided tour of the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel to walk on the sand and discover, among other things, the quicksand! Don’t venture out alone though… The walks last between 1 hour and 8 hours. To know more about it.

20. Search for all the most beautiful viewpoints

The dam, the meanders, the Roche Torin, the Pointe de Grouin du sud… The mount and its abbey are visible from far away around the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel. They are not always easy to find, but some views are fascinating. Bring boots or shoes that are safe… See our list .

21. Route advice

If you have limited time and strolling is not an option, here is our suggested itinerary:

Arrive early Walk to the mount Admire the fortified gates and the beginning of the main street (before the crowds arrive). Turn to climb the ramparts Go up to the abbey via the ramparts Visit the abbey Go back down through random alleys Return to the parking lot with the shuttle

22. Museums and other activities in the bay

And of course if you stay longer there is much more to do in the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel: ULM, Scriptorial d’Avanches, Alligator Bay, Moulin, Ecomuseum of the bay…

See our guide to the museums of Mont-Saint-Michel .

Where to sleep at Mont-Saint-Michel

You have several options to sleep around the Mont-Saint-Michel. Here is a summary. But if you want to know everything with our hotel reviews, see our dedicated article with 12 hotels to consider .

23. Hotels on the Mont-Saint-Michel (intramuros)

Your first option is of course to choose one of the hotels on the mountain, within the fortified walls. Just be aware that these are old houses. The rooms are therefore generally small, and you have to climb a lot of steps to get to them. It’s not for everyone. And be careful not to take a big suitcase! Our top 3 is :

• Auberge Saint-Pierre Hotel – see prices, pictures and availability
• Hotel La Croix Blanche – see prices, pictures and availability
• Hotel Les Terrasses Poulard – see prices, pictures and availability

See our complete article on the 7 intramural hotels .

24. Hotel in La Caserne area

The area just before the footbridge, near the dam is called La Caserne. You will find restaurants and hotels with more classic services, easy access to the mountain (shuttle stop in the middle) and easier access to the rooms. For example:

• The Mercure hotel in 4 stars – see prices, pictures and availability
• The Relais du Mont-Saint-Michel, known for its views of the mountain – see prices, pictures and availability
• Hotel Vert in 2 stars – see prices, pictures and availability

25. Near Mont-Saint-Michel

And in the surrounding countryside, you can find some really nice gites and B&Bs. We really liked Le Clos Saint Gilles with its tastefully decorated rooms, an Alice in Wonderland style garden and breakfast with extra-local products. See prices, pictures and availability

26. Luxury accommodations

If you’re looking for luxury or something really special, it’s up to a 30 minute drive. Our tips are:

• Hotel Ermitage – 5 stars, the closest to the mountain – see prices, pictures and availability
• The Château de La Ballue with its beautiful gardens and views of the countryside – see prices, pictures and availability
• The Château de Boucéel and its large wooded park – see prices, pictures and availability

For more tips, see our article on luxury accommodations near Mont-Saint-Michel .

27. Camping near the Mont-Saint-Michel

If you prefer to come with your own home (tent, camper, van…) there are several campsites not far from the mountain:

• Camping Mont Saint-Michel in the area of La Caserne itself!
• Camping aux Pommiers in Beauvoir (5min drive)
• Camping Saint-Michel in Courtils (5min drive)
• And many other options in the surrounding countryside

There are also a lot of camper areas in the area.

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Normandy

Inspiration destinations

• Deciding where to go in Normandy – the best destinations
• Our weekend ideas: best-of , romantic , unusual , seaside , luxury , family
• 16 seaside hotels in Normandy
• The most beautiful charming hotels in Normandy

• Best things to do in Normandy
• Best cities in Normandy
• Most beautiful beaches of Normandy
• Most beautiful villages of Normandy
• Best castles of Normandy
• Best abbeys of Normandy
• Read our complete guide to visit the Mont-Saint-Michel
• Discover the D-Day sites

• Where to stay in Normandy – best places and hotels
• See our tips for renting a car at CDG airport , Orly airport , Beauvais airport , Caen , Rouen , Bayeux …

Visiting Mont-Saint-Michel with children

Mont-Saint-Michel is a place that appeals to all ages. Here are 3 tips to make the most of it.

28. Go through the tourist office for the routes

There are phone-based programs for children of different ages: treasure hunts, investigation games, time travel games…

29. Don’t take a stroller and don’t plan too much

The traffic is difficult with: narrow streets, crowds, cobblestones, stairs… Therefore, we advise you to avoid strollers (we have seen couples having great difficulty. And don’t plan too much, because it will become tiring for the children

30. Motivating young teens with Harry Potter

J.K. Rowling never mentioned Mont-Saint-Michel as an inspiration for Harry Potter. However, fans of the wizard’s stories will appreciate the similarities, such as castles on rocky islets, old houses with narrower windows downstairs, narrow streets like in Traverse Alley… You can make the parallel to motivate the younger ones to move forward…

See our article comparing the Mont-Saint-Michel and the Harry Potter universe .

How to dress and what to bring

The most important thing is to have good shoes. It is an old village, on a small rocky island. Therefore, there are old cobblestones, steep slopes and many steps. Heels are strongly discouraged. Choose stable and comfortable shoes.

And if you are crossing the bay, boots may be necessary. Follow the instructions of your guide.

32. Several types of clothing

The mountain is located in a bay open to the English Channel. The weather is therefore changeable (and not tropical). It can be sunny, then rainy and then be shaken by strong winds. Bring different layers of clothing for wind, heat and rain.

33. Luggage

At the tourist office near the parking lot, there are lockers. Unfortunately they are currently closed for security reasons.

Leave your luggage in the trunk of the car. Avoid bringing a suitcase on the Mount, even if you are sleeping there. A small bag is much more practical.

Do not make THE SAME MISTAKE WE MADE

On one of our last trips to Europe, a hacker stole our credit card details while we were using a hotel WiFi. So our trip began with a “card blocked” call … Not funny at all! Learn from our mistake, make a small VPN investment to surf without worry .

34. Can we take our dog with us?

Yes, you can visit Mont-Saint-Michel with a dog, like any other village in France. However, dogs are not allowed on the shuttles or in the abbey. Dogs in closed bags and guide dogs are allowed on the shuttles.

If you wish to visit the abbey, there is a kennel at the tourist information center near the parking lots (before the shuttle bus). It is open from 10am to 6pm.

Where to eat at Mont-Saint-Michel

Hummm it’s not easy to answer you. The restaurants are not exceptional…

35. The classic dishes of the area

The traditional dishes of the region are:

• Salt meadow lamb (they are raised on meadows that are covered with water by the tides)
• Bouchot mussels
• Cancale oysters and seafood
• the Mère Poulard omelette with its traditional recipe
• Galettes and crêpes (because the mountain is on the border with Brittany)
• The blue lobster of the bay

36. Restaurants in the village and at the Barracks

In our opinion, none of the restaurants on the mountain or at La Caserne are really a must. They take good advantage of their unavoidable location… The best known are :

• The Restaurant du Relais du Mont-Saint-Michel for its view on the mount
• The Restaurant Auberge de la Mère Poulard for its omelette, an institution since the 19th century – nice to see the preparation. The texture is interesting but it remains an omelet in terms of taste. And the price is high too!
• The restaurant La Vieille Auberge for its large terrace
• La Sirène creperie in a very old house
• The Dugesclin restaurant for its local products

37. Fast food

There are also several sandwich and other fast food vendors. Just know that there are no places to sit, and no place in the village to sit and eat…

Learn more in our article on where to eat at Mont-Saint-Michel .

Other frequently asked questions

Brittany or normandy.

We don’t want to get into that debate. Officially, Mont-Saint-Michel is located in the region of Normandy. Geographically, it is located on the border between the 2 regions.

Region Lovers' 10 commitments

• Visit all the places we tell you about.
• For each city, stay in at least one hotel and visit the ones we recommend.
• For each city, eat in at least one restaurant, visit the ones we select.
• Pay all our invoices in full, refuse any partnership or sponsorship.
• Periodically update our articles, with the help of our readers.
• Enrich our articles with our first-hand experiences.
• Use 99% of our own photos
• Use digital tools in a reasoned and transparent way, feeding them with information verified on site.
• Provide information on the traveler/writer pairing that gave rise to the article.
• Tell you what we do, and do what we tell you!

Claire and Manu

Find out more about the team and our history.

SEARCH OUR SITE

Our multi-destination blogs.

Regionlovers.fr

ZigZagroadtrips.com

OUR OTHER REGIONS TO DISCOVER

LoireLovers.fr

CorsicaLovers.fr

ProvenceLovers.fr

CanariasLovers.com

CHANGE LANGUAGE

Legal Notice / Terms of Use / Privacy Policy

How to Go to Mont St Michel: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Mont St Michel in France

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you!). Read the full disclosure policy here .

Share it here!

When one thinks of places to visit outside of Paris, many think about how to go to Mont St Michel. With its towering abbey overlooking the bay, you can spot it from miles away. 

In person, it truly is breathtaking, and it makes for a great stop on either a Normandy road trip or even a day trip or overnight trip while visiting Paris. 

This place sees about 2.5 million visitors a year and for good reason! So if you’re dreaming of visiting Mont St Michel in France, then I’ve got you covered.

How to Go to Mont St Michel

This ultimate guide to Mont St Michel will cover how to get there, how long to visit Mont St Michel, things to do, where to stay, and more! 

So keep on reading to learn all about how to plan the perfect trip to Mont Saint Michel. 

What is Mont St Michel?

Okay, aside from it being one of the most beautiful monuments to see in France, Mont-Saint-Michel is a tidal island and commune in France. 

A tidal island is a piece of land that is only really an island when the tide comes in. So sometimes it is an island, and sometimes it is walkable on foot from the mainland. 

This much-loved pilgrimage site dates back to prehistoric times when it was first formed but was known as Mont Tombe before being called Mont St Michel. 

As you may have guessed, it is named for the archangel Saint Michael, who, according to legend, appeared to Aubert of Avranches in the year 708 and told him to build a small chapel here. 

The small chapel was expanded upon and the full abbey was completed around 1523. But even since its small beginnings, it was a pilgrimage site. 

It has seen so much from the Hundred Years’ War to even WWII. It was a Benedictine Abbey, and the island housed monks until around 1791, when it became a prison until 1863. The monks returned in 1966 before now housing the Monastic Fraternities of Jerusalem.

It has since become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can visit here to see the abbey at the top, as well as wander through the steep village below that houses museums, shops, restaurants, and even some hotels. 

Thankfully, though, you no longer need to trek across the marshy land between the mainland and the island to get here. There is a bridge that connects the two. However, rarely, a supertide can even cover the bridge!

Where is Mont Saint Michel Island in France?

Mont Saint Michel is located in the northwestern part of France. And, though it once belonged to the region of Brittany and is just next to it, it is actually a part of Normandy. 

It is about 4 hours from Paris via car, about 1 hour from Saint-Malo in Brittany, and about 1.5 hours from Caen in Normandy. It is about 1 km from the mainland to the island. 

Best Time to Visit Mont Saint Michel

Interested in visiting this castle-like island in France? Well, you can actually come any time of year! 

However, there are better times than others. We visited back in September, and it was definitely a little bit crowded in the village. But if you stayed off the main road and took the steps up toward the abbey, the crowds thinned out a bit. 

The weather is best between April through October, with the summertime having the best chance of sunshine and drier skies. 

If you want to avoid crowds as much as possible, it is a good idea to visit during the week as opposed to weekends, first thing in the morning or in the evening, and don’t come during holidays or the height of summertime of June-July. And if you want the fewest crowds, opt for a winter visit to Mont St Michel.

Notice that higher tides bring in many people too so they can all witness this place become an island. Check the tide schedule here for more information.

So when is the best time to visit Mont Saint Michel? Outside the main tourist season in France of July and August. Most notably, aim for April-May or September-October. 

It is a popular tourist attraction bringing in millions of people a year, so it is highly unlikely that you’ll ever be able to go without some crowds, but this is a good time to go! 

How to Visit Mont St Michel? Details on How to Get to Mont St Michel

So you know the what, when, and where when it comes to how to go to Mont Saint Michel, but let’s talk about how to visit Mont St Michel. 

There are actually quite a few ways to get to Mont Saint Michel depending on where you’re coming from and how long you plan to stay. I’ll outline these ways below.

How to Visit Mont St Michel From Paris

There are 3 ways to visit Mont Saint Michel from Paris. There is the option to take a tour (which is likely the easiest option), to self-drive from Paris, or to take public transportation. 

1. Tours From Paris to Mont St Michel

While this is 4 hours from Paris, you can actually come here on a day tour from the capital city . Just note that this is a long day: we’re talking about 14 hours. 

You’d depart early at around 7:15 am from Paris and return back to the city around 9 pm. However, you can choose which type of tour you’d like to go on, including: 

• Guided Tour With Transportation and Abbey Ticket
• Audio Guided Tour With Transportation and Abbey Ticket
• Just Transportation to Mont Saint Michel and an Entrance Ticket to the Abbey

These all include transportation from Paris on an air-conditioned bus. I highly recommend going with a guide to get the best experience and really learn about the legends and history of the island. 

Book it here!

2. Self-Drive to Mont St Michel From Paris

I mentioned above that it is about a 4-hour drive from Paris, meaning you’ll want to get up fairly early to get here. There are two main driving routes from Paris to Mont St Michel. 

The first is by getting on the A13 from the northwest of Paris toward Caen and then A84 toward Avranches Rennes. The second is by taking the A11 from the southwest of Paris toward Le Mans, the A81 towards Fourgeres, and then to D31 and A84 toward Caen. 

To keep it simple, just use Google Maps. I like to download offline maps to use while road tripping around France as you could lose service in the countryside. 

Once you arrive, there is a huge parking area to park your car about a mile or so from the island. Pricing varies depending on how long you choose to stay there and the time of year. Check out parking prices here .  

From the parking lot, you can either choose to walk to Mont St Michel or take the shuttle bus. 

The shuttle bus departs from the information booth and runs from 7:30 am until midnight. It is a 12-minute ride from there to the stop in front of Mont St Michel. It is also free.

The walk takes about 40-50 minutes depending on how far you’ve parked away. There are a few footpaths you can take that lead you to the island. 

If you can, I prefer walking the way, as you’ll get the best views and photos along the path toward the island versus in front of it. 

3. How to Get to Mont St Michel From Paris Using Public Transportation

You can actually take the train from Paris to a stop near Mont St Michel and then take a shuttle bus. 

Between early June and late September, you can take the train from Paris Montparnasse to Pontorson and then the shuttle bus to Mont St Michel. This takes just under 4 hours to make the journey and costs about €29 for adults each way. 

This route does 1 round-trip per day. 

Outside of this, from the end of September through early June, you can take the train from Paris to Villedieu Les Poêles and then the bus. 

Book train and bus tickets here!

Tour From Bayeux

If you’re visiting Bayeux, whether to see the famous Bayeux Tapestry or the DDay Beaches, you can also add a day trip from Bayeux to Mont St Michel.

There are tours that you can book that begin in Bayeux at 8:30 am and last 8 hours. So if you want to see more of Normandy and want to take a tour of Mont St Michel, you can do that from Bayeux too. 

The tour includes transportation to/from Bayeux, a guide, and a visit to the abbey. 

Book it here! 

Self-Drive From Elsewhere

And if you’re coming from elsewhere, you’d probably need to look up directions and download offline Google Maps to get there. 

We drove from Bayeux in the morning, visited Mont St Michel that afternoon, and then ended up in the countryside of Normandy during our road trip. 

Mont St Michel Opening Times

Did you know the island and village itself are open 24/7, aside from select times when it is high tide throughout the year? 

So you can certainly watch the sunset and visit the village for dinner even after the abbey is closed! Or you can go and catch the sunrise! 

However, the Abbey at Mont St Michel does have opening and closing hours. The abbey is open year-round, except January 1, May 1, and December 25. 

Here are the Abbey of Mont St Michel Visiting Hours: 

• May 2-August 31: 9 am-7 pm
• September 1-April 30: 9:30 am-6 pm

Note: The last entry slot is available to book 2 hours before closing. The last entrance is allowed an hour before close, and the last audioguide is given out an hour and a half before close. 

Abbey of Mont St Michel Entrance Fee:

The price to visit the Abbey at Mont St Michel is €13 for individuals. They do have discounted tickets at €11.50 for some of their partnerships like Brittany Ferries, Credit Agricole members, etc. 

And it is free of charge for children under 18 with families and school groups, EU citizens and non-European residents on French territory from 18-25 years old, disabled persons and their companions, job seekers, and those with an education pass.

It is free for everyone to visit on the first Sunday of January, February, March, November, and December as well as during European Heritage Days. 

An audioguide is €3 in addition to admission.

How Much Time to Visit Mont St Michel?

This will definitely take up at least 3-7 hours! Between all the things to see and do on the island, and getting there and back from the parking lot, shuttle, train station, etc., it definitely takes some time. 

I mean for a full-day trip from Paris, it is an astounding 14-hour day! From Bayeux, it is closer to 8 hours. 

Personally, when I visited, I spent around 4 hours exploring the abbey, wandering through the village, grabbing a bite to eat, and ducking into a few tourist shops for a souvenir. 

I know part of that includes at least an hour to get to the island as we took the footpath and I stopped to take a ton of photos! 

Overall, I believe we got to the parking lot around 12 pm and left closer to 4 pm. 

I’d budget at least a half day to explore Mont St Michel.

How to Go to Mont St Michel: Things to Do While Visiting Mont Saint Michel

Okay, there is far more to do here than just take photos of the island from afar. So let’s talk about what you can do to fill up your day at this French bucket list place . 

1. Tour the Abbey of Mont St Michel

This is a must if you’re coming all the way here! I would highly recommend booking tickets in advance, though, as the line to buy tickets is long.

We purchased tickets ahead of time and were able to skip the long queue and see the abbey sooner. 

Audioguides are an additional €3. I highly recommend getting an audioguide to learn more!

Learn about the history of the abbey, how it was built, what each room on the tour was used for, and more during a visit to the abbey!

Then, you must take in the views of the surrounding area from the abbey and spot the statue of Saint Michael at the top of the mount. 

Book tickets here!

2. Cross the Bay on Foot

Yes, there are many who brave the walk across the bay itself. It was walkable when we went, and we actually saw quite a few groups walking in it. 

However, it is highly recommended to go with a guide. You can find guides here . They’ll know all about how to best cross the bay and what times of day to do it. 

I did have to stick my feet in the bay and stand in it, because why not? And I must say it was extremely…muddy. My shoes were absolutely disgusting. 

So if you’ve got wellies and want to do it, then sure? But beware of things like quicksand and getting stuck! 

3. Visit Mont St Michel’s Museums

There are quite a few museums you can visit on Mont St Michel island. Museums on the island are open daily from 10 am-5 pm. Tickets cost €9 for a single museum and €18 to visit all 4 museums. Admission is free for children under 12. 

You can visit the Maritime Museum to learn more about the tidal phenomenon here, or the Archeoscope , which displays the long history of Mont Saint-Michel from how it was formed until today via multimedia. 

There is also the Logis Tiphaine museum which is a 14th-century home. This place shares what it was like to live here as a Medieval knight on the island. Lastly is the Historical Museum of Mont St Michel which shares all 1,300 years of the village’s history as well as the abbey.  

4. Shop For Souvenirs

There are plenty of cute little tourist shops on the island to purchase keepsakes, holiday ornaments, and other souvenirs of your time on Mont Saint-Michel.

5. Have a Meal

There are also many restaurants where you can either grab a quick bite to eat or sit down with a glass of cider and have a meal. 

These restaurants are jam-packed around lunchtime, so you could come for dinnertime if you’re visiting on your own later in the day. 

6. Wander Through the Streets and Ramparts

Stroll through the historic village and along the ramparts to take in the views of the abbey, bay, and surrounding area. 

Enjoy walking on the steep cobblestone streets and envisioning yourself here during the Medieval times. 

7. Enjoy the Night Show During the Summer

Starting in early July through August there is a light show at the abbey you can enjoy every evening except on Sundays. It begins at 7:30 pm until midnight with the last admission at 11 pm. 

The light show tour lasts an hour, and prices start at around €16. 

8. Attend Mass

Yes, you can attend mass at Mont Saint-Michel. Mass occurs from Tuesday-Saturday starting at 12:15 pm and on Sunday at 11:30 am. You’ll want to arrive 15 minutes beforehand on the Square of the Cross of Jerusalem. 

There is also a parish church of St. Peter in the village which also has mass on Sunday at 11 am and throughout the week on certain days. 

Bear in mind that this is in French, so knowing French is helpful for attending mass. 

9. Admire the Tide

The Bay of Mont Saint-Michel has one of the biggest tidal ranges in the world! During spring tides, the water can go back 15 km from shore. And it can rush back quite quickly. 

There are also certain times of year when the tides are bigger, check here to see when those dates are. 

Staying at Mont St Michel & Where to Stay Nearby

Now that you know what there is to do at Mont St Michel, let’s talk about where to stay. While many of you will likely take a day trip from Bayeux or Paris, some may want to either stay the night before and get an early start to their visit or stay later and spend the night nearby. 

Either way, here are some places to stay in and around Mont St Michel.

Hotel Du Guesclin : While this is a pretty basic hotel, if you’re determined to stay on the island itself, this is where you’ll want to stay. The views of the bay are pretty nice, especially as this is one of the only hotels on the island. And it does have a brasserie and restaurant to enjoy during your stay. 

La Jacotière : For a lovely little bed and breakfast at the foot of Mont Saint-Michel, look no further. This place has great views of the tidal island and offers free parking. Plus, it is about a 40-minute walk to the abbey.

Le Vent des Greves B&B : This is another charming bed and breakfast near Mont St Michel. The rooms have great views.

Other than these smaller hotels and B&Bs, you could also opt to stay in nearby Saint-Malo and visit Mont Saint-Michel. Check out Saint-Malo hotels here .

Other Tips For Your Guide On How to Go to Mont St Michel

Before you plan to leave for Mont Saint-Michel, here are a few key things to note. 

• Learn a little French. While it isn’t necessary to be fluent, knowing a little helps. Even just knowing how to say hello, goodbye, yes, no, and thank you is helpful. Check out the essential French phrases to know here !
• Always start with Bonjour or Bonsoir. Yes, always say, “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir,” when you enter a place. It is considered rude not to. I usually switch to Bonsoir in the evenings around sunset or 5 pm.
• Searching for travel insurance? I love World Nomads !
• For rental cars, check out Auto Europe .

There you have it- the ultimate guide to visiting Mont St Michel in France! Would you like to visit Mont Saint-Michel? 

Want more Normandy ideas? Check out these posts! 

• Ultimate 7-Day Normandy Itinerary
• 17 Best Things to Do in Deauville
• Normandy Cider Route Guide and Itinerary
• Best French Road Trips
• France Bucket List
• 10 Days in France: 10 Ways to Spend 10 Days in France
• Best Weekend Trips From Paris
• Most Beautiful Cities in France

Follow the journey!

Signup for exclusive travel tips for France!

Thanks for subscribing! Be sure to check your email to confirm your subscription.

Pin it here!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Mont Saint-Michel, France: How to Visit & Tips

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 24, 2023

If I were to make a list of the top-10 places to visit in France, Mont Saint Michel would definitely be on it. Mont Saint-Michel is one of those places that you have to see with your own eyes in order to truly appreciate how unique and magnificent it is

Since we live close to France, we have visited Mont Saint-Michel several times over the years. The last time we went there just a few years ago with our children. 

I have to admit that we were somewhat disappointed as the place has changed so much in the last few years. It’s become a major tourist attraction and the whole experience feels less authentic and more commercialized than it used to. That being said, it’s still a place that is absolutely worth visiting!

When is the best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel

Summer is of course the most popular season to visit Mont Saint-Michel. But it’s also extremely busy and the place is packed. You can visit Mont Saint-Michel in any season, just be prepared for the wind, the rain, and the cold, no matter when you go .

Normandy and Brittany are known for the unpredictable weather and lots of rain. We have been to the area a few times, usually in the summer months, and every time we visited it was raining and it was windy. Now that I think of it, I think we had the best weather in May…

Summer months are extremely popular with tourists and it gets so busy that it can be really overwhelming, especially for children. If you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting Mont Saint-Michel twice: once early in the morning and once in the evening, after most of the day tourists have left the place.

Why not just skip the day visit altogether and only go in the evening? Because you will not be able to visit the monastery, the churches, and the museums as they are usually only open during the day. I’m not sure about the museums as we haven’t visited any of them recently, but the visit to the monastery is absolutely a must and you don’t want to miss it!

How to get to Mont Saint-Michel

You can get to Mt St Michel by car or with an organized day tour from Paris .

The island of Mont Saint-Michel is not accessible by car as it used to be. Only people staying at one of the hotels around La Caserne Ardevon street can drive down the road a bit further, but only up to the hotel parking. Nobody is allowed to drive the road to the island anymore .

If you are not staying at one of the hotels nearby, you have to use designated parking. From there, you can either walk (~2,5km one way) or take a free shuttle bus to the island. Parking is quite expensive during the day, but it includes a free shuttle. Also, parking is free in the evening from 7 pm. The shuttles run every couple of minutes depending on how busy it is and they operate at least till midnight in summer.

If you are staying on the island itself, you still have to leave your car at the parking and use the shuttle.

What to see and do in Mont Saint Michel in 1 day

One full day is in principle enough for a visit to Mont St-Michel. I’d suggest the following. Head to the mountain first thing in the morning, go all the way to the top and visit the abbey .

After the visit to the monastery you can choose to visit the Parish Church and/ or one of the museums on the mountain or check out the gift shops on the main street – Grande Rue.

When the main street gets too packed with tourists, you should leave it and discover the quieter parts of the mountain. Stroll the narrow streets and admire the charming old buildings.

Don’t miss the ramparts of Mont St-Michel! They are located at the Southern side of the mountain and can be accessed at a couple different locations. The ramparts are usually not as crowded as the main street and you have some really nice views over the surrounding bay.

You can have lunch at one of the many restaurants on the mountain, but don’t expect good food or low prices. The restaurants fill up very quickly and there are lots of advance group reservations, so you have to get there in time, the moment they open for lunch (usually just before noon). Otherwise you may need to wait a long time, especially in summer.

You can try the famous omelette at the fancy La Mère Poulard restaurant and you can tell your friends that you ate the most expensive eggs ever . This traditional dish costs some 40-50 Euro and we never tried it. I can think of many better was to spend 250 Euro than getting an omelet lunch for our family… But please let me know if you did and if it was worth it. I’m really curious!

Alternatively, you can get a cheaper version of the Mère Poulard omelet at their brasserie a bit further down the street. Something tells me that it’s the same recipe at half the price, but it’s still more than 20 EUR for some eggs, so we skipped that one as well.

After lunch, you can take a walk on the bay surrounding the abbey . It’s advisable to do this with an organized tour as the guides know the area and the tide schedules. Otherwise, make sure you are well informed about the tide schedule and the safe route. Take this very seriously as the bay around Mont Saint Michel can flood very quickly!

There are plenty of restaurants that are open for dinner on the mountain, but if you are looking for better food and cheaper prices you are probably better off going for dinner in Pontorson village, 10 km inland. We had dinner in Pontorson twice and really enjoyed the more authentic local cuisine.

TIP: If you are staying in the area for at least one night, make sure to come back and visit Mont Saint Michel in the evening for a truly authentic experience!

We went to Mont St Michel just before sunset and stayed for an hour or two. And we were so glad we did! Not just for the beautiful sunset pictures, but for the whole atmosphere!

The mountain was practically empty in the evening. Only a few other people were walking around. It felt so different than during the day!

The streets and the buildings were beautifully lit. We found some secret alleys and staircases we hadn’t noticed at day time. And we even saw a group of bats flying around. The kids loved it!

Mont Saint-Michel with Kids

Mont Saint-Michel can easily be visited with kids of any age. However, you will enjoy the whole experience more if your kids are at least 3-4 years old and can walk by themselves. You will not be able to explore the abbey, the ramparts, and the rest of the mountain with a stroller as there are stairs everywhere.

Children of any age will absolutely be impressed by Mont Saint-Michel. Our kids loved exploring the abbey, running on the ramparts, climbing the stairs, discovering the narrow streets and alleys, chasing seagulls on the roof of the monastery, and spotting bats at night.

They also couldn’t get enough of all the medieval knight attire in the gift shops. And Normandy crêpes and galettes in the local restaurants were a big success too.

Where to stay at Mont Saint-Michel

You have several accommodation options on the island. However, the hotels there are really pricey and honestly, I don’t see any advantages of staying on the mountain itself.

I would recommend staying at one of the hotels at the end of the road just before the peninsula. Check out Hotel Mercure , Hotel Gabriel , or Le Relais du Roy . They are all close by and the free shuttle bus stops nearby. The ride to the Mont Saint Michel only takes 2-3 minutes, or you can walk or take a bike to the island.

Oh, and book early to avoid disappointment! Mont St Michel is a popular place and accommodation nearby books-up fast.

So, this is our short guide to visiting Mont St Michel in France.

If you are visiting this part of Europe, you may want to check our other articles for France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Check it out!

• Paris Travel Tips
• Best of Paris in 4 Days
• What to See & Do in Montmartre
• Best Views in Paris
• Alsace Wine Route
• Best of Colmar
• Best of Strasbourg
• French Food
• Belgium Itinerary
• Best of Brussels
• Best of Bruges
• Best of Antwerp
• Amsterdam Travel Tips
• Best of Amsterdam
• 1 Day in Amsterdam
• 2 Days in Amsterdam
• Best Day Trips from Amsterdam
• Best Day Trips from Luxembourg

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Friday 7th of June 2024

Brilliant blog thanks ... great shots.... Steve

Thanks for the feedback, Steve. Have a great trip!

Wednesday 14th of June 2023

Thank you for this info about Mont St Michel. Very helpful!! We plan to go to MSM from Paris for an overnight stay. We booked a hotel in the town near MSM. What is the cheapest way to get there by train? The best I could find was 190E roundtrip for 2 on SNCF website. Is there a senior discount ticket? Thank you!

Saturday 17th of June 2023

Hi Susan, using the official website of the railways in France will show you all the options and possible discounts. Normally, there are discounts for seniors, but you really have to check the official site for all the info. Good luck!

Monday 9th of April 2018

Thanks for you commentary and beautiful photos. I hope you can help me determine whether I should purchase advance tickets online? I was going to, but I am a little confused because I don't know if the kids need a ticket (even though their entrance is free). I don't want to buy 2 tickets only to find out that the kids can't enter because they don't have one. We will be there in July, so you can see my concern in advance purchase. I remember from 20 years ago how busy the place can get! I love your suggestion of visiting in the evening hours. While we plan to go early in the morning and leave by 11, perhaps we will swing back around in the late afternoon too.

Hi Andrea, I really don't remember to be honest. I would think that if kids are free, they don't need a ticket. I don't think anyone would make a big deal of it, but as I said, I really don't remember how it works. The queue for the tickets wasn't that long when we visited, we just got them there. Even though the place itself was crowded, buying a ticket wasn't an issue :) Sorry I can't be of much help. Enjoy your trip!

Friday 2nd of September 2016

How much time do you need to see all there is to see at Mont St Michel? I mean, can you do it in just a few hours or do you need to stay for a night or even two?

Hi Yolande. While you can probably see the abbey and the mountain in 3-4 hours, I think you should count a full day for Mont Saint-Michel. Depending on your trip itinerary, I'd spend at least one night nearby. We stayed two nights and while it wasn't necessary, we liked the fact that we could take the time to explore it in the evening when there were hardly any tourists. Hope this helps

Monday 18th of April 2016

Beautiful pictures :) love your blog Anni & Toby

Hi Anni & Toby. Thanks a lot. Greatly appreciate your comment!

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

How To Visit Le Mont Saint Michel in Normandy in 2024

Sean Finelli Last Updated: October 29, 2023

Mont Saint Michel is considered by many to be one of France’s most breathtaking sights. Set in the mesmerizing bay where the regions of Normandy and Brittany merge, it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. A 4-hour drive from Paris, visiting the island is not straightforward. In this guide, find out how to visit Mont Saint Michel, from how to get there to what to see, tours to take, and where to eat.  

Pro Tip : Heading to Mont Saint Michel from Paris? Check out our guided day trip from Paris to Mont Saint Michel if you want to eliminate the guesswork and have a more memorable experience.

Visiting Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel (also known as Le Mont Saint Michel) is normally surrounded by large sandbanks, except at high tide when it’s surrounded by water and is only accessible by the bay. The spectacular effect of the island and its abbey rising out of the water gives it a fantastic appearance that’s hard to beat.

How did it become so well-known, and what’s the story behind it? The island came to be what it is today early in the eighth century when a bishop from a nearby town claimed that the Archangel Michael convinced him to build a church on top of the island.

Soon after, it became a pilgrimage center and in 966, a Benedictine abbey was built there. Throughout the centuries, Mont Saint Michel has stood strong and only increased in popularity.

While not many visit it as a pilgrimage center today, people still come from around the world to admire its architectural beauty and unique setting. In this guide, discover how you can visit Mont Saint Michel. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• How to get to Mont Saint Michel
• What to see there
• Guided tour options
• Where to eat nearby

How To Get To Mont Saint Michel

Unfortunately, getting to this amazing spot is not as easy as one would hope. There’s no direct train to access Mont Saint Michel. From Paris, you can take trains to the cities of Caen or Rennes, but then you’ll have to take a bus or a smaller train to get closer to the island. While it’s possible, it will definitely take some time to organize and might be a little difficult if you’re not a savvy traveler.

The easiest way to get to Mont Saint Michel from Paris when you’re on limited time is with a tour group. Visiting the island on a day trip doesn’t allow you unlimited time to visit, but it will easily and conveniently get you there without you having to do much organizing. See our top-rated Mont Saint Michel day trip from Paris for an easy and comfortable way of getting there and more.

While Mont Saint Michel is an incredible place to see, the majority of visitors probably won’t feel like they need more than a day or two to explore everywhere on the island, so a day trip is far from a bad option.

If you have the time, driving a car is another way to get to Mont Saint Michel. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Paris, although it can be longer depending on traffic. Visitor parking lots are available near the island, but you’ll still have to take a shuttle there once you park—there is no tourist parking directly on the island.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Paris tours to take and why .

What To See at Mont Saint Michel

The biggest attraction of Mont Saint Michel is Benedictine Abbey. Visitors can discover the history behind the abbey and admire its medieval architecture either with a tour or on their own. Adult tickets cost €10 for an individual visit.

Besides the abbey, there are also many things to see on Mont Saint Michel , including multiple museums, hotels, restaurants, and boutiques. The most famous restaurant on the island is La Mère Poulard, which has been serving up fluffy omelets since 1888.

If you stop into some shops, you’ll also find La Mère Poulard biscuits. These buttery, flaky biscuits are a perfect gift to take back home as souvenirs to friends and family, so think about grabbing some before you leave. Otherwise, the true magic of Mont Saint Michel simply comes from wandering its winding streets and soaking it all in.

There’s no bad time to visit the island, although it does get very crowded during the high season (mostly in the summer months). If you have the chance to spend the night at one of the island’s hotels, we highly recommend it. But even if you’re only able to visit for a few hours, we guarantee you won’t regret visiting Mont Saint Michel, a gem that deserves to be on everyone’s bucket list.

Mont Saint Michel Tour Options

Ready to visit Mont Saint Michel? Check out our Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris for an easy way to get there, a visit to the abbey, and free time to explore the island before heading back to Paris.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Paris Guide for more resources.

Where To Eat Nearby

La Mère Poulard : €€€ | Gourmet Regional Cuisine —Built in 1888 by Annette and Victor Poulard, it’s the most famous restaurant on Mont-Saint-Michel. They are known for their exceptional omelets, which they’ve been serving visitors and pilgrims since they opened. It’s a must-try dish when you visit Mont Saint Michel

La Sirène Lochet : €€ | Crepes and Coffee —This quaint hidden gem sits above a souvenir shop on the first floor that you access via a medieval-style spiral staircase. People swear by the crepes, both sweet and savoury. You can also enjoy a good coffee or even a cider.

Au Pelerin : €€ | Picturesque Bay Views —If you’re looking to have a simple meal with a view, this bar-restaurant serves good beer and pizzas with lovely bay views.

Where To Stay in Paris

With a city as magnificent as Paris, it can be hard to find the perfect hotel at the perfect price. Explore the best hotels and places to stay in these incredible neighborhoods in Paris.

New to the Blog

Are 4 days in paris enough, 8 amazing day trips from florence, are 3 days in paris enough, where to stay in phoenix in 2024: best neighborhoods and hotels, the best 10 things to do in phoenix, arizona in 2024.

About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

Reader Interactions

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Travel Blog
• In The Press

POLICY & TERMS

• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

• 8 Things To Know Before...

8 Things to Know Before You Visit the Mont Saint-Michel

One of the most visited places in France, the Mont Saint-Michel welcomes approximately 2.5 million guests a year. Who could blame anyone for wanting to experience this iconic island, with over one thousand years of history under its belt? With so many visitors, it’s important to be savvy with your planning. Here are some things to know before you visit the Mont Saint-Michel to make your trip a smooth and memorable one.

1. plant to stay overnight in the area.

Architectural Landmark

While it is possible to make a day trip to the Mont Saint-Michel from Paris, it’s a long and exhausting journey. Instead, plan to spend at least one night in the area. The Mont Saint-Michel is situated on the border of the Brittany and Normandy regions, both of which merit exploration. Consider basing yourself in Rennes , the capital of Brittany. Rennes is a 1.5-hour train ride from Paris, with buses (or car rentals) to the Mont Saint-Michel approximately one hour away. Another option is Saint-Malo; this coastal town is also an hour away from the Mont Saint-Michel and a great place to spend an evening by the sea.

Read up on the tides

The tides of the Channel are ever-changing, constantly rising and falling around the island. Both scenarios have their advantages. During high tide, the Mont Saint-Michel appears surreal, as though it were hovering above the water and in the right light, creates a mirror reflection. Low tide is just as interesting, surrounding the commune with sand, allowing visitors to walk around its perimeter and observe it from a different vantage point. This can be dangerous so if you’re interested, book a tour with a professional guide who is familiar with the Channel’s moody ways to ensure you’re kept safe. Check with the Tourism Office for more information; there’s an office located right after the main entrance gates.

It’s actually a village with residents

It’s important to keep in mind upon visiting that the Mont Saint-Michel isn’t a fabricated tourist destination and is home to 44 inhabitants, including the monks and nuns that reside in the Abbey. You may even be lucky enough to hear the hauntingly beautiful sound of their choir upon entering the Abbey. Be respectful of their home and don’t take photographs of the citizens, particularly during religious ceremonies.

Plan to be walking and climbing stairs

The climb up to the Mont Saint-Michel is considerable: the pathway leading to the top is steep, narrow and cobblestoned. There are also a good amount of stairs you need to climb, especially when venturing up to the Abbey. Be sure to bring a good pair of walking shoes.

Consider your lunch options

The Mont Saint-Michel ‘s famous dishes include omelettes and crepes. A notable spot is La Mère Poulard , located close to the main entrance as you enter through the King’s Gate. The most well-known establishment on the island, La Mère Poulard has been around since 1888 and its notoriously fluffy omelettes are supposed to be the best the world over. If you want the experience, be prepared to shell out at least 28 EUR for a traditional omelette and reserve a table in advance to avoid the long wait. For crepes, a favourite spot among visitors is Crêperie La Cloche. No matter where you go, you’re likely to pay a premium for eating in the village. A packed picnic is a great option.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,665 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Take a walk along the ramparts

For rewarding vistas of the coast, head up the Porte Échauguette, located to the left of the main entrance gate, for a walk along the Abbey ramparts. Make sure to head to the Terrasse de l’Ouest, which offers a stunning panorama over the bay.

2. There are a number of sites worth visiting

Getting into the Mont Saint-Michel is free and you could spend the day just taking in the village and its surrounding views. However, there are many things to see and do including museums, churches and of course, the spectacular Abbey perched on top. There is a small entrance fee for the Abbey (10 EUR) and it’s worth it to explore the historical monument. On the Grande Rue on the way up to the Abbey, keep an eye out for the parish church of Saint-Pierre, surrounded by a cemetery (where La Mère Poulard herself, Anne Boutiaut, lays to rest) and housing a silver statue dedicated to Saint-Michel. There’s also the Maritime Museum, which offers insight into the surrounding environment of the island and its ecology.

Purchase souvenirs off the island

La Mère Poulard is also celebrated for her buttery cookies that make for a great (and tasty) souvenir. They’re for sale throughout the village, but can be found at almost any grocery store in France for a fraction of the price.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

See & Do

Why dijon is the perfect french weekend getaway.

A Guide to Sailing in and Around France

Places to Stay

The top spas to book in historic french cities.

A Guide to Sailing in Charente-Maritime, France

Food & Drink

The top french dishes you need to try.

The Best Food to Eat in the French Alps

Best Places to Visit in France From the UK

Amazing Day Trips to Take Around Brittany by Boat

Amazing Day Trips to Take Around Corsica by Boat

The Most Beautiful Castles to Visit in Normandy, France

Secret Alternatives to Busy Marinas in the French Riviera for Avoiding the Crowds

Must-Visit Food Markets in France

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,665 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 2136567
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Welcome to the abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel

Price : 13 €

Free admission for under 26-year-old residents of the EU Book your ticket

Discover the abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, one of the first sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Elger Esser, Celestial Memory

From 1st April to 15th June 2024

Current exhibition

Headline Event(s)

Les nocturnes de l'abbaye.

Les nocturnes sont de retour à l’abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel !

The must-sees

The west terrace.

article Reading time | 3 min

The cloister, between sky and sea

The high tides.

Environment

Everything you need to know about the Olympic Torch Relay at Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

Revelacio, un nouveau dispositif de médiation embarqué, online store, elger esser: mont saint-michel.

Schirmer Mosel

Scallop shell pin Mont Saint-Michel

Coat of arms mont saint-michel pin, gold archangel pin mont saint-michel, black-head sheep pin mont-saint michel, gold pin mont-saint michel, le mont-saint-michel.

Editions du patrimoine

Editions du Patrimoine

Woolly striped sailor hat Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel x Saint James

"abbaye du mont-saint-michel herbier" dish towel - le jacquard français, the passion monuments loyalty program.

Enjoy unlimited access to the Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey! The Passion Monuments card opens the doors to more than 80 monuments throughout France. A must for heritage lovers.

How to visit Mont Saint Michel

The castle church on an island in the bay is one of the most stunning sights you’ll find in France.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: April 16, 2024

It's easy to see why Mont Saint Michel is so captivating, with the imposing church rising up like a fortress at the top of a hill surrounded by water.

But there's much more here than just the abbey - so, whether you're about to stay overnight or you're just visiting Mont Saint Michel as a day trip, here are all my tips to make the most from your time here.

• A brief history of Mont Saint Michel
• The best things to do in Mont Saint Michel
• The best Mont Saint Michel tours from Paris
• My top tips for visiting Mont Saint Michel

As the legend goes, the Archangel Michael appeared to the Bishop of Avranches, Aubert, in the 8 th century and told him to build a church in his honour.

Bishop Aubert ignored him, so Saint Michael asked him again, and again he was ignored. This continued until the Archangel burnt a hole in the bishop’s skull with his finger, and Aubert agreed to build the church.

It seems quite mean to burn a hole in someone’s skull just because they won’t do you a favour.

But, then again, when you look at Mont Saint Michel today, it’s hard to imagine France without it, so I’m kind of glad that Archangel Michael was a bit heavy-handed (so to speak).

Mont Saint Michel really is a symbol of France, up there with places like the Eiffel Tower and the Palace of Versailles . The castle church rises up the side of the mountain island, the water surrounding it at high tide, reflecting on the surface. It is a stunning vista, no doubt.

But it’s not until you visit Mont Saint Michel that you look at the details of the island and the surrounding region and realise the depth of what is here.

If you would like to visit Mont Saint Michel from Paris, then I would recommend this excellent guided day trip that organises everything for you,

There is Mont Saint Michel Abbey itself, the jewel in the crown. It stands at the top of the mountain and is an enormous complex of stunning rooms that have evolved over hundreds of years from the first sanctuary built here in the 8 th century.

It takes hours to explore it properly and appreciate the different phases of its construction that have merged religious devotion with fortifications and more utilitarian uses.

Beneath the abbey is the island town of Mont Saint Michel, the quaint collection of buildings full of little discoveries (although you need to navigate your way through the crowds and the tacky tourist offerings).

Then, surrounding the island, is the Bay of Mont Saint Michel. This is more than just the water that flows in at high tide and creates the island. It’s easy to forget that there is a whole ecosystem here in the sand and the marshes by the shore, and it’s worth exploring on its own.

And there’s the mainland as well, with a large part of the Mont Saint Michel town, with hotels and restaurants and transport links. It has its own charm and is not simply a community to pass through.

I end up spending a couple of nights here – probably longer than the average visitor – but even that seems too short and I’m not quite ready to leave.

Because as soon as you start looking at Mont Saint Michel as more than just a single tourist site, you realise that there is a whole landscape to explore.

What makes it particularly special, is the way everything changes throughout the day. As the sun moves from one side of the sky to the other, the light shifts dramatically and the morning Mont St Michel looks very different to the evening Mont St Michel.

And the change in the tides also has a huge effect, with the exposed sand of the bay at low tide creating a very different effect to the water of the high tide.

On top of all of this are the details that only show themselves when you give yourself the time to discover them.

The tidal wave that comes in just twice a day as a prelude to the water rising; the views from the top of the abbey that you can access with certain special tours; the local specialities in the town’s restaurants; the quicksand in the bay; the perfect spot for an unusual photo.

These are the real treasures when you visit Mont Saint Michel.

History of Mont Saint Michel

Before I run through the details of what to do at Mont Saint Michel, let’s have a quick look at how it’s ended up like it is today.

Before a single brick was laid here, the site of Mont Saint Michel was a rugged granite outcrop that rose up from the water in the bay.

It was in 708 AD that the first sanctuary was built here. The legend, as I’ve mentioned, is that the Archangel Michael appeared in a dream and told the Bishop of Avranches to do it.

It took a few generations for the sanctuary to grow, but by the 10th century, there was a Benedictine community here that constructed the first substantial church.

Pilgrims had also started to come, and so a village appeared at the foot of the mountain to cater to them.

From the beginning of the 13th century, construction began on the most impressive part of Mont St Michel – the Merveille. Spread over three levels, this huge Gothic structure is a masterpiece that is still one of the main focuses today.

Then, over the following centuries, the church buildings atop the mountain gradually grew and were renovated in different forms, until the final shape that has become so iconic.

With the Reformation in the 16th century, the religious buildings here had lost their prestige in the public eye and there weren’t many monks living here by the time the French Revolution began in 1789. The abbey was closed and converted into a prison.

Eventually the prison was closed in 1863, and there was a huge restoration project from the end of the 19th century that brought it back to glory and allows us to see it in such a stunning state today.

Things to do in Mont St Michel

Mont Saint Michel has long been an important pilgrimage destination and that has not changed today. There are still groups that make a religious pilgrimage to the island – but the tourists, making a different sort of pilgrimage, vastly outnumber them.

But the tourists tend to arrive mid-morning on day trips from Paris and focus just on the main parts of the island. With some clever planning, you can avoid the peak times each day and have a more relaxed experience.

The Abbey of Mont Saint Michel

The Mont Saint Michel Abbey is the most important part of the site and is the highlight of a visit. You reach it by walking up one of the paths from the entrance gate at the bottom of the island.

You really can’t miss it – in either sense! You’ll easily spot it at the top, and don’t even think about not going inside!

You’ll save time by being able to use the shorter queue when you arrive if you buy your entrance ticket in advance here .

As I mentioned, the first sanctuary was founded here in the 8 th century but it wasn’t until a Romanesque church was built around the end of the 11 th century that the site began to take on its current form.

Over the years, there were more expansions, with some ramparts in the 13 th century but most of them appeared in the 15 th century, for example. The last addition was the spire at the end of the 19 th century.

On your visit to the Mont Saint Michel Abbey, you’ll see how the different stages blend together, and how there is a wide variety of styles within the complex.

There are the terraces with magnificent views stretching across the bay. There are the fortifications that give the abbey the feeling of a castle in parts. And there are the dungeon-like rooms in the heart of the mountain that transport you back to the Middle Ages.

The main church of the abbey is an impressive space, decorated in a flamboyant Gothic style. On one side, a statue of the Archangel Michael looks out across the church, presumably pleased that his skull burning led to something so beautiful.

From the church, you can go through to the structure known as the Merveille (which means ‘marvel’ in English). The construction lives up to the name because this really is a masterpiece.

On the top level are the refectory and the cloisters, with their bright symmetry and detailed design, so dainty in appearance. One level down is the cavernous dining hall with imposing fireplaces.

It really serves to take your time as you walk through the abbey and explore the different areas. There’s much more to see than I can tell you about here, and I would recommend getting an audioguide or taking one of the free guided tours so you appreciate it all.

There are also some special guided tours that you can do for an extra cost. These will take you to areas that are not normally accessible.

One of these tours, called ‘In the Sky of the Archangel’ goes higher up the abbey, on the roof of the church above the choir, from where you can look down at the complex and see the stunning architecture from a different angle, perhaps the way that it would look from the heavens.

It’s only available on the weekends and fills up quickly, so have a look here at availability . If you have the opportunity, it is certainly a very special experience.

Mont Saint Michel island

The town beneath the abbey on the island of Mont St Michel is quite small – the official population is only about 50 people and most buildings are used as hotels, shops and restaurants.

While it’s interesting to wander the main street that winds up the hill and explore some of the little side alleys, there is not too much heritage value here. It’s more interesting for shopping and eating.

It is worth having a look at the small Church of St Peter, which is about halfway up the main street. It is from the 15 th century and, although it’s dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen, Saint Peter, there is a statue of Saint Michael slaying the dragon – a reference to its famous location.

If you stay overnight in Mont Saint Michel, I would suggest going for a walk in the town early in the morning before the crowds arrive – it’s a very different experience compared to later in the day!

Mont Saint Michel Bay Crossing

Looking out from the island, your view will be dominated by the impressive bay, which may be covered in water or sand, depending on the times of the tide the day you visit Mont Saint Michel.

The bay is not just for looking, though. It is also for walking because it has been part of the route for pilgrims for centuries. You can experience some of this yourself with a ‘Bay Crossing’.

There is nothing stopping you from walking out on the sand by yourself during low tide but the advice is that you shouldn’t go too far on your own. The tides do come in quickly and it’s possible to get trapped. There are also patches of quicksand and other dangers to look out for.

A better option is to go on one of the guided tours of the bay crossing that are taken by the Chemins de la Baie organisation. There are a few options but I enjoy the one I do, where we walk from the Mont Saint Michel island, across to Tombelaine island.

The island is small but has its own history. It was home to two monks in the 11 th century and, during the Hundred Years War, had fortifications built on it as a military base.

The group is mainly French speakers and the guide, Bertrand, speaks to them in French.

Then he walks alongside me and explains in English what he has been saying about the history, nature, and the unique ecosystem of this tidal basin.

Walk from Mont Saint Michel town

Many visitors skip the mainland town of Mont Saint Michel, just getting the shuttle bus straight from the car park to the island and back again. But it’s a pleasant area that you don’t need to ignore.

You’re more likely to spend some time here if you’re staying overnight because this is where the most comfortable and convenient hotels are – and also where you’ll find reasonably-priced restaurants. There are particularly good meal deals at lunch.

But the reason I want to mention the town is not because it has the best sights within it, but because I would recommend using it as your base for walking to the island. Rather than get the shuttle bus, there are wonderful paths that go through the town – along the river, in the woods, or along the main street – and onto the bridge to the island.

This bridge is relatively new, opening in 2014, and was part of a grand project to “make Mont St Michel an island again”. Previously there was a causeway that meant the water couldn’t go all the way around.

I love walking across the bridge – there are such beautiful views of the island and the bay as you make your way across. And between the town and the start of the bridge, there are some great vantage points for photos that you can access.

I would recommend leaving yourself enough time to walk, stop, photograph, and detour a little. It’s not hard to get away from the hordes of tourists and explore the marshes a bit. Particularly as the tide is coming in, or the sun is setting, there are some magical views to be found!

Best Mont Saint Michel tours from Paris

If you can, I certainly recommend spending the night at Mont Saint Michel. It means you won’t feel in a rush to visit everything, you can see the mount in all different lights, and you’ll have time to do more than the average day-tripper.

But, having said that, I understand that not everyone has the luxury of being able to dedicate a couple of days to just one attraction during their trip to France.

If you just have one day, then a day trip to Mont Saint Michel from Paris is still an excellent option.

Most of the Mont Saint Michel day trips are quite similar. They start at around 7:00 at either a meeting place in Paris or with a hotel pick-up, then you’ll be driven by bus to Mont Saint Michel, which takes up to four hours, depending on traffic.

You’ll usually then get a bit of a tour around the island to get your bearings and then a visit inside the abbey – which could be on your own, with a guide, or with an audio guide.

There’ll then probably be a few hours to explore the village, get some lunch, walk around any of the natural areas, and do anything else you would like to – remember there are plenty of things to do at Mont Saint Michel, as I’ve just discussed!

Then it’s time to drive back to Paris for another 3.5 or 4 hours.

If you’re keen to do a guided day trip, I would recommend this tour to Mont Saint Michel from Paris , which normally has a great guide.

Or, there are a few other options here, including a private trip:

A Mont Saint Michel tour from Paris is a long day and you’ll spend most of it sitting on the bus, but if this is your only chance to see this masterpiece, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Visiting Mont Saint Michel

If you’re coming to Mont Saint Michel independently, there are some logistics that are fairly straightforward but are worth planning for.

From Paris to Mont St Michel by car

Mont Saint Michel is about 350 kilometres away from Paris and it’s a fairly simple drive, if you have a car. The best route to take is via Caen and it should take you about four hours.

If you are driving, I would recommend stopping at the Museum of the Manuscripts of Mont Saint Michel in Avranches on the way to (or on the way back).

When you arrive, the closest you can get in your car is about three kilometres from the island. There’s a large parking lot where you can leave the car (€9 a day in low season and €14 a day in high season).

From the car park, you can get the free bus shuttle to the island, or it’s about a 30-minute walk. (Be warned, there can be long queues for the bus at the peak times of the day.)

From Paris to Mont St Michel by public transport

If you’re coming from Paris to Mont St Michel by public transport, the best option is to catch the train to Rennes and then get the bus from the Rennes train station to Mont St Michel town.

There are quite a few TGV trains each day between Paris Montparnasse and Rennes, which can be as fast as 90 minutes. There are four buses from Rennes each day, that are timed to meet particular TGV trains. You can see the schedule here .

The bus will drop you at the Mont Saint Michel car park and from there you can catch the free bus shuttle to the island, or it’s about a 30-minute walk.

When you’re coming back to catch the bus for your return from Mont Saint Michel to Paris, leave yourself enough time to wait in the queue for the shuttle bus (or be prepared to walk, to guarantee how long it will take).

Exploring the Mont Saint Michel area

The general area around Mont Saint Michel is open all the time, in the same way that any town or natural bay would be. So, early in the morning or after dark, you can wander around and explore the region.

In fact, seeing as many tourists come just for a day trip, I think morning is the best time to see the streets of the island town. And sunrise and sunset are the most beautiful times of the day to get views of the island with the bay and surrounding natural areas.

It is free to visit the general Mont Saint Michel area, including the town on the island. The shuttle bus that runs between the main parking lot and the island is also free.

You’ll find that the village on the island is very quiet after the day-trippers leave, though. There’s a bit more going on in the town, where there’s more accommodation and restaurants for dinner.

Visiting the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel

As I’ve discussed – and as is probably pretty obvious – it’s the abbey at the top of the mount that is the highlight.

I would recommend buying your ticket in advance here , because that will let you use a shorter entrance line, which is great in busy periods.

Once you’re at the Abbey ticket office, you can choose to buy an audioguide or join a guided tour.

A few other things worth knowing:

• You can’t take suitcases or large bags and there is no luggage storage.
• There are steps throughout the monument and much of it is not easily accessible for wheelchairs.
• There are some adapted tours that can be offered for visitors with disabilities.
• There are toilets at the beginning and in the middle of the tour.
• Smoking and eating are not permitted anywhere in the monument.

The abbey does get busy in the middle of the day when many of the day tours arrive. So, if you’re staying overnight, consider visiting first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon.

How do you get to the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel?

You’ll need to walk from the bottom of the hill up to the abbey and there is no other mode of transportation. If you can walk quickly uphill, it will take about 15 minutes through the crowds.

When is the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel open?

From September to April, it’s open every day from 09:30 – 18:00. From May to August, it’s open every day from 09:00 – 19:00.

What is the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel entrance fee?

Admission to the abbey is €13 for a standard ticket. It is free for children under 18 and EU residents aged between 18-25.

You can see more information at the abbey’s official website .

Where to stay at Mont St Michel

When it comes to accommodation at Mont St Michel, there are three locations to consider. Do you want to stay on the island itself, in the mainland town, or in a different nearby town?

The benefit of the island is that you are staying in the heart of the site, surrounded by history, with a unique experience. However, the accommodation here is expensive and many of the rooms are actually quite small because of the limited space.

Still, the best hotels in Mont Saint Michel island are Auberge Saint Pierre , or Les Terrasses Poulard , or La Vieille Auberge .

In the mainland Mont St Michel town, you’ll find some excellent hotels that are modern and comfortable. I would recommend the Mercure Mont Saint Michel , or Le Relais Du Roy , or Hotel Gabriel .

Just a little bit further away is the town of Beauvoir, where you can still easily access Mont Saint Michel but you’ll get much cheaper prices for accommodation.

If you don’t mind a 20-minute walk to the bus station, I would recommend Résidence Fleurdumont . which has apartments that can fit different sizes of groups.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN MONT ST MICHEL

You’ll get quite different experiences (and value) depending on how close you stay to the Mont St Michel abbey itself.

In the nearby town of Beauvoir, Résidence Fleurdumont has great value apartments of various sizes.

Really clean and comfortable, the Mercure Mont Saint Michel is an excellent modern four-star hotel.

You pay a lot to stay at one of the hotels on the mount itself, so I think Les Terrasses Poulard is the best mix of value and quality.

A few kilometres from the main sight, Ermitage is a relaxing country chateau with beautiful rooms and excellent service.

Time Travel Turtle was supported by UNESCO as part of the World Heritage Journeys of Europe but the opinions, over-written descriptions and bad jokes are his own.

This site is on the UNESCO World Heritage List ! I'm on a mission to visit as many World Heritage Sites as I can. Only about 800 more to go... eek!

More stories about France

• Visit the Palace of Versailles
• The best way to see Mont St Michel
• Wine tasting in Saint Emilion
• Things to do in Bordeaux
• Visiting the incredible Pont du Gard
• What to see at the D-Day beaches
• Things to do in Nord-Pas de Calais
• Visiting the pilgrimage village of Rocamadour
• Things to do in Le Havre

16 thoughts on “How to visit Mont Saint Michel”

wow, it looks very beautiful and feel of royalty. You are lucky that you went and enjoyed the heritage tour. I also would go once, if ever get a chance to visit mont saint.

Thanks for sharing such informative article.

How about reaching by bike? Park up in nearby town and cycle would seem logical and most sustainable way of reaching MSM.

I read about MSM as a child and visited three years ago. Such a wonderful place. Every corner I turned and step I took I felt history. I have yet to stay overnight but look forward to doing so in the future.

Nice um food and drink otherwise …

I have heard there is a sunrise service with the monks. Is this still a possibility?

“There are also some special guided tours that you can do for an extra cost. These will take you to areas that are not normally accessible.” Hi! Can you provide a link or info as to how to book one of the special guided tours? I’m visiting September 2023 and would love to do this!

Hi Jeanne. Unfortunately it looks like those tours are not being offered right now (I’ve updated the story to reflect that). It’s a shame – but hopefully they’ll be back soon, and I’ll let you know if it’s before September.

I just couldn’t stop reading! Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I’m planning to visit MSM soon 🙂

I am there in sept as well wondering about other tours as well? Also how late do the shuttles run I have found wandering around after the crowds have left can be magical.

The shuttles go very late: until 22:00 (Oct-Mar), until 23:00 (Apr, Jun, Sep), and 01:00 (May, July, Aug).

I would love to hear about the special tours to go to the roof of the Abbey as well. Am heading there next month.

Hi Bec. It looks like those tours are not being offered at the moment, I’m sorry. (I’ve updated the story to reflect that now). I’ll be getting more info from the abbey about when/if they will restart and will let you know if it’s before you’re heading there.

Please tell me of a reputable private overnight tour for my husband and I from Paris to MSM that would include transportation to and from as well as overnight stay. We will be traveling in September.

Thank you, Michael Turtle for such a comprehensive and delightful article. You have done a marvelous job of sharing your expertise!! I have arthritis in both feet and knees, and I use a walker to get around….but I hope to visit and stay on the island for two nights in September 2023. I know that I will be limited in places I am able to access…. but I do have a walker that folds and that I can carry up stairs as long as there is a handrail to hold on to. Of course, I have to limit the total amount of stairs I can climb and descend in a day, but I want to try to explore this unique historical site while I am in France. What tips do you have for making this a possibility for me? Or do you think (and recommend) that I should skip this once-in-a-lifetime experience as unrealistic? And is there any golf cart type of assistance available to help me get from the main streets where the hotel would be located up to the Abbey? Thanks in advance for any info you can provide!!

Is this doable from Paris in November 2023? Should we take a tour from Paris or attempt TGv train?

HI. We will be visiting in the last week of September 2023. Is it still very busy at that time of year? Thanks.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Find me on the socials:, subscribe for news and deals:.

top stories:

Guide To Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy’s Mystical Island

Here’s my guide to visiting Mont Saint-Michel.

This guide tells you what to see and do in Mont Saint-Michel. It also gives you key must know tips and do’s and don’ts for visiting this bravura medieval creation in France.

Mont Saint-Michel is the crown jewel of Normandy. It’s one of France’s most recognizable silhouettes, a veritable castle in the clouds.

The famous landmark is a pretty-as-a mirage island sanctuary. Its steeply built architecture seems almost impossible. A surreal medieval stage set, the Mont’s sky-high spires, stout ramparts, and rocky outcrops rise dramatically from the sea.

The immense stone pile stands guard over gleaming sands laid bare by a receding (and unpredictable) tide. At high tide, Mont Saint-Michel seems to float in the sea.

The hulking abbey is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Christendom. In medieval times, devotees flocked to venerate the Archangel Michael. The Mont’s star attraction is the ancient abbey crowning its top.

READ : Most Beautiful Towns in Normandy

Brief History of Mont Saint-Michel

Originally known as Mont Tombe, Mont Saint-Michel had its early history intertwined with diverse Gallo-Roman religious groups before the emergence of Christianity’s strong presence.

In the 8th century, the island underwent a significant transformation, adopting the name Mont Saint-Michel in honor of Saint Michael, a revered Christian religious figure.

According to legend, the inception of Mont Saint-Michel was inspired by a celestial vision. In a dream, the Archangel Michael, leader of the celestial militia, descended to Earth and tasked Bishop Aubert with an extraordinary mission: to erect an abbey atop this rugged and improbable terrain. The divine message was clear: “build here and build high.”

Embracing this divine directive, the construction of the abbey became an embodiment of unwavering faith. Spanning the 10th to 15th centuries, the abbey’s main edifice took shape, each stone a testament to the devotion that defied the challenging landscape.

Throughout its existence, the abbey underwent a series of profound metamorphoses, shaping its identity and purpose across the annals of time.

The sanctuary was initially built (and rebuilt) in a pre-Romanesque and Romanesque styles. In the 13th century, a fire burned down most of the abbey. It was reconstructed again in its current Gothic iteration. The abbey church was heightened in dramatic fashion.

As its name suggests, Mont Saint-Michel was primarily used as a Benedictine abbey. However, over time, it became a strategic stronghold, defying capture by military force. The abbey was a holdout against the English in the Hundred Years War.

During the French Revolution, when monasticism was banished. With conscious irony, Mont Saint-Michel was converted to a prison. It was dubbed the “Bastille of the Sea,” a reference to the prison in Paris.

In the 19th century, influential French figures like the novelist Victor Hugo called for the prison’s closure. They wanted to reclaim the national architectural treasure.

READ : 5 Day Itinerary for Paris

In 1863, the prison shut down and restorations commenced. In 1966, the Abbey’s 1000th year anniversary, a religious community moved back in. In 1979, Mont Saint-Michel and its surrounding bay became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Mont is incredibly popular, a tourist-fly attraction drawing millions of tourists annually. Yet, even the desecrations of over-tourism can’t destroy its magic and mysticism.

Key Tips For Visiting Mont Saint-Michel

As an uber-popular and isolated island with mercurial tides, the Mont can be tricky to visit. This isn’t a destination in France that you should visit, slap dash, on the spur of the moment. You need to be savvy with your trip planning.

Here are my 11 tips and tricks for having a smooth visit, to make the most out of your time at Mont Saint-Michel. I also give you an overview of the highlights of the island abbey.

1. The Logistics of Getting To Mont Saint-Michel

By far the easiest way to get to Mont Saint-Michel is by car. If you’re coming from Paris, take the A11 highway toward Chartes-Le-Mans. Exit at Fougeres and signs point you toward Mont Saint-Michel.

If you’re taking public transportation from Paris, there will be a lot of moving parts in your itinerary (train + bus + shuttle/walk). There are no direct trains from Paris.

The nearest train station is 5 miles away in Pontorson, which is rather a cute town. But there are only a few trains a day. From Pontorson, you can hop on a shuttle bus or take a taxi to the island shuttle bus station.

Another way to get to Mont Saint-Michel is to take a TVG train from Montparnasse station to Rennes and then transfer to a bus. The bus from Rennes to Mont Saint-Michel takes about 1:15.

Prices and timetables can be found here . The bus drops you off at the Mont Saint-Michel’s tourism office outpost.

Another popular way to get to Mont Saint Michel is via a guided tour. These tours are in high demand and often sell out. There are many different options, including

• a 2-3 hour private walking tour of the Mont
• a full day guided tour from Paris
• a full day 14 hour guided tour from Paris
• a full day 10-12 hour tour from Paris
• a 12 hour private tour from Paris
• an 8 hour tour from Bayeux
• an 8-9 hour tour from Bayeux of the Mont and the D-Day Beaches
• a full day guided tour of the Mont and Honfleur

2. Tickets for Mont Saint-Michel

The island of Mont Saint-Michel is free to visit. But you’ll pay 11 euros to visit the beautiful abbey, which is a must do activity.

If you want to avoid a long line at the abbey, purchase tickets online in advance. When you get there, look for the separate line for visitors with pre-paid tickets.

You should also purchase a ticket that comes with an audio guide to better explore the abbey. They’re 11 euros.

Click here for online tickets from the official website. If they are sold out, can also purchase tickets on Get Your Guide or tickets on Viator .

3. Weather at Mont Saint-Michel

Even in the summer, Mont Saint-Michel can be cold, chilly, and buffeted by winds. Bring layers, a coat, and a scarf. This is especially true if you’re going to walk across the footbridge to get there.

4. Arrival: Parking at Mont Saint-Michel

If you are driving to Mont Saint-Michel, you aren’t allowed to drive you car directly to the island. Park your car one of the massive designated lots on the mainland.

There will be signs showing you where to go. Take your parking ticket with you and pre-pay at the tourist office on your way back to the car.

Parking isn’t cheap. You pay for 24 hours no matter how long you’re there. If you stay 10 minutes past 24 hours, you’ll pay for 48 hours. Click here for parking prices, which depend on the size of your vehicle.

If you’re staying overnight on the island, there’s a separate parking lot. Follow signs for La Caserne and park in P3.

5. Shuttle Bus or Walk To the Island

From the parking lot, you can take a free “Passeur” shuttle bus to the base of the island or walk across the footbridge. The shuttle buses run from 7:30 am until midnight, so you can spend time on the island during the evening before leaving for the night. The buses arrive every 10-15 minutes.

The first stop on the shuttle bus is the visitor’s center. If you need to lock up a bag or luggage, you can do it here.

The 1.5 mile walk across the steel footbridge takes about 30 minutes. The walk is easy and really stunning, albeit windy. If you don’t have luggage, this is the way to go for epic views.

Once you get to the island, the terrain becomes very steep. It can be a grueling hike. Unfortunately, this isn’t a place for wheelchairs or strollers.

6. Tides: Check the Tide Reports

The Mont can be reached during either high tide or low tide. During low tide, as I mentioned, the island can be reached by the modern footbridge or shuttle bus. When the high tide comes in, you can still use the bridge.

On extremely rare occasions, a few days a year, there may be a super flood. The bridge will become submerged, making the island inaccessible by foot or shuttle.

Many people come to Mont Saint-Michel just to see the landmark at high tide. It was my part of motivation. If you want to see and capture this image of the Mont, you need to check the tide report here and plan accordingly.

But be wary of Mont Saint-Michel’s tides. They’re among Europe’s most dangerous. Tides can rise almost 50 feet.

7. Walking the Mudflat on the Bay

The mudflat bay is amazing and many people want to walk on it. Wear sensible shoes and be prepared to get dirty. The bay is a muddy mess.

You may want to walk it barefoot. And bring a small towel in a small backpack to clean up.

The sands can also be dangerous. When the high tide comes, it’s quick and rushing like galloping horses. There are also pockets of quicksand and you may encounter disorienting fog.

If you want to walk on the gleaming sandy bay, don’t stray far. Or, go with an experienced guide. The tourist office has a list that you can explore here .

8. Orientation of the Abbey

The entire island is a pedestrianized zone. Mont Saint-Michel presents in three parts: (1) the fortified abbey; (2) the tiny village with shops and restaurants; and (3) lower level medieval fortifications and walls. There are public WCs at the car park, the town entrance, and near the abbey church.

After crossing the footbridge, you’ll be on the Grande Rue, the main drag through the town. Climb past 15th and 16th century stone houses, flattened amongst tiny narrow streets.

Above the houses, turn sharply left. Pass through a fortified gate, known as King’s Gate, and an ascending staircase leads to the abbey. On the way, look for the parish church of Sainte-Pierre.

Unfortunately, you’ll be inundated with tacky souvenir shops along your steep and grueling trek. Try to ignore them so they don’t sap the medieval atmosphere.

9. Where To Stay In Mont Saint-Michel

Should you stay on the island?

To be frank, Mont Saint-Michel is a tourist town. Less than 50 people actually reside in the town and the main source of income are touristic endeavors.

The disadvantages of staying overnight are that the hotels (and everything else) is pricey. There’s not much to do at night either.

The key advantage of staying overnight is you can stroll the island without being jostled by a killjoy flood of tourists and day trippers. Between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm, the streets are jam packed.

You can book at the Relais Saint-Michel , which has great views of the Mont and a complementary shuttle to the site. La Mere Pollard is located in the heart of the village and has a historic feel.

A nicer hotel off the island in Beauvoir is L’Ermitage Mont Saint-Michel . It’s a upscale hotel located in a renovated stone mansion. Another cute place to stay on the mainland is Hotel Rose , a charming set in a verdant park.

At night and in the early morning, the island is eerie, serene even. You can more easily feel the magic of the place.

If your schedule permits, the ideal plan is to arrive late, stay overnight, visit the abbey early, and then depart.

READ : Most Beautiful Towns in Brittany

10. What To Eat in Mont Saint-Michel

For the most part, the restaurants in Mont Saint-Michel are hideously overpriced and mostly mediocre. You can pay 30 euros for a bland meal. The local specialties are omelettes, salt-grazed lamb, and mussels. The most common wine is a Muscadet from the nearby Loire Valley.

All guides seem to suggest Cafe Mere Poulard. True, it does have a nice outside terrace, housed in a chic three store restaurant. But the food is utterly mediocre.

La Vieille Auberge also has outside seating with views. La Sirene has some decent crepes.

If you plan ahead and the weather is promising, your best bet is to buy some food at the Super Marche on the mainland and picnic on the ramparts or somewhere off Grande Rue.

For dinner, you may want to eat off the island. Unless it’s just too idyllic to leave, in which case mediocre food is a small price to pay for the sublime.

Highlights and What To See at Mont Saint Michel

Now, that we’ve covered the logistics, you may be wondering what to see at Mont Saint-Michel.

Inside the great walls is a complex series of chambers. The rooms are a masterful assemblage of medieval architecture. You can be part of the living past.

Here are the top attractions and things you can’t miss at Mont Saint Michel:

1. Western Terrace

In 1776, a fire destroyed the west end of the abbey church. But it left a splendid viewing terrace where you’ll get some fantastic landscape photos of the bay.

2. Monastery

The medieval monastery is divided into 3 parts: (1) the abbey church; (2) the monks’ living area; and (3) the cloister. A stone staircase will take you to the abbey’s security checkpoint, located in the original Guard’s Room.

3. Abbey Church

The church has a severe and unadorned facade. But inside is an austerely beautiful space with a 15th century flamboyant Gothic chancel.

In a chapel is a grim-looking statue of Saint Aubert, the man with the vision. Atop the church is a spire with a gilded statue of Saint Michael.

4. Monks’ Living Area

This lofty part of the abbey is known as “La Merveille,” or The Marvel. The bold Gothic architecture consists of 3 layered levels supported by 16 buttresses.

5. Cloister

The cloister is one of the most beautiful parts of the abbey, used for the monks’ meditations. It has a double row of petit pillars with floral carvings at the top.

The cloister offers magnificent views from the open north side. Due to the nature of the Mont, the cloister sits on top, rather than at the center of the monastery (as was usual). While most of Mont Saint-Michel is made of granite, the cloister has plenty of creamy limestone.

6. Refectory

This is the abbey dining hall. It’s so geometric and pristine that it seems almost modern.

7. Guests’ Hall

St. Benedict believed in entertaining guests in luxury. Guests were wined and dined without a hint of monastic austerity. The room formerly had a starry ceiling. There are two massive fireplaces.

8. Hall of the Grand Pillars

Hike up the stairs through a chapel and you arrive at the Hall of the Grand Pillars. The hall was built to support the Gothic chancel of the church. The pillars are massive, 15 feet around.

This part of the abbey housed a hospital, ossuary, and morgue. Bones from the abbey graveyard were transferred here. There’s a large wheel that was used for the heavy lifting on building projects.

10. Scriptorium Hall

This beautiful hall is also known as Knight’s Hall. It was initially thought to be where the monks decorated their illuminated manuscripts. More likely, it was a room for studying and contemplation. It’s decorated with many columns forming four aisles.

11. Ramparts

Nothing beats a romp on the Mont Saint-Michel ramparts in the moonlight, when the island is magically floodlit. It will awaken the romantic in even the most jaded traveler.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my travel guide and tips for visiting Mont Saint-Michel. You may enjoy these other travel guides and resources for France:

• 3 Day Itinerary for Paris
• Hidden Gems in Paris
• 10 Day Itinerary for Southern France
• 1 week road trip itinerary for Normandy
• Secret Towns in France
• Famous Landmarks in France
• Most Beautiful Villages in Northern France
• Hidden Gems in Provence
• Hilltop Villages of the Luberon Valley
• Beautiful Villages in Occitanie
• Beautiful villages of Brittany

If you’d like to visit Mont Saint-Michel, pin it for later.

2 thoughts on “Guide To Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy’s Mystical Island”

You did a wonderful job with your travel website. Thank you, it is the most useful I have found and look forward to visit france this coming week.

Thank you so much Alexandria!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on August 12, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Mont Saint-Michel Complete Guide – All You Need To Know

Niklas Forstreuter

• February 22, 2024

You’ve probably seen a picture of Mont Saint-Michel, one of the most popular tourist attractions in France. This tiny island in Normandy lies only around 1 kilometre off the mainland and has only 50 inhabitants.

Mont Saint-Michel has a rich history which dates back to the 9th century. It lies sheltered in a large bay, which causes its tides to be very shallow. A bridge connects Mont Saint-Michel to the mainland, which makes it convenient to visit even when the weather isn’t the best.

On the island, the most prominent landmark is the Mont Saint-Michel abbey, which was constructed in 966.

Visiting Mont Saint-Michel is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The island looks so surreal and can be seen even from miles away. There is no entree fee or need to book tickets, which makes Mont Saint-Michel a great location for budget-conscious travellers.

If you’re not travelling on a budget, you can even choose to stay in a hotel right on Mont Saint-Michel. Don’t miss out, and add Mont Saint-Michel to your bucket list. You won’t be disappointed.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep Guide Your Travel free and provide high-quality content for you. Please read the full disclaimer for more information.

Where is Mont Saint-Michel in France?

Mont Saint-Michel lies in the western part of the French Normandy on the border to Brittany. It takes just over four hours to drive there from Paris, although Rennes is the closest larger city in the area.

The island lies sheltered in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel, which gives it unique weather conditions despite being exposed to the rough weather of the Atlantic Ocean.

The island is largely surrounded by agricultural lands and pastures which makes it stand out all the more. With its rural location and small villages, the mainland seems to still be largely untouched by the mass tourism that Mont Saint-Michel experiences. 

History of Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel has a rich and complicated history. The first buildings on the island were constructed in the 8th century. Originally named Mont-Tombe, the name Mont Saint-Michel soon became dominant as the bishop of Avranches had a vision of the archangel St.Micheal and was compelled to start construction for an abbey on the island.

The Mont Saint-Michel abbey was constructed in 966 after which the island became a popular pilgrimage site. It was severely damaged in 1203 when the French King Philip II tried to recapture it.

Mont Saint-Michel was used as a fortress during multiple wars and even turned into a prison under the rule of Napoleon. Restoration began in 1874 and it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979.

The island is an almost perfect circle with a diameter of just over 900 meters. Due to the tidal conditions, it is actually not an island most of the time and is only surrounded by water during the highest tide. 

The original bridge to Mont Saint-Michel was built in the late 19th century. In 2014 they replaced it with a more modern one that is accessible to pedestrians.

The old bridge (or causeway as it is called) caused problems with the build-up of silt along the bay, which considerably altered the sandbanks between Mont Saint-Michel and the mainland. The new bridge is meant to prevent this problem and discourage people from attempting to drive onto the unstable mudflat. 

Roughly 2.5 million people visit Mont Saint-Michel and its bay every year.

I highly recommend joining a walking tour when you visit Mont Saint-Michel. They’re very affordable and you’ll learn a lot about the history and will get a lot of information that can be difficult to find as a tourist. If you’re coming from Paris, this day trip tour is an even better option.

Let me save you time and effort when you’re travel planning! ➼ Best travel insurance? SafetyWing ➼ Best place to find cheap flights? Skyscanner ➼ Best bank & credit card for travellers? Wise ➼ Best travel backpack? Osprey Farpoint 70

Where to stay close to Mont Saint-Michel

There is a good selection of bed and breakfasts and hotels in the surrounding area. These will be cheaper than staying directly on Mont Saint-Michel, however, you’ll be a bit further away.

The Le Relais Mont Saint-Michel is the closest hotel on the mainland and is located right by the start of the bridge. It can be pricey, but we had such a wonderful stay here that we immediately booked it again when we returned to the area six months later. The service was exceptional, and our room even had a view of Mont Saint-Michel.

If you’re travelling on a tighter budget, have a look at hotels in the surrounding villages such as Les Salles, Pontorson, La Grève, or Le Bas de Saint-Georges. The area is unfortunately quite expensive, but you can check out Chambre Le Salles for a more budget-conscious option, even though it’s quite basic accommodation.

Note that you’re going to need a car if you’re staying in any of the villages I named above. In any case, it will be quite difficult to see Mont Saint-Michel without a car or at least a bike. You and find more information on how to get there below .

You can also choose to stay at a campsite close to Mont Saint-Michel, with several different options available. My favourite is Camping du Mont Saint-Michel, which is right by the foot of the bridge and you’ll be able to walk to the island without needing a car. It offers campsites starting at 15 € per night, which is extremely cheap. You absolutely need to pre-book, as this place sells out very quickly during the summer. The same goes for the hotels, obviously.

Always compare prices for hotels. We at Guide Your Travel prefer Booking.com , Agoda or Hostelworld for finding the best deals.

Can you stay inside Mont Saint-Michel?

If you’re not concerned about your budget you can book a hotel right on Mont Saint-Michel. There are a number of small hotels on the island, which can be perfect if you want to see everything in the early morning, away from the tourist crowds.

Look into the hotels: Les Terrasses Poulard , Hôtel la Croix Blanche , Auberge Saint Pierre , and La Mère Poulard if you’d like to stay on the island.

The Auberge Saint Pierre is a clear favourite, and although it’s not the most affordable, the price is definitely worth it. Our one night there was absolutely incredible and an experience I’ll never forget.

Looking for a reliable and affordable SIM card for France and the rest of Europe? We’ve got the perfect SIM card for you.

When is the best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel?

As with every tourist attraction, you need to come early in the morning to avoid the tourist crowds. During the summer months, you’ll also want to make sure you’re not exposed to the sun, which gets quite strong during mid-day.

So if you’re planning to walk to the island, try to go early. Make sure to pre-book tickets to the Mont Saint-Michel abbey during popular times and watch out for the weather. Seeing Mont Saint-Michel on a day with sunny weather will considerably improve your experience.

You’ll definitely have more fun at Mont Saint-Michel in summer, although this is also the busiest time. The shoulder season of April to May and September to October can be a great choice to avoid the heat and crowds. The island is definitely still worth visiting in winter, although you’ll have to prepare yourself for the cold.

Mont Saint-Michel tides

You can see Mont Saint-Michel during both the high and low tides. The only time when the island is inaccessible is during the spring tides when Mont Saint-Michel truly becomes an island.

With up to 15 meters difference, this is the highest spring tide in all of Europe. The island is inaccessible for around 1.5 hours during the spring tides, which occur twice per month.

Watch out for the weather as high winds can affect the tides on Mont Saint-Michel greatly.

During low tide, you can walk out onto the mudflats around the island, although you need to be careful not to go too far as the water can come in quickly and unexpectedly.

Do you need tickets to visit Mont Saint-Michel?

Visiting Mont Saint-Michel is completely free. You only have to pay for parking.

If you want to visit the abbey on Mont Saint-Michel, you need to buy tickets, though. You should buy these in advance online if you’re visiting during the high season.

That way, you can avoid the lines and guarantee that you can get a spot, which is highly recommended. Of course, you can also buy tickets to the abbey on Mont Saint-Michel on arrival. Regular adult tickets cost 13€. Entry is free for European citizens under the age of 26 and anyone under the age of 18.

Mont Saint-Michel opening hours

Mont Saint-Michel itself has no opening hours and can be accessed around the clock. The abbey is open from  10:00 AM to 17:00 PM  in the low season (November to March) and  9:30 AM to 18:30 PM  April to June, as well as September. In October, the abbey is open from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM and from July to August from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM . Sunday hours might differ

Remember to book your tickets in advance to really enjoy this highlight of Mont Saint-Michel. During the summer months, you can see a light display in the abbey in the late evenings. Last admission is always one hour before closing time.

The abbey is open every day except January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th due to public holidays. Be aware of the spring tides at Mont Saint-Michel when the entire island is inaccessible for a few hours.

How to get to Mont Saint-Michel

The best way to get to Mont Saint-Michel is by car, which will allow you to drive right to the beginning of the bridge that leads to the island. You can also arrive by train and then get a shuttle from the train station in Pontorson.

The best way to explore a new place is usually with your own set of wheels, which makes getting around a lot easier. Use Discover Cars to find the best rental car deals with no hidden fees and plenty of options for insurance coverage. Discover Cars is an advanced search engine that automatically checks and compares more than 500 car rental companies and shows you the best deals for your destination. You’ll have the rental conditions, requirements and policies all in one place with no need to search for information in the fine print. Check here how much a rental car from Discover Cars would be for your trip . It may be more affordable than you think!

Can you drive to Mont Saint Michel?

You cannot drive onto the island with your own car. The entire area around the bridge is gated which makes it nearly impossible to even get close to the island by car.

You can park your car at designated parking areas and then either take the free shuttle bus or walk to Mont Saint-Michel. 

How long does it take to walk to Mont Saint-Michel?

It takes around 30 to 45 minutes to walk to Mont Saint-Michel from the car park. If you have one, you can take your bike to make the journey quicker.

Where can you park close to Mont Saint-Michel?

Parking at the bridge costs  12€ for 24 hours   during the low season  and  25€ during the high season . Parking is free after 6:30 PM until 3:00 AM in the low season, and the fees for campervans are generally slightly higher than for cars.

If you’re staying in a hotel on Mont Saint-Michel you will get access to a special car park.

This parking lot might be expensive, but it’s definitely the best place to park close to Mont Saint-Michel. There are various unofficial places to park slightly further away by the roadside, which can also be an option if you manage to get a spot and don’t mind walking a bit longer.

It is not technically prohibited to park there, but you could still be risking a fine. See more information on this under the heading  Is there another way of seeing Mont Saint-Michel?   below.

Next to the parking lot, you’ll find the Mont-Saint Michel tourist information centre, where you can pick up helpful leaflets and have a look at a small exhibit about the island and its geography.

The free shuttle buses

Mont Saint-Michel offers free passeur shuttle buses that take you from the car park to the island. They run regularly from 7:30 AM to midnight and take around 12 minutes. Outside of these times, you can call a shuttle bus at  +33 (0)2 14 13 20 15  to pick you up. Keep an eye out for signage for more information.

Horse-drawn carriages are available to take you to the island for around 7€. As always, we at  Guide Your Travel  do not encourage you to support tourist attractions that exploit animals. Why not choose the free shuttle instead?

What to bring on your trip to Mont Saint-Michel

Make sure to bring plenty of water if you’re visiting Mont Saint-Michel during the summer months. Even if you’re not walking there, you’ll be climbing lots of stairs on the island. Naturally, buying anything there will be expensive so you’ll be glad if you’ve at least got some water with you. 

There are a handful of restaurants available on Mont Saint-Michel, but they’ll be expensive and crowded. If you can you should prepare a small picnic to take with you or at least some snacks.

It goes without saying that you should be taking your camera with you when you visit this amazing place. It’s the perfect photo opportunity. Don’t forget to pack some sunscreen. There is next to no shade on the walk to the island. 

The weather on Mont Saint-Michel and the walk there can be very different from the mainland. If it’s not very hot you should pack an extra jacket as the wind is very strong. Watch out for the weather forecast when you visit Mont Saint-Michel.

How long does it take to visit Mont Saint-Michel?

You can spend at least 3 to 4 hours on Mont Saint-Michel if you plan to see everything, including the abbey, and have a lunch break. Then add another 1.5 hours if you’re planning on walking both ways. 

Short on time? It’s definitely possible to see the island in around 1.5 hours if you skip the abbey and just walk around for a bit. Add 30 minutes for taking the shuttle both ways, and you could be in and out in 2 hours.

Is there another way of seeing Mont Saint-Michel?

While the interior of Mont Saint-Michel is beautiful and definitely worth seeing, it looks the most impressive from further away. To get the best view of Mont Saint-Michel you should go somewhere along the coast of the mainland to really see the entire bay.

There is no official place to do this, and you’ll have to be lucky to find a parking spot, but it’s really worth it.

There are multiple small parking bays along the main road (marked on the map below). If you come early you can park there for free and then walk across the pastures towards the shore.

Most of these pastures are fenced in, and you’ll occasionally have to climb a small fence. It is definitely a little adventurous, but worth it to get that perfect photo. 

During low tides, you can also choose to walk into the mudflats from either the mainland or the island. Be very careful when attempting this. The tides can rise quickly and unexpectedly at Mont Saint-Michel, and even during low tide there are many waterholes and even quicksand.

The local police regularly have to rescue tourists who venture too far into the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. Use your common sense, and don’t go too far.

There are guided tours and even horseback riding available if you want to see the mudflats safely.

What can you see on the island?

Mont Saint-Michel is made up of many tiny alleyways, stairwells, and ancient houses. There are a number of hotels on the island as well as a small number of restaurants and cafes. Of course, you’ll find the obligatory tourist shops selling souvenirs.

Around 30 people actually live on Mont Saint-Michel, which means there are also actual houses scattered among the tourist locations. Make sure you’re respectful of the locals’ privacy.

The main attraction in Mont Saint-Michel is the abbey, which marks the highest point of the island. There is also a lookout point, a small museum, and a cemetery as well as another little church. Plenty to explore.

Mont Saint-Michel FAQ

Mont Saint-Michel is famous for its incredible views, notable history and breathtaking location in its bay.

Yes, tourists can go inside Mont Saint-Michel, even inside the island’s famous abbey.

Mont Saint-Michel is free to visit, but entrance to the abbey costs €11 per person. Parking costs €15 per day.

Only around 20 to 30 people live in Mont Saint-Michel permanently, and the number has been steadily declining over the years.

The ancient abbey was constructed by the Benedictines in the 8th century.

You can reach the island within around four hours from Paris, and the distance is approximately 350 kilometres.

Before you go…

You’re ready to explore the beautiful island of Mont Saint-Michel, and we think you might enjoy our other guides to visiting France.

Check out our article about must-try snacks and foods from Brittany, our guide to visiting Saint Emilion close to Bordeaux, and our complete breakdown of how much camping in France for two weeks costs .

Did I miss anything? If you have any questions or feel like something is missing from this post, please leave a comment below or  contact me .

My most important travel tips and resources

Book your flights Skyscanner is the best website for finding cheap flights since it works like a search engine, so you can find the best deals across all airlines. Book hotels and hostels • Booking.com : Best worldwide • Agoda : Best in South East Asia • Hostelworld : Best for hostels Book tours, transport and rental cars • Viator : The best place to book tours, day trips and excursions for all budgets • 12Go : Great for ferries, trains, transfers and buses in South East Asia • Discover Cars : Best deals for rental cars around the word Get travel insurance Every traveller needs travel insurance, and I mean every single one. SafetyWing covers you in case of injury, illness or worse, and they’ve got your back if your bag is stolen, flights are cancelled or in case of a natural disaster. Pay abroad Ask any traveller, Wise is the best choice when it comes to sending money abroad. They’ve always got the best exchange rates, lowest fees, and their visa card is great for getting cash out or paying abroad. Things every traveller needs: ➼ Osprey Farpoint 70 Backpack Detachable daypack, ultra-light, durable and free repairs for life. There’s a reason why so many backpackers have this bag. ➼ Packing Cubes Packing cubes are a gamer changer, keeping your luggage organised and providing tons of extra space. ➼ Power bank There is nothing worse than running out of battery on an overnight bus journey or a long flight. With a power bank, you can charge your electronics on the go and make sure you’re always connected. ➼ Micro-fibre towel These lightweight towels are foldable, fast-drying, and, so useful when you’re travelling. ➼ You can find 15 more things every traveller needs here . Some might be a bit controversial, but I warned you!

Welcome to Guide your Travel!

Hi! I’m Victoria, a travel blogger from Germany and the author of Guide your Travel. I write about my favourite destinations in Europe, South East Asia and digital nomad life in Bali.

Click the icons below to follow us on social media

Join the family!

Enter your email below for our weekly newsletter and up-to-date news in Bali

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Hi, I'm Victoria

Welcome to Guide your Travel – a blog about South East Asia and how to travel on a budget.

I’m a blogger, writer and photographer and love to introduce my favourite destinations to others and encourage them to see the world.

I’m originally from Germany but spent four years living in the UK, quite a bit of time in Spain and Malaysia, and am now travelling full time with a home base in Bali, Indonesia.

Work with me!

Popular Posts

21 Unusual Things To Do In Yogyakarta & Hidden Gems

Where To Find Turtles At The Beach In Gili Trawangan

Batu Caves Kuala Lumpur Ultimate Guide (Price, Hours, Tips)

19 Cheap Places to Eat in KLCC, Kuala Lumpur

22 Fun And Unique Things To Do In San Sebastian, Spain

7 Secret Bars In Kuala Lumpur And How To Find Them

Ultimate Porto Travel Guide – All You Need To Know

Beginner Guide To Using A Polariser/Polarising Filter

15 Sustainable Travel Products To Take On Your Next Trip

19 Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur And 6 You Should Skip

How To See The Sunrise At Borobudur In Yogyakarta

19 Things Every Traveler Needs – Travel Packing Hacks

View posts by countries.

Explore my favorite places by clicking one of the countries below

Guide Your Travel

© 2024 Guide Your Travel – All Rights Reserved.

Quick Links

Destinations, subscribe to our email newsletter.

• Work with me
• Privacy Policy

• Philippines
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Czech Republic
• Hong Kong Hikes
• Hong Kong Food Guide
• Hotels & Resorts
• Resource Library
• National Parks
• Short Guides
• Ultimate Guide
• Travel tips
• Sai Kung Nature Guide

• Visiting Mont St Michel: getting around, photospots, and where to stay

This is post 6 of 7 in the series “France”

France is a romantic country that oozes charm in every corner. From the cobblestone streets of Paris to the dazzling blue water of the French Rivera, here are some of my favourite places and tips:

• A day in Calanques National Park
• Marseille – a day trip destination
• My top 5 of Nice
• My top 5 of Paris
• A Day trip to Eze and Monaco
• One day in Paris: higlights and itinerary

Visiting Mont St Michel in Normandy, France is almost like a dream. The full name of it is Mont Saint Michel, an island linked by a bridge on the coastline an hour north of Rennes that has been a pilgrimage point since the Abbey was built in the 9th century. It’s known for its fairy-tale like look with the pointy abbey, medieval architecture, and isolated location.

There is a high chance that you’ve seen a photo of it on Instagram, Facebook, travel magazine, or just a stock photo. I have to admit, seeing it in real life was just as magical and surreal. It’s hard to believe a place like this exists and harder still to believe that it’s quite affordable to visit!

Given that most people only ever post aesthetic shots or photo locations, here’s the full load down of how to visit Mont St Michel:

Essential Information on Visiting Mont St Michel

Is Mont St Michel worth visiting? Mont St Michel is a UNESCO Heritage Site since 1979. It draws millions of visitors per year but despite being so busy, it remains a fairy-tale sight to behold.

It lies about 1 km (0.6 miles) from the mainland and is cut off during high tide, and here are some geology, history, and essential information for visiting Mont Saint Michel.

Geology of Mont St Michel

Mont St Michel is built on a leucogranite outcrop that has resisted sea erosion. There are other islands of the same nature in the area. Leucogranite is just granite that lacks dark minerals.

The base rock of Mont St Michel was formed as an igneous intrusion deep underground in the Cambrian period over 500 million years ago.

History of Mont St Michel

Since 1874, Mont St Michel has been a national monument and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list in 1979.

The religious history of Mont St Michel can be traced back to the 8th century when it was still called Mont Tombe. Allegedly, the bishop of Avranches saw a vision of Archangel Michael in the 8th century instructing him to build a church there.

It became a strategically significant point when it became part of Normandy in the 10th century and resisted sieges by the English during the Hundred Years’ War in the early 15th century.

The abbey was turned into a prison in the 19th century when pilgrimage waned. Fortunately, it was declared a historic monument in 1874 and underwent restoration. It was occupied by the Germans during WWII who used it as a lookout. It was stormed by French troops on 1st August 1944 and liberated.

The architecture of Mont Saint Michel

The abbey which is the focal point of the island and what drew the village to grow is an architectural feat when it was completed in the 13th century.

In order to build a 3-storey building on a granite batholith, a balancing system using the crypts below as a platform supported by buttress is done. What’s more, is that it’s designed for monastery life of praying and working in the abbey.

When is Mont St Michel Open?

You can visit the island any time, although shuttles only run during day time (more information in the transport section). The abbey is open from 9:30 am to 6 pm from September to April and 9 am to 7 pm from May to August.

Do note that the last admission is one hour before closing time!

How much time do you need at Mont Saint Michel?

The island isn’t very big, and you can likely explore it under 5 hours. I recommend arriving early if possible with a pre-booked ticket to the Abbey, then roaming the street before heading out for a late lunch, as restaurants on the island are expensive.

Can you go Inside Mont-Saint-Michel?

Yes! Mont Saint Michel is open to visitors and you can also stay inside. There are less than 50 inhabitants including the monks and nuns who lived in the abbey, but expect to see many day trippers throughout the day!

Do you have to pay to visit Mont St Michel?

How much does it cost to get into Mont St Michel? It’s free to enter. If you want to go into the abbey at the top, you do have to pay. However, it’s really worth it to visit and learn about the history and the structure that has made Mont Saint Michel what it is today.

Is Mont St Michel open every day?

The island is open year-round, but the abbey complex closes on 25th December, 1st January, and 1st of May,

What is the best time to visit Mont Saint Michel?

The best time of the day to visit Mont Saint Michel is to either arrive early or towards the end of the afternoon to avoid the crowd.

It also depends if you want to catch the island during low tide or high tide, although do note that the bridge can get flooded if it’s a particularly high high tide.

In terms of the time of the year, it’s a beautiful sight to behold, no matter the weather or temperature. But it’s probably best during shoulder season April – June, and September to October.

What is the best way to visit Mont St Michel?

The best way to visit Mont St Michel is to park or get to the visitor center and walk along the bridge to admire it. You can do a guided tour to learn more about the history but for those who are keen on photography, Of course, if time or accessibility is an issue, the shuttle is the best option. More information on the transport section below.

Can you walk to Mont St Michel?

Yes, you can walk to Mont St Michel but only along the bridge. You can technically walk across the marshes during low-tide, but only up to the part that crosses the bridge and not on marshes all the way to the island. It is dangerous which is why the bridge is built.

Can you drive to Mont St Michel?

Visitors have to park at the visitor’s center at the start of the bridge and walk or take the shuttle over. Only residents or those with permits can drive up to Mont St Michel.

The alternative is renting a bicycle and cycling to the start.

Mont Saint Michel Tides

One of the biggest changes to Mont Saint Michel’s landscape is the level of tide. Mont Saint Michel high tide and Mont Saint Michel low tide are totally different. But more importantly, you need to check the tide schedule in order to not be stranded on the island. 

How to get to Mont St Michel

There are many ways to get to Mont St Michel and it can be confusing. Here, I’ll be breaking down the best ways to get to this fairy-tale island. Here are some quick facts:

• The closest train station to Mont St Michel is Portonson Mont-St-Michel, which has a direct shuttle
• The nearest big city and airport is Rennes, which is one hour by train to Portonson
• You cannot get a ferry to Mont St Michel – the closest ferry service to Plymouth is at Saint Malo. And there’s no direct bus or train to Pontorson. 

Paris to Mont St Michel

It is possible to do this as a day trip from Paris if you wake up early to catch the first train and then go back on the last train:

• 7:32 AM – 11:21 AM Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 to Pontorson Mont St Michel
• 6:04 PM – 10:08 PM Pontorson Mont St Michel to Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2

A single ticket should cost 24 euros (12 euros for under 25), which means it’s a 48 euros day trip return. This gives you just over 5 hours at Mont St Michel. This is more doable during the summer months when daylight hours is longer. Also, it’s important to check the tide to make sure you can cross.

Alternatively, you can take a day trip from Paris without having to worry about the logistic. You also have the plus side of being guided by someone who knows the history.

Rennes to Mont Saint Michel

Rennes to Mont Saint Michel by train

From Rennes to Mont St Michel is only a 50 minutes train ride, but be aware that there are only a few trains per day. If you missed it, the next one is a long time away. You can check on the SNCF apps or Omio, and you can book tickets through both apps.

Here are the train times:

• 7:30 am – 11:21 am slow train
• 11:26 am – 12:14 pm 

There are a few other ones later in the noon, but you want to give yourself at least a couple of hours before you leave. The downside is that there is no late afternoon train back from Rennes.

Rennes to Mont Saint Michel by Bus

Keolis runs a bus from Rennes to Mont Saint Michel during the high season between mid-April to late September. It departs from the Rennes bus stop near the main train station.

The timetable for 2022 is here with three buses per day. The earliest bus to Mont Saint Michel departs at 9:45 am and the latest one leaves Mont Saint Michel at 6 pm.

There are some Bla Bla Car options if you look online in advance.

Rennes to Mont Saint Michel by Car

If you are staying in Rennes, the best way is to rent a car and drive yourself, since it’s only 1.5 hours and you don’t have to adjust your time to the trains.

Alternatively, you can take a day trip from Rennes and save yourself the trouble of figuring out the train time or driving.

Otherwise, staying overnight at Pontorson at Mont Saint Michel is also a great idea. Especially if you want to get sunrise and sunset shots or wait for a high tide view.

Visiting Mont St Michel

Now that you know all the essential information to visit Mont St Michel, here is a guide on actually visiting it. I’ll focus more on how to get around without a car, as if you drive – all you need to do is to park by the visitor’s center.

As mentioned, it’s free to enter the island but the abbey requires a ticket.

Mont St Michel Shuttle

The Mont St Michel Shuttle is called ‘Passeur’, and it starts from Pontorson Mont Saint Michel train station and can take you 350 m from the island on the bridge.

They run throughout the day constantly, although expect it to be crowded with some waiting time during the middle of the day. 

Another option is a Maringote – a horse-drawn carriage that’d take you to the island. But it is quite slow and while it looks magical, you’ll be sharing the road with pedestrians, cyclists, and the shuttle.

That said, it costs 5.30 euros and can be a beautiful and romantic trip.

Tickets Mont Saint Michel

The most important ticketed attraction on Mont St Michel is the abbey. It occupies the highest ground of the island and it’s still home to several monks and nuns who dedicate the day and life to prayers and in service of their faith.

If possible, you should prebook your tickets online for a specific time slot to save yourself from long queues to enter the abbey. We didn’t reserve our tickets and had to queue for 20 minutes to buy and get in.

Admission fee: 11 euros, free for under 18s, 18-25 from EU (or those who are registered to living in EU), and handicapped person and their companion.

There is also an audio guide that would give you information, and you just follow the arrow. If you don’t feel like you want to pay for or need an audio guide, do pick up a leaflet as it’s very informative about the history and architecture of the abbey.

The main attraction is the abbey itself. You’ll walk through the crypts, the cloister, guardrooms, and various halls that are now empty.

Note: there are two toilets towards the start and end of the route, but on my visit the former was broken and the latter had a long queue.

Bathrooms in Mont Saint Michel

There are free public restrooms just inside the island. One is on the raised platform immediately upon entering, the other is in front of the draw bridge as you head right to go up the island.

The cleanliness isn’t the best given that it is the only bathroom option in an island with thousands of visitors per day, but it isn’t too bad either on my visit.

Mont Saint Michel Photospots

Most photos of Mount Saint Michel are taken from afar since the island itself is the most striking part. If you want to get good photos of (and or with) the island, I’ve got you:

Mont St Michel from the Bridge

You can get some amazing photos from the bridge or from the little grazing patch by the start if you time your visit.

We returned in the late evening when most day trippers had departed and got the bridge mostly empty.

The high tide isn’t until 9pm so we didn’t wait for it on our visit, but so check the tide and time and you might be able to see the tide sweeping in!

Note: you can’t cross the bridge during high tide and please stand back as the tide can come in fast.

Low Tide Marshland Mont Saint Michel Viewpoint

The low tide falls around noon during my visit and you can easily walk out on the marshland during that time. Do be mindful and only go out during the lowest tide. The perk is that if you go far enough, the crowd all but disappear from your photo.

It was fairly hot on the day we visited, so it wasn’t too muddy. But you might want to wear footwear that you don’t mind dirtying and also have a mat or plastic bag to put your bags down.

Meander Farmland Mont Saint Michel Viewpoint

For most, the classic photo of Mont Saint is the little meandering grass field. At first, I thought it was some kind of wild grassland hidden away, but it’s actually farmland.

It’s only a 5-10 minutes bike ride from the main cycling route and across from the hotel Auberge de la Baie. There is a gate but it’s not locked, just chained to make sure the sheep (yes, sheep!) don’t escape.

We arrived in the afternoon and locked our bikes against one of the fence. There was a lot of sheep grazing, but we managed to get some photos without being crowded by them! We also saw some people trekking and having a picnic around, so it seems that you can hike quite close to Mont St Michel, which is a little far away.

Here is the cycling route we took. We were on the road for a little but there is a cycling path past the campground car park gate.

P.S. the kind receptionist let us use the bathroom at the hotel!

Mont St Michel Tour

If you want the have a fuss-free experience with a proper guide for the history and architecture beyond what I have provided, it sounds like you should join a tour!

There are many tour options for Mont St Michel, depending on your departure point, here I’ve listed the most common ones:

Day Trips from Paris to Mont St Michel

A Mont Saint Michel Tour from Paris is a full-day affair but is arguably less tiring than a DIY trip. While not all tours offer hotel pick-up, like this well-reviewed Paris to Mont St Michel Tour which meets at Architecture Museum at Palais de Chaillot, they offer direct back-and-forth transfer.

Do note that it is a 4.5 hours one-way trip! So be prepared for it and also know that you’ll be walking a lot.

Mont Saint Michel Tour from Rennes

There are far fewer options for group day trips to Mont Saint Michel from Rennes. The Mont St Michel Tour from Rennes is suitable for groups but otherwise, I think it’s better to arrive by bus, car, or train, to join a walking tour locally.

Mont Saint Michel Walking Tour

A good way to get the best value for money is to do a walking tour. This 2-hour guided walking tour with the option to prebook the abbey ticket would be a great choice for history lovers. Do note that the guide would not be entering the abbey with you.

Pontorson Mont St Michel

The nearest train station and town to Mont St Michel is Pontorson, which is home to the station of Pontorson Mont Saint Michel.

You can get around pretty easily from Pontorson to Mont St Michel without driving, although having a car would make things a bit easier.

The main reason I would stay in Pontorson is that they have more amenities and reasonably priced restaurants with good ratings.

Bus Pontorson Mont Saint Michel

There is a separate shuttle from Pontorson Mont Saint Michel . It’s not free but for 3.10 euros, it’s still a convenient way to get to and from.

Here is the time table for July to 4th September 2022 . They don’t run as long as the Mont Saint Michel shuttle with and generally runs from 7:30 to almost 7pm. So bear that in mind when you are planning your trip.

Cycling from Pontorson to Mont St Michel

If you want to be more autonomous and active, renting a bicycle is probably the best way to get around from Pontorson.

It’s a 9.5 km cycle that takes 30 minutes along a gorgeous cycling path. There is only one junction with a road and you will mostly be cycling along the Normandy countryside.

Most of the trail is along the River Couseson with a view of Mont St Michel, so it’s not a bad trip at all.

It gives you more freedom to get around and we needed that since we wanted to hit several different photo spots.

Atelier Prépa Vélo

We rented our bicycles from Atelier, a relatively new bicycle shop that also rent and repair bicycles. The shop front is quite inconspicuous and it seems to be a one man operation.

The gentleman that runs the shop was very friendly and we rented a bicycle for 2 days for 28 euros each, so we can return later than his closing time then return the next day.

The bicycles quality was great too, and my only problem is that I’m just a bit too short to be comfortable!

Address: 8 Bd Clemenceau, 50170 Pontorson, France

Opening hours: Thurs – Tues 9:00 – 12:00, 14:00 – 18:00; Weds 9:00 – 1

Cards are accepted

Restaurants in Pontorson

As mentioned above, restaurants in Mont St Michel are very pricey and there aren’t that many options nearby either.

Pontorson offers quite a few restaurants that are well-rated and serve some great Normandy dishes. There are also a few boulangeries (bakeries) and supermarkets, the latter closes a bit later than most, too. Here are the top choices for all hours:

Le Relais Gascon

One of the only restaurants that don’t have a siesta and opens earlier, Le Relais Gascon is my top choice in Pontorson.

It’s located in a little alley hung with cute sheep cutouts with a comprehensive menu that covers Normandy food and pizza.

Address: 15 Rue de Tanis, 50170 Pontorson, France

Opening times: Mon – Weds, Fri 9:00 – 21:00, F

Our AirBnB host recommended La Brazza, who starts serving food at noon. It’s a good alternative to Le Relais Gascon and they have slightly different sauces for the Normandy favourite mussels. The staff is very friendly and we actually worked there for the morning before having lunch – no WiFi though sadly.

Address: 10 Rue Couesnon, 50170 Pontorson, France

Opening times: 7:30 – 23:00 (listed on google as such but they were closed on a Wednesday)

Chicken Cabana Pontorson

A cheap, fast, and open-late option is the Chicken Cabana Pontorson. It’s located in the central crossroad of town and serves family meal to just wraps. The price point is under 10 euros and is good for a quick grab-and-go and budget traveler. It also tastes quite good, which is a bonus!

Address: 70 Rue Couesnon, 50170 Pontorson, France

Opening times: Sat – Weds 11:00 – 23:30, Fri 18:00 – 23:30

Istanbul Kebab

If you prefer Kebab over chicken, then Istanbul Kebab might be a better choice. The price point is similar at around 8 euros for a meal. There is limited seating but generally people come for takeaway!

Address: 47 Rue Couesnon, 50170 Pontorson, France

Opening times: unclear, but opens late

Mont Saint Michel Hotel 

There are many Mont Saint Michel accommodations available, depending on your budget and where you want to stay. There are a few considerations, including luggage sizes and no elevators, whether you’re driving, or if you want to stay somewhere with the best access for photospots.

Mont Saint Michel Hotels on the island

If you want to stay at Mont Saint Michel, there are no budget hotels. You’ll have the town all to yourself as the day trippers leave, but the cobblestone and steep stairs do not make it easy for luggage. The urban legend is that you can hear the sounds of pilgrims walking towards the island at night. So if you are up for that, here are some recommendations:

Auberge Saint Pierre – stay in a great refurbished hotel housed in a 14th century half-timbered house on the island with exposed beams and also TV and WiFi.

La Vieille Auberge – is closer to the abbey with 2 annex buildings. If you don’t mind stairs, it’s a lovely hotel to stay in.

Mont Saint Michel mainland hotels

If you want to stay close to the island, maybe being in view of it is better! There are quite a few hotels by the visitor center or around that is convenient to walk and bike. Which would be even more convenient with a car.

The Mercure Mont Saint Michel is close to the visitor center for Mont Saint Michel and also right by the river. 

Auberge de la Baie – is across from the farmland photospot but is a little further from town.

Pontorson Mont Saint Michel hotels

For those who want better dining options and is close to the train station, Pontorson is the best choice. The accommodations are also cheaper which is great for more budget travellers.

L’Orée du Mont is one of the most popular accommodations in Pontorson with spacious rooms and a garden, too! They also have bicycles you can rent directly.

Best Western Hôtel Montgomery is in the center of the small town. The furniture and room are a bit dated but still comfortable.

L’Âme du Gourmand has an outdoor heated pool and serves a continental breakfast to guests. It’s a good choice for a those who want a more B&B and homestay vibe. Budget: Le Lithana is a little outside of town but less than a few minute’s walk. The host is lovely but with more basic facilities.

Camping Mont Saint Michel

If you want to save some money, you can go camping by Mont Saint Michel. Not in or immediately near the island, of course, but there is a campsite near the visitor’s center.

The Camping Mont Saint Michel has 47 pitches for tents, caravans, and mobile homes.

They have electric 10A or 6A hook-ups and a toilet block, and also holiday homes to rent if you don’t have a tent or mobile home. It’s best to contact them directly for price and availability.

Address: 35 route du Mont Saint Michel, 50220 COURTILS

Phone: 33/ 02 33 70 96 90

E-mail : [email protected]

Reception opening hours :

Low season : 8.00 am to 6.30 pm

High season : 8.00 am to 8.00 pm

Hi, my name is Nam. I am 24 and spent half my life in Hong Kong and the other half in UK. I believe there's endless experience and beauty in the world and this is me chronicling how to experience the best at the best price.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Ad Blocker Detected!

Plan Your Visit to Mont Saint Michel

About mont saint michel.

Nestled in a stunning Mont Saint Michel bay shared by Normandy and Brittany, Mont Saint Michel and its bay are among the most picturesque sites in France. This mediaeval architectural marvel was constructed in the 8th century in a Romanesque style and was later rebuilt in a Gothic style in the 13th century. Mont-Saint-Michel was counted among the most important pilgrimage destinations in Christendom during the mediaeval era.

It also functioned as a military base during the Hundred Years War and a prison during the French Revolution. Later, the property was designated as a national landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, Mont-Saint-Michel is a major tourist site, attracting millions of people each year due to its aesthetic and religious significance.

Plan Your Visit To Mont Saint Michel

• Access to Mont-Saint-Michel and hence to the abbey of Mont Saint Michel can be hampered for several days at a time during high tides.
• The walk to the abbey consists of 350 steps, and there is no elevator.
• Suitcases, luggage, and even a carrying bag are not permitted inside Mont Saint-Michel.
• Knives and scooters are not allowed at the monument.
• Except for guide and assistance dogs, no animals are permitted.
• It is prohibited to smoke or eat at Mont Saint-Michel.
• Site entry can be challenging for persons with limited mobility.

Explore Now: Places to Visit In Mont Saint Michel

Events in Mont Saint Michel

• High Tide Evenings

High tide evenings at the Mont Saint-Michel are a must-see! If you get to Mont Saint-Michel in time, you can see the mount turn into an island as the English Channel reclaims the harbour.

• Christmas Lights

Mont Saint-Michel looks especially magnificent during Christmas when the streets are lined with radiant Christmas trees. On the festive occasion, almost seven kilometres of lightbulbs are strung along the island's and abbey's walls to commemorate the event.

• The Christian Art Festival

The Christian Art Festival is held every summer on the square in front of the Jerusalem Cross. It is among the free events at Mont Saint-Michel that is open to the public and provides a chance to discover artists who are inspired by the mystical ambience of Mont Saint-Michel.

• Jazz on the Bay

Jazz on the Bay is a spectacular music festival featuring concerts, masterclasses, film screenings, and workshops for people interested in learning about music.

• The Mont Saint-Michel Bay Marathon

The Mont Saint-Michel Bay Marathon is one of the most popular annual events in Mont Saint-Michel. The race comprises athletes from thirty different nationalities and traverses the English Channel coastline, allowing them to appreciate their natural surroundings while sprinting for first place.

You Must Also Read:

• Mont Saint Michel In January
• Eiffel Tower Light Show
• Eiffel Tower Facts
• Stairs in Eiffel Tower

Know Before You Go

The tidal island is located approximately 1 km off the Normandy coast at the mouth of the Couesnon River, a few kilometres north of the Normandy/Brittany border in northwestern France.

Opening times of the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel:

• Between May 19 and August 30, Mont Saint Michel timing is 9 AM to 7 PM.
• From September 1 and April 30, Mont Saint Michel timing for visitors is 9.30 AM to 6 PM.
• Mont Saint Michel remains closed for visitors on January 1 (New Year), May 1 (Labour Day), and December 25 (Christmas).

Explore Now: Mont Saint Michel Planning Your Visit

• The finest seasons to visit Mont Saint-Michel are spring (March-May) and summer (June-August).
• The peak season for visiting Mont Saint-Michel is from September through November. You are welcome to visit the monument around this period if you wish to witness the rare yet fascinating event of the new bridge getting totally submerged due to heavy rain.
• Temperatures drop below freezing points during the winter season, from December to February. Hence, it is not the best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel .

Do Checkout: Mont Saint Michel In February

You can reach Mont Saint-Michel from Paris by taking a direct train to Rennes. At Rennes, you can board a direct shuttle coach bus to Mont Saint Michel. If you are travelling from other directions, Pontorson is the nearest train station from where a direct shuttle bus will transport you to the island in roughly 20 minutes. If you are travelling from Normandy, Mont Saint Michel can be reached from the towns of Bayeux and Caen.

Cars are the quickest way to go to Mont Saint-Michel. The island is only a few kilometres from the A84 Caen-Rennes highway. Either arrive in the early morning or late at night to escape the huge parking line. The well-known sanctuary is located on the English Channel in the department of Manche, 66 kilometres north of Rennes and 52 kilometres east of Saint-Malo. A day journey to Mont Saint Michel from Paris will take approximately four hours. When you arrive, you will be directed to the paid private parking lot.

By Shuttle:

Passeurs, a dedicated passenger shuttle, connects the island of Mont Saint Michel to the mainland. This free shuttle service operates from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and takes you approximately 350 metres away from the main island. The shuttle has ramps at each entrance and designated disabled spaces.

Suggested Read: Beaches Near Mont Saint Michel

Is Mont Saint Michel wheelchair accessible?

While some areas of Mont Saint-Michel, including the shuttle, are wheelchair accessible, the rest of the island has steep steps and cobblestone streets that are difficult to access on a wheelchair.

Is there storage at Mont Saint-Michel?

Yes, storage facilities are available at Mont Saint-Michel which are located near the car park.

What are the Mont Saint Michel Abbey timings?

The Mont Saint Michel Abbey opening hours are From May 19 to August 30, Mont Saint Michel remains open between 9 AM to 7 PM and From September 1 and April 30, its timings are from 9.30 AM to 6 PM.

When is Mont Saint Michel Abbey closed?

Mont Saint Michel is closed on January 1 (New Year), May 1 (Labour Day), and December 25 (Christmas).

What is the best time to visit Mont Saint Michel?

The best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel is between the months of May and September, as the weather is pleasant during these months.

What is Mont-Saint-Michel famous for?

Mont Saint-Michel is renowned for its marvellous architecture and rich cultural heritage. It is among the most picturesque locations in Europe and looks straight out of a fairytale. Various music and art events are also held here every year and attract a large number of tourists.

Is Mont St Michel worth visiting?

Mont Saint Michel in Normandy is definitely worth a visit due to its breathtaking beauty and religious and cultural history. Moreover, it hosts a variety of fascinating events that are a must-see!

Why was Mont St Michel built?

The construction of Mont Saint Michel began in 708 when the Bishop of Avranches, Saint-Aubert, chose to build a tomb in honour of Archangel St. Michael following a divine vision.

Mont Saint Michel Tours

Explore mont saint michel, visitor information, attraction tickets, cruises in paris, visitor's guide.

The content and images used on this site are copyright protected and copyrights vests with the respective owners.

© 2024 www.visitmontsaintmichel.com All rights reserved.

Matador Original Series

This is france’s most famous and mysterious island that you can visit.

T his French island is not one where you can spread out your beach towel and go for a lazy swim in warm, turquoise waters. Mont-Saint-Michel, arguably France’s most famous island, is a huge rock off the coast of Normandy, where a village and an incredible abbey have been standing for over 10 centuries. The islet looks like it’s straight out of a Disney fairy tale, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979 — two great reasons to plan a trip to this wonderful and mysterious location.

What is Mont-Saint-Michel?

Where is mont-saint-michel, how to get to mont-saint-michel from paris, when was mont-saint-michel built and why, what’s inside/on mont-saint-michel, what you need to know about the mont-saint-michel abbey.

• Numbers, facts, and tips about visiting Mont-Saint-Michel

Do people live on Mont-Saint-Michel?

Can you stay on mont-saint-michel, hotels on and around mont-saint-michel.

Photo: kavalenkau /Shutterstock

Mont-Saint-Michel is a small and rocky French island located in a bay in the English Channel, off the coast of Normandy. It is famous for its environment (the islet is entirely surrounded by water at very high tide and wet sand at low tide) and the grand architecture of its imposing 10th-century abbey.

Mont-Saint-Michel is located in the English Channel, off the coast of France. While officially in Normandy, it is at the very border between Normandy and Brittany.

Photo: RossHelen /Shutterstock

Mont-Saint-Michel is a four-hour drive from Paris, but if you prefer to get there by train or bus, it’s possible, too:

• You can ride the train from one of Paris’ train stations to Pontorson. Pontorson is 5.6 miles away from Mont-Saint-Michel and is the closest train station to the site. From Pontorson, there are buses that you can take to get to the official entrance. Note that taking the train from Paris to Pontorson involves at least one connection in the city of Rennes, and takes a total of about 4.5 hours.
• You can take the bus from Paris, Rennes, Saint-Malo, or Avranches with a variety of bus companies, including BlaBlaBus , Flixbus , Kéolis Armor , BreizhGo , or Nomad .

No matter how you get there, once at the official Mont-Saint-Michel entrance, you can either walk for 30 minutes to get to the island (there is a bridge so the tides never affect access to the island any longer), or take a 12-minute shuttle ride. Shuttles run every few minutes throughout the day, from very early morning until late at night, so you never have to wait for long.

The rocky island is a natural formation that became a religious site in the year 708 when Aubert, Bishop of Avranches, built a sanctuary dedicated to the Archangel, i.e. Saint Michel. The Abbey, the village below it, and the ramparts and fortifications around both, however, were built between the 11th and 16th centuries. The island became a prison from the French Revolution (1789) to 1863.

Mont-Saint-Michel consists of a village with hotels, inns, restaurants, shops, museums, a post office, a church, etc. as well as a large abbey that dominates the island.

Photo: Ivan Soto Cobos /Shutterstock

The most important structure on the islet, the Abbey was built between the 11th and the 16th century — a feat considering the extreme environmental conditions. The Gothic-style Benedictine abbey is dedicated to the Archangel Saint Michel whose gold and copper statue stands at the top of the belfry.

Adults who want to visit the abbey need to pay an entrance fee of $12 (11 €); children enter for free. Audioguides are $3.30 (3 €). Guided visits are also available. Booking your ticket online in advance is highly recommended.

Once you have purchased your ticket, you can visit, freely and at your own pace, 15 areas within the Abbey, the most impressive of which are the west terrace, the church, the cloister, the great pillared crypt, and the refectory. The visit takes around 90 minutes. There are 200 steps to get to the Abbey and 150 steps to tackle within it.

Monks and nuns belonging to the Monastic Fraternities of Jerusalem live in the abbey. You can’t miss them — they are dressed in long, blue robes.

The abbey is open from 9 AM to 8 PM from May 1 to August 31, and from 9:30 AM to 6 PM from September 1 to April 30.

Numbers, facts, and tips about Mont-Saint-Michel

• There are over 3 million people visiting Mont-Saint-Michel every year.
• It is not recommended to go for a walk on the surrounding sand on your own. There are areas of quicksand that are extremely dangerous to those who don’t know the site. Also, you don’t want to be caught far away from land when the tide comes back in. Guided visit with experts are the safest way to learn about the natural environment around the island.
• Mont-Saint-Michel has been a site of pilgrimage for nearly 1200 years, starting in the year 708.
• If you’re coming all the way to Normandy from Paris, make the most of your trip by visiting the WWII sites around the region, checking out the cliffs of the Alabaster Coast , and carving out some time to see the beautiful fortified city of Saint-Malo.
• If you prefer walking instead of riding the shuttle from/to the official entrance to the island, do so on your way to the Mont-Saint-Michel rather than on your way back from it. That way, you’ll get to see the magnificent views rather than turn your back to them.
• While restaurants on the island are expensive and need to be booked in advance, you can buy a sandwich or a slice of pizza for cheap. There’s no need to make or purchase your picnic ahead to save money.
• It is free to walk around Mont-Saint-Michel, but you must pay to visit the abbey and the various museums.
• Mont-saint-Michel is not a destination for those with mobility issues. The streets are narrow, made of cobblestones, and mostly vertical, with 350 steps to get to the top. Don’t bring luggage, baby strollers, and anything you don’t want to haul up uneven stones stairs for hours on end.
• Book your tickets to the abbey online before you come so you don’t have to wait in line. It gets very busy in the summer, during school vacations, during long weekends, or even during regular weekends.

Yes, Mont-Saint-Michel is inhabited. There are around 20 people living on the islet, including the town’s mayor, priest, a mail person, police officers, etc. There are also five monks and seven nuns belonging to the Monastic Fraternities of Jerusalem living in the Mont-Saint-Michel abbey.

Yes, you can stay the night on Mont-Saint-Michel. There are six hotels and inns throughout the islet where you can book a room.

We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.

Hôtel la Croix Blanche

Located on the island and in the village, the three-star Hôtel la Croix Blanche is a small property (only nine rooms) that mixes elegant and rustic decor to offer its guests a truly authentic historical experience. The restaurant offers beautiful views of the bay. This hotel is open between February and December only.

La Mère Poulard

La Mère Poulard , a property located on the island and in the village of Mont-Saint-Michel, comprises 27 rooms in a beautiful historical home. Decorated with medieval authenticity in mind, the interior is chic and traditional. You can book a room with views of the bay, the Abbey, or the roofs of the village’s homes for an immersive stay.

Le Relais Saint Michel

More like this

Trending now, parisians threaten an olympics 'poop protest' by encouraging locals to poop in the seine, airbnb is hosting an olympic games opening ceremony party on the seine with the 2024 game torch creator, delta's new direct flights are making international travel from the us easier this summer, hotel épi 1959 showcases the french riviera's style, sun, and cuisine, take in the best of french ski country at the grand hotel courmayeur, discover matador, adventure travel, train travel, national parks, beaches and islands, ski and snow.

We use cookies for analytics tracking and advertising from our partners.

For more information read our privacy policy .

Matador's Newsletter

Subscribe for exclusive city guides, travel videos, trip giveaways and more!

You've been signed up!

Follow us on social media.

How to visit Mont Saint Michel – Walking tour + map

On vacation in Britain or road trip in Normandy , you want to discover one of the most beautiful sites in France but you don't know how to visit Mont Saint Michel in 1 day ?

Me too, I asked myself this question because when you only have one day to visit Mont Saint Michel, you should not miss it. So, I opted for a walking tour of the essential and emblematic sites of Mont Saint Michel.

If, like me, you want to discover the wonders of this tourist site on foot, freely and for free, then my article is for you!

Indeed, below you will find my walking tour to visit Mont Saint Michel in 1 day with Google Maps of the route to follow in pedestrian GPS mode.

Where to park to visit Mont Saint Michel?

The most practical way to visit Mont Saint Michel is to park your car in the huge car park provided for visitors (which is unfortunately chargeable).

From this car park, either you walk about 30 minutes to reach the entrance to the site, or you take the free “Le Passeur” shuttle. To do this, you have to go next to the Tourist Information Center at the shuttle square . Thus, the shuttle will drop you off in 15 minutes 350 meters from the ramparts of Mont-Saint-Michel.

See its Google Maps location: Car park Mont Saint-Michel

Note that you can take this free shuttle from 7:30 am.

How long to visit Mont Saint Michel?

Qualified as a Wonder of the West, Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay are listed as UNESCO World Heritage UNESCO since 1979. This site receives more than 3 million visitors per year and is the second most frequented tourist site in France. As a result, you have understood that you will not be alone on the site!

So to visit Mont Saint Michel, I recommend that you arrive at the opening and plan the whole day. Moreover, it is better to be well organized, to book your skip-the-line ticket in advance and follow my walking tour (see details and map below).

What time to visit Mont Saint Michel?

To visit Mont Saint Michel before the arrival of the buses that serve the hundreds of tourists, I recommend that you take the first shuttle at 1:7 am. Thus, you will be able to start my circuit on foot and thus be the first at 30 am to visit the Abbey (opening at 9 am from May 9 to August 1). Be careful to reserve this time slot when you order your skip-the-line ticket .

How to visit Mont Saint Michel in 1 day?

To visit Mont Saint Michel in 1 day, you will have the choice between:

• a themed guided tour which is done in groups and which you can book on the website of the Office of Tourism ,
• a private visit with a guide just for you,
• or a free visit that you will do on foot following my circuit (see itinerary and map below).

Map of Mont Saint Michel

You can request a map of Mont Saint Michel directly from the Tourist Office. But if you want to save time, here is the downloadable PDF made available on their site:

How to visit Mont Saint Michel?

To visit Mont Saint Michel, it is better to start with the ramparts by discovering the different towers (1 hour), then continue with the visit of the Abbey and its cloister (2 hours) and finish with the museums, churches and chapels for the rest of the day. You can also take a gourmet break but also stroll along the Grande Rue to enjoy its pretty shops!

The essential visits of Mont Saint Michel are all quite close to each other and thus makes it possible to visit the site on foot in 1 day. But to optimize your time, I recommend that you follow my circuit which will take you to the main sites to discover (see list below).

What to visit in Mont Saint Michel in 1 day?

Because you don't come to Mont Saint Michel just to see its Abbey, here are the other beautiful visits you can do in 1 day:

• Advance gate
• King's gate and lodge
• Freedom Tower
• North Tower
• Abbey of Mont Saint Michel
• Abbey Cloister
• Historical museum
• Residence of the Chevalier du Guesclin (Logis Tiphaine)
• Archeoscope
• St. Peter Parish Church
• Gabriel Tower
• Chapel of St. Aubert
• La Mère Poulard Inn

All of the emblematic sites of Mont Saint Michel can be discovered by following my tourist circuit, the itinerary of which you will find below:

Visit Mont Saint Michel in 1 day – Itinerary

Here is the Google Maps of my circuit which allows you to discover Mont Saint Michel on foot.

Just click on "More options" to enlarge the map and switch to pedestrian GPS mode.

Visit Mont Saint Michel in 1 day – Walking tour

Before giving you the stages of my circuit to visit Mont Saint Michel in 1 day, you must understand who is Saint Michel, where does the name of Mont Saint Michel come from?

In fact, in the Bible, Michael is an archangel (chief of the angels). The name Michael comes from the Hebrew Mi ka el which means: Who is like God. The Saint Michel was considered in the Middle Ages as the leader of a celestial Army which fights Evil. But its role is also to judge whether Christians can deserve Paradise or rather Hell. This is what the scales in his hand symbolize (he weighs souls in this way in order to be able to judge them). Thus, any sanctuary built for Saint Michael, such as the Abbey, must be raised to be as close as possible to heaven.

Discover on this video, what you will see by following my walking tour to visit Mont Saint Michel in 1 day:

Discover now some historical information on the essential visits of Mont Saint Michel for each stage of my itinerary:

How to visit the ramparts of Mont Saint Michel?

My walking tour begins with a visit to the ramparts. To get there, you will have to go through the Porte de l'Avancée, take the Grande rue and finally the Porte et logis du Roi.

This fortress includes the 7 towers which communicate with each other by a walkway open to visitors.

Thus, you will then continue to the Freedom Tower from where you can put my route in pedestrian GPS mode.

Continuing on the ramparts, you will pass through the successive towers.

And finally, to complete the visit to the ramparts, you will arrive at the North Tower which dates from the 13th century. It's a great place to watch the tidal bore phenomenon .

How to visit the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel?

From the ramparts you can reach the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel. You will have to climb the Châtelet staircase, then the Grand Degré staircase. It is indeed at the top that the Benedictine Abbey of the Middle Ages is located. It was built when Bishop Aubert had seen apparitions. He then erected on Mont Tombe a sanctuary in honor of the Archangel Saint Michael.

To visit the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, it is best to book your skip-the-line tickets . With your ticket, you will discover about twenty rooms by following the visit itinerary indicated in the Abbey.

All the places you will discover are those where the monks lived together, isolated from the outside world: Saint-Martin Chapel, kitchens, dormitories, Marvel refectory, crypts, cloister and gardens.

What is the wonder of Mont Saint-Michel?

What is called the wonder of Mont Saint Michel or wonder of the West is the oldest part of the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel. This includes the central part under the abbey church (crypt) and the church itself except for the choir which is more recent as it dates from Romanesque times. Its architecture stands on three superimposed levels that reach 35 meters high with 16 buttresses.

The space of wonder is organized as follows:

• Ground floor with the chaplaincy and the cellar where the monks stored foodstuffs + reception room for pilgrims;
• Second floor dedicated to receptions with the guest room and to work with the knights' room or scriptorium in which the copyist monks worked;
• Top floor with the monks' refectory and magnificent cloister.

Visit of the Museums

My tourist circuit continues with visits to museums. Personally, I haven't visited any.

But, it is a good way to discover the history of Mont Saint-Michel and life in the bay in the Middle Ages. For this, here are the 3 museums that you can visit by following my itinerary:

• The historical museum which traces the great eras of the bay of Saint Michel.
• The historic residence of Chevalier Du Guesclin (Logis Tiphaine);
• The archeoscope which recounts the history and legends of Mont Saint-Michel in a fun way.

You will also pass in front of the parish church of Saint-Pierre. It is in fact the church of the inhabitants of the village of Mont Saint Michel which deserves a visit inside.

Compulsory stopover at La Mère Poulard

My circuit to visit Mont Saint Michel in 1 day takes you back to the entrance to make an essential visit: Mother Poulard .

Mother Poulard is the name given to the oldest inn in Mont Saint Michel. It is very well known because it prepares omelettes cooked over a wood fire which tourists love so much they are good! This recipe, which has remained the same since 1888, is perpetuated as an emblematic tradition of Mont Saint Michel.

So, even if you don't want to have a meal there, it's still a stopover not to be missed when you visit Mont Saint Michel in 1 day.

Especially since opposite the inn-restaurant, on the other side of the street, is a tasting area where you can have a drink and taste the famous biscuits of Mère Poulard.

Discover the West side of the Mount

Most tourists come to Mont Saint Michel and are content to visit the ramparts and the Abbey. But if you still have time, I recommend that you follow my circuit which will also allow you to discover the west side of Mont Saint Michel.

Indeed, a little away from the crowd, you can enjoy these 2 sites:

The Gabriel Tower

The saint-aubert chapel.

Going up on the ramparts of Mont St Michel on the west side, you will find the Gabriel tower and its old mill. This tower was built in the 16th century to defend the western side of the mountain.

Listed as a historical monument since February 15, 1908, the  Holy chapel t -Aubert  is located in the North West and dates from the 12th century. It was built in honor of Saint Aubert who was Bishop of Avranches and above all the founder of the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel.

Where to stay to visit Mont Saint-Michel on foot?

The ideal way to visit Mont Saint Michel is to stay in a hotel in the heart of the medieval village.

Here is a very nice hotel, ideally located in the center in the Grande Rue du Mont Saint Michel: The old inn .

It's not luxury, but its main asset is its atmosphere, its restaurant and the view of the bay of Mont Saint Michel!

Leave comments Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked with *

Save my name, email, and site in the browser for my next comment.

1 thought on “How to visit Mont Saint Michel – Walking tour + map”

Hello, Thank you for all this information, I will follow your route cordially Martine

• 0 Favorites

Places to visit on and around the Mont-Saint-Michel

Normandy Tourism, France

• Active & outdoor
• Lifestyle & Wellness
• Discover Normandy
• Plan your trip

© V. Joannon

Find out more

Updated on 17 July 2023

A world-famous medieval abbey, museums, monuments, gardens and much more – uncover the fascinating history of the Bay of the Mont-Saint-Michel.

Don’t miss

Explore the Mont-Saint-Michel away from the crowds Normandy’s unmissable sites

More filters

Display map

Result(s) 1 at 5 on 5

LE MONT-SAINT-MICHEL

Cultural Heritage

Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel

Add to bookmark

Logis Tiphaine Museum

Historical Museum

Museum of the Sea and Ecology

Archéoscope

5 résultat(s)

Return to top

Are you already in Normandy?

Plan what to see and do while you’re here by visiting normandy-secrets.com, which lets you in on all of the local secrets and hidden gems in the immediate vicinity!

Close search box

Mont Saint-Michel Normandy Destination

Select your language

Destination Mont Saint-Michel - Normandy the holiday of my life

• 02 Hiver2020-1
• 03 Hiver2020-2
• 04 Hiver2020-3

I book my accommodation

I reserve my activity or my visit

I reserve my show

the jewel of the Bay

Discover the Mont Saint-Michel

Access the Mont Saint-Michel

• By car, motorbike and camping van
• By foot and bicycle
• By train, plane and ferry

• Visit the Mont Saint-Michel

The abbey of Mont Saint-Michel

• The mount museums

The Mont Saint-Michel differently

• The crossings of the bay (guides)
• The most beautiful views … far from the crowds

Spend a night at the Mont Saint-Michel

All the riches of the bay

Extend the visit

The Mont Saint-Michel Mountains and the Traditional Museums

The valley de Sée, Bocage and mountain biking

The bay of Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy side

The Bay, Brittany side

The Couesnon valley

Granville Terre et Mer

Villedieu les Poêles, city of crafts

The Sélune Valley

Memory & Know-How of the Bay

Dinan – Cap Fréhel

Domfront in Poiraie

Experiences to live

Nature’s spectacle

Mortain waterfalls

The High Tides and the tidal bore, a great spectacle of nature

Personal fulfillment

The mount only for me !

Historical stories

Vitality itineraries

The Crossings of the bay, in the footsteps of pilgrims

La Véloscénie : From Paris to Mont Saint-Michel

The Norman way of life

Private: Normandy Secrets

recettes normandes

Good home recipes from us !

How glamorous , its raining !

Where to visit on a rainy day !

Covered leisure activities

Events not to be missed

Ducey Code : it’s your move !

From 8 April to 05 November 2023

Les Papillons de Nuit – P2N

From 26 to 28 May 2023

From 15 to 18 June 2023

“Les Nocturnes” of the Mont Saint-Michel’s Abbey

From 1 July to 31 August 2023

Les Tain-Tam Arts

From 13 July to 10 August 2023

Festival Grandes Marées

From 22 to 30 July 2023

Le Corso-Fleuri de Ducey-les-Chéris

From 5 to 07 August 2023

La Polynormande

The 13 August 2023

Cara-Meuh Festival

From 16 to 17 September 2023

Les Mystères du Mont Saint-Michel

The 24 September 2023

The Saint-Michel Pilgrimage

The 29 September 2023

Festival Via Aeterna

From 1 to 12 October 2023

The Saint-Martin fair

From 4 to 07 November 2023

Secrets to discover

In the headlines

My 10 favourite places to paint or draw in

The Mont Saint-Michel - Normandy destination is full of inspiring sites that deserve to be recreated on canvas or paper. You can also photograph them and bring them home with you: everyone is free to...

Savigny-le-Vieux Abbey

Personally, I love  exploring old buildings. Those that tell the stories of men and women, builders of castles or churches, villages or palaces. And I’m in luck! At Mont Saint-Michel –...

Souvenirs to share

# montsaintmichel normandie

• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Youtube

Top of the page

• Extend the discovery of the bay
• Our essentials
• Our secrets to be shared
• Not to be missed
• Our Accomodations
• Our restaurants
• Events calendar
• Nature outings and crossing of the bay
• Leisure activities
• Family Activities
• Choice of stays
• Guided tours
• How to get to us
• Getting around during your stay
• Tourism for all
• Our brochures
• FAQ : Frequently Asked Questions
• Our information offices
• Who are we ?

• High School Study Abroad Programs
• High School Summer Abroad
• High School Summer Abroad Blog

Exploring Mont Saint-Michel

June 21, 2024

Programs for this blog post

Authored by:.

Our Language and Culture students embarked on an unforgettable journey to Mont Saint-Michel, one of France’s most iconic landmarks. This island, with its medieval abbey perched on a hill, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has fascinated travelers for centuries with a unique blend of medieval architecture and natural scenery.

The students boarded the bus with excitement in the morning. As we approached the Mont Saint-Michel, they caught their first glimpse of the island rising dramatically out of the bay… the sight was truly magical. They crossed the causeway that connects the mainland to the island, feeling like they were stepping into a fairy tale.

The narrow, winding streets of the village were lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The students eagerly explored, marveling at the medieval structures and the panoramic views of the bay. They paused at the Grand Rue, the main street, to sample local delicacies.

Reaching the abbey felt like stepping back in time. The students were awestruck by the Gothic architecture, the intricate stained glass windows, and the serene cloisters. The self-paced audio tour revealed fascinating stories about the abbey’s history, its construction, and the monks who lived there.  

One of the most fascinating aspects of Mont Saint-Michel is its tidal phenomenon, which transforms the landscape around the island. They learned that the tides can vary greatly, sometimes leaving the island completely surrounded by water and other times exposing vast stretches of sandy flats. Students were taken out to explore along with a guide.  On the bus ride home, the students were tired yet satisfied from what felt like a magical day. 

• Language & Culture

Related Posts

Admiring les Beaux-Arts 🖼️

On today's excursion students visited Le Musée des Beaux-Arts. Program Leaders encouraged students to take photos of art work they found interesting, and present their chosen art work to the... keep reading

The Host Family Experience

One of the most exciting aspects of studying abroad is the experience of living with a host family. Just like at home, there is no way to describe a “typical”... keep reading

Adventures in Rennes

Students were filled with adventure this Wednesday as they participated in a Scavenger Hunt. We had two different groups accompanied by Program Leaders to assist with any questions. Students were... keep reading

© 2024 CIEE. All Rights Reserved.

• Privacy Notice
• Terms & Conditions

Eiffel tower to Notre-dame Cathedral: 7 iconic architectures of France

France, a land of architectural brilliance, hosts iconic treasures like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Versailles Palace. Mont Saint-Michel's medieval charm, Louvre's artistic splendor, Sainte-Chapelle's stained glass, and Chambord's Renaissance elegance further enrich France's cultural tapestry

France's architectural marvels, from the Eiffel Tower to Notre-Dame, weave a tapestry of history and beauty, defining a nation's cultural richness

Eiffel Tower is one of most famous landmarks globally and a symbol of France. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, it was completed in 1889 as the entrance arch for the 1889 World's Fair

Notre-Dame Cathedral is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. Construction began in the 12th century, and the cathedral is known for its stunning stained glass windows

The Louvre in Paris is now the world's largest art museum. The iconic glass pyramid in the central courtyard serves as the main entrance

This Renaissance castle in the Loire Valley is a masterpiece of French architecture. Commissioned by King Francis I in the early 16th century

A stunning Gothic chapel known for its magnificent stained glass windows. Built in the 13th century by Louis IX, it was intended to house important religious relics

Palace of Versailles is a symbol of absolute monarchy and opulence. Built by Louis XIV in the 17th century, it served as the royal residence until the French Revolution

This medieval abbey is perched on a rocky island in Normandy. Mont Saint-Michel is a marvel of medieval architecture and was originally built as a Benedictine abbey