Welcome to Mont Saint Michel, a mesmerizing and magical island on France’s north coast. Majestically Mont St Michel rises from the surrounding tidal bay, making your heart leap upon sight. It soars determinedly as a beacon honouring faith and French resistance.
Visiting Mont St Michel is on many people’s wish list. This breathtaking destination is an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts millions of visitors each year. With its striking gothic-style abbey, quaint cobbled streets, and stunning views of the surrounding ocean, Mont Saint Michel is truly a sight to behold.
If you are wondering how to visit Mont St Michel, here are my best tips for an unforgettable visit to Mont St Michel, France.
Visiting Mont St Michel: 11 Best Tips
1. Where Is Mont Saint Michel?
Mont Saint Michel is in Normandy, France right at the border between Normandy and Brittany. It is situated on a tidal island in the middle of a vast bay that separates Normandy from Brittany and is connected to the mainland by a causeway.
The nearest town to Mont Saint Michel is Pontorson, which is about 5.5 miles (9 kilometres) away, while the larger city of Rennes is approximately 43 miles (70 kilometres) to the south. It is 221 miles (357 kilometres)and about a four-hour drive southwest of Paris.
Read More | Normandy: Visiting Mont St Michel is a non-negotiable on a trip to France where you plan to explore Normandy. Here are 19 fabulous things to do in Normandy
Brittany: After visiting Mont St Michel, start your road trip to Brittany France. Here are 13 Reasons to Fall in Love with Brittany France
2. Visiting Mont St Michel: When To Go
Mont Saint Michel gets about 2.5 million visitors a year and is the second most visited tourist destination in France after Paris. Try visiting le Mont Saint Michel in the off-season. July and August are peak seasons and the narrow streets get extremely crowded. If summer is the best time for you, arrive early in the morning or stay in the village overnight to enjoy the evening when most tourists have left.
I visited Mont Saint Michel on several occasions both in January (low season) and October (mid season). When visiting Mont St Michel in January expect chilly temperatures and very few tourists. In October 2023, I expected Mont Saint Michel to be super crowded. I was pleasantly surprised that in mid-October the crowd visiting Mont Saint-Michel was more than manageable. The day was perfectly pleasant with no crowding. The only lineup was for the parking lot shuttle.
Consider the Tides: Another consideration when visiting Mont Saint Michel, is the tides. Do you want to walk on the Tide floor with a guide?
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3. Visiting Mont St Michel: How To Get There
Visiting Mont St Michel From Paris:
Mont Saint Michel is easily accessible by car and is in an ideal location for a road trip in Normandy and/or Brittany. Click Here to Book a Car Rental
When visiting Mont St Michel from Paris by car, take the Autoroute A13 direction Caen and then A84 towards Avranches, Rennes. Another driving route from Paris to Mont Saint Michel is to take the Autoroute A11 towards Le Mans and then A81 towards Fougères, then A84 direction Caen.
Visiting Mont St Michel With An Organized Trip
Guided tours are a popular way of visiting Mont St Michel. Either on a day trip from Paris or a multi-day trip through Normandy, sit back and let the guides look after the details.
- A full-day trip from Paris including a guided tour of Mont Saint-Michel.
- From Paris, this small group tour of Mont Saint-Michel includes cider tasting.
- From Bayeux to Mont Saint-Michel
- This 2-day tour includes Mont Saint-Michel and the Loire Valley.
- A walking tour of Mont-Saint-Michel
By Train To Mont St Michel, France:
In peak season, there is a train that runs from Gare Montparnasse to Pontorson and then coordinates with the bus to take you to Mont St Michel. This service runs in 2023 from June 5 to September 25.
By Train To Pontorson, France:
Pontorson is the closest train station to Mont-Saint-Michel. Click Here To Book A Train Ticket
From the Pontorson train station, take the 25-minute bus trip that will drop you off at Mont St Michel. Find the schedule HERE
By Train To Rennes, France:
Take the train from Paris Montparnasse to Rennes, France. The journey is about 1.5 hours. A connecting bus for le Mont Saint Michel will leave shortly after the train arrives. The bus ride is approximately one hour. Click Here To Book A Train Ticket
By Bicycle From Pontorson To Mont-Saint-Michel:
You can rent a bike, or use a bicycle touring company to ride the 5.5 miles (12 km) from Pontorson to Mont-Saint-Michel along the designated bike path. Imagine riding with Mont Saint Michel in view! There are designated places to park and lock your bicycles once you arrive at Mont St Michel.
Rent Bicycles in Beauvoir (a couple of km from Mont St Michel)
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Visiting Mont St Michel: The Parking
Where is the parking at Mont Saint Michel?
As you approach Mont St Michel in a car, the road to the parking lots is well marked. There are 4000 parking places at Mont Saint Michel and staff will indicate which lot to park in. The parking lots are numbered P2 to P13. P8 is dedicated to camping vans and P9 is for motorcycles and bicycles.
How much does it cost to park at Mont St Michel?
The parking rates at Mont St Michel vary depending on the season.
- Peak season: July, August
- Mid Season: March, April, May, June, September, and October
- Low Season: November, December, January, and February
Every month of the year, it is free to park for the first 30 minutes.
- 2024 Parking Rates at Mont St Michel: 17€ for 3 to 6 hours; 20€ for 6 to 24 hours; free 18:30 to 1 AM
- 2024 Parking Rates at Mont St Michel Peak Season: 21€ for 3 to 6 hours; 25€ for 6 to 24 hours.
- Find all the parking rates HERE
The Shuttle/ The “Navette” To Mont Saint Michel
Once you have parked, you can either walk about 50 minutes along pathways and the footbridge or take the shuttle (about 12 minutes) which picks you up in front of the Tourist Information Centre. The shuttle to Mont Saint Michel is called “le Passeur” and runs every 15 minutes every day of the year. “Le Passeur” drops you off on the bridge just in front of Mont-Saint-Michel. This is also where you will find it for the return trip to the parking area.
The navette is a reversible bus. There are driving controls at both ends of the bus. The driver gets to the destination, gets out and drives away in the other direction.
What is the cost of the shuttle at Mont St Michel?
The shuttle, le Passeur, is free.
What hours does le Passeur run?
- Peak Season: 7 AM to 1 AM
- November to February: 8:30 AM. to 10 PM
- March to June; September, October, School Holidays: 7:30 AM. to 11 PM
Does le Passeur run at Night?
At night, outside of the set hours, the shuttle is available by request. Call 02 14 13 20 15
4. Visiting Mont St Michel: Where To Stay?
When visiting Mont St Michel, you need to think about your Mont St Michel itinerary. Are you visiting Mont St Michel during the day? Do you want to allow time to walk on the bay at low tide? Do you want to visit Mont Saint Michel when the crowds have left? Do you want your Mont St Michel itinerary to include seeing it illuminated at night?
When visiting Mont St Michel, staying a night at a hotel right in the little village is very appealing. The highlight of adding a night’s stay to your Mont St Michel itinerary is the magic of wandering around Mont St Michel without any crowds.
You need to also consider that many of the hotels right in Mont St Michel are quite basic with average ratings and have many stairs to climb.
Hotels On Mont St Michel:
- Les Terasses Poulard is in a historical building and offers magnificent views.
- Auberge Saint Pierre is in a 14th-century half-timbered house!
Hotels Near Mont St Michel:
- Mercure Mont Saint Michel is just 2 kilometres away from le Mont Saint Michel and gets solid reviews. It is within walking distance and there is also a free shuttle.
- La Jacotière is in a renovated farmhouse just 3 kilometres from le Mont Saint Michel.
Here is a look at accommodation available in Rennes, France and in Saint-Malo.
5. Visiting Mont St Michel: A Little History
As the story goes, Saint Aubert, a bishop in the nearby town of Avranches, had a vision from Archangel Michael to build a church on a pinnacle of rock. Saint Aubert ignored the first sign. Archangel Michael allegedly poked a hole in the bishop’s skull to emphasize the importance of the request. Who could discount that invitation? Saint Aubert initiated the building of Mont-Saint-Michel. The year was 708.
Thirteen hundred and fifteen years later, Mont-Saint-Michel with its remarkable abbey church, ancient town and sweeping views of the sea cannot help but stir your soul.
6. Mont Saint Michel And The French Resistance
When visiting Mont St Michel, make your way up the ramparts, high above the sea and be transported back to a time gone by when this sanctuary was under siege. For twenty-five years, in the Hundred Years War, the British attacked. Stare out across the bay and visualise monks, scanning the tide’s reach, defending their holy place. Le Mont Saint Michel has never been seized and to this day stands as a symbol of French resistance.
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7. Visiting Mont St Michel: The Village
After crossing the footbridge, the medieval town rises before you. Be aware that when visiting Mont St Michel there is a lot of uphill walking. Be prepared to climb up narrow staircases and wander upwards through cobbled alleys. Pilgrims, prisoners, ordinary folk, and tradespeople have travelled in these same footsteps. The sense of history is palpable. The past beckons, full of tales and remarkable humans.
As you explore the winding streets and alleys of Mont St Michel, you’ll discover charming boutiques, many touristy shops, restaurants, historic landmarks, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding bay. Whether you’re interested in history, or architecture, or simply want to take in the stunning natural beauty of this unique destination, Le Mont Saint Michel is an experience you won’t forget.
8. Mont Saint Michel: The Abbey Church
When visiting Mont St Michel, it is essential to visit the iconic Mont Saint Michel Abbey, which dates back to the 8th century. It is the crowning jewel of the island, and its soaring spires and intricate Gothic architecture will leave you in awe.
For centuries, the Abbey has been a pilgrimage site welcoming pilgrims who walked great distances to arrive at this sacred Benedictine abbey dedicated to the Archangel Micheal. Gaze up at the golden statue of him perched at the very pinnacle of the spire. Explore the magnificent Abbey, sitting on a pinnacle of rock, with its crypts, magnificent cloisters, chapels and monks’ quarters.
The Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel was surprisingly a place where prisoners worked. Mont Saint Michel was a prison of the sea – “Le Bastille de Mer” from 1793 to 1863. Thousands of prisoners toiled inside the Abbey making goods to sell in town. The narrow streets of this village have been lined with shops for pilgrims and visitors since the Middle Ages.
Prisoners also operated the massive wheel which transferred 2 tons of stones and building supplies from the sea to the summit.
A highlight from every visit to Mont Saint Michel is the stupendous, sweeping views from the Abbey and the narrow cobbled roads. Gaze across La Baie at the open sea. Here, you bear witness to the highest and most powerful tides in Europe.
Visiting Mont St Michel Abbey:
- Admission Rates 2024: €13 Book My Entry Ticket to the Abbey
- Audio guides are available for 5€
- Free admission on the first Sunday of every month from November to March.
Opening Hours 2024:
- Open every day except January 1, May 1 and December 25
- January 2 – April 30: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
- May 2 – August 31: 9:00 AM to 7 PM
- September 1 – December 31: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
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9. Visiting Mont St Michel: Walk On La Baie
The bay surrounding Mont-Saint-Michel, which stretches into both Brittany and Normandy, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring the bay with a guide is a unique experience to learn about the fragility of the ecosystem. It is mandatory to have a guide when exploring at low tide because when you venture across the bay, there are areas of quicksand.
Pictures of bare-footed explorers crossing the Baie grace all the brochures about visiting Mont St Michel. It is so tempting, I had to do it! Two Parisienne families, myself and Jacques, the guide, headed out at the low tide in our tall rubber boots. We walked for 2 hours on the seafloor close to Mont-Saint-Michel. Jacques was full of stories, local history, and information about the ecosystem. When visiting Mont St Michel, I highly recommend a guided tour at low tide. Photographers and nature lovers will be in heaven!
Book A Tour of the Bay of Mont Saint Michel
- Book your tour here.
- Traversées Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel (English tours available)
Book A Hike To The Tombelaine Bird Reserve
The little island that you can see off the shore of Mont St Michel is Tombelaine, a bird reserve with the ruins of an ancient monastery. Book a guided hike across the sand to Tombelaine.
Visiting Mont St Michel Tip: The high tide can create a unique and beautiful atmosphere around Mont Saint Michel, as the island appears to be surrounded by water, creating a stunning visual effect. However, it is important to always follow the local guidelines and warnings regarding the tide schedule, as it can change quickly and without warning, and be dangerous for those who are not familiar with the area. The tides at Mont Saint Michel come in faster than a galloping horse.
10. Viewpoints Of Mont-St-Michel
When visiting Mont St Michel, I find one of the most thrilling things is to see it from a distance. Mont St Michel rises so majestically and takes your breath away!
- From Beauvoir, a small village near Mont St Michel, there are plenty of vantage points.
- Along the highway D275, Mont St Michel pops into view often.
- Drive to the far side of the bay to “Les Falaises” (the cliffs). Here there is a lovely faraway sighting of le Mont Saint Michel. Take your time. Wander down a long road to the sea. Dreamily sit at low tide watching locals pick mussels and oysters as seabirds squawk overhead. The vista of Mont-Saint-Michel reaching for the heavens is heavenly!
Travelling to Paris?
Read More | 25 Key Travel Tips For Paris. Here are the best Paris experiences to have and where to find 43 hidden gems in Paris. Only have a short time in Paris? Try this One Day in Paris Itinerary. If you want to find the charms of secret Paris, find them in my eBook, Paris for the Curious Stroller.
11. Mont Saint Michel: Where To Eat
Mont Saint Michel is known for its many restaurants and cafes that offer traditional French cuisine and local specialities. You can be sure that the prices are high. As you wander up the main street, there are a few places to buy baguette sandwiches.
Here are a few restaurant options to consider:
- La Mère Poulard: This famous restaurant is known for its omelettes and other traditional dishes. They have been serving their famous fluffy omelettes (a secret recipe) since 1888 and still serve up a whopper today! The restaurant also offers a bakery and a tea room. Their biscuits are delicious.
- Le Relais Saint Michel: Located just outside the Mont Saint Michel walls, this restaurant offers stunning views of the bay and serves contemporary French cuisine.
- Le Pre Salé: This restaurant specializes in seafood and is located inside the Mont Saint Michel walls. It offers beautiful views of the bay and the surrounding area.
- Auberge de la Baie: This restaurant is located in the nearby town of Le Val-Saint-Père and offers a range of seafood and local specialities.
When visiting Mont St Michel, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak tourist season, as the restaurants get busy.
Frequently Asked Questions: How To Visit Mont St Michel
Is it worth visiting Mont St Michel?
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is unforgettable. How they ever built the church on the pinnacle of rock is astounding. Le Mont Saint Michel is a pilgrimage site that receives millions of visitors annually.
Do I need a ticket to enter Mont Saint Michel?
The village of Mont Saint Michel is free to enter and explore. You will need to purchase a ticket to enter the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel. The ticket office is in front of the Abbey or book in advance here.
Can I Get To le Mont Saint Michel at high tide?
Yes, it is still possible to visit Mont Saint Michel during high tide. However, it is important to note that during very high tides, the causeway that connects the mainland to the island may be flooded and inaccessible to vehicles and pedestrians for a few hours. During this time, visitors can use the free shuttle bus service provided by the local authorities or walk along the boardwalks that are built above the water level.
What to do in Mont Saint Michel?
What to do in Mont Saint Michel is be awed by the magnificent site. Take your time. Marvel at the Abbey Church, the medieval village, and the sweeping views. Take a guided tour across the bay at low tide. Find the best vantage points of Mont St Michel.
Is there a Tourist Information Centre?
Yes! It is situated right where you exit the parking lots and take the shuttle bus. You can’t miss it. The Tourist Information Centre can answer all your questions about your visit – tours, tidal bores, discovering the abbey at night. Great bathrooms too!
What is there to see near Mont St Michel?
When planning your Mont St Michel itinerary, consider what you will visit nearby. The charming medieval Dinan is one hour away as is the walled city of Saint-Malo. Don’t forget to eat oysters or mussels in nearby Cancale. Two hours away you will find Deauville. And a little further afield Honfleur.
Visiting Mont St Michel: Conclusion
There is something about visiting Mont St Michel. Perhaps it is my squelching oversized rubber boots sinking into the mucky sand that makes me feel connected to something larger. Is it the sight of golden Saint Michael peering down from the pinnacle of the Abbey’s spire that makes my spirit soar?
I’ve been lucky to visit Mont St Michel quite a few times. I’ve seen it at low tide, and high tide and walked across the bay. I’ve watched the famous pré-salé sheep grazing and how they trot to the farmer when he whistles. Mont St Michel France never fails to impress. Perhaps it is how the light is falling. Or the nuns singing with the purest of voices in the abbey. Perhaps it is the hidden chapel that a French man leads me to discover. I never leave without one final glance over my shoulder. Mont Saint Michel is a sight that never fails to mesmerize.
“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.”
Gustave Flaubert
France Travel Info
If you love France ( I mean who doesn’t?!), here is some more reading for you:
Brittany:
Dinan – a fabulous medieval town to visit (maybe one of my favourites!) Read more about Dinan, France.
Normandy: 19 Wonderful Things to do in Normandy
Etretat – the stunning white cliffs and if you are an Arsène Lupin fan… exactly where the series ends ( Season 1). Read more about Etretat.
Giverny– another fabulous day trip from Paris. Claude Monet’s house and gardens inspired his gorgeous water lily paintings. Learn more about visiting Giverny.
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Wow! That place looks absolutely amazing! I hope to go there one day when I am visiting my boyfriend’s parents in Britanny.
You should definitely go! It is amazing. Try to go shoulder season when it is less busy! I hope you love it as much as I did!