How to Visit Mont Saint Michel from Paris and What to do!

June 20, 2024

Can You Visit Mont Saint Michel from Paris?

Yes, you absolutely can visit Mont Saint Michel from Paris, and this is exactly what I did on my last trip to France.

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If you haven’t heard of Mont Saint Michel, it’s one of France’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. There is so much natural beauty, history, and architectural marvels that make you wonder, how did they even build it!

So, here’s a detailed guide on how you should visit Mont Saint Michel from Paris.

⏰ Short on time? Here's our top recommendation for Mont Saint Michel.

🗺️ Book a day trip to Mont Saint Michel from Paris here: Mont Saint Michel Day Trip with Abbey Entrance from Paris

🔔 Save time by buying your Abby Tickets here.

🏨 Hotel with great of Mont St Michel;
Le Relais Saint Michel

🏨 Activities to do At Mont St Michel:
1. Bay of Mont Saint-Michel : Discovery And Quick Sands
2. Mont Saint-Michel: 3 Museums Entry Pass

Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.

Is Mont Saint Michel Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Mont Saint Michel is a stunning destination in France with its medieval architecture, winding streets, and the magnificent abbey perched at the top. What makes Mont Saint Michel special is the unique tidal phenomena, making it at times impossible to get to, although that’s not a problem now with a permanent bridge built a few years ago. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply want to experience a unique and beautiful place, Mont Saint Michel is well worth the visit.

Where in France is Mont Saint Michel?

Mont Saint Michel is located in Normandy, about 360 kilometers (224 miles) west of Paris. It’s unmissable as you start to get close; it sits on a rocky tidal island, surrounded by sandbanks and quicksand, and when it’s high tide, the sea is as well! The island’s dramatic location and stunning medieval architecture make it a must-visit destination.
Compare tour prices from Paris.

Best Time to Visit Mont Saint Michel

The best time to visit Mont Saint Michel is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). We visited in May. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer, making for a more enjoyable experience. However, I would say it was pretty busy when we were there, so I can only imagine what summer would be like with the extra crowd. As long as you’re prepared, you can navigate the narrow streets and visit the abbey.

If crowds are not for you, I would recommend visiting Mont Saint Michel in winter. Some stores may be closed during this season, and the weather can be unpredictable. However, I don’t think this would spoil the beauty and uniqueness of Mont Saint Michel.

How to Get There by Train

If you feel like visiting Mont Saint Michel more independently by train, take a TGV (high-speed train) from Paris Gare Montparnasse to Rennes or Dol-de-Bretagne. From Rennes, there is a direct bus to Mont Saint Michel. The total journey takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours. Although long, it’s a comfortable and scenic way to travel. You’ll also get to enjoy the beautiful Normandy countryside this way.

Can You Do a Tour to Mont Saint Michel from Paris?

Yes, you can take a day tour from Paris, although it’s quite a long trip but worth it if you have a spare day. Many companies offer organised tours that include round-trip transportation by bus plus a guided tour of the island. These tours typically depart early in the morning and return late in the evening, making for a long but fulfilling day. This would be a great stress-free option to visit Mont Saint Michel. Compare tour prices from Paris.

How to Get There by Car and Parking at Mont Saint Michel

If you feel comfortable driving, it takes around 4 hours to drive from Paris to Mont Saint Michel. Once you arrive, there’s a large parking area on the mainland, about 2.5 kilometres from the island. There are free shuttle buses available to take you from the parking lot to the island. Driving gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding region at your own pace, and the parking facilities are well-organized. We visited Mont Saint Michel this way and decided to spend the night at a hotel (hotel I stayed at).
Compare car rental here.

What to Do at Mont Saint Michel

Visit the Abbey: The Abbey of Mont Saint Michel is the highlight of any visit. Explore the stunning Gothic architecture, enjoy breathtaking views from the top, and learn about the abbey’s history. You can easily do a self-guided tour. Check Abbey Ticket pricing here.
Wander the Streets: Enjoy strolling through the narrow, winding streets where you will find shops, cafes, museums, and historical buildings.
Tidal Walks: Guided walking tours across the bay are available, providing a unique perspective on the natural environment and the historical significance of the tides and their changes. It’s easy to get trapped in the quicksand, so I would recommend doing this on a tour. Compare tour options here.

Mont Saint Michel Entry Fee and Cost

Entrance to Mont Saint Michel island is free, but visiting the abbey requires an entry fee of around €11 for adults. Check pricing here.

Mont Saint Michel Tide Times

Tide times at Mont Saint Michel vary significantly and are a key part of the experience. The island can become completely surrounded by water at high tide, creating a dramatic and picturesque scene. It was amazing to witness the landscape change before me. Check the tide schedule before your visit to ensure you experience the full beauty of the tidal changes. The official Mont Saint Michel website provides up-to-date tide times.

Closest Town to Start Near Mont Saint Michel

Pontorson is the closest town, located about 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) from Mont Saint Michel. You can find hotels and restaurants there if you want to break up your trip and spend the night.

Can You Stay on Mont Saint Michel?

Yes, you can stay on Mont Saint Michel. There are a few hotels on the island, offering a unique experience of being there after the day-trippers leave. However, accommodation is limited and tends to be pricier than on the mainland. Staying overnight allows you to enjoy the island in the peaceful evening and early morning hours, without the crowds. We did this but stayed at one of the many hotels at the end of the walkway with views of Mont Saint Michel. This way, we could appreciate the sunset and sunrise.