The Mont Saint-Michel is a medieval island located off the coast of Normandy in France. It is most famous for its unique setting, stunning Gothic architecture, rich history, and breathtaking views of the surrounding bay.
With over millions of visitors each year it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.
Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply stunning sceneries, Mont Saint Michel is a must-see destination that will leave you in awe.
Join us and find out how to get the most out of your trip to one of France's most iconic landmarks.
- 48° 38′ N, 01° 30′ W
Overview
About the Mont Saint-Michel
The Mont Saint-Michel, a unique scenery of a mysterious island that is sometimes surrounded by the sea, and then again by a large expanse of (quicksand). But what is the Mont Saint-Michel and what is its history?
The history of Mont Saint-Michel dates back to the 8th century when the island was first settled by a group of hermits. In the centuries that followed, the island was gradually developed into a religious center, and in the 11th the abbey was constructed. It became a place of pilgrimage and attracted visitors from all over Europe.
Practical
Entrance to the Mont Saint-Michel is free.
The Mont Saint-Michel is located off the coast of Normandy. The easiest way to reach the site is by car or bus. There are also trains that run from Paris to the nearby town of Pontorson, where you can then take a shuttle bus to the Mont Saint-Michel.
We have more info about it further in this blogpost.
Over the years, Mont Saint-Michel became an important military fortress, with the abbey serving as a prison during the French Revolution. The island was also a strategic location during World War II and was heavily fortified by the Germans.
Today, Mont Saint-Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleys of the village surrounding the abbey, climb the steps to the abbey itself, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding sea and coastline.
The culture of Mont Saint-Michel is heavily influenced by its religious history, and the abbey remains an important pilgrimage site for many Catholics. The island’s cuisine is also famous, with local specialties including omelets and buttery biscuits known as “galettes.”
The Mont Saint-Michel is a fascinating blend of history, religion, and culture and should definitely be added to your trip when visiting Normandy.
Find more things to do in Normandy here
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Things to do
Visit the abbey
The most famous attraction of the Mont Saint-Michel is the Abbey. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of medieval architecture.
Climb the steep hill to the abbey and enjoy the view over the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you’ll pass through winding cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming shops selling souvenirs and local specialties.
Inside the abbey you find an interior of Gothic architecture with intricate stonework and stunning stained glass windows.
Practical
Adults: € 11
Free for EU citizens under 25
May 1st to August 31st
9am - 7pm
September 1st to April 30th
9:30am - 6pm
Last entry 1 hour before closing time.
Abbey closed on January 1, May 1 and December 25.
Walk the ramparts
Walking on the ramparts of Mont Saint-Michel is like taking a step back in time. The stone walls have stood for centuries, watching as the tides change and the world evolves.
From the top of the ramparts, the view of the surrounding bay and countryside is breathtaking. You’ll feel like a bird perched on a medieval tower, observing the world below.
But be warned, walking on the ramparts requires a bit of effort. The steps can be steep and uneven, so wear comfortable shoes and take your time. But the effort is worth it for the unparalleled views and the chance to experience the history and charm of Mont Saint-Michel.
EXPLORE THE VILLAGE AND THE GRAND RUE
At the heart of the village lies the Grand Rue where you’ll be surrounded by the unique architecture of Mont Saint-Michel. It is a bustling street filled with shops, restaurants, and historical buildings. The Grand Rue is not just a street, it’s an experience. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Mont Saint-Michel and explore its rich culture and history.
Cross the bay
When the tide is low, you can walk across the bay that connects Mont Saint-Michel to the mainland. Walking across the vast expanse of sand and water, surrounded by panoramic views of the Normandy coast, is just breathtaking. It is a bucket-list experience for any adventurous traveler and a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty and unique setting.
Important!
It's important to note that you should not cross the bay by yourself. Mont Saint-Michel is known for having Europe's largest tidal variations and quicksands. For a safe and memorable experience, it's recommended to book a guided walk with a local expert who can share their knowledge and ensure a smooth crossing. They will probably even let you experience the quicksand in a safe way.
How to get to the Mont Saint-Michel
The Mont Saint-Michel is located off the coast of Normandy. The easiest way to reach the site is by car or bus. There are also trains that run from Paris to the nearby town of Pontorson, where you can then take a shuttle bus to the Mont Saint-Michel.
By Car
Cars are not allowed on the island itself, so you will need to park in a designated parking lot. These parking lots are for cars, campervans and motorbikes (P5, P6, P7bis, P10, P11, P12, P13).
From here you can either take the free shuttle (the ‘Passeur’) or you can go by foot over the bridge.
By Train
As there is no direct train station at the Mont Saint-Michel, you can reach the island by taking a train to the nearby town Pontorson. Here you can take a shuttle bus to the Mont Saint-Michel. The shuttle buses run frequently and take around 20 minutes to reach the island.
It’s important to note that the shuttle bus stop is located around 2.5 km from the Mont Saint-Michel. So, you will need to walk or take another shuttle (the free ‘Passeur’ shuttle at the parking area) to reach the entrance of the island.
Practical
You can find all current parking prices here.
Book your trip to the Mont Saint-Michel here
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When to visit the Mont Saint-Michel
Overall, the best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel is during the shoulder season (May, June, September and October), when the weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and the tide effect is still visible.
The summer months, June to August, are the warmest and driest. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so there will always be large crowds of people. During the winter months December to February the weather is generally the coldest and wettest and it will be more quiet.
If you want to see the famous “tide effect,” check the tide tables and plan your visit accordingly.
Note
The tide can rise very quickly, so be sure to follow safety guidelines and don't attempt to cross the sand without a guide.
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Practical information
Camping
If you are traveling with a campervan, you can stay the night on the parking area. There is a specific area, section P8, designated for camper vans that are less than 8 meters in height. Overnight parking is allowed, but you can not use the area as a camping site. Note that there are no services, such as water or electricity.
Accommodations
There are various options available to stay the night in and around the Mont Saint-Michel.
If you want to immerse yourself in the real charm of the Mont Saint-Michel, you can stay the night on the island. In this way you can enjoy the peaceful periods early in the morning and/or evening, avoid the crowds during peak hours and experience the island’s true beauty and allure.
Or if you prefer, you can stay the night around the Mont Saint-Michel and enjoy its beauty from a distance. When choosing your hotel, take into account how far it is located from the shuttle buses or how far you still have to walk on foot to Mont Saint-Michel itself.
Find the best hotels at the Mont Saint-Michel here
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- Last updated July 26, 2023
