mont saint michel france tour

THE 10 BEST Mont-Saint-Michel Tours & Excursions

Mont-saint-michel tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Scenic Railroads
• Ports of Call Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris with English Speaking Guide

2. Mont St Michel Full Day Tour with a National Guide from Bayeux

3. Mt St. Michel Private Tour with Abbey tickets and tour guide

4. Mont Saint-Michel Day Trip from Bayeux (Shared tour)

5. 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel

6. Mont Saint Michel Guided Day Trip with Abbey Entry from Paris

7. Mont Saint-Michel Small-Group Trip with Cider Tasting from Paris

8. Self Guided Audio Tour around Mont Saint-Michele island

9. Mont Saint Michel Day Trip with Abbey Entrance from Paris

10. Normandy Loire Valley 3-Days Trip with Mont Saint Michel and Castles from Paris

11. Private Guided Mont Saint Michel & D-day tour from Paris

12. 5-hour Private Tour of Mt St Michel From St Malo with pick up and drop off

13. Walking Tour in the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel

14. Normandy 2Days Trip, D-Day Beaches & Mont Saint Michel from Paris

15. Normandy - Mont Saint-Michel Full Day Tour from Bayeux

16. Private 12-hour round transfer to abbey of Mont Saint Michel Normandy from Paris

17. Mont St Michel and Abbey Visit Small Group with Cider Tasting

18. Normandy Private Mont Saint Michel Tour From Bayeux

19. Normandy Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Entrance Ticket

20. Guided Tour of Mont Saint-Michel (Pick up from hotel included)

21. Self Guided Tour in Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux

22. Mont Saint Michel Full Day Tour from Bayeux

23. Mont Saint Michel Shuttle Service from Bayeux

24. Normandy D-Day and Mont Saint Michel Private Day Trip from Paris

25. Mont Saint Michel Guided Tour with Abbey Visit from Paris

26. Private Tour to Mont-Saint-Michel From Paris

27. Private Day Tour of Mont Saint-Michel from Bayeux

28. 2 Days Mont Saint Michel, Loire Castles Guided Tour

29. Mont Saint Michel / Bayeux, day tour with a licence local guide from Bayeux or Caen

30. Mont Saint Michel Private Day Trip from Paris

What travelers are saying.

• Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris with English Speaking Guide
• Mont St Michel Full Day Tour with a National Guide from Bayeux
• 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel
• Mont Saint Michel Guided Day Trip with Abbey Entry from Paris
• Mont Saint-Michel Small-Group Trip with Cider Tasting from Paris
• Ben En Baie
• Anne Laure FALGUIERES- Guide Baie Mont St Michel
• Traversée Mont-Saint-Michel
• Sacha Traversées - Guide nature en Baie du Mont Saint Michel
• Mont-Saint-Michel Voyages

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Mont Saint-Michel Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Mont Saint-Michel. We've got 55 adventures going to Mont Saint-Michel, starting from just 2 days in length, and the longest tour is 22 days. The most popular month to go is June, which has the largest number of tour departures.

55 Mont Saint-Michel tour packages with 937 reviews

3-day Guided Normandy : D Day Beaches, Mont Saint-michel And Loire Valley Chateaux From Paris

Was a great tour with a sampling of many sites. Our guide Layla and driver Max did a wonderful job.

Bicycling Brittany and Normandy

Experience Plus does an excellent tour job. Each morning one guide goes out and marks the route with chalk arrows. Although they give you a map and also provide a GPS track for the route there is no need to use them. Just follow the arrows and enjoy the scenery.

2-Day Trip to Normandy, Saint Malo & Mont Saint Michel from Paris

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

The Treasures of France including Normandy (8 Days)

The tour visited some sites of great cultural beauty (eg medieval town centres, Mont St Michel, and several chateaux) and historical significance (eg D-Day Beaches). Service was comprehensive and included free porterage.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Normandy, Brittany & The Loire Valley (Classic, 8 Days)

This was a fantastic trip! The knowledge and passion my Travel Director Elizabeth had was amazing. The accommodation was incredible you walked outside and were in the centre of town. In Brittany I had a view of the sea. I never felt rushed and enough free time.

Best of France Tour

Good itinerary - D-day and Mt. St. Michel were standouts. I also really liked Loire Castles. Amazing...! We saw the most charming little towns. Experienced informative talks about the places we went, and had enough free time to wonder through the shops. Out tour guide Gilbert was superb. Every effort made to make our travel experience excellent .e was a wealth of information and his maps and storytelling really brought history to life. All well organized. Hotels are standards and their meals are OK. Bu we went out to eat in local restaurants. Can't wait to book my next trip.

2 Day Guided Trip to Mont Saint-Michel, Loire Valley Chateaux from Paris

Arrangements were good! The places are wonderful

Paris, Normandy and the Loire

A truly wonderful experience ... what we saw, heard, and did!! The tour guide (Mike) was excellent in all respects. And the driver deserves lots of kudos (safety, comfort, on time).

Bicycling Brittany and Normandy Plus! Bayeux and the D-Day Beaches

Our 15th ExperiencePlus trip, and all have been excellent. Love the independence of the “arrows” and the knowledgeable, fun and helpful leaders.

Paris & Normandy Highlights National Geographic Journeys

We loved the itinerary and the extra sites we visited, also. Our CEO Alexiane did well. We would have like to hear more history of the places we saw. Alexiane took care to provide for the needs of individuals on our tour. That was especially helpful for me. Our bus driver, Frederick, was excellent and caring, too.

• Sightseeing

France Mon Amour ( 8 days )

Explore your France ( 15 days )

• Christmas & New Year

Tailor-Made Private France Tour to Paris, Normandy and Loire Valley, Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Paris, Normandy, & Châteaux Country

Went on Normandy, Chateaux country tour. Had Riccardo, he was great. The tour was a well organized tour, and his attention to detail making sure everything was smoothly run. Great trip

Grand Tour of France

Mike, our tour director and Tom, our driver, did very good job to guiding us trough a busy program. Mike did a very good job organizing our tour. We had to be on the road quite early in the mornings but we were, most of the time, the first ones at our destination so we beat the crowd. He always provided some free time to discover on our own. I wish we didn't have to drag our luggage trough small hotel lobbies. Imagine 47 people going in small lobby with two luggage at the same time and doing it again when you are leaving in the next morning. Most of the hotels were adequate except when 37Celsius no air conditioner, no fridge in the room, no ice bucket. In most of the hotels the staff gave us ice when we gave them our plastic ice bag, except in Nice where one of the ladies at the front desk explained that the ice only for the bar. For our question; so where can we buy ice, the other lady at the front desk chimed in, out the door turn right and right again! That is not costumer service. The included food was good.

What people love about Mont Saint-Michel Tours

This was an amazing 3 day tour. Every day just got better and it was the right amount of sightseeing each day. The Chateaux’s were definitely my favourite part of the trip plus of course Mont-Saint-Michel! Leila our guide scores an 11/10. She was really what made the trip so special. Her diligence in keeping us to a fairly strict timetable was worth it so we didn’t miss our scheduled sightseeing. Truly a great trip to see the the Normandy beaches and explore some spectacular sights of France’s history. I couldn’t finish the review without a shout out to our driver “Brian”. It was the cherry on the top to an unforgettable experience ?

An excellent tour of the region! Would highly recommend to all bikers. This was my 7th tour with EP and one of the most enjoyable.

Overall a great tour. Much more than we expected. Highly recommend instead of trying to visit a foreign country without a tour guide and driver-- both of whom were fabulous !!

• France Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 7 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Mont Saint Michel Guided Tour

Mont saint michel overview.

Mont Saint Michel is an iconic island commune located in Normandy, France. The stunning medieval architecture of the abbey, which sits atop a rocky island, attracts millions of visitors every year. The island is surrounded by the sea at high tide, and visitors can experience the unique phenomenon of the tides rising and falling around the island. Exploring the narrow streets and alleys of the island is a delight, with charming shops, restaurants, and cafes nestled into the old stone buildings.

While it is possible to explore Mont Saint Michel independently, taking a Mont Saint Michel guided tour can enhance the experience. A knowledgeable guide can provide historical and cultural context, point out hidden gems, and offer insights into the local way of life. Additionally, guided tours can help visitors navigate the crowds and make the most of their time on the island. 

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Why Take Mont Saint Michel Guided Tour

• A guided tour allows you to learn about the history, architecture, and culture of Mont Saint Michel from an expert guide.
• Guides can take you through the narrow streets and staircases to see the best views and hidden spots, which might be difficult to find on your own.
• A guided tour can save you time and hassle by providing transportation to and from Mont Saint Michel, as well as skipping the long lines to enter the abbey.
• Guides can also provide insider tips and recommendations for dining and shopping in the area.
• Taking a Mont Saint Michel guided tour can enhance your overall experience and provide a deeper understanding of the significance of Mont Saint Michel in French history and culture.
• Some guided tours may also include visits to nearby attractions, such as the D-Day landing beaches or the city of Saint-Malo, making for a more comprehensive and convenient itinerary.
• A guided tour can be a great option for those who prefer a structured and informative experience, or for first-time visitors who want to make the most of their time at Mont Saint Michel.

Do Checkout: Mont Saint Michel Day Tour From Paris

Highlights Of Mont Saint Michel Guided Tour

The Mont Saint Michel Abbey is a stunning example of medieval architecture that is a must-visit on a trip to Mont Saint Michel. Founded in the 8th century, this abbey is perched on top of a rocky island and has a rich history that has been shaped by religious and military conflict. Guided tours of the abbey provide a unique opportunity to learn about its history and architecture, as well as the daily lives of the monks who once lived there. Visitors can explore the cloister, the refectory, the crypts, and the beautiful gardens, and take in stunning views of the surrounding coastline. 

Read More: Top Attractions to Visit In Mont Saint Michel

The Cloisters of Mont Saint Michel are a peaceful and serene place, providing a welcome respite from the bustling crowds of the main abbey. The cloisters are a part of the monastic complex and were constructed in the 13th and 14th centuries. They feature a beautiful garden surrounded by a covered walkway, where monks would have once strolled and meditated. The garden is filled with aromatic herbs and flowers and provides a lovely view of the bay. The columns and arches of the cloister are intricately carved with various motifs, adding to the beauty of the space. Visitors on Mont Saint Michel guided tour can explore this serene space and learn about the history and significance of the cloisters.

Suggested Read: Mont Saint Michel At Night

Mont Saint Michel Bay is a stunning sight and one of the highlights of a Mont Saint Miche guided tour. The bay has the largest tides in Europe, which can rise up to 15 meters high, making it a unique natural phenomenon. During the guided tour, visitors can learn about the history and significance of the bay, including its role in the salt marsh industry and the construction of the abbey. The tour also offers a chance to see the bay from different vantage points, including a panoramic view from the top of Mont Saint Michel.

The ramparts of Mont Saint Michel are an iconic part of the island's landscape. Built during the Hundred Years' War, these walls were an important part of the island's defense. Today, they offer visitors stunning views of the surrounding bay and countryside. Walking along the ramparts, visitors can admire the fortifications, towers, and gates that have guarded the island for centuries. A Mont Saint Michel guided tour often includes a walk along the ramparts, where visitors can learn about the island's history and enjoy some of the best views of the surrounding area.

Do Checkout: Things To Do In Mont Saint Michel

The Mont Saint Michel Garden is a beautiful green space located at the foot of the island. It offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere with stunning views of the surrounding bay. The garden is home to a variety of flora, including flowers, shrubs, and trees that have been carefully maintained and arranged to create a stunning landscape. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden's paths and enjoy the fresh sea air while taking in the breathtaking scenery. A Mont Saint Michel guided tour can provide visitors with fascinating insights into the history and significance of the garden, as well as the island's overall cultural and natural heritage.

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Mont Saint Michel Prison, located in the western part of the island, was built in the 13th century and is an important historical site that is worth visiting. The prison was originally designed as a defensive fortress to protect the island from invaders. The dark and eerie interior of the prison offers a glimpse into the harsh living conditions that prisoners had to endure. The cells are small and cramped, and visitors can still see the graffiti left by prisoners on the walls. Nowadays, visitors can take a Mont Saint Michel guided tour of the prison, which includes informative displays about the history of the site and the various uses it has had over the centuries.

Must Read: Things To Do Near Mont Saint Michel

The Mont Saint Michel Museum of History provides visitors with a fascinating glimpse into the rich and storied past of this iconic landmark. Through its impressive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia displays, the museum tells the story of the abbey's evolution from its origins as a humble chapel to its centuries of prominence as a major pilgrimage destination and a symbol of French national identity. Highlights of the museum include the impressive Gothic-style Salle des Chevaliers (Hall of the Knights), which features a stunning collection of medieval armor and weapons, and the Salle des Gardes (Hall of the Guards), which offers breathtaking views of the bay.

Explore Now: Top Travel Tips Mont Saint Michel  

The Church of Saint Peter, located inside the walls of Mont Saint Michel, is one of the main highlights of the guided tour. The church dates back to the 11th century and features Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. It is adorned with stunning stained glass windows, statues, and paintings, as well as the famous statue of Saint Michael slaying the dragon. Visitors can also explore the choir and nave, which are home to a range of religious artifacts and relics. The church's unique acoustics make it a popular venue for concerts and performances, adding to the charm and atmosphere of this historic landmark. 

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The Mont Saint Michel Maritime Museum is a fascinating attraction that is not to be missed when visiting Mont Saint Michel. The museum provides visitors with a chance to explore the history and culture of the island and its surrounding sea. The museum showcases various exhibits and collections of maritime history, including traditional boats, navigational instruments, and a range of fascinating artifacts that highlight the area's rich maritime heritage. A Mont Saint Michel guided tour of the museum will offer visitors an opportunity to delve deeper into the history and significance of the sea to the island's inhabitants. 

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Book Your Mont Saint Michel Tickets

Abbey of mont saint michel tickets, what are the benefits of taking a guided tour of mont saint michel.

Taking a guided tour of Mont Saint Michel provides an informative and educational experience, with knowledgeable guides to provide historical and cultural context to the attractions. It also allows visitors to skip the lines and access areas that are not available to the general public.

What are some of the highlights of a guided tour of Mont Saint Michel?

Some of the highlights of a guided tour of Mont Saint Michel include exploring the ancient Abbey, walking along the ramparts, visiting the Cloisters, admiring the views of the Bay, and learning about the fascinating history of this unique site from a knowledgeable guide.

What is the history of Mont Saint Michel?

Mont Saint Michel rich history , dating back to the 8th century when the island was first used as a hermitage. It became a center for pilgrimage in the Middle Ages and was later fortified as a strategic stronghold during the Hundred Years' War. The famous abbey was built in the 11th century and has since been a symbol of French national identity.

What should I wear when visiting Mont Saint Michel?

When visiting Mont Saint Michel, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb. Additionally, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather and be respectful of the religious site by avoiding revealing clothing.

What is the best time of year to visit Mont Saint Michel?

The best time to visit Mont Saint Michel is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when there are fewer crowds and comfortable weather. The summer months of July and August can be very crowded, while the winter months can be chilly and sometimes inaccessible due to high tides.

Mont Saint Michel Tours

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The 7 Best Mont Saint Michel Tours From Paris [2024 Reviews]

Don't miss this picturesque island while you are in france, we look at the top tours to mont saint-michel.

Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most picturesque islands in the world. If you’re interested in French history and culture, it’s a must-see attraction.

Once, you would have depended upon a low tide and wet feet to visit this tidal island, but today you can explore its many beauties whenever you wish.

I’ve selected 7 top-rated tours of Mont Saint-Michel from Paris for you to consider. Some focus on the island, its Medieval fortifications, quaint winding streets, and Gothic abbey.

Others also explore the wider countryside of Normandy. Read through the reviews and decide what kind of excursion appeals most to you.

Be sure to see our reviews of Day Trips to Normandy , Louvre Guided Tours and Paris Catacombs Tours .

Best Tours of Mont Saint Michel

Quick answer: the 7 best rated mont saint-michel tours from paris for 2024.

• Best Full Day Tour: Full-Day Mont Saint-Michel Guided Tour From Paris
• Best Private Tour: Mont Saint-Michel Sightseeing Tour From Paris
• Best Multi-Day Tour: Mont St Michel & Loire Valley 2 Day Tour From Paris
• Best Budget Tour: Day Trip To Mont-Saint-Michel From Paris
• Best Value Tour: Full-Day Mont Saint Michel Tour From Paris
• Best Small Group Tour: Small-Group Mont St Michel Tour & Cider Tasting From Paris
• Best Guided Tour: Mont Saint-Michel: Full–Day Bay Tour From Paris

Plan the Ultimate Paris Vacation : See our 5 Day Itinerary of the Best Things to do in Paris!

Mont Saint-Michel Tour Reviews

1. best full day tour: full-day mont saint-michel guided tour from paris.

• Departure Point : Pyramides Paris Vision Agency, 2 Rue des Pyramides
• Departure Time: 7:15 AM
• Duration : 14 hours
• Includes : English speaking guide, transport to Mont Saint-Michel, lunch, and tour of the abbey

This tour from Paris is a great way for you to visit Mont Saint-Michel. You will learn much about the history and culture of Normandy and see many beautiful historic structures.

During your scenic coach ride from Paris to Mont Saint-Michel, you’ll be entertained by a professional guide. Enjoy hearing stories about the people and the rich history of Normandy. Once you arrive, you’ll take lunch at the Relais Saint-Michel Restaurant.

Your guide will take you around the historic sites of the island. The fortified walls remind you of Mont Saint-Michel’s importance during the Hundred Years War. Picturesque winding roads take you up the slopes toward the ancient abbey on the summit.

Follow your guide into the ancient abbey and learn about its architecture and history. Its original foundation came about as a result of a dream, but its later glory was a result of in-depth planning and much hard work and determination. The resulting structures leave many visitors breathless.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best private tour: private mont-saint-michel tour from paris by luxury vehicle.

• Departure Point : Hotel pick-up offered
• Departure Time: 6:30 AM
• Includes : English speaking guide, hotel pick-up, transport to Mont Saint-Michel, lunch, and tour of the abbey

This is a great excursion for anyone who wishes to see more of the Normandy countryside on a private tour. Unlike the other tours, this one begins and ends on your hotel doorstep. And your air-conditioned coach transport ensures you see much more of Normandy than you would hurtling through aboard a train.

Your experienced tour guide will ensure your travel time is not wasted, providing you with useful introductions to the history of Normandy and Mont Saint-Michel. Once there, you’ll enjoy lunch at Le Relais Saint-Michel Restaurant.

The highlight of your tour comes when you enter the stunning 11 th -century abbey at the island’s summit. Its complex Gothic structure is the result of several waves of construction during the medieval period, especially during the late 11 th century following the designs of William de Volpiano. He built the main Romanesque church of the abbey and the supporting crypts below.

Many visitors are charmed by the features of the courtyard cloister and monk’s dining hall. But the surrounding medieval streets winding around the hill are also fascinating. The ramparts that surround the island remind us what a formidable fortress Mont Saint-Michel was during the feudal age.

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3. best multi-day tour: mont st michel & loire valley 2 day tour from paris.

• Duration : 2 days
• Includes : English speaking guide, transport to Mont Saint-Michel, the Normandy Beaches, & the Loire Valley, 4-star hotel accommodation, breakfast, lunch, entrance fees, and wine tasting

If you want to explore a wider area of northwestern France and learn much more about French history and culture, this is a great tour for you. You’ll see medieval wonders on the island of Mont Saint-Michel, explore Renaissance delights in the Loire Valley, and see the D-Day Landing Beaches of Normandy.

While being transported from site to site, your knowledgeable guide will teach you much about local history and culture. You’ll benefit from many scenic drives and picturesque views. The Normandy Beaches will give you an opportunity to contemplate life and show your respects to a generation who sacrificed much.

At Mont Saint Michel, you’ll benefit from a guided tour of the 11 th -century abbey and enjoy the opportunity to explore the medieval town at your own leisure. The island has served as a place of worship, a fortress, and a prison. Today you’ll appreciate its unique peace and beauty.

In the Loire Valley, you’ll visit Chateau Langeais and the rural town of Amboise. A guided tour of the Renaissance castle will reveal much about the people who once lived here. Then at Chenonceau Chateau, you’ll meet a wine expert who will help you discover the rich beauty of French wine during a guided wine tasting.

4. Best Budget Tour: Day Trip To Mont-Saint-Michel From Paris

• Includes : English speaking guide, transport to Mont Saint-Michel, and entry to the abbey

If you’re interested in medieval monuments, you’ll love this day trip to Mont Saint-Michel. You also benefit from the wonderful views of the Normandy countryside along your way.

The ancient ramparts guarding the island are inspirational. Many invaders have attempted to take these walls without success. You get great views across the sea and toward the French mainland.

The winding streets leading up to the monastery are lined with amazing medieval buildings. Over 60 buildings on the island are listed historical buildings. There are more historic buildings than people who live on the island!

Explore the fascinating abbey at your own pace or take an audio tour for more detailed information. The ancient cloisters, monks’ dining hall, and Romanesque abbey church are beautifully preserved. Admire the medieval architecture that has stood so strong for almost a thousand years.

4. Best Value Tour: Full-Day Mont Saint Michel Tour From Paris

• Departure Point : The Palais de Chaillot Architecture Museum
• Departure Time: 7:00 AM
• Includes : English speaking guide, transportation to Mont Saint-Michel, and tour of the island

This is a great day trip from Paris for anyone interested in French culture and history. Mont Saint-Michel has featured in key parts of France’s long history.

The fortress island has associations with William the Conqueror who invaded England from Normandy. It served as a symbol for French defiance against English tyranny during the Hundred Years War.

During your journey to Mont Saint-Michel, your guide will entertain you with stories from the history of the abbey. Before you even reach the island, you’ll be familiar with its history and enthusiastic to see the stones that match the images in your head.

On the island, your guide will lead you around to point out interesting structures and landmarks. There is so much on the island that this will only be an introduction.

You’ll then be free to explore the places you’re most interested in on your own. If you wish, you can take an audio-guided tour of the abbey or explore it by yourself at your own pace.

5. Best Small Group Tour: Small-Group Mont St Michel Tour & Cider Tasting From Paris

• Departure Point : 6 Avenue de Wagram, Paris
• Includes : English speaking guide, transport to Mont Saint-Michel, cider tasting, and tour of the abbey

If you’re interested in medieval history, you’ll love this excursion to Mont Saint-Michel. During the Hundred Years War, the English knights failed to capture this formidable island fortress. Today, all are welcome to climb its quaint winding streets to visit the ancient buildings above.

Enjoy a comfortable minibus transfer through the Normandy countryside from Paris. Normandy is renowned for its apples, and during your journey, you’ll make a stop to sample the local cider—Calvados and Pommeau.

When you reach Mont Saint-Michel, you’ll be greeted by the familiar sight of the ramparts of the island standing brave over the waves…or the sands, if the tide is out.

But don’t worry about access. In recent years, a road bridge has been built to improve transport to the mainland. On the island, you’ll be mesmerized by the charm of the medieval structures and narrow streets.

The low population of the island combined with continuous use has left its beautiful Gothic structures in remarkable preservation. It is a tangible reminder of the feudal philosophies of its age. The Church sits atop the hill just as God is above all.

The surrounding grand halls are representative of the noble classes, and the lowly fishermen’s huts are at the base of the settlement.

7. Best Guided Tour: Mont Saint Michel Private Day Trip from Paris

• Departure Point : Le Paris Montparnasse Café, 43 Avenue du Maine
• Duration : 14½ hours
• Includes : English speaking guide, high-speed train transport, abbey entrance, and audio guide

This is a great tour of Mont Saint-Michel for anyone who wants to maximize their time on the island and learn about the rich history of the abbey. Your transfer from Paris to Mont Saint-Michel by high-speed train will be quicker than by road and provide you with more time to enjoy yourself on the island.

You’ll be transported from Rennes Railway Station to Mont Saint-Michel by private minibus. On the island, you’ll experience a 45-minute guided tour of the village and enjoy a walk out into the bay. Your naturalist guide will help you understand the unique ecology of the surrounding sands.

A further 2-hour tour of the fortified walls and Medieval city streets will help you understand the rich history of the island. It was once an important fortification which the English failed to capture despite several serious attempts during the Hundred Years War.

The highlight of your visit to the island will be a visit to the famous 11 th -century abbey on top of the hill. Inside, you’ll be impressed by the well-preserved Gothic architecture of one of the most beautiful churches in France.

Paris Travel Guide

In TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards 2019, Paris was ranked as the #2 Top Destination in the World. This is no surprise for a city famous for its food, art, and architecture.

Whether you’re looking for gourmet meals, a romantic getaway, a place to immerse yourself in fine art, or a family vacation, France’s capital city is a great destination for you.

Airports & Entry

The two best ways to travel to Paris are by air and by train.

Paris boasts 3 busy international airports which together form the world’s 5 th busiest airport combination and a major transport hub for Europe. Paris’ three international airports are Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris-Orly, and Beauvais-Tillé.

Paris is well served by a selection of budget airlines including Easyjet, Ryanair, French Bee, Transavia, and Norwegian. You can secure better deals by booking at least a month in advance and using a ticket price comparison website, like Omio . You can literally save hundreds of dollars by choosing the right flight. Because Paris is such a major transport hub, flights are very competitive.

Usually, you will find flying both the most affordable and easiest way to reach Paris. However, if you are traveling from a neighboring country, it is worthwhile checking into high-speed trains.

Paris is linked to neighboring countries by a network of high-speed rail links operated by SNCF . Although these trains take longer than flights, they transport their passengers from city center to city center. Flying, of course, usually requires a transfer to an airport some distance away from the city.

For example, if you’re traveling from London to Paris, a Eurostar train that passes through the famous Channel Tunnel will provide a relatively hassle-free journey when compared to flying. Also, in most cases, that journey will be quicker than flying because of the extra time taken up waiting for connections at the airports. And it also gives you bragging rights for using one of the world’s most famous undersea tunnels.

When planning your journey, compare the costs of flights and high-speed trains and decide which is the best option for you. Often flying will be cheapest, but if the cost isn’t too much more, the train will be relatively more comfortable and involve fewer complications.

Planning Tips

Paris is an amazing destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Here are 5 tips to help you on your way. On your first day, taking a guided tour of the city will help you zero in on areas you would like to spend more time in will help a lot.

Tip #1: Watch out for Mondays and Tuesdays

When planning your itinerary for your stay in Paris, note that many major attractions, such as the Palace of Versailles and the catacombs, are closed on Mondays. A few attractions are closed on Tuesdays instead, including the Natural History Museum and the Pompidou Center. There are various major attractions open every day, like the Eiffel Tower and Disneyland Paris, so go there on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Tip #2: Buy unique souvenirs and gifts

Paris is, of course, the center of fashion. However, there is one relatively unfashionable item of dress that you might want to pick up during your stay in France’s capital city. The béret is the cliché headwear of France, and you’ll see cheap versions “made in China” in every souvenir shop you pass. But, if you want to buy the real thing, look out for clothing stores that sell bérets made in France. La Cerise Sur Le Chapeau is a well-known chain store around Paris that stocks French bérets.

However, if you’re looking for something distinctly Parisian that few people will own, how about a piece of the Eiffel Tower? Victor Lustig once sold the Eiffel Tower twice in an elaborate con, but this opportunity isn’t a scam like that. During repairs to the tower, inevitably some parts need to be replaced. The removed rivets are turned into unique souvenirs only available in the Eiffel Tower’s official gift shop.

Tip #3: Stay safe while visiting Paris

Although Paris is considered a relatively safe city, don’t forget that Kim Kardashian had all her bling stolen while she was staying in a vacation apartment there. Just like any other busy city, you will find purse-snatchers and pickpockets in crowded locations, especially around tourist hotspots.

Just use common sense. Keep your passport and other valuable documents in a hotel safe. Keep your money in a money belt. Don’t wear ostentatious jewelry in public places.

If you see abandoned packages or luggage in a crowded public place, especially a Metro station, distance yourself from the package and call 112. Paris is not a stranger to terrorist attacks.

Tip #4: Book in advance, especially during the summer

Paris is a popular destination in summer and during Christmas and Easter. Ensure you book your hotel rooms and any tours you wish to join well in advance of your vacation. You often get better air flight deals when you book in advance, and that is especially true during the summer.

The best time to visit Paris for bargain prices and fewer crowds is during the shoulder season—just before or just after summer. The weather is still fine, but there are simply fewer tourists.

Tip #5: Learn a few French phrases before traveling to Paris

The French are a proud people, not least of all Parisians. They are rightly concerned about the dilution of their native tongue by English words and phrases from Hollywood movies and internationally popular songs. So, if you’ve ever heard someone say that French people are rude, it’s probably because the person telling you expected them to speak English.

Almost all French people you’ll meet speak English. But if you greet them in French and use a few words and phrases like “merci” and “s’il vous plaît”, they will be more likely to treat you with respect in return. You don’t need to speak more than a handful of phrases, and you don’t even need a good accent. Parisians will appreciate your effort.

Restaurants & Eating Out

Paris is recognized by many as the heart of the culinary world. Many internationally-acclaimed chefs trained there, and the terms used in gourmet kitchens worldwide originate in Paris. You won’t have any problem finding good food in the capital of France.

Traditional croissants are a great breakfast treat in any Parisian café. The best area for traditional cafés is the Boulevard Saint-Germain, a tree-lined avenue in the 6 th Arrondissement. The Neo Café is highly rated. But if you’re in a hurry and want your breakfast on the go, grab a fresh pain-au-chocolat from one of the family bakeries (patisseries).

Bo&mie in the 2 nd Arrondissement is the top-rated patisserie in Paris and close to attractions such as the Louvre and the Pompidou Center. In the early morning, you’ll often see Parisians walking out from patisseries with freshly baked baguettes. They do love freshly baked bread rather than long-life bread found on supermarket shelves.

If you want to find the most exclusive, Michelin-stared restaurants, explore the area around the Champs-Elysées. That’s where you’ll find many of the oldest restaurants in Paris. But, if you have a less discerning palate, the same area is where you’ll find McDonald’s, Burger King, and Starbucks. The top-rated French gourmet restaurant here is Pierre Gagnaire on Rue Balzac. Be prepared to spend at least €200 per person and you will require a reservation.

While in Paris, you should try at least one distinctively French dish, like coq au vin or ratatouille. If you’re feeling courageous, you could opt for snails or frogs’ legs…just so you can say that you did.

You should consider taking a French cooking class while you are in Paris. Learn from the best and make the dishes you love at home!

Snacks & sweets

For traditional street food, try the amazing crepes that you can buy from many street corners. You can eat these tasty pancake treats while you walk with savory or sweet fillings.

Before you leave Paris, ensure you sample some of its amazing desserts. The Crème Brulée is a delicious traditional sweet, and meringues are sweet and satisfying but also very messy.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Paris is famous as a getaway for romantic weekends, so of course you’ll find a rich variety of nightlife.

The most famous nightspot in Paris is undoubtedly The Moulin Rouge in the area of the 18 th arrondissement known as Pigalle. This historic cabaret club is where the Can-can dance was created and a favorite haunt for many famous celebrities over the past century, from Toulouse-Lautrec to Frank Sinatra. You can enjoy a cabaret here for around €145 ($160).

However, be aware that Pigalle is regarded as the red-light district. Watch out for overly friendly ladies and gentlemen inviting you into dance clubs in this district.

Champs-Elysées

The most exclusive nightclubs, restaurants, and live music venues are found in the 8 th arrondissement, around the Champs-Elysées. Many of the clubs here are impossible to enter unless you are a recognizable celebrity, royal, or billionaire.

You’ll need to dress up smart to get into any of the decent clubs here. And if you do enter, be careful whose drink you nudge and spill! But a word of caution — the exclusive clubs in this area also include a few strip clubs! They’re very different from the strip clubs in Pigalle, but still strip clubs. One to watch out for is the famous Whisper Club .

An example of a bar in palatial settings where you might be concerned about scuffing the silverware and smearing the crystal is simply called Le Bar in the George V Four Seasons Hotel.

This same area is also home to more touristy haunts which you won’t find so difficult to enter. However, these often contain more tourists than locals, so don’t expect a uniquely French experience. The club with the most laid-back reputation is the Dogstar Club . You might get past the bouncers without a $10,000 watch on your wrist and a designer cocktail dress.

Place Vendome

The 1 st arrondissement is literally the center of the city around the Louvre and where you’ll find boutique hotels with historic bars frequented by celebrities and the beautiful rich. Most of these hotels have strict dress rules to enter the bar, and you’ll need a healthy income to survive the night.

The area around the Metro Bastille, on the borders of the 4 th , 11 th , and 12 th arrondissement, is where the younger and more relaxed crowd hang out. You’ll find decent nightclubs, cafés, live music venues, and dive bars frequented by local 20-somethings.

Check out the Niki Club on the Rue de Lappe for a casual night, or maybe the Black Star Club in Passage Thiere if you enjoy live rock music or jazz.

If you enjoy the LGBT scene, the Marais district in the southern part of the 3 rd arrondissement and northern part of the 4 th is where you’ll find welcoming cafés, bars, and live music venues where all genders and sexualities are made welcome. Café Cox is one bar legendary for its welcomes.

Getting Around

When you’re trying to find your way around, you might get confused by the way addresses sometimes emphasize the arrondissement, sometimes the name of the area, and sometimes the zip code. To simplify this a little, the last two digits of the zip code are the arrondissement number. So, the Eiffel tower is at 75007, meaning it’s in the 7 th arrondissement.

You might be surprised to discover it’s not in the 1 st arrondissement since it’s so central to the city. However, the way the arrondissements work is beginning in the Louvre — the 1 st arrondissement and true center of Paris (where the king’s palace is) — and then radiates out from there. The first layers are numbered from the north clockwise and wrap around the central arrondissements. The arrondissements get larger as you get further from the center.

Most of the main attractions are found in arrondissements 1 through 8, which form the core of the city. This means that it’s possible to walk from attraction to attraction. But if you want to go a little quicker, Paris boasts an affordable and efficient public transport system. And the best way to get around is on the Metro.

With 300 Metro stations, everywhere in Paris is within a 10-minute walk of a station. A Paris Visite Travel Pass provides unlimited Metro travel within a specified zone for a set period of time. The Travel Pass may also be used on trams, buses, and the RER underground train system. A 1-day ticket for Zones 1 to 3 costs €12 ($13).

There are even more bus stops than Metro stations and bus services run every 5 to 7 minutes. This means that buses are often more convenient for shorter journeys than the Metro. Since a Travel Pass allows you to swap between the Metro and buses, you can simply take the bus when it’s most convenient but use the Metro for longer destinations. To learn which would be most convenient for your planned journey, you can check the route maps on the RATP (Regie Autonome des Transports) website .

Hire bicycles

Like many capital cities in Europe, Paris has a public bicycle hire scheme. Around the city, you’ll find 1,800 Velib bike stations with 24,000 bicycles. You simply require a credit card with a chip to rent a Velib bike.

There are over 16,000 taxis in Paris. Taxis are an expensive but convenient mode of transport. You can take a taxi from a taxi rank or hail one down in the street.

While you can opt to hire a car in Paris, be aware that Parisian drivers have a bad reputation for safety. Also, the congested roads are difficult to navigate and parking places rare. If you really want to enjoy your time in Paris, walk or use public transport.

Accommodations

When choosing where to stay in Paris, you should consider why you’re there. If your main interest is in taking your family to Disneyland, Paris, then you’ll find accommodation near there more spacious and much more affordable than most places in the city.

However, if you want to visit the historical and cultural attractions, then you should confine yourself to the central areas between the 1 st and the 8 th arrondissements, where hotels are within walking distance of the main sites.

Below, I’ve divided the kind of accommodation by area. However, this is only a rough guide. You’ll find 5-star luxury hotels in the budget and family areas, and I’ve previously stayed in a very cheap family guesthouse about 2-minutes-walk from the Arc de Triomphe.

You’ll find a lot of budget accommodation around the 5 th and part of the 6 th arrondissements simply because these areas are a little further from the most popular tourist attractions and famous streets.

But if you don’t mind a little more walking, the area of Montmartre is still pretty central and boasts character-filled, winding streets. And with Metro stations dotted all around the area, it’s as convenient as any other central location if you plan to get around on public transport.

An example budget hotel in this area is the Hotel Marignan  on a quiet street in the Latin Quarter. This historic hotel has hosted many famous guests, such as EE Cummings, and is within walking distance of Notre Dame.

The Rive Gauche area of the rest of the 6 th and the 7 th arrondissements is an easy walk from places like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. This makes the affordable hotels there perfect for families with young and impatient kids who just want to get there quick. Many of the hotels in this area vary between small boutique hotels and cozy, family-run hotels.

The aptly named Eiffel Rive Gauche Hotel is super close to the Eiffel Tower and would provide a great base for your family to explore the French capital.

While a few of the most exclusive hotels are in the 1 st arrondissement, the main selection of high-class hotels is found along the Champs-Elysees in the 8 th arrondissement. You’ll notice this coincides with where the most Michelin-starred restaurants and high-class bars and clubs are, many of which are attached to or inside the luxury hotels.

In terms of distance, the 1 st and 8 th arrondissements are neighbors, with the Champ-Elysees running between the Louvre area in the 1 st and the Arc de Triomphe in the 8 th . Government officials and important people have long made their home in the 8 th arrondissement, and it is considered the cultural heart of the capital.

A great example of a luxury hotel in this area is the Hotel de Crillon , which looks more like a palace or museum than a working hotel.

Although it’s fairly inland, Paris still benefits from an oceanic climate with cool but mild winters and pleasantly warm summers. Generally, the city sees light rainfall distributed evenly through the year, though sudden heavy showers can occur.

Paris gets coldest in January, with an average daily high of 45 0 F and a low of 37 0 F. During spring, the temperatures warm so that by April it reaches an average high of 60 0 F and low of 45 0 F. Spring is a great time to visit Paris because the flowers are blooming all around the city and the summer crowds have yet to descend upon the city.

The hottest month of the summer is July, with an average high of 77 0 F and low of 60 0 F. That’s when the city becomes crowded with visitors from all around the world. By October, the average high drops to 61 0 F and the low to 49 0 F. The fall is another great time to visit because the weather isn’t too cold but the crowds have diminished and the trees have donned their beautiful autumnal cloaks.

Attractions

The main attractions radiate out from the center of the city, which is the 1 st arrondissement.

The Louvre Palace in the 1st arrondissement was the main residence of the Kings of France from the 14 th century onward. Today it is much better known as the home of the world’s greatest art museum, the Musée du Louvre . If you want to see such world-famous masterpieces as the Venus de Milo sculpture and the Mona Lisa painting, then you should head straight for the glass pyramid in front of the grand palatial building.

The great cathedral of Notre-Dame in the 4 th arrondissement is so spectacular and famous that I cannot justify leaving it out of this list. However, please note that the Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris is closed for at least the next four years and maybe more.

After the devastating fire of April 2019, the cathedral and nearby surrounding area were closed to public access until sufficient repairs can be made to make the area safe once again. You can still admire its amazing Gothic architecture from a distance and maybe catch a glimpse of some of the restoration work in progress.

Eiffel Tower

The most visited attraction in the center of Paris is the Eiffel Tower in the 7 th arrondissement. Although this renowned iron tower was erected as a temporary structure in 1889, it is still standing strong and looks good for another few centuries of service. The fact that it was the world’s tallest building when built is eye-opening when it is compared to the Empire State Building in NYC or the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, but it is still the best place for a panoramic view in Paris.

Arc de Triomphe

This triumphal arch in the 8 th arrondissement was commissioned by Napoleon but wasn’t built until 1836, long after his death. It stands on a huge roundabout at the northern end of the Champ-Elysees and is one of the most recognizable and photographed monuments in the capital. The Arc de Triomphe is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Flame of Remembrance that is kept alive in daily ceremonies.

You have to leave the city and travel 12 miles southwest to reach the Palace of Versailles , where Louis XIV moved his court in the 17 th century. Now this famous palace is a grand museum full of amazing reminders of the power of the great Sun King. Look around the interior and exterior of the palace for the many sun-emblems reminding visitors who lived here. But the true highlight for many visitors is the beautiful formal gardens that surround the palace.

Disneyland Paris

Also outside the city, despite its name, is Disneyland Paris, 20 miles to the east. This famous theme park is the most visited attraction in France. If you’re visiting Paris with children, you’ll probably want to devote two days to Disney because there are two separate parks here: Disneyland Park opened in 1992 and Walt Disney Studios Park opened in 2002. Inside both, you’ll find thrill rides for all ages as well as classic attractions, like actors dressed up as your favorite Disney characters and Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. The easiest way to get to Disney Paris is with a shuttle and entrance ticket deal .

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The Full-Day Mont Saint-Michel Guided Tour From Paris is our Editor's Choice for the best tour of this historic town

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Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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Top 9 Things To Do in Mont-Saint-Michel

Erica Forster Last Updated: July 11, 2023

The magical Mont-Saint-Michel island is one of Europe’s most stunning sights and ranks as one of the top most-visited landmarks in France. Discover why as you read our list of the top things to do in Mont-Saint-Michel!

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to Paris? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our  guide to Paris  for more planning resources, our day trips from Paris for a memorable trip, and if a Normandy tour is worth it .

The Top 9 Things To Do In Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel’s history dates back to 708, when a sanctuary was first erected. Bishop Saint Aubert then built an oratory there after having a vision of the archangel Saint Michael ( Saint Michel translates to Saint Michael). It quickly became a major pilgrimage center, and in 966, a Benedictine abbey was built there.

Today, most people head to Mont-Saint-Michel to admire its outstanding views and majestic setting. Walking the medieval main street, taking in the views from the fortification walls, trying the local delicacy salt-meadow lamb, and visiting the abbey are some of the top things to do. Read on to find out what else Mont-Saint-Michel has to offer!

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

9. Stop for Oysters in Cancale

An amazing array of cities and sights are located near Mont-Saint-Michel. On your way there, stop at Cancale, a picturesque fishing port in the Brittany region for its famous oysters. Seafood lovers won’t want to miss this. Saint-Malo, an incredibly breathtaking walled city, is within a one-hour drive from the island.

The World War II D-Day landing beaches are also within a two-hour drive from Mont-Saint-Michel. If you have time while traveling, we recommend trying to combine Mont-Saint-Michel with another one of these treasures to get the most out of your visit.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit the Normandy D-Day sites .

8. Take the Kids to Alligator Bay Zoo

Traveling with kids who are tired of learning about medieval history? Located only five minutes from Mont-Saint-Michel is Alligator Bay, a zoo specializing in reptiles. It’s home to the largest collection of alligators in Europe, including some rare white alligators.

There are over 700 animals to keep everyone occupied, including turtles, lizards, snakes, and more. While this doesn’t necessarily have anything to do with France, it’s still a fun option to add to your travel itinerary, especially for a family trip.

Address: 62 Route du Mont Saint-Michel | Admission: €14 for adults, €11.50 for 13-18 years, €9.50 for under 13s | Hours: Opening hours vary seasonally

7. Bike around the Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel

If you’re an active or adventurous traveler, Mont-Saint-Michel offers plenty of outdoor activities. Multiple bike tours are available, as well as hiking tours of the bay. It’s also possible to rent bikes in a nearby town and do some exploring on your own.

The bike route around the bay is easily one of the most spectacular bike routes in France. The Tour de France has even passed by here multiple times. If you’re a serious biker with days to spare, there’s even a Veloscenic bike route all the way from Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel, stretching more than 250 miles!

6. Try the Famous Omelets at Historic La Mère Poulard

La Mère Poulard is undoubtedly the most famous restaurant in Mont-Saint-Michel. Built-in 1888 by Annette and Victor Poulard, it was (and still is) both an inn and restaurant serving visitors. The most popular dish on the menu is their omelets. While the recipe is a secret, we can tell you there’s a lot of butter involved and of course, eggs.

The omelets are made in long-handed copper skillets over an open fire, and customers can actually watch them being made. Savory ones are available as well as dessert options, like an omelet with roasted apples and salted butter caramel (both ingredients are traditional Normandy fare). While omelets may sound like an ordinary dish, these are truly the most famous omelets in France—they’re a must-try!

Address : BP 18 Grande Rue, Le Mont-Saint-Michel

5. Step Back in Time on Grande Rue

Grande Rue is the main street of the island of Mont-Saint-Michel. You won’t be able to miss it, since it begins soon after entering the island’s main gate. It’s often crowded but for a good reason. Many of the island’s restaurants and souvenir shops can be found here.

Walking along this narrow, cobblestone street will take you back to Medieval times. The buildings lining the street date from the 15th and 16th centuries! We recommend arriving either early in the morning or planning to stay until late afternoon if you want to explore this street with fewer crowds. Be warned, there’s also a bit of an incline to the street, so gear up for a bit of a steep climb.

Address: Grand Rue

4. Walk Along the Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel before the Tide Comes In

Walking across the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel might just be one of the most magical strolls along the beach that you’ll ever take. If you want to explore a larger area of the bay, we recommended taking a guided tour.

However, many visitors opt to take off their shoes and go barefoot on the bay just below the entrance to Mont-Saint-Michel. The tides change on a daily basis, so if this is something you’re set on doing, we suggest researching the tide hours online before going.

3. Try AOP Prés-salés du Mont-Saint-Michel in a Local Restaurant

You’ve likely seen pictures of Mont-Saint-Michel with lambs grazing in the foreground. These are Pré-salés lambs or salt-meadow lamb. What makes this meat special is the unique environment where the lambs are reared. Grazing exclusively in coastal meadows that are covered by the tide gives the lamb meat a unique salty flavor.

Mont-Saint-Michel salt-meadow lamb has AOP ( Appellation d’Origine Protégée ) status, or protected designation of origin, meaning it can only be produced in a limited area. There are multiple qualifications for the pré-salés, including the number of days they need to graze and age requirements. Over the years, this lamb meat has become a true delicacy.

If you’re in Mont-Saint-Michel or the surrounding areas, make sure to keep an eye out for agneau de pré salé on the menu. Restaurant Le Pré Salé serves quality salt-meadow lamb in Mont-Saint-Michel. While it’s designated a “tourist restaurant” by the French government, it’s a great place to try this delicacy. We recommend making a reservation as it gets busy.

Where to get it: Restaurant Le Pré Salé

2. Walk the Walls of the Fortifications

While exploring Mont-Saint-Michel, make sure you don’t miss the impressive fortifications. While it was originally built with religious purposes in mind, from the 14th century onwards, the conflicts of the Hundred Years War between France and England required new and powerful fortifications to be erected on the mount.

The abbey and island were protected by a wall flanked by several defensive towers to guard it against English attacks. Today, these fortifications still surround the historic town.

They are very well preserved, and the ramparts are accessible from several points. Walk along the ramparts for great, unobstructed views of the bay. The most remarkable remains of walls and towers are to the south and east of the island.

1. Explore the Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel

By far the best thing to do on the island of Mont-Saint-Michel is to visit its abbey. A stunning place of worship, prayer, and pilgrimage for centuries, today, the abbey receives more tourists than pilgrims. It’s been officially declared a historical monument since 1874 and boasts incredible architecture.

Remember, there’s been a monastic establishment of some kind on the island since the 8th century, so there’s a lot of history to explore! If you don’t visit the abbey, you really aren’t seeing the heart and soul of Mont-Saint-Michel. The great halls, corridors, and courtyards will leave you spellbound.

Address: 50170 Mont Saint-Michel | Admission: €10 for adults, Free for under 18s | Hours: Opening hours vary seasonally. Check the website for up-to-date info.

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Where to stay in val d’orcia, tuscany, 8 things to do in florence off the beaten path, 12 astonishing facts you might not know about the medici family, where is the statue of david, how to climb the florence duomo, reader interactions, comments (2).

November 30, 2022

I remember a special tour like a castle under the castle but it only being available for ticket purchases on saturday. I was having trouble trying to find a thread with all the pick me tours. Let me know if im crazy or if there is a superior tour, like going under the vatican.

December 28, 2022

There has been a rare underground tour offered on occasion but it’s not clear if it’s still available. That would be super cool though!

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Day trip to Mont Saint Michel from Paris

Select your package:.

Regular excursions departing from our agency by coach

125.00 € per people

• Departure at 7:15 AM by coach (depending on the season)
• Round-trip transportation
• Accompanying guide (English, French, Spanish)
• Entrance ticket to the Abbey

Regular excursion departing from our agency in minivan

140.00 € per people

• Group of 8 persons maximum
• Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
• Short journey times
• Tour guide (English, French, Spanish)
• Abbey entrance ticket
• The digital pad, available in 10 languages, will be given away in exchange for a piece of identification.

Private excursion departing from the location of your choice in Paris (8 people max.)

from 162.00 € * per people

• Pick-up and drop-off at the address you specify within the Paris city limits included
• For an optimized visit, we suggest a departure time of 7.15 a.m.
• Private trilingual driver-guide at your disposal

Learn more >

Adults rate

125.00 € per people 129.00€

Special Gift

• Special Gifts are available for one year from the purchase date.
• As Special Gifts are nominative, please indicate the name(s) of the beneficiaries when confirming your booking.

Departing from our office in the center of Paris , you will soon discover Mont Saint Michel, a place set in the heart of a huge bay in Normandy and surrounded by the biggest tides of Europe. The spectacular gargoyles, the tinny shops and the huge ramparts of Mont Saint-Michel will transport you to another era in 1 day.

❤ YOU WILL ENJOY...

From 20/05 to 05/11, on the occasion of the abbey's millennium, you will be able to discover the exhibition "The Archangel's Abode" in the guests' hall.

The exhibition "The Archangel's Abode" is a journey through the ages to discover some major milestones in the history of the mount, both from an architectural and devotional point of view.

• Architectural techniques and decoration
• The Mont Saint-Michel abbey in the classical era
• Saint founder and pilgrimages
• The major restoration projects
• Saint Michael and the reconstituted treasure of the 19th century.

Among the objects on display, two remarkable items stand out (the reliquary of Saint Aubert and the statue of Saint Michael). These two incredible works have received the utmost attention and careful restoration.

THE ADVANTAGES OF AN EXCURSION TO MONT SAINT MICHEL WITH FRANCE TOURISME

• Return transport from our agency in the center of Paris
• Our multilingual and qualified guide at your service
• Visit the abbey with digital tablets (for minivan and private tours)
• Free time to stroll through the streets of the village and visit Mont Saint Michel at your own pace

DISCOVERING MONT SAINT-MICHEL

The architecture of Mont-Saint-Michel and its bay are the most popular tourist sites in Normandy . Mont Saint Michel was listed an historical monument in 1874 and the site has been named since 1979 as UNESCO World Heritage .

Mont Saint Michel was one of the most fabulous achievements of the Middle Ages. You will be amazed by the prowess of its monastic architecture seeming to emerge from the waters of the bay. You will discover during this tour the medieval city and the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, important place of pilgrimage in the Middle Ages.

Legend of the Origin of Mont Saint-Michel

According to legend, Mont Saint-Michel was founded in 708 after the archangel Michael appeared to Aubert, the bishop of Avranches, and commanded him to build a church on the rock then known as Mont Tombe. The archangel insisted three times, even going so far as to pierce the bishop's skull to prove his seriousness. In response to these divine visions, Aubert built the first sanctuary on this isolated site, thus marking the beginning of the transformation of Mont Tombe into Mont Saint-Michel. This place quickly became an important pilgrimage center and a major monastic complex, famous for its impressive architecture and spiritual significance.

Magical Atmosphere

Mont Saint-Michel exudes a magical and timeless atmosphere that captivates the imagination of its visitors. Whether wandering through the paved alleys of the medieval village, exploring the underground galleries of the fortification, or watching the sunset from the ramparts, every moment invites contemplation.

Delicious Cuisine

The restaurants and cafes at Mont Saint-Michel offer delicious regional cuisine that highlights local products, including fresh seafood from the bay. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes such as Mère Poulard's omelette or the famous Breton galettes, all while enjoying the breathtaking view of the bay.

With its impressive architecture, captivating history enriched by legends, or its enchanting ambiance, a visit to Mont Saint-Michel promises a memorable experience that will remain etched in the memory of visitors.

Enjoy your visit and discover Mont Saint-Michel : admire the bay , stroll on the ramparts , and browse through the tinny shops of the village.

No matter the season, Mont Saint Michel is an incredible place to visit.

During winter time, you will appreciate the calm and sweet scent of the cold breeze.

During summer, you will enjoy strolling and walking the bay under the summer light.

LUNCH AT MONT SAINT MICHEL

Our guides will be able to advise you and direct you to a large choice of restaurants.

Many restaurants allow you to have lunch at your own pace and according to your desires: pizzerias, crêperies, gastronomic and traditional restaurants.

GENERAL INFORMATIONS

• Departure : at 7:15am
• Day Trip : 14 hours
• Includes : - Transport from Paris by bus, or minivan - Accompanying guide or Private Driver-Guide (English, French, Spanish) depending on your booking - Entrance ticket to the Abbey - Electronic tickets

PICTURES : Day trip to Mont Saint Michel from Paris

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Constructed from the 10th century, the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel houses architectural treasures in Carolingian, Romanesque, and Gothic styles. It is divided into two main parts: the abbey church, located at the top of the Mont’s rock, and the Marvel (La Merveille), which rises on three levels on the side of the rock. Access to the Abbey is via the “Grand Degré”, a wide staircase of about 350 steps, blocked at mid-height by a swinging door that was once guarded by a watchman. Since 1874, the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel has been entrusted to the service of Historical Monuments.

THE HISTORY OF THE ABBEY

Since the Middle Ages, pilgrims from all over the world have come to honor Saint Michael at the Abbey. The first Benedictine monks settled on Mont Saint-Michel in 966 and adapted the existing lodgings to create a monastery.

In 1791, the monks were expelled by the Revolution, and they did not return until 1966, for the monastic millennium celebrations. Since 2001, two communities of monks and nuns from the Monastic Fraternities of Jerusalem have been living permanently in the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, where they conduct the daily offices.

VISIT THE ABBEY

Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance of the Abbey .

• 11€ per person (for those aged 26 and over).
• Free admission for those under 18 upon presentation of an ID, 18-25 year olds from EU countries, people with disabilities and their companion, job seekers (with proof of less than 6 months).

NIGHT TOUR OF THE ABBEY

During summer evenings, the Abbey is exceptionally set to music and illuminated . This nighttime tour offers a unique and poetic way to experience the Mont. Throughout the tour, which takes visitors to areas usually closed to the public (like the sanctuary of Notre-Dame-sous-Terre), light and mirror displays transform the building.

Night tours are available every evening except Sunday, from 7 pm to midnight during the summer.

MASS SCHEDULES

Masses are celebrated with the Monastic Fraternities of Jerusalem.

• Sung Mass every day except Monday at 12:00 pm and Sunday at 11:15 am.
• Free entrance for the faithful.
• Lauds at 6:50 am on weekdays (7:50 am on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and in August), Vespers at 6:20 pm. No public liturgical office on Sunday afternoon and Monday.

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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.

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Guided Tours of Mont Saint-Michel from Paris

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Mont Saint-Michel Day Trip from Paris (with transport)

A day visit to Mont-Saint-Michel in complete freedom, starting from Paris. Discover the village and its narrow streets at your own pace, and enjoy a unique view of the bay. Make use of the included entrance ticket to visit the unmissable Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel and its magnificent cloisters. 

Audio Guided Tour to Mont Saint-Michel Day Trip from Paris with transportation

Roam freely in Mont Saint-Michel. Discover the village and its picturesque streets and shops, visit the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey with an audioguide by app, taste local specialties and enjoy a superb view of the bay.

Guided Tour of Mont Saint-Michel Day Trip from Paris with transportation

Experience an exceptional day at Mont-Saint-Michel with a guided tour from Paris. Then stroll through the picturesque streets of this majestic rocky peak. Take a ticket to enjoy a guided tour of the Benedictine Abbey perched on top of the Mont.

2 Day Guided Trip to Mont Saint-Michel, Loire Valley Chateaux from Paris, with transport

Two days for a guided tour of the Mont Saint-Michel and its abbey, including a sight-seeing tour of the Châteaux of the Loire Valley: Langeais and Chenonceau. Accommodation included, transport by bus from Paris.

2 Day Guided Tour to Normandy D-Day Beaches, Saint Malo & Mont Saint-Michel from Paris, with transport

Enjoy a two-day tour of Normandy with an experienced guide. Discover the charming towns of Rouen, Honfleur, and Saint-Malo. Visit the unmissable Mont-Saint-Michel. Follow in the footsteps of the Allied landing on the beaches of Normandy.

Mont-Saint-Michel, an exceptional tourist site

The Mont-Saint-Michel can be discovered during a day trip from Paris. It is one of those timeless sites cut off from time that offer you their most beautiful face with each visit. It is a moving dive into time, the confrontation between men and nature that gives an impression of the end of the world.

A fortified rock between Brittany and Normandy

Only 360 kilometers from Paris, the second most visited tourist site in France welcomes more than 3 million tourists each year, with an influx of up to 20,000 visitors per day during the summer season. Sometimes an island, sometimes a rock erected in the middle of a sea of sand, it is the central character of a picture that is recomposed from hour to hour.

Going to the Mont-Saint-Michel with Paris City Vision is the assurance of a quality guided tour even on a busy day. You will not miss any of the place's curiosities, you will learn more about the history of the abbey, its cloister, and contemplate the high tides that occur in the bay every year. Your coach will take you to the parking lot where you can take a shuttle that spans the sands along a surprising road or go on foot to enjoy a more progressive discovery. Parking lots, shuttles, footbridge, these works have saved this natural wonder from silting up and allow you to continue to enjoy this magical place

The abbey, between tourist attraction and spiritual life

As far as the memory of men goes, spirituality has always been very strong in these wild and isolated lands. Its geographical situation, between sky, sea and earth, already fascinated our distant ancestors: it would have hosted, a very long time ago, druidic cult practices and a pagan stone would have been pulled out by Aubert on the Mont Tombe.

But the notoriety of the place, well before the arrival of tourists and organized trips, is based on its very lively spiritual life. As early as the Middle Ages, the old Mont-Tombe welcomed a first oratory dedicated to the archangel who gave his name to the place and took the name of Mont-Saint-Michel-au-péril-de-la-Mer. The prestige of this first religious monument is reinforced by the legend that surrounds its construction: the Christian implantation on this exceptional site would have been wanted by the archangel in person, appearing in a dream to the bishop Saint-Aubert and marking him on the forehead to testify to the mystical character of his dreams.

If, among the innumerable visitors who go on excursions and visit Mont-Saint-Michel, they go there for religious reasons, the majesty of the abbey, based on successive constructions spread over several centuries, contributes very strongly to the popularity of the site. The statue of Saint-Michel slaying the dragon, gilded with fine gold and more than 4.6 meters high with its wings, still rises more than 156 meters above the sea.

More than just a rocky island

Its geographical location, which places it on the border between the duchies of Normandy and Brittany, has made this rocky islet a strategic issue of primary importance. Its ramparts were built in the 13th century, strengthened and reworked several times, protecting it from attacks. Besieged in 1424 during the Hundred Years' War, it resisted attacks for ten years, the battle led by Montois Louis d'Estouteville in 1434 putting the Mount definitively safe from the English assaults who gave up trying to take this stronghold by force.

From these troubled times, you will appreciate the fortified enclosure and will probably take a picture of it during your visit. The architecture as a whole participates fully in the medieval identity of the place.

Mont-Saint-Michel day trip from Paris

Discover our offers and book a day trip by bus with a round trip from Paris .

Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The route will allow you to admire the Normandy countryside and arrive rested in front of the island and the bay, for a lunch with a view. A guided walking tour with a guide-interpreter will introduce you to the history of the 8th century medieval abbey, its abbey church and the island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each room holds its own set of secrets and treasures. You can then walk on the rocky islet and along the ramparts, take pictures and admire the view of a sumptuous landscape. The bay is famous for its spectacular tides which give rhythm to the island life.

The village is very lively with its restaurants, like the famous Mère Poulard, its stores and boutiques.

Your reservation with Paris City Vision guarantees you to enjoy the day with all the services included for a single price including transportation, lunch at the restaurant and the visit of the Benedictine abbey in 7 languages of your choice. This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Norman culture while visiting Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris: more than a simple tourist excursion, it is a true enchanted interlude during your vacation in France.

You can also opt for a package including transfers to and from your hotel by minibus.

Tourist tours that include a visit to Mont-Saint-Michel

If you have a few days, don't skip a more in-depth visit to the Normandy region and opt for a 2-day tour that will take you to discover not only this exceptional tourist site, but also the city of Saint-Malo, Rouen, to Honfleur and the D-Day landing beaches , with a stop in a 3-star hotel. A tour that will allow you to apprehend the region under different aspects, both historical, architectural and tourist.

Heritage lovers can also opt for tourist tours on the tracks of the richness of the French heritage: discover turnkey tours including the visit of the Loire castles and the Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris. Enough to discover and relive the splendors of French History, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance

Book your visit to Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris

Don't wait any longer to book your day tour of Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey in the heart of Normandy now! By booking your tickets in advance, you are assured of the best services and optimal supervision for all your visits. Thanks to your guide, you will discover all the mysteries that the bay has to offer and enjoy many activities. Make the most of a unique trip and enjoy a stroll along the ramparts whatever the season.

Prepare your visit

Welcome to the abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel

Price : 13 €

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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

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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.

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Mont Saint-Michel

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Aboard an 8-Passenger Luxury Minivan

A Full-Day Private Tour at Mont Saint-Michel

Located in Normandy, at the border of Brittany, discover the magnificent Medieval Benedictine abbey of Mount St. Michel called the « Merveille ». This exceptional monument listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site is built on sand and lies ahead on the edge of a vast bay. Stroll through the village cobbled streets with its Middle Ages half-timbered houses and ramparts. Be enchanted by this Gothic islander commune and monastic architecture which was once a major Christian pilgrimage centre.

• Pick-up at your hotel in Paris
• Admire the beauty of the landscapes as you cross the region. Learn about the history and Norman culture with your Private Licensed Guide
• Visit of  the abbey (audio-tour available): the Gothic choir, the Merveille staircase and Romanesque crypts, the cloister OR live an exceptional experience crossing through the bay with a local Guide (*additional fee)
• Walk up the village half-timbered houses and sample the most famous omelette in the world, a home-made culinary emblem created by Mere Poulard in 1873
• Return to Paris and Drop off at your hotel

Pick-up/Drop-off at your hotel in Paris with a deluxe minivan Certified Tour Guide in English or French Monument’s entrance fee

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The abbey of Mont Saint-Michel

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Treat yourself to an exceptional summit, climb up to the abbey and try out various tours adapted to all interests and budgets!

Information : Mont Saint-Michel Abbey will open at 10.00am on Monday 11 March 2024. The Abbey will be closed all day on Monday 25 March 2024 and will be also closed on Tuesday morning 26 March 2024. Reopening on Tuesday 26 March 2024 at 13.30 pm.

A masterpiece of architecture

With the technical prowess and daring of the master builders, coupled with deep spiritual ambition, the Benedictine abbey dedicated to the Archangel Saint Michael defies the laws of balance and offers a panorama of mediaeval religious architecture, from the Carolingian period to the most elegant forms of flamboyant Gothic art.

Providing a sumptuous illustration of monastic life over the centuries, the visit presents all the spaces dedicated to daily life (refectory, cloister, scriptorium, etc.), to religious life (abbey church, chapels, and crypts) and to welcoming pilgrims (chaplaincy, guest room, and more) across several levels.

Now it’s your turn to push open the doors and immerse yourself in the history of this truly unique place. Want to roam on the roofs of the choir? Choose the “In the Sky of the Archangel” tour. Experiences for young and old?  Opt for the “Family tour”.

A panoramic view, the crowning jewel of this UNESCO World Heritage Site

The first French site listed on the World Heritage List, in 1979, the Mont Saint-Michel and its bay bear witness to the exceptional universal values defended by UNESCO, through their dazzling natural spaces and exceptional built heritage. Mont Saint-Michel was also the subject of a second classification in 1998, as part of the Camino de Santiago in France, and remains an important place of spirituality.

The panorama offered from the west terrace of the abbey is truly unique : let yourself be enveloped by the sea as you enjoy the “Grande marée ” evenings during high tidal coefficients!

One thousand three hundred years of history

From the dream of Saint Aubert, bishop of Avranches , before whom Saint Michael appeared three times in 708, to visits made by the Kings of France – from Philippe Auguste to François I – the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel has also been known as the “Bastille of the seas”, entirely converted into a prison from 1793 to 1863.

Considered since the time of Napoleon III as a major historical monument, owned by the State, it has been subject to a programme of careful restoration and continues to extend its influence in the 21st century through its varied cultural offerings.

A concert, an exhibition, or a contemporary show … experience the abbey in a truly unique way!

Colours and textures throughout the seasons.

Rocky outcrops rising from the bay, stones imported from the islands of Chausey , and beautiful woodwork come together in the architecture of the village and its fortifications. This harmony of materials is also found in monastic buildings, mostly erected in the 13th century: the Merveille.

Everything here is subject to the comings and goings of powerful tides, on the border between Normandy and Brittany. Every day, the light makes its mark with changing colours whose variations illuminate the Mont Saint-Michel. Every hour of the day offers a different atmosphere through which to discover the abbey: the quiet of the morning, the excitement of the afternoon or the magic of the evening.

What’s your favourite moment?

In the morning, seeing the village awaken and the sunrise from the abbey, or do you prefer to watch the sunset behind the huge bay windows of the cloister, or on the West Terrace? In winter, looking down upon the snow-whitened beaches, or on a summer evening, strolling through every last corner of the abbey, away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds?

For more information about visits:

• A 45-minute guided tour from Monday to Friday, at the beginning and end of the day (mandatory booking).
• A 2-hour conference tour in english , giving access to closed areas, from June to September (mandatory booking).
• Lecture tours in French of approximately two hours , at weekends and every day during French school holidays, all zones combined (except exceptional dates).

Online booking required on the abbey’s website for all these tours.

Centre des Monuments Nationaux Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel 50170 Le Mont-Saint-Michel Telephone number +33 (0)2 33 89 80 00 Website of the Abbey

Access conditions :

• Admission tickets can be purchased online, by booking a time slot via the website :  www.abbaye-mont-saint-michel.fr , or directly at the reception desk of our Tourist Office.  Those benefiting from free admission (children, disability card holders, etc.) will also be required to book their time slot in advance.
• the discovery of the various rooms of the monument through individual visits, audio-guided tours or accompanied by a guide speaker ;
• From 2 May to 31 August : 9h – 19h

Last entry slot available for booking : 17h30 Last entry allowed : 18h Last audioguide withdrawal : 17h45

• From 1st September to 30 April : 9h30 – 18h 

Last entry slot available for booking : 16h30  Last entry allowed : 17h  Last audioguide withdrawal : 16h45

• 25 December

25 March 2024

Animals are not allowed in the abbey (they are permitted in the village).

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• 8 Things To Know Before...

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.

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Plan to stay overnight in the area

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.

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.

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.

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Normandy: a mini break with friends to Mont-Saint-Michel

• distance 18 km
• duration Three days

Reading time: 0 min Published on 19 April 2024, updated on 5 May 2024

Mont-Saint-Michel is an absolute must-see of Normandy and is also the ideal destination for a weekend away with friends, to go walking, explore the local wildlife, visit some historic sites and just enjoy each other’s company. This programme combines all of this and more, for a weekend full of new discoveries and quality time together.

Day 1: Exploring Mont-Saint-Michel island

Guided tour of the Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

This  magnificent Abbey that has overlooked the bay for more than 1,000 years is not to be missed. The impressive architecture is enough to amaze visitors, but the history of this Historic Monument, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just as fascinating and you can learn all about the Benedictine monks, pilgrims and even prisoners who have passed through these walls over the centuries. We recommend a guided tour so that you can find out all there is to know!

Stop by a restaurant to taste the famous Mère Poulard omelette

The Auberge de la Mère Poulard is a 130-year-old institution in this region and you’ll soon see why it’s so successful! On the menu you’ll find the famous omelette made according to their secret recipe, as well as a selection of other delicious French speciality dishes.  Bon appétit !

Go for a stroll around the cobbled streets and fortifications on this rocky island , and you might just stumble across some of the secrets of this fortified town as you explore its narrow pedestrian streets.

Stop to visit the bay’s ecomuseum 

Time for another dose of culture at  the Mont-Saint-Michel Bay ecomuseum to learn all about the tides and the siltation risk that is threatening the island. Choose to visit either the permanent exhibition entitled “ les hommes, la nature et les paysages de la baie ” (the bay’s people, nature and landscapes) or the current temporary exhibition.

Stay at the Hôtel Vert on Mont-Saint-Michel itself

There’s no better way to feel the escapism of this getaway than staying overnight on Mont-Saint-Michel. We recommend  the Hôtel Vert , where you can book a large family room that is ideal for groups of friends!

Day 2: From the bay to Servon (8 km)

Crossing Couesnon dam

To push sediment away from the Mont-Saint-Michel, a new dam had to be built over the Couesnon. The project was completed in 2009 and the structure was designed by architect Luc Weizmann. The footbridge allows people to walk over from one side of the banks to the other, to admire the Mont from another perspective.

Shellfish gathering, in authorised areas

At low tide, the foreshore is brimming with treasures that can be harvested on foot, including cockles, clams, winkles, razor clams, etc. Make sure you are correctly informed about this new activity before setting off. It is subject to regulations and not authorised everywhere!

Crossing the bay at low tide

An activity to do  with a guide and only at low tide. Beware, the tide can come back in very quickly! There are walks of varying distance to discover the local fauna and flora and even learn about quicksand! If possible, cross the area at sunset for a magical experience.

Go for dinner at the Auberge Sauvage in Servon

As the sun goes down, head to this  local restaurant , just a dozen or so kilometres from Mont-Saint-Michel. Everything served here has come from the bay!  

Day 3: Back to the bay (10 km)!

A bike ride for the last day 

Depending on what you fancy doing and on your physical ability, there are  various greenway routes to venture along around Mont-Saint-Michel. If you’re feeling motivated, you can cycle all the way to the landing beaches along a section of the  Véloroute that links these beaches and Mont-Saint-Michel. 

Delicious picnic

For lunch, pick up one of the fresh picnic hampers from the  Ferme Saint-Michel to enjoy your picnic with friends, and to enjoy fresh products and tasty prepared dishes concocted by local chefs! 

Practical advice:

Opt for environmentally friendly transport solutions by taking the train to Mont-Saint-Michel with your friends. From Paris, there’s a train to Pontorson, and then a shuttle service from the train station to your final destination! If possible, avoid the peak season (July and August) because it can be very crowded.

By Gaëlle COUDERT

To properly explore this question, Gaëlle threw herself into journalism in 2016, driven by repeated reality checks relating to the environment.