English
English
Mont Saint-Michel Tickets & Tours
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Explore at your own pace the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mont Saint-Michel.
- Drive down to a tiny island off the coast of Normandy and spend your day basking in the glory of Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, or opt for round-trip transfers from Paris.
- Be your own guide, choose your own sights. Walk down the UNESCO Abbey at your own pace, admiring its tall spire and mesmerizing views.
- With your explanatory booklet, discover why in 708 the Mont Saint-Michel became one of the largest medieval pilgrimage centers.
- Available in 12 languages, the booklet will share secrets hidden in little corners, from the origin of the omelet to the pitfalls of medieval society.
Explore at your own pace the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mont Saint-Michel.
- Drive down to a tiny island off the coast of Normandy and spend your day basking in the glory of Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, or opt for round-trip transfers from Paris.
- Be your own guide, choose your own sights. Walk down the UNESCO Abbey at your own pace, admiring its tall spire and mesmerizing views.
- With your explanatory booklet, discover why in 708 the Mont Saint-Michel became one of the largest medieval pilgrimage centers.
- Available in 12 languages, the booklet will share secrets hidden in little corners, from the origin of the omelet to the pitfalls of medieval society.
- Tip: Don't miss out on eating a delicious meal at one of the restaurants in La Grande Rue.
- Please note that admission is free during the following days: European Heritage Days on the third weekend of September and every first Sunday of the month from November to March.
- The site is challenging for visitors with reduced mobility, but assistance devices and adapted tour options are available. However, despite these accommodations, some areas may still be difficult to access.
- Keep in mind that carrier bags, knives, and scooters are not allowed on this experience.
- Folded strollers are allowed inside the monument.
- Guide dogs and assistance dogs are allowed inside the monument. However, other pets are not allowed.
- Access to the Abbey is not allowed with suitcases or large hiking bags. Small bags (smaller than cabin size) are accepted.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
NormandyMont St Michel Tickets Tickets & Tours
Top things to do in Mont Saint Michel
Why visit Mont Saint-Michel
Unique geographical beauty
Mont Saint-Michel is situated on a rocky island surrounded by vast tidal flats. At high tide, the island appears to float on the water, creating a dramatic and picturesque scene. At low tide, expansive sandbanks and mudflats are revealed, offering a completely different, awe-inspiring view of the surrounding bay.
Medieval architecture of the Abbey
The Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is a masterpiece of medieval architecture, with stunning Romanesque and Gothic elements. Sitting atop the island, the abbey is an iconic symbol of faith, resilience, and engineering.
Rich history and spiritual significance
Mont Saint-Michel has been a pilgrimage site for over a thousand years, dedicated to Saint Michael, and is a symbol of Christian spirituality. Its historical significance as a monastic center and military fortress during the Hundred Years' War adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the site.
Ever-changing tidal landscape
From the top of the abbey and its ramparts, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding bay, and the Normandy coastline. The views at high tide, when the island is surrounded by water, are breathtaking, and at low tide, you can walk across the surrounding mudflats to explore the bay.
Charming medieval village atop a hill
The village around the Abbey is made up of narrow cobblestone streets, charming stone houses, quaint shops, and restaurants that retain the medieval charm. The village is built into the slopes of the mount, making it an interesting place to explore, with its historic gates, fortified walls, and elevated viewpoints.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Mont Saint-Michel is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which speaks to its global cultural and historical significance. It’s one of the most famous landmarks in France and is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Europe.
Culinary delights
The region around Mont Saint-Michel is known for its local delicacies, including salted caramel, seafood (especially mussels), and Normandy cider. Enjoying these regional specialties in a local café or restaurant adds an authentic touch to your visit.
A sense of wonder and magic
The island's isolated location, towering abbey, and dramatic natural surroundings create a sense of mystery and wonder. It’s a place where the past seems to come alive, and the views and atmosphere leave a lasting impression on visitors. The island's spiritual energy and timeless appeal make it feel like a fairy-tale destination.
Which Mont Saint-Michel ticket is best for you?
Offerings
Standard entry tickets
Standard tickets with transfers
Guided tours
Walking tour
Island access
✅
✅
✅
✅
Abbey access
✅
✅
✅
❌
Transfers included
❌
✅
✅
❌
Guided tour
❌
❌
✅
✅
Audio guide
❌
✅
❌
❌
Recommended tickets
Mont Saint-Michel Tickets
From Paris: Mont Saint-Michel Abbey Tickets with Round-Trip Transfers and Optional Audioguide
From Paris: Full-Day Guided Tour of Mont Saint-Michel with Round-Trip Transfers
Mont Saint-Michel Guided Walking Tour (Excluding Abbey Tickets)
What to see in Mont Saint-Michel?
Mont Saint-Michel is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in exploring its medieval streets, marveling at the abbey, or witnessing the dramatic tides, there’s so much to see and experience.
The Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel
- The Abbey Church: At the heart of the island stands the Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This architectural gem combines Romanesque and Gothic styles, featuring stunning vaulted ceilings, intricate stonework, and magnificent stained glass windows. Inside, you'll find beautiful chapels, altars, and a peaceful atmosphere.
- The Cloisters: The cloisters offer a serene space with elegant columns and arches, overlooking a peaceful courtyard. This was once a place of reflection and prayer for the monks who lived here.
- The Refectory: The monastic refectory (dining hall) offers insight into the daily life of the monks, who dined together in silence. The large, vaulted ceiling adds to the grandeur of the space.
- The Abbey’s Gardens: These peaceful gardens, on the terraced levels of the abbey, offer fantastic views of the surrounding bay and tidewaters. The gardens are a great place to take in the beauty of Mont Saint-Michel from above.
- The Tower: The spiritual center of the abbey, the Tower of St. Michael, is topped by a golden statue of the Archangel Michael, which can be seen from a distance. The tower is one of the defining features of Mont Saint-Michel’s skyline.
The medieval village
- Narrow Streets and Alleys: The island is home to a medieval village filled with cobblestone streets, stone houses, and quaint shops. Wander through the village’s winding alleys and discover its old inns, restaurants, and artisan shops.
- Ramparts and Towers: You can walk along the medieval ramparts and climb the towers for sweeping views of the surrounding bay and the island itself. The ramparts provide excellent photo opportunities and offer a glimpse of Mont Saint-Michel’s military past.
- La Merveille (The Marvel): This is the name given to the monastic buildings that form part of the abbey, situated along the north side of the island. This complex includes the abbey church, cloisters, refectory, and the monks’ living quarters. It’s an exceptional example of medieval architecture.
The tides
- Tidal Changes: Mont Saint-Michel is famous for its extreme tidal variations, which change dramatically throughout the day. At high tide, the island appears to be isolated from the mainland, surrounded by water, while at low tide, the vast sandbanks and mudflats around the island are revealed. The shifting tides create a constantly changing landscape that’s both mesmerizing and dramatic.
- Tidal Walks: At low tide, you can walk out on the sandbanks to explore the bay surrounding the island, but it’s important to go with a guided tour for safety, as the tides can rise quickly.
The museums
- The Museum of History: Located in a former abbey building, the History Museum offers a look into the historical evolution of Mont Saint-Michel, from its early monastic roots to its role in military defense. Exhibits include medieval weapons, old manuscripts, and relics.
- Maritime Museum: Situated in one of the island’s lower buildings, the Maritime Museum explores Mont Saint-Michel’s relationship with the sea and tides. It showcases the island’s role in seafaring traditions and the region’s coastal history.
- The Sack of Mont Saint-Michel Museum: This museum gives a fascinating insight into the historical siege of Mont Saint-Michel by the English during the Hundred Years' War. It explains how the island was successfully defended and never fell to enemy forces.
The Grande Rue (Main Street)
- The Grande Rue is the main street of the island, lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafés. It’s the perfect place to stroll and admire the quaint architecture, buy local souvenirs (like salted caramel and Normandy cider), or enjoy a meal in one of the many charming eateries.
- The street is relatively steep, so be prepared for a bit of a climb as you make your way up to the abbey at the top.
Plan your visit to Mont Saint-Michel
Timings
Getting there
Accessibility
Eat
Stay
Camping
- During peak season:
May 1 to August 31: 9am to 7pm - During low season:
September 1 to April 30: 9:30am to 6pm - Last entry: Last entry is allowed 1 hour before closing time.
- Closed on: Mont Saint Michel abbey remains closed on January 1, May 1 and December 25.
Address: Le Mont Saint-Michel, 50170, France
- By train: 8707, 3309, 8023, 3427, 8041, 3405
Closest station: Pontorson—Mont St-Michel - By ferry: Condor Ferries, Brittany Ferries, Manche Iles Express
Closest station: Saint-Malo ferry terminal - By car: A13 (Paris-Caen) and A84 (Caen-Rennes) highways.
- Guided tour: Private air-conditioned coach.
- Mont Saint-Michel is built on a rocky hill, with steep cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways. These can be challenging to navigate, especially for people using wheelchairs or mobility aids.
- Accessibility for wheelchairs: The island's terrain makes it difficult to access some areas, particularly the abbey, which is perched at the top of the hill. While there is some wheelchair access in certain parts of the abbey (like the lower levels), many of the upper levels are not accessible. The narrow stone steps can make it difficult to move around, especially in the more historical areas.
- Wheelchair access in the Abbey: The Abbey has some accessibility for those with reduced mobility, but the steep steps and narrow passageways limit full access to the entire site. There is a wheelchair-accessible route to the lower levels, but you may miss out on the views from the higher parts of the abbey.
- La Mère Poulard: This quaint restaurant has been serving up delicious fare since 1888. They are best known for their open-fire omelet.
- La Sirène: This gorgeous crêperie offers both sweet and savory versions of this French delicacy, alongside a variety of drinks such as Normandy cider.
- La Ferme: Enjoy traditional French delicacies, cheese, and desserts at this charming restaurant.
- Luxury Hotels: La Mère Poulard, Château de Boucéel - Mont Saint Michel, Ermitage - Mont-Saint-Michel
- Mid Range Hotels: Le Mouton Blanc, Les Terrasses Poulard, La Vieille Auberge
- Budget-Friendly Hotels: Hôtel Vert, Le Relais Du Roy, Hotel Gabriel
- Camping Saint Michel: Close to the islet, this camping space is open to travelers of all ages. Whether you're with family or on your own, the many amenities like swimming pool, cafes, barbeque facility, playground, etc, and facilities offered guarantee a great time!
- Huttopia Baie du Mont Saint-Michel: About half an hour away from Mont Saint-Michel, the Huttopia Baie du Mont Saint-Michel is perfect for those who want to cover all of Normandy.
- Camping le Balcon de la Baie: Open from April to October, this campsite is very close to the heart of Mont Saint-Michel Bay. You can access locations across Brittany and Normandy from here.
Frequently asked questions about Mont Saint-Michel tickets
Are there skip-the-line tickets available for the Abbey?
If you are short on time, opt for skip-the-line tickets and save up to 1.5 hours.
Can I embark on a guided tour of the island and the Abbey?
Guided tours are available in English which take you around the island as well as the Abbey. You may also choose to opt for an audio-guided experience and explore the island at your own pace.
Do I get access to the Abbey with any kind of ticket?
With access to the the island of Mont Saint-Michel, you do get access to the Abbey as well except on the walking tour.
Does Mont Saint-Michel have a specific dress code for visiting the Abbey?
There's no strict dress code, but respectful attire is recommended. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing or swimwear inside the abbey
Can I cross the Mont Saint-Michel Bay?
Yes, but please be advised that it must be done under the supervision of a guide, as the tides are undependable.
Are there any local crafts or souvenirs unique to Mont Saint-Michel?
Look for La Mère Poulard biscuits, a traditional snack dating back to the 19th century. Hand-embroidered linen or sculptures depicting the island are other unique finds.
Is there a specific location on Mont Saint-Michel known for its panoramic views of the surrounding bay?
Yes, the ramparts and terraces of Mont Saint-Michel offer panoramic views of the surrounding bay, providing visitors with stunning vistas of the coastal landscape.
Can I stay overnight at Mont Saint-Michel?
Yes, you can either stay overnight in a hotel on the island or enjoy a camping experience close by.
