Mont Saint Michel, France-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Island

  • Morning: Arrive at the Mont-Saint-Michel Car Park (Parcours de la Mer) by car or bus. The parking lot is a few kilometers away from the island, so be prepared for a short walk.
  • 9:00 AM: Walk to the island through the scenic coastal path and enjoy the views of the bay. You can also take a shuttle bus from the parking lot to the entrance of the island if you prefer.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey, a medieval monastery built on top of the island. The abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
  • 12:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes in the village. Try some local specialties such as crepes, seafood, or Norman cuisine.
  • 1:30 PM: Explore the narrow streets and alleys of the village, where you can find shops selling souvenirs, art, and local products.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Museum of the Bay (Musée de la Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel), which tells the history and geology of the bay and the island.

Day 2: Island Hopping and Water Activities

  • 9:00 AM: Take a guided tour to the nearby islands, such as Tatihou or Sainte-Croix. These islands offer breathtaking views of the Mont-Saint-Michel and its surrounding bay.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Pirate’s Tower (Tour du Puits), a 14th-century watchtower that offers stunning views of the island and the sea.
  • 12:30 PM: Take a break for lunch at one of the many picnic areas or restaurants on the island. Try some local specialties such as seafood or Norman cuisine.
  • 2:00 PM: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the bay from a different perspective. This is a great way to see the island from the water and get some exercise.
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the beach at the foot of the island, where you can relax and enjoy the views.

Day 3: History and Culture

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the National Museum of the Middle Ages (Musée National du Moyen Âge), which is located on the island. The museum features a collection of medieval art and artifacts.
  • 11:00 AM: Take a guided tour to the nearby town of Le Grand-Veymont, where you can learn about the history and culture of the region.
  • 12:30 PM: Take a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes in the village. Try some local specialties such as crepes, seafood, or Norman cuisine.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Village Museum (Musée du Village), which showcases the history and culture of the island’s residents.
  • 4:00 PM: End your trip with a visit to the top of the island for stunning views of the bay and the setting sun.

Where to Stay

There are many hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals on the island and in the nearby village. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel La Croix Blanche: A 4-star hotel with comfortable rooms and a beautiful view of the bay.
  • Auberge de la Grande Rue: A charming B&B with cozy rooms and a delicious breakfast.
  • Maison des Hôtes: A vacation rental with multiple bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen.

Where to Eat

There are many restaurants, cafes, and food shops on the island and in the nearby village. Some popular options include:

  • Le Relais de la Baie: A restaurant with stunning views of the bay and delicious seafood dishes.
  • La Creperie: A crepe shop with a wide variety of sweet and savory crepes.
  • Le Patisserie: A bakery with freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes.

Things to Know

  • The best time to visit Mont-Saint-Michel is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny.
  • The island can get crowded during peak season, so it’s a good idea to arrive early or visit during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October).
  • Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking on the island and exploring the village.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of the bay at sunrise or sunset.

Transportation

The best way to get to Mont-Saint-Michel is by car, but there are also public transportation options available. The nearest airport is in Rennes (approximately 1 hour away). From there, you can take a train or bus to the nearby town of Pontorson, where you can transfer to a shuttle bus to the island.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines during peak season.
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from the sun.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of the bay at sunrise or sunset.
  • Try some local specialties such as crepes, seafood, or Norman cuisine.