What to Know Before Visiting Mont St Michel
Mont St Michel is one of the most iconic landmarks in France, attracting millions of visitors every year. The stunning island is a medieval masterpiece in the middle of a vast bay.
Driving up to the island is truly an awe-inspiring experience that feels like you’re riding upon a fairy tale. It actually served as the inspiration for Corona Castle in Disney movie, Tangled!
The free shuttle runs from the car park, stops at the gated La Caserne area in front of the gift shop, and to Mont St Michel.
Mont St Michel with the tide coming in.
Before you plan your visit, there are a few things you should know.
Mont St Michel is a popular tourist destination and the Abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it can get crowded. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon (or go in the offseason).
The island is accessible by footpath (40-50 minute walk) or there is a free shuttle bus (12 minute ride) that runs from 7:30a-Midnight from the car park. Parking costs around 10 euros.
The island is surrounded by water, so it's important to check the tides before you visit. At high tide, the island is completely cut off from the mainland, making it impossible to cross. At low tide, you can walk around the bay and explore the tidal flats. It is recommended to use a guide if you choose to walk around the bay due to quicksand.
Mont St Michel is a religious site and an active Abbey. It’s respectful to dress modestly, even in summer, and hats should be removed when entering the church.
There are a few restaurants, cafes, and shops on the island. You can also book a stay on that island at one of the few hotels or Airbnbs.
The area directly in front of Mont St Michel is actually a gated tourist area. It’s important to know this if you’re looking at a map and thinking you’re just booking a hotel in the closest town. It looks like a town called “La Caserne” on the map but it’s not a real town. It has several hotels, a restaurant, and a cafe in a market with a few food items and souvenirs.
You don’t need a reservation to park in the car park nearby (10 euros) but if you have a reservation at one of the hotels in La Caserne, you can enter the gated area and park for free and the free shuttle to Mont St Michel stops in front of Les Galeries du Mont St Michel gift shop.There are also a few museums and guided tours on the island that showcase the history and culture of Mont St Michel. These are worth it, especially if you're interested in learning more about the island's past. Learn more here.
Hopefully your visit is not on a windy day!
Le Pre Sale has delicious local seafood. Budget 25-30 euros for a plate like this (not including drinks).
There is a small 2-3 euro fee to exit the gated community around Mont St Michel if you’re staying in the La Caserne area hotels.