Mont Saint Michel France 2 Day Itinerary

2-Day Itinerary:

This itinerary assumes you’re arriving in the morning and leaving in the evening on your second day.

Day 1: Exploring the Abbey and its Surroundings

  • Morning:

    • Travel to Mont Saint Michel (France): Plan your arrival to the island of Mont Saint-Michel, allowing for ample time to park and take the shuttle bus (more on transportation below!).

    • Lunch: Grab a bite at La Mère Poulard, the iconic restaurant famous for its traditional Breton cuisine and breathtaking views.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel:
      • Things to see:

        • The Abbey itself, with its stunning architecture and rich history

        • Explore the abbey’s different levels: the courtyard, the abbey church, the monastery buildings (including the Scriptorium), the ramparts and the gardens.

        • Things to do:

          • Walk around the ramparts: Enjoy panoramic views of the bay and surrounding landscape.
          • Visit the Parish Church of Saint-Pierre: This beautiful church is located at the foot of the Mont, offering a glimpse into the island’s religious life before the Abbey.
          • Explore the village: Wander through the charming cobblestone streets and discover local shops, museums, and historical monuments.
          • Take a guided tour: Learn about the history and architecture of the abbey from knowledgeable locals.
          • Visit the Mont Saint-Michel Museum: This museum offers insight into the history of the island and its inhabitants.

  • Evening:

    • Dinner: Indulge in a delicious meal at Le Relais Saint-Jacques.

Day 2: The Island’s Charm and Beyond

* **Morning:**
    * **Explore the abbey further:** Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of this architectural marvel.


* **Lunch:** Enjoy a picnic with a view overlooking the bay, or dine at **Le Bistro de l'Abbaye**, known for its traditional Omelette (they even have a competition for the best omelettes in France!)

* **Dinner:** Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at **La Roche à la Mer** restaurant.

Accommodation:

There are various accommodation options depending on your budget and preference:

  • Budget: Hostels are available on the mainland near the bus stops, offering affordable and social lodging.
  • Mid-range: Charming bed & breakfasts and guesthouses dot the charming streets of nearby towns like Pontorson or Saint-Malo.
  • Luxury: For a more luxurious experience, consider staying in one of the hotels within the walls of the Mont Saint-Michel itself (be sure to book well in advance!).

Transportation:

  • Parking and Shuttle: The easiest way to access Mont Saint Michel is by parking at one of the designated parking lots on the mainland and taking a free shuttle bus. This avoids the congestion of the island during peak hours.
  • Car-Free Island: The island is largely car-free, with limited parking available near the entrance.

Things to Know:

  • Tides:

Remember that Mont Saint-Michel is an island surrounded by water at high tide. The best time to visit is during high tide for a truly unique experience (check the tide times before you go).

  • Crowds: The island can get crowded, especially in the summer and on weekends. Visit during the shoulder season or weekdays for smaller crowds.

  • Walking: Be prepared for lots of walking. The paths are cobblestone and can be uneven or slippery. Wear comfortable shoes!

  • Accessibility: While the island is stunning, it’s important to note that navigating the entire island with a disability can be challenging. There are some ramps and accessibility features on the mainland and leading to the shuttle bus stops, but not everywhere on the island.

Things to Do:

  • Visit the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel: Explore the abbey itself, a stunning example of medieval architecture that has been a pilgrimage site for centuries.
  • Wander through the streets:

Enjoy the charm and history of the village.

  • Experience the tides: The tide times are crucial to plan your visit around! At low tide, you can walk out to the tidal flats (though be careful and follow safety guidelines). At high tide, the island transforms into a dramatic spectacle.

Food:

  • Enjoy fresh seafood at La Maison de la Baie, a restaurant with beautiful views of the bay.

Dining:

  • **Dinner: ** Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Relais du Mont.
  • Don’t miss the “must-try” dish: The famous omelette, made with local eggs and ingredients, is a must-try when visiting Mont Saint-Michel.

Things to See:

  • Abbey of Saint-Michel: Explore the abbey’s stunning architecture and learn about its history as a place of pilgrimage.
  • Mont Saint-Michel: The entire island is an attraction! Wander through the charming streets, admire the medieval buildings, and enjoy the views from the ramparts.
  • Saint-Pierre Parish Church:

Admire the stained glass windows and ornate architecture of this beautiful church.

Things to See (Beyond the Island)

  • Explore the surrounding village: Enjoy the quaint shops, restaurants, and cafes on the mainland.
  • Visit the historic town of Pontorsyon: This charming town is located just outside the gates of the abbey and offers a variety of accommodations and dining options for those who want to stay on the mainland and experience the medieval architecture and charm of this historic location.

Tips:

  • Check the tide schedule: The tides around Mont Saint-Michel are a major attraction, but they can also be dangerous.

Make sure you check the tide times before visiting and know what areas will be accessible.

  • Book accommodations in advance: This is especially important during high season (summer) when the island is a popular destination.

Enjoy your trip to Mont Saint-Michel!