Mont Saint Michel 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Rennes Airport (RNS) or take the train to Pontorson-Mont Saint-Michel Station
  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your accommodation in Mont Saint-Michel
  • Check-in at Hotel Le Mouton Blanc or similar, located near the abbey

Afternoon

  • Visit the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (open from 9:30 am to 6 pm)
  • Explore the narrow streets and alleys of the village
  • Stop by the Tourist Information Office for maps and brochures

Evening

  • Dine at La Mère Poulard, a historic restaurant serving traditional Breton cuisine
  • Enjoy the sunset on the bay, a stunning sight

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines during peak season (June to August)
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and uneven terrain

Transportation

  • Taxi or shuttle bus from Pontorson-Mont Saint-Michel Station to Mont Saint-Michel
  • Walking is the best way to explore the village and abbey

Tips

  • Book your accommodation and restaurants in advance, especially during peak season
  • Consider purchasing a Mont Saint-Michel Pass, which grants access to the abbey, museums, and other attractions

Day 2: Surrounding Area Exploration

Morning

  • Take a guided tour of the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel ( departures from the village)
  • Learn about the bay’s unique ecosystem and spot wildlife such as seals and birds

Afternoon

  • Visit the nearby town of Pontorson, with its charming old center and picturesque river
  • Explore the Mont Saint-Michel Museum, featuring exhibits on the abbey’s history and architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Relais des Gourmets, offering gourmet cuisine in a cozy setting
  • Relax at your accommodation or take a leisurely stroll around the village

Things to Know

  • Be mindful of the tides when exploring the bay, as they can be strong and unpredictable
  • Pontorson is about 10 km from Mont Saint-Michel; consider taking a taxi or shuttle bus

Transportation

  • Guided tour of the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel ( departures from the village)
  • Taxi or shuttle bus between Mont Saint-Michel and Pontorson

Tips

  • Pack layers for your guided tour, as the weather can be unpredictable
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of the abbey from the bay

Day 3: Beaches and Coastal Walks

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing on Plage de la Caserne, a scenic beach near the village
  • Take a leisurely coastal walk along the GR34 hiking trail, offering breathtaking views of the bay

Afternoon

  • Visit the nearby town of Cancale, famous for its oyster farms and picturesque harbor
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of Cancale’s many restaurants, such as La Maison de l’Océan

Evening

  • Return to Mont Saint-Michel and enjoy dinner at Le Comptoir Breton, serving traditional Creperie cuisine
  • Take a romantic evening stroll along the village’s ramparts

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for wind and changing weather conditions during your coastal walk
  • Cancale is about 20 km from Mont Saint-Michel; consider taking a taxi or shuttle bus

Transportation

  • Taxi or shuttle bus between Mont Saint-Michel and Cancale
  • Walking is the best way to explore the village, beaches, and coastal trails

Tips

  • Don’t miss the stunning sunsets on the beach or during your coastal walk
  • Try some fresh oysters in Cancale, a local specialty

Day 4: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Scriptorial d’Avranches, a museum featuring illuminated manuscripts and historical artifacts (open from 10 am to 6 pm)
  • Explore the charming town of Avranches, with its rich history and cultural attractions

Afternoon

  • Return to Mont Saint-Michel and visit the Mont Saint-Michel Museum (if not visited earlier)
  • Attend a guided tour of the abbey’s crypts and gardens, offering unique insights into the abbey’s history and architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Grand Bé, serving refined cuisine in an elegant setting
  • Relax at your accommodation or take a leisurely stroll around the village

Things to Know

  • The Scriptorial d’Avranches is about 20 km from Mont Saint-Michel; consider taking a taxi or shuttle bus
  • Guided tours of the abbey’s crypts and gardens may have limited availability; book in advance

Transportation

  • Taxi or shuttle bus between Mont Saint-Michel and Avranches
  • Walking is the best way to explore the village, museums, and cultural attractions

Tips

  • Don’t miss the stunning architecture and historical significance of the Scriptorial d’Avranches
  • Book your guided tour of the abbey’s crypts and gardens in advance to ensure availability

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring the village
  • Visit any attractions or museums not yet seen

Afternoon

  • Depart for Rennes Airport (RNS) or take the train from Pontorson-Mont Saint-Michel Station
  • Reflect on an unforgettable trip to Mont Saint-Michel

Things to Know

  • Check your departure time and plan accordingly
  • Consider purchasing a souvenir or two to remember your trip

Transportation

  • Taxi or shuttle bus to Rennes Airport (RNS) or Pontorson-Mont Saint-Michel Station
  • Walking is the best way to explore the village on your last morning

Tips

  • Don’t forget to take one last look at the stunning abbey and bay before departing
  • Consider planning a return trip to Mont Saint-Michel in the future