Mont Saint Michel France 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Rennes Airport or Dinan Railway Station, the closest transportation hubs to Mont Saint Michel.
  • Take a bus or taxi from Rennes or Dinan to Pontorson, a charming town located near Mont Saint Michel. (~30-40 minutes)
  • Check-in at your hotel, such as Hotel Le Nouveau Monde or Les Maisons de Bricourt.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Mont Saint Michel Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of France’s most iconic landmarks.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and architecture. (~€10-15 per person)
  • Explore the surrounding bay and take in the breathtaking views.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Relais Saint-Michel, a cozy restaurant serving traditional French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Try their famous omelette or seafood dishes. (~€20-30 per person)

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines, especially during peak season (June to August).
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the abbey and bay.

Transportation:

  • Bus: From Rennes or Dinan to Pontorson, use Keolis Emeraude buses (~€5-10 per person, one way).
  • Taxi: Available from Rennes or Dinan to Pontorson (~€40-60, one way).

Tips:

  • Book your accommodations and tours in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for outdoor exploration.

Day 2: Island Exploration

Morning

  • Take a shuttle bus from Pontorson to Mont Saint Michel Island (~€5-10 per person, one way).
  • Explore the island on foot, taking in the stunning scenery and visiting the abbey’s various buildings.
  • Don’t miss the Tide Walk, where you can walk along the bay during low tide.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Museum of History to learn more about Mont Saint Michel’s rich history. (~€5-10 per person)
  • Take a break at Café de la Marine, offering delicious pastries and coffee.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Grand Bistro, serving French cuisine with a focus on seafood.
  • Try their moules-frites (mussels with fries) or other local specialties. (~€25-35 per person)

Things to Know:

  • Be mindful of the tide times, as some areas may be inaccessible during high tide.
  • Bring snacks and water, as options are limited on the island.

Transportation:

  • Shuttle bus: From Pontorson to Mont Saint Michel Island (~€5-10 per person, one way).

Tips:

  • Wear layers for changing weather conditions.
  • Don’t forget your camera to capture stunning views!

Day 3: Surrounding Area Exploration

Morning

  • Visit the charming town of Cancale, known for its picturesque harbor and oyster farms. (~30 minutes by car or bus)
  • Take a guided boat tour to learn about oyster farming and taste fresh oysters.

Afternoon

  • Explore the beautiful beaches and villages along the Emerald Coast.
  • Stop at Saint-Malo, a historic walled city with stunning architecture. (~45 minutes by car)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Comptoir Breton, serving traditional Breton cuisine.
  • Try their famous crepes or seafood dishes. (~€20-30 per person)

Things to Know:

  • Cancale’s oyster farms are only accessible during low tide.
  • Saint-Malo’s old town can be explored on foot, but be prepared for cobblestone streets.

Transportation:

  • Bus: From Pontorson to Cancale or Saint-Malo, use Keolis Emeraude buses (~€5-10 per person, one way).
  • Car rental: Available in Pontorson or Rennes for exploring the surrounding area.

Tips:

  • Book your boat tour and accommodations in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
  • Don’t miss the beautiful sunsets along the Emerald Coast!

Day 4: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
  • Depart from Rennes Airport or Dinan Railway Station, or continue your journey to other destinations in France.

Things to Know:

  • Check the bus and train schedules in advance to ensure a smooth departure.
  • Don’t forget to try some local specialties, such as crepes or Kouign-amann pastries, before leaving!

Transportation:

  • Bus: From Pontorson to Rennes or Dinan, use Keolis Emeraude buses (~€5-10 per person, one way).
  • Train: From Dinan Railway Station to other destinations in France.

Tips:

  • Book your transportation and accommodations for the next leg of your journey in advance.
  • Bring back memories of Mont Saint Michel’s stunning landscapes and rich history!