Mont Saint Michel France 6 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Mont Saint-Michel

Morning

  • Arrive at Rennes or Dinan train station, then take a bus or taxi to Pontorson (approximately 30-40 minutes)
  • Check-in at Hotel Les 13 Assiettes or similar in Pontorson
  • Visit the Tourist Information Office to grab maps and get an overview of the area

Afternoon

  • Take a shuttle bus (free) from Pontorson to Mont Saint-Michel (approximately 10 minutes)
  • Explore the village and its narrow streets, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes
  • Visit the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel (open from 9:30 am to 6 pm)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Mère Poulard, a famous creperie with delicious local specialties
  • Take a romantic stroll around the bay, watching the sunset over Mont Saint-Michel

Day 2: Exploring the Surroundings

Morning

  • Visit the nearby town of Pontorson and its charming old quarter
  • Explore the Château de Pontorson, a beautiful medieval castle (open from 10 am to 6 pm)

Afternoon

  • Take a guided hike in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel with a certified guide (book in advance)
  • Discover the unique landscapes and wildlife of the bay

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Relais des Gourmets, serving refined French cuisine
  • Relax at your hotel or explore Pontorson’s nightlife

Day 3: Mont Saint-Michel and its Tides

Morning

  • Return to Mont Saint-Michel and explore the abbey again, this time focusing on the Tidal Walks
  • Take a guided tour of the bay’s tidal flats with a certified guide (book in advance)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Museum of Mont Saint-Michel, showcasing the history and art of the abbey
  • Relax at one of the many cafes or restaurants, enjoying the views of the bay

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Vieille Auberge, serving traditional Norman cuisine
  • Take a moonlit stroll around the bay, watching the stars above Mont Saint-Michel

Day 4: Dinan and its Medieval Charm

Morning

  • Take a bus or taxi to Dinan (approximately 45 minutes)
  • Explore the charming old town of Dinan, with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture
  • Visit the Château de Dinan, a beautiful castle from the 14th century (open from 10 am to 6 pm)

Afternoon

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Maison de la Fontaine, serving gourmet cuisine in a cozy atmosphere
  • Explore Dinan’s nightlife, with its many bars and live music venues

Day 5: Saint-Malo and the Sea

Morning

  • Take a bus or taxi to Saint-Malo (approximately 1 hour)
  • Explore the walled city of Saint-Malo, with its stunning beaches and picturesque harbor
  • Visit the Château de Saint-Malo, a beautiful fortress from the 15th century (open from 10 am to 6 pm)

Afternoon

  • Take a boat tour of the bay, spotting sea birds and enjoying the ocean views
  • Visit the Grand Aquarium Saint-Malo, featuring a variety of marine life (open from 9:30 am to 7 pm)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Bistro de la Mer, serving fresh seafood in a cozy atmosphere
  • Take a romantic stroll along the ramparts, watching the sunset over Saint-Malo

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Return to Rennes or Dinan train station for your departure (approximately 1-2 hours)
  • Take a last look at Mont Saint-Michel and its stunning bay before leaving

Things to Know

  • The tides in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel can be unpredictable, so plan your activities accordingly
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with layers and waterproof gear
  • Respect the abbey’s rules and dress code
  • Try to avoid peak tourist season (June to August) for a more peaceful experience

Transportation

  • Train: Rennes or Dinan stations are the closest to Mont Saint-Michel
  • Bus: Regular services connect Pontorson, Dinan, and Saint-Malo to Rennes and other nearby towns
  • Taxi: Available at train stations and in town centers
  • Car rental: Possible in Rennes or Dinan, but be aware of parking restrictions

Tips

  • Book accommodations and restaurants in advance, especially during peak season
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the abbey and surrounding areas
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and architecture
  • Try local specialties, such as crepes, seafood, and Norman cuisine