Mont Saint Michel: Day Trips and Tours from Bayeux

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Mont Saint Michel is one of the historic icons of France. Sitting pretty in a sweeping bay on the border between Brittany and Normandy, this medieval island abbey was once a refuge for monks and pilgrims.

Today, tourists from around the world can enjoy a day trip to Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux while on vacation. It’s often the highlight of their trip.

How to get to Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux?

The tidal island of Mont Saint Michel lies off the northwest coast of France. It’s one of the most easily accessible day trips from Bayeux, sitting at around 115 kilometers from town.

From Bayeux to Mont Saint Michel by car

The journey from Bayeux to Mont Saint Michel takes around 1.5 hours by car. You’ll need to travel south on the A84 and N175 before taking the D43. The island is signposted for the final part of the route.

There is a car park on the mainland and a free shuttle over to the island.

From Bayeux to Mont Saint Michel by bus

The dedicated Bayeux Shuttle runs between the city and Mont Saint Michel from April to October. Departures are at 8 AM from Place de Quebec.

Guided tour to Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux

If you’re looking for a hassle-free Mont Saint Michel day trip from Bayeux, then booking a guided tour is the way to go. All your transport logistics will be taken care of, and many providers offer hotel pickups too.

How much does the entrance ticket to Mont Saint Michel cost?

These prices relate to the abbey only. There is no charge to visit the rest of the island.

• Adult: €11
• Children (18 years and under): Free
• Students (18 – 25 years): Free
• Persons with disabilities: Free

Anyone entitled to free entry must present ID on arrival.

Audio guides are available to rent for €3 each.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux?

Your day trip from Bayeux to Mont Saint Michel begins with a pickup from your hotel after breakfast. Some tours have a designated meeting point in the city center instead, so check your joining instructions for more details.

You’ll drive through the French countryside by minivan for around 1.5 hours, before reaching the coast. Then it’s time to take the free shuttle bus across the causeway to the island.

The guide will give you a tour of the abbey and village, before offering you time to explore at leisure. You’ll be returned to Bayeux in the evening.

What kind of tours are available to go to Mont Saint Michel?

There are several different types of tours to choose from when it comes to exploring Mont Saint Michel. Here are your main options:

Guided tours to Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux

For a cost-effective Mont Saint Michel day trip, these group tours from Bayeux are a popular choice. You’ll be collected from your hotel and driven down to the island by minivan.

Some tours include a guided visit, while others give you time to explore at leisure.

Private day trips to Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux

A private day tour to Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux is for travelers who prefer some exclusivity. You’ll enjoy private door-to-door transfers and a personalized island tour.

There is some flexibility in the schedule, unlike on the group tours.

Shuttle from Bayeux to Mont Saint Michel

If you want to keep things simple, then a shuttle transfer is a good option. You’ll board the minivan at a pre-agreed departure point, before being transferred to the island.

You’ll then have free time to explore. Return transfers are included.

Bike tour to Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux

For something different, you can book a Mont Saint Michel day trip on a bike tour from Bayeux!

After being driven to the starting point of the ride, you’ll cycle through the lanes down to Mont Saint Michel. This is a fun option for active travelers.

How much does a tour to Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux cost?

A guided group day tour to Mont Saint Michel starts at €120 per participant. The package includes minivan transfers, hotel pickups, abbey entrance fees and a guide.

Private trips are €350 per person – this includes a guide, exclusive transfers and hotel pickups plus the abbey entrance fee.

The shuttle service from Bayeux to Mont Saint Michel costs €80 per person. This is for transport only.

The bike tour is priced at €200 and covers transfers, e-bikes, snacks, hotel pickups and water.

What will you see and do at Mont Saint Michel?

A day trip to Mont Saint Michel from Bayeux is all about history and some of the best views in France. Here’s what not to miss during your visit:

The abbey

The centerpiece of Mont Saint Michel is undoubtedly the abbey. Walking up the 350 steps to the entrance, you’ll feel like the pilgrims of old.

Constructed between the 8th and 16th centuries, this ancient building is a lesson in architecture. Highlights include the Knight’s Hall and the crypt, while the cloisters and refectory will have you whipping out the camera.

The village

After discovering the abbey, make sure you spend some time strolling along the single cobbled street that runs through the medieval village. The buildings here date to the 15th century, and there’s a small church that’s worth a visit too.

Around 40 people live here on the island, and there are restaurants and gift shops to nicely round off your visit.

The ramparts

The island is surrounded by ancient ramparts, designed to protect the inhabitants from attack during the Middle Ages. Walking along these imposing walls is a popular pastime on a day tour from Bayeux to Mont Saint Michel. The views are spectacular!

If you want to check out the tidal flow, head over to the Tour du Nord – a 13th-century watch tower with an observation deck.

What are the Mont Saint Michel opening times?

You can enjoy a Mont Saint Michel excursion from Bayeux at any time of year. The island is only accessible at low tide so check the tide times if you are traveling independently.

If you want to visit the abbey, make a note of these opening times:

• April, May, June and September: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
• July – August: 9:30 AM – 7 PM
• October: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• November – March: 10 AM – 5 PM

The abbey sometimes closes half an hour earlier on Sundays outside of summer.

When is the best time to visit Mont Saint Michel?

A Mont Saint Michel day trip from Bayeux is particularly enjoyable during summer when the sun lights up the ancient stonework. However, this is when the island is at its busiest, so to avoid the crowds, come in spring or fall.

Are there any tours to Mont Saint Michel from other cities in France?

Yes, there are other tours departing from other cities in France:

• Mont Saint Michel day trips from Paris

Travel tips

• Book your Mont Saint Michel day trip from Bayeux in advance. It’s one of the most popular tours from the city and places can sell out.
• You can’t drive onto the island, but free shuttle buses are available to transport you across the causeway. The ride takes 10 minutes.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be climbing steps and doing a fair amount of walking during your visit.
• You can take a picnic or buy lunch in one of the local cafés or restaurants.