Private Mont Saint-Michel - Bayeux or Caen
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the island of Mont-St-Michel, one of the most popular attractions in France with its medieval village and its stunning views on the largest bay in Europe. This historical site was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1979. The place is surrounded by vast sandbanks and becomes an island only when the tides are very high.
Originally called Mont-Tombe, the island became known as Mont-Saint-Michel in the 8th century due to a vision of a bishop that built the first sanctuary in 708.
After that, the site turned into a pilgrimage site and in 966 a Benedictine abbey was built. Later, the island had been fortified and resisted the wars in 14th and 15th centuries. Then the site became a state prison under the French revolution until Napoleon III decided to close it in 1863.
You will learn about the architecture but also the legends of the site with an opportunity to eat one the three local dishes : soufflé omelet, lamb or mussles.
Available options
Private Mont Saint-Michel - Bayeux or Caen
Pickup included
What's included
Free shuttle
Access free to the island
Guiding services
Gasoline
Private transfer
Tolls
Parking fees
Bottle of water
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Explore this island with its medieval village and its famous abbey overlooking the bay, whose foundations were laid in 708 by Bishop Aubert in honour of the Archangel St Michael.
In the 10th century, the Benedictines settled there and the place became a major place of pilgrimage.
The building of the abbey will be done over a period of 1300 years from the simple construction of a sanctuary through the periods of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
From the 14th century onwards, successive conflicts during the Hundred Years' War between France and England made it necessary to build new powerful fortifications defended by knights sent by the King of France.
In the 17th century, the abbey became a prison that closed in 1863 under Napoleon III trying to develop the tourisme industry. In 1969, a religious community returned after having been chased under the French Revolution. 10 years later.
We will have 3 hours of transportation within the Tour.
What's not included
Lunch of the participants
Entrance fees for the abbey 16 euros per pers.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
About Caen
Caen, a historic city in Normandy, is known for its rich heritage and significant role in World War II. It offers a blend of medieval architecture, war museums, and charming parks, making it a compelling destination for history buffs and culture seekers alike.
Top Attractions
Caen Castle
Built by William the Conqueror, this medieval castle houses the Normandy Museum and fine arts museum.
Historical
2-3 hours
€7.50
Memorial Museum for Peace
Dedicated to the history of the Battle of Normandy and the consequences of war.
Historical
2-3 hours
€9.50
Abbaye aux Hommes
A Benedictine abbey founded by William the Conqueror, featuring beautiful Romanesque architecture.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (church), €5 (museum)
Botanical Garden of Caen
A beautiful 12-hectare garden featuring a variety of plants, a greenhouse, and a rose garden.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tripes à la mode de Caen
A traditional dish made with tripe cooked in cider and Calvados.
Main course
Contains beef and pork
Moules-Frites
Mussels steamed in white wine, served with French fries.
Main course
Seafood
Tarte Normande
A Norman apple tart made with caramelized apples and cream.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking in the surrounding countryside
Cycling along the Caen Canal
Picnicking in the Botanical Garden
Sunbathing at Deauville Beach
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending local festivals and events
Swimming at the beach
Boating on the Caen Canal
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours and numerous outdoor events.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Caen is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Use licensed taxis or rideshare services
Getting there
By air
- Carpiquet Airport • 5 km from city center
By train
Caen Station
By bus
Caen Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and efficient, with frequent services. Single tickets cost €1.50.
Taxis
Available • Apps: G7, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Vaugueux
Saint-Pierre
Thaon
Day trips
Bayeux
30 km from Caen • Half day
A charming town known for its Bayeux Tapestry and medieval cathedral.
Mont Saint-Michel
120 km from Caen • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a stunning abbey and tidal island.
Deauville
40 km from Caen • Half day
A popular seaside resort known for its beach, casino, and film festival.
Festivals
Normandy Festival • Early September
Deauville American Film Festival • Early September
Christmas Markets • Late November to late December
Pro tips
- Visit the Caen Castle and Abbaye aux Hommes early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Combine a visit to the Memorial Museum for Peace with a walk through the Peace Gardens
- Explore the Vaugueux neighborhood for a glimpse into Caen's medieval past
- Try local specialties like Tripes à la mode de Caen and Camembert cheese
- Consider purchasing a Caen Pass for discounted entry to attractions and unlimited public transportation
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
