Short answer. The village of Mont-Saint-Michel is free to walk, but to go inside the abbey you need a ticket. For most people the plain entry ticket is enough: you walk the abbey at your own pace. If you want someone to tell you the story as you climb the lanes, choose the guided walking tour, which offers the abbey entry as an option.
Tickets, guided visits and day trips
Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey: Entry Ticket
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from €13
Book tickets and tours →How does abbey entry work?
The abbey sits at the very top of the rock, and the ticket is for the abbey only. You follow a route that goes from the crypts to the cloister, passing through the refectory, and you set the pace yourself. The rock is made of steps, so expect a long climb on stone stairs.
Opening hours today are 9:00-19:00 from 1 May to 31 August, and 9:30-18:00 from 1 September to 30 April. The last entry is one hour before closing. The abbey is closed on 1 January, 1 May and 25 December. Hours can change, so check them for your date when you book. The full list is on the opening hours page.
Which ticket should I choose?
A simple way to decide:
- Short on time, or you like to explore alone? Choose the entry ticket. It is the simplest option.
- Want the story told as you walk? Choose the guided walking tour. It lasts about two hours, runs in English or French, and the abbey entry is optional, so you can add it when you book.
- Coming from Paris for the day? Read the day trip from Paris first: several options include the transport and the entry together.
When should I book?
In summer, book as early as you can: the village is crowded, with around 12,000 visitors a day on average and peaks above 16,000. A good rule: book as soon as you know your date, and do not leave July and August, weekends and school holidays to the last minute.
Arriving before 10 or after 15 helps you avoid the crowds.
Who gets in free?
Some visitors do not pay. This includes children and teenagers under 18 who come with their family, and young people aged 18 to 25 who are citizens of the European Union. Some people with disabilities and their companion also enter free. On the first Sunday of January, February, March, November and December, entry is free for everyone.
What can I bring in?
Large bags and suitcases are not allowed, and there is no left-luggage room inside the abbey. Smaller bags, below cabin-bag size, can come in, and staff check them at a security control. Knives and scooters are not allowed. Dogs are not allowed either, even in a bag, except guide dogs and assistance dogs. You cannot smoke or eat inside.
Wear shoes with a good grip. The abbey has many steps and is hard going with a pushchair, which must be folded. It is also difficult for people with reduced mobility.
What is free in the village?
A lot. You can walk the Grande Rue and look over the bay without a ticket. If you only have an hour or two, this alone is a good visit. You will find more ideas in what to see at Mont-Saint-Michel.
Which one for you?
Little time? Take the entry ticket. Want the story behind the rock? Choose the guided walking tour. Coming from Paris? Pick a day trip with the transport included. Before you go, check how to get there and the tides.
