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Best way to get to MSM

Other than by rental car what are some of the best options for making the journey out to MSM? Three of us want to take the overnight stay option.

Posted by
2876 posts

Assuming you're coming from Paris, you can take the TGV train from Paris to Pontorson - Mont St-Michel. You'll have one stopover, in Rennes. From the Pontorson train station, you then take a short bus ride out to the Mont.

Posted by
8700 posts

While taking the train to Pontorson and a local bus from there to MSM will work, there is a better route with more departures throughout the day. Depending upon your departure time, you can take the train from Paris to either Rennes or Dol de Bretagne and a bus operated by SNCF (French National Rail) from one or the other right to MSM.

Posted by
1010 posts

My husband and I took a Gray Line day trip out to M.S.M. two years ago. It was such a boring long ride to and from. Plus it was terribly hot in June. It is a long walk up the uncovered ramp into the place. I'm glad we didn't plan on spending any time out there, as there isn't anything to do. The view in the books is prettier than in person. The water around the Mont wasn't high tide, so it was kind of dry around the Mont. There is not anything unique, in our opinions, to enjoy inside.

Posted by
56 posts

Wow Elaine! I was planning a trip soon, would love to hear what you recommend...

Posted by
976 posts

Hi Grace, While many tourists may crowd MSM, it can be a lovely evocative sight after 4 or 5 pm when it thins out.You may enjoy it in the late afternoon more than the day. Rick Steves has the best suggestion for going up to the top and avoiding the main street, down which you can return. Please read that part of his book. The sunset was lovely ( remember if you go in the summer that it is light until 9 or 10pm). A courtyard and a couple of rooms had musicians playing.
We rented a car in Paris and found the drive very easy with a GPS.

Posted by
251 posts

Veronica, We thought Mont
St Michel was lovely. We knew about the touristy shops ahead of time and just disregarded them as we climbed up to the abbey. The abbey has a great audio tour. Very beautiful, glad we went.