Whether you’re arriving by car, camper, or motorcycle, understanding where to park and how to get to the Mont Saint Michel is essential for a stress-free visit. This guide breaks down all parking options, seasonal rates, and the free shuttle system; everything you need to know before you go.
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Parking at Mont Saint-Michel
The main parking facility offers around 4,000 spaces and is open 24 hours a day. Located 2.5 kilometers from the Mont itself, it serves as the starting point for either walking or taking the free shuttle to the entrance.
Each type of vehicle has designated parking areas. Standard cars are directed to zones such as P5 through P13, while motorcycles and bicycles use P9. If you’re traveling with someone who has limited mobility, P2 is available with the proper permit. Camping-cars must park in P8, though overnight stays are prohibited. Guests staying in nearby hotels can use P3 with an access code provided by their hotel.
Parking Fees and Seasonal Rates
The cost of parking varies by vehicle type, length of stay, and season. All vehicles benefit from the first 30 minutes free of charge. Additionally, parking is free from 6:30 PM to 3:00 AM in low and mid-season.
Low Season (Jan–Feb, Nov–Dec)
| Duration | Car | Camper Van | Motorcycle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–30 min | Free | Free | Free |
| 30 min–3 hrs | €10 | €14 | €5 |
| 3–6 hrs | €12 | €16 | €6 |
| 6–24 hrs | €14 | €18 | €7 |
| 18:30–03:00 | Free | Free | Free |
Mid Season (Mar–Jun, Sep–Oct)
| Duration | Car | Camper Van | Motorcycle |
| 0–30 min | Free | Free | Free |
| 30 min–3 hrs | €16 | €19 | €8 |
| 3–6 hrs | €19 | €22 | €9.5 |
| 6–24 hrs | €22 | €25 | €11 |
| 18:30–03:00 | Free | Free | Free |
High Season (Jul–Aug)
| Duration | Car | Camper Van | Motorcycle |
| 0–30 min | Free | Free | Free |
| 30 min–3 hrs | €20 | €22 | €10 |
| 3–6 hrs | €24 | €26 | €12 |
| 6–24 hrs | €28 | €30 | €14 |
| 18:30–03:00 | €15 | €16 | €7.5 |
Online Reservation Discount: Up to €2 off (available before 10:00 AM or after 3:00 PM).
EV Charging Stations
For electric vehicles, charging stations are available within the parking area. Standard chargers range from 3.7 kW to 22 kW and cost between €0.30 and €0.45 per kWh. Fast chargers go up to 150 kW and cost €0.50 per kWh. Electric bike users can charge their bikes for a flat rate of €1. Payments are made via card, QR code, or through ETOTEM and Chargemap apps.
Annual Subscription: La Carte Grand Site
Frequent visitors can now enjoy unlimited parking and exclusive benefits with the new Carte Grand Site. For just €36.50 per year, this pass grants:
- 24/7 unlimited parking all year round, with no extra charge.
- Priority access to guided nature tours as a privileged guest.
- Discounted Nature Pass: €13.50 instead of €16.50 for unlimited access to all nature excursions.
- 10% off at the Mont’s official boutique featuring regional and artisanal products.
- Early access to news and events, sent directly to your inbox.
An ideal option for those who love returning to this extraordinary site throughout the seasons.
How to Pay for Parking
When you arrive, simply take a ticket at the entrance gate and keep it with you. After your visit, you can pay at one of the automatic machines located along the central pathway or to the left of the Tourist Information Center.
Payment can be made by card or cash. The parking fee includes access to the shuttle service and use of facilities at the Information Center, including restrooms, a baby care area, and visitor support.
The Free Shuttle Experience
From the parking area, visitors can hop on the free shuttle bus known as “Le Passeur.” Operating from 7:30 AM until midnight, this service runs continuously and takes about 12 minutes to reach the Mont. It’s accessible to individuals with reduced mobility and is included in your parking fee.
Walking to the Mont
For those who prefer to arrive on foot, there are three main paths leading from the parking area to the Mont: La Lisière, Les Berges du Couesnon, and the central path. Each route takes about 40 to 50 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding bay.
Free and Alternative Parking Options
While parking at Mont Saint-Michel is convenient, visitors on a budget can consider alternatives. The village of Beauvoir, just five minutes by car from the Mont, offers free street parking and a small lot near local shops. From there, a walking path along the Couesnon River leads to the barrage and shuttle station in roughly 30 minutes.
Another option is Pontorson, where free parking is available near the train station. From here, visitors can take a regional bus or bike to the Mont. The bus ride lasts about 25 minutes and runs three to eight times per day.
It is crucial not to park illegally along roadsides near the Mont. This practice is both dangerous and prohibited.
Important Final Notes
- Access to Mont Saint-Michel village is free, day or night, year-round. Only the parking and the entrance to the abbey require payment. Parking tickets must be retained; losing one can cost between €20 and €55 depending on the season.
- Overnight stays in camper vans are not allowed within the parking lot, and no water or electricity is available. However, nearby campgrounds and dedicated motorhome areas offer full amenities.
- For hotel guests, the process is streamlined. You receive an access code, drive directly to P3, park near your hotel, and pay only upon leaving. From there, the shuttle takes you right to the foot of the Mont.