A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Le Mans for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Aberdeen or Le Mans?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Aberdeen or Le Mans? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a authentic, historic, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a small, historic, and quaint town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for nightlife and museums.

Aberdeen and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Le Mans?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aberdeen than Le Mans, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Aberdeen is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Le Mans is known for its small town charm. Aberdeen is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also home to St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen. Le Mans is popular for being the location of the annual 24 Hours of Le Mans, which is one of the world's greatest sports-car races.

How is Aberdeen different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Le Mans and Aberdeen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Le Mans?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

Aberdeen is great for its historical sights. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Aberdeen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Le Mans offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's most famous as the location of the 24 hour car race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and on some days it's possible to visit the race track which has a museum with simulators and other activities. Around town you'll find museums and activities affiliated with the racing culture, and there's also a cathedral as well as several nice museums relating to the automotive industry among other things.


Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Le Mans? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

Aberdeen is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Le Mans is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aberdeen. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Le Mans. It's not known for its food scene, but there is one dish in particular that you should try. The local specialty is les rillettes de porc, which is a pork paté.

Is Aberdeen or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

Both Aberdeen and Le Mans are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Le Mans. You'll find bars and clubs in the city center around Saint-Nicolas Quarter, rue des Ponts-neufs, Place de la Sirène and around the Republic Square.

Is Aberdeen or Le Mans Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

Aberdeen is great for its historic old town. However, Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Le Mans?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

Aberdeen is very good for shopping. However, Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Aberdeen. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Aberdeen or Le Mans Better for Families?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

Aberdeen is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Aberdeen is a very family-friendly destination. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Le Mans is a family-friendly place to visit. Make sure you visit on a day when Le Mans Karting International and the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum is open to visitors. Families can ride on high speed go-carts and train like professionals with special game simulators. This is a popular destination for adults and kids alike. The town also has indoor play areas, waterparks, and beautiful parks to explore.

Is Aberdeen or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

With fun activities for couples, both Aberdeen and Le Mans make for a good place to visit.

Aberdeen is a nice destination for couples. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Le Mans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a small town, but racing enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum.


Is Aberdeen or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

Le Mans is a popular place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Le Mans. While there aren't many hostels specifically designed for backpackers, it is possible to find affordable accommodation at most times.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Le Mans Better for Students?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

Aberdeen is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Le Mans is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

Is Aberdeen or Le Mans Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

Both Aberdeen and Le Mans offer good public transit options.

Aberdeen has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Le Mans has some public transit options. There is a tram service around town that provides access to many places including the race track via the T1 line (Antarès-Stade Marie Marvingt and exit at the East Entrance).


Is Aberdeen or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Aberdeen
Le Mans

Aberdeen is great for its walkability. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

Aberdeen is very walkable. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Le Mans is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Le Mans Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Le Mans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aberdeen and Le Mans. In our opinion, Aberdeen has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Aberdeen than Le Mans. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Le Mans.

Families should spend more time in Aberdeen than Le Mans. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Aberdeen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Aberdeen than Le Mans. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Aberdeen that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aberdeen than Le Mans if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Aberdeen.


  • How many days in Aberdeen or Le Mans? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aberdeen 2-3 
    Le Mans 1-3

One day in Aberdeen or Le Mans?

In Aberdeen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Le Mans offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Aberdeen or Le Mans?

In Aberdeen, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aberdeen has to offer.

Le Mans is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Le Mans, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Aberdeen or Le Mans?

Aberdeen is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Le Mans is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Aberdeen or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aberdeen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Le Mans is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans or Aberdeen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aberdeen is £121, while the average daily cost in Le Mans is £71. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aberdeen and Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aberdeen £65
    Le Mans £32
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aberdeen £130
    Le Mans £64
Compare Hotels in Aberdeen and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in Aberdeen or Le Mans? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Aberdeen


Hotels in Le Mans


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aberdeen Hotel Prices and Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aberdeen £34
    Le Mans £26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181
  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie - Arrival Private Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Aberdeen or Le Mans?

Prices for flights to both Le Mans and Aberdeen change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Aberdeen £35
    Le Mans £23

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aberdeen £19
    Le Mans £13

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Aberdeen are as follows:

  • 3 hour Gin School Experience in Aberdeen: $153
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Historical & Turbulent Times Walking Tour: $76
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $60
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen's Ancient Heritage and Folklore Tour: $87
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Private Street Art Guided Walking Tour: $144
  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aberdeen £3.57
    Le Mans £10

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aberdeen and Le Mans, we can see that Aberdeen is more expensive. And not only is Le Mans much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Le Mans would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Le Mans and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Aberdeen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aberdeen than you might in Le Mans.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aberdeen Expensive? and Is Le Mans Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Le Mans?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Le Mans, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Aberdeen or Le Mans?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Le Mans in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Le Mans. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Le Mans for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Aberdeen is cooler than Le Mans in the summer. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Le Mans fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Le Mans. In the summer, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in July than Le Mans. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F) 
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Le Mans in the Autumn?

Both Le Mans and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Le Mans in the autumn for the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Aberdeen is cooler than Le Mans. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aberdeen in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Le Mans averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during autumn. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Le Mans in the Winter?

Both Le Mans and Aberdeen during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Le Mans for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Le Mans can be very cold during winter. Aberdeen can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 3°C (38°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Aberdeen often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Le Mans. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in January than Le Mans. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Le Mans in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Le Mans. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the small town charm.

Aberdeen is cooler than Le Mans in the spring. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Le Mans fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during spring. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Le Mans. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Aberdeen

Aberdeen Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)


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