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

Should you visit Brussels or Le Mans?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Le Mans. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a small, historic, and quaint town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for nightlife and museums.

Brussels and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Le Mans?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Le Mans, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Le Mans is known for its small town charm. Brussels is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt). 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.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Brussels 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 Brussels specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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 Brussels or Le Mans? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Brussels. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

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 Brussels or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brussels and Le Mans.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

If you're looking for night time activities Le Mans has a few options to choose from. 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 Brussels or Le Mans Better for its Old Town?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Le Mans?

Brussels is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Brussels. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Brussels or Le Mans Better for Families?

Brussels 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.

Brussels is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

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 Brussels or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Brussels is great for romance. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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 Brussels or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Brussels is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

It's common for backpackers to visit Le Mans. While there aren't many hostels specifically designed for backpackers, it is possible to find affordable accommodation at most times.

Is Brussels or Le Mans Better for Students?

Brussels is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Le Mans is not popular with students.

Brussels is very popular with students. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Brussels can get you around easily. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Le Mans has a few 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 Brussels or Le Mans a more walkable city?

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

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Le Mans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brussels and Le Mans. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than in Le Mans. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 1-3 days is enough time in Le Mans.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels 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 Brussels.

One day in Brussels or Le Mans?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Brussels or Le Mans?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels 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 Brussels or Le Mans?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. 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 Brussels or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Le Mans, we can see that Brussels 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 Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels 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 Brussels Expensive? and Is Le Mans Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Le Mans?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Le Mans in the Summer?

Both Le Mans and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Le Mans in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Le Mans in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Le Mans fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Le Mans, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Le Mans. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Le Mans in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Le Mans. Many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Brussels is around the same temperature as Le Mans. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Le Mans averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Brussels usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Le Mans during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives around the same amount of rain as Le Mans. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Le Mans in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Le Mans. Most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the museums and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in January than Le Mans. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Le Mans in the Spring?

Both Le Mans and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Le Mans in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Le Mans fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Brussels