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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a charming, historical, and less touristy 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 historic, quaint, and small town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the nightlife and museums.

Bucharest and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
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 Bucharest or Le Mans?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bucharest than Le Mans. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bucharest is very popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Le Mans attracts visitors for its small town charm. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. It is also well known for The Palace of Parliament. Le Mans is famous 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 Bucharest different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bucharest
Le Mans

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Bucharest and Le Mans.

Bucharest offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Le Mans. 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 Bucharest or Le Mans? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest
Le Mans

Bucharest 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 Bucharest. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

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 Bucharest or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Le Mans

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

Bucharest has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

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 Bucharest or Le Mans Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Le Mans

Bucharest is very good for its historic old town. However, Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

Bucharest is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Le Mans?

Bucharest
Le Mans

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bucharest. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bucharest or Le Mans Better for Families?

Bucharest
Le Mans

Le Mans is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Le Mans. 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Le Mans

Le Mans is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.


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

Bucharest
Le Mans

Bucharest and Le Mans are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

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.

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

Bucharest
Le Mans

Bucharest is great 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.

Public transit in Bucharest is fairly effecient and thorough. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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 Bucharest or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Le Mans

Bucharest and Le Mans both are nice when exploring on foot.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Le Mans?

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

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

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


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

One day in Bucharest or Le Mans?

In Bucharest, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

You'll find nightlife and museums around the town of Le Mans. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Le Mans has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Le Mans?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quaint destination of Le Mans. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Le Mans?

Bucharest is a great place to explore. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the historic town of Le Mans. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Bucharest or Le Mans?

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

Le Mans is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans or Bucharest?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bucharest is $137, while the average daily cost in Le Mans is $89. 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 Bucharest and Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $63
    Le Mans $40
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $126
    Le Mans $80
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest 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 Bucharest


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: Bucharest Hotel Prices and Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $26
    Le Mans $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Bucharest to Sofia - Private Transfer: $580
  • Bucharest to Sofia Private Transfer: $448
  • Bucharest to Mihail Kogalniceanu - Private Transfer: $344
  • Mihail Kogalniceanu to Bucharest - Private Transfer: $344
  • Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo - Private Transfer: $322
  • Bucharest to Fetesti - Private Transfer: $322
  • Bucharest to Craiova - Private Transfer: $301
  • Transfer Bucharest Airport to Brasov: $288
  • Bucharest (Romania) to Veliko Tarnavo (Bulgaria) - Private Guided Transfer : $283
  • Bucharest to Tulcea - Private Guided Transfer - Driver and Car : $283
  • Bucharest to Galati - Driver and Car - Private Guided Transfer : $272
  • Bucharest to Constanta or Mamaia Beach - Private Transfer - Car and Driver: $272

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or Le Mans?

Prices for flights to both Le Mans and Bucharest 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
    Bucharest $58
    Le Mans $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bucharest

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bucharest.

  • Dinner at the Museum of Communism - Traditional Food Tour: $53
  • Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $60
  • Cooking Class traditional food: $65
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $74
  • Unhealthy Food Tour of Bucharest – 4 hours: $75
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner: $84
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner - 3 hours: $86
  • Private Walking Food Tour - Culture, History & Traditions: $98
  • Historical and Cultural Tour with Romanian Cuisine dinner: $141
  • Cooking Class in Transylvania - Day Tour from Bucharest: $182
  • 4-Hour Walking Food Tour in the Old Town: $202

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    Le Mans $16

Tours and Activities in Bucharest

Here are a few actual costs in Bucharest for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bears Sanctuary, Dracula's Castle, Brasov Day Trip Private Tour from Bucharest: $249
  • Bucharest Panoramic Sightseeing - Private City Tour: $93
  • Transylvania Heritage Tour at Peles Bran and Cantacuzino Castles: $93
  • 1 Day 4x4 Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $173
  • 1 Day ATV Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $207
  • 10h Bucharest City Tour & Snagov Monastery (Dracula's Grave): $258
  • 14 Days Private Tour in Romania, Moldova & Transnistria: $4,724
  • 2 Days Private Tour - The Romanian Caves from Bucharest: $558
  • 2 Hour Photoshoot Experience Near Bucharest Architectural Charms: $98
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Bucharest City: $87
  • 2-Day Medieval Transylvania with Brasov,Sibiu and Sighisoara Tour from Bucharest: $251
  • 2-Day Small-Group Tour to Dracula's Castle, Rasnov Fortress, Peles Castle, Sighisoara and Libearty Brown Bear Sanctuary with Overnight in Brasov: $203

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.17
    Le Mans $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Bucharest

Also in Bucharest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Weekend Pub Crawl: $24
  • Bucharest Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $25
  • From Romanian Wine Tasting Tour: $26
  • Bachelors Party in Custom Bar Crawl: $37
  • Private Bar Crawling in Bucharest Old City: $43
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bucharest: $43
  • Pub Crawl in the Old CIty and Rooftop Hopping in Bucharest: $47
  • Romanian Wine Tasting: $49
  • Private Romanian Wine Tasting in Urlați: $51
  • Bucharest Old Town Pub and Bar Crawl with Guide: $57
  • Bucharest VIP Bar Crawl in Lipscani 'Old Town': $59
  • Bucharest City Tour and Wine Tasting: $84


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


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Le Mans?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Le Mans in the Summer?

Both Le Mans and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bucharest 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.

In July, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 23°C (73°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Le Mans, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Le Mans. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bucharest 23°C (73°F) 
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Le Mans in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Le Mans. Many visitors come to Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Le Mans in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Le Mans fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Le Mans. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bucharest 13°C (55°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Le Mans in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Le Mans. Most visitors come to Bucharest 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. Bucharest can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bucharest is much colder than Le Mans. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bucharest in January average around -1°C (29°F), and Le Mans averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Le Mans. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bucharest -1°C (29°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Le Mans in the Spring?

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

In April, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 12°C (54°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Le Mans. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bucharest 12°C (54°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Bucharest

Bucharest Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (29°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 77 mm (3 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)