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

Should you visit Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a vibrant, historic, and fun-filled 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. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for nightlife and museums.

Dusseldorf and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Le Mans?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dusseldorf than Le Mans, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dusseldorf is more popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Le Mans is known for its small town charm. Dusseldorf is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. It is also home to Altstadt (the Old Town). 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 Dusseldorf different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dusseldorf
Le Mans

Both Dusseldorf and Le Mans have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Dusseldorf is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

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

Dusseldorf
Le Mans

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

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 Dusseldorf or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Le Mans

It's hard to distinguish whether Dusseldorf or Le Mans has a better nightlife scene.

Dusseldorf has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

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 Dusseldorf or Le Mans Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Le Mans

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Le Mans?

Dusseldorf
Le Mans

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dusseldorf or Le Mans Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Le Mans

Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly destination. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

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 Dusseldorf or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Le Mans

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

Dusseldorf is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

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 Dusseldorf or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Le Mans

Dusseldorf and Le Mans are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

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

Dusseldorf
Le Mans

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf can get you around easily. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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 Dusseldorf or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Le Mans

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

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Le Mans?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Dusseldorf or Le Mans?

In Dusseldorf, 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.

With museums and nightlife around the historic town of Le Mans, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Le Mans, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Dusseldorf or Le Mans?

In Dusseldorf, 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 Dusseldorf has to offer.

With nightlife and museums around the destination of Le Mans, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Dusseldorf or Le Mans?

Dusseldorf 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, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Dusseldorf or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dusseldorf. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans or Dusseldorf?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dusseldorf is €185, while the average daily cost in Le Mans is €83. 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 Dusseldorf and Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Le Mans 37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Le Mans 74
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf


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: Dusseldorf Hotel Prices and Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dusseldorf 1.63
    Le Mans 30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Dusseldorf or Le Mans?

Prices for flights to both Le Mans and Dusseldorf 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
    Dusseldorf 76
    Le Mans 27
Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

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

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dusseldorf 25
    Le Mans 15

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

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

  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • Best Intro Tour of Dusseldorf with a Local: $141
  • City game scavenger hunt Düsseldorf - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Segway Rhein Tour: Rhine River Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Segway Tour: Classical City Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Dusseldorf : Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dusseldorf 23
    Le Mans 12
Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29


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


Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Le Mans?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf or Le Mans in the Summer?

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

Dusseldorf is around the same temperature as Le Mans in the summer. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 19°C (66°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, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in July than Le Mans. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Le Mans in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Dusseldorf is around the same temperature as Le Mans. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dusseldorf in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Le Mans averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Le Mans during autumn. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Le Mans. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Le Mans in the Winter?

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

The weather in Le Mans can be very cold. Dusseldorf can be very cold during winter. In January, Dusseldorf is generally much colder than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 3°C (37°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Le Mans in the Spring?

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

Dusseldorf is cooler than Le Mans in the spring. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Le Mans fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during spring. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dusseldorf usually receives around the same amount of rain as Le Mans. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)


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