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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Le Mans?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Le Mans can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a vibrant, gothic, and ancient city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, theater, and nightlife.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a historic, quaint, and small town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife and museums.

Edinburgh and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Le Mans?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Le Mans. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Le Mans attracts visitors for its small town charm. Edinburgh is more touristy than Le Mans and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also well known for The Edinburgh Castle. 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 Edinburgh different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Edinburgh from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh or Le Mans Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is great for theatre. However, Le Mans is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Le Mans is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Edinburgh and Le Mans.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edinburgh. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Le Mans may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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 Edinburgh or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is great for nightlife. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Edinburgh for the nightlife scene. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Edinburgh or Le Mans Better for Music?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for live music. However, Le Mans is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh is known as a music capital around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Le Mans is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Le Mans Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Edinburgh is revered around the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Le Mans?

Edinburgh is great for shopping. However, Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Edinburgh or Le Mans Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh or Le Mans Better for Couples?

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

Edinburgh is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Edinburgh. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh or Le Mans Better for Students?

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

Edinburgh is very popular with students. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Edinburgh and Le Mans.

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Le Mans, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Edinburgh or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

Edinburgh is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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

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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Le Mans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Edinburgh and Le Mans. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh than in Le Mans. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 1-3 days is enough time in Le Mans.

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Le Mans?

In Edinburgh, you'll find museums and theater. 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.

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 Edinburgh or Le Mans?

In Edinburgh, you'll find theater and nightlife. 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Le Mans?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the small 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 Edinburgh or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Edinburgh. 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 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 Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Le Mans?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Le Mans?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Le Mans in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Le Mans. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 14°C (58°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Le Mans this time of the year. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during summer. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Le Mans in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Le Mans. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the small town atmosphere.

Edinburgh is cooler than Le Mans in the autumn. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Le Mans fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Le Mans. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Le Mans in the Winter?

Both Le Mans and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year.

It's quite cold in Le Mans in the winter. The weather in Edinburgh can be very cold. In the winter, Edinburgh is cooler than Le Mans. Typically, the winter temperatures in Edinburgh in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Le Mans averages at about 5°C (40°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during winter. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Le Mans. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Le Mans in the Spring?

Both Le Mans and Edinburgh during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Le Mans for the small town charm.

In April, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 7°C (45°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Le Mans. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Edinburgh