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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Le Mans?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Grindelwald and Le Mans can help you decide which place is right for you.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a breathtaking, beautiful, and adventure-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a quaint, small, and historic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include nightlife and museums.

Grindelwald and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
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 Grindelwald or Le Mans?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Le Mans, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing, food, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is more popular for its museums. Grindelwald is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery. Le Mans is well known for being the location of the annual 24 Hours of Le Mans, which is one of the world's greatest sports-car races.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Le Mans Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Le Mans

Grindelwald is great for skiing. However, Le Mans is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Le Mans is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Le Mans

Le Mans is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Grindelwald. If you happen to have poor weather, there are very few indoor activities around town. The area is all about the views and the outdoor setting, so weather is key when visiting.

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

Grindelwald
Le Mans

Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in 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 Grindelwald or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Le Mans

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

Grindelwald has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

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 Grindelwald or Le Mans Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Le Mans

Grindelwald is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Le Mans is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking. Hiking in the area offers spectacular views of the Bernese Alps including Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau, and Breithorn. There are trails that cater to all levels and hiking is the best way to explore the countryside.

Le Mans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Le Mans?

Grindelwald
Le Mans

Grindelwald is adequate for shopping. However, Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Grindelwald is a good destination for shopping. There are places to pick up sporting equipment that you may have forgotten. Many shops are seasonal and the turnover is frequent as the tourist season ebbs and flows.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grindelwald or Le Mans Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Le Mans

Grindelwald 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.

Grindelwald is a very family-friendly destination. The area is filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and cog railways. There are hikes for every age and skill level and older kids will enjoy the ropes courses and other outdoor activities.

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 Grindelwald or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Le Mans

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

Grindelwald is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Most people don't visit for the town itself, but instead for the many outdoor adventures in the area. Couples that enjoy hiking and skiing will appreciate a visit to this beautiful alpine setting.

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 Grindelwald or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Le Mans

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

Grindelwald is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

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

Grindelwald
Le Mans

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Grindelwald and Le Mans.

You'll find some public transit in Grindelwald, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel around the region.

While Le Mans offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Grindelwald or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Le Mans

Grindelwald and Le Mans both are notable when exploring on foot.

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable town. Most places in town can be reached on foot but there can be a lot of traffic on the main thoroughfares.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Le Mans?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Grindelwald or Le Mans?

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the small town of Le Mans. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Grindelwald or Le Mans?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the small destination of Le Mans. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Grindelwald or Le Mans?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

The small town of Le Mans offers nightlife and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Grindelwald or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Since Grindelwald is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Le Mans. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans or Grindelwald?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Grindelwald is $241, 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 Grindelwald and Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Le Mans $40
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Le Mans $80
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald


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: Grindelwald Hotel Prices and Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Le Mans $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Le Mans?

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Le Mans $16

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Le Mans $13


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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Le Mans?

Le Mans has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald or Le Mans in the Summer?

Both Le Mans and Grindelwald during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year.

In the summer, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Le Mans. Typically, the summer temperatures in Grindelwald in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Le Mans averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Le Mans, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Grindelwald. In the summer, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in July than Le Mans. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Grindelwald or Le Mans in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Le Mans. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Le Mans for the small town atmosphere.

In October, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 15°C (58°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during autumn. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Le Mans in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Le Mans. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Le Mans in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Le Mans can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Grindelwald. Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Le Mans in the winter. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Le Mans fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Le Mans. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Le Mans in the Spring?

Both Le Mans and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Le Mans. Typically, the spring temperatures in Grindelwald in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Le Mans averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Le Mans during spring. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In April, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)