A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Le Mans for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a small, historic, and quaint town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and museums.

Isle of Skye and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Le Mans?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Isle of Skye. Although Isle of Skye and Le Mans are both popular with visitors, Isle of Skye has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Isle of Skye is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is known for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Le Mans and is known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. It is also home to The Old Man of Storr. 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 Isle of Skye different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Le Mans?

Isle of Skye
Le Mans

Le Mans is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Le Mans is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Le Mans? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye
Le Mans

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Le Mans

Le Mans is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Le Mans Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Le Mans

Isle of Skye is great for its beaches. However, Le Mans is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Le Mans is not a beach destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Le Mans Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Le Mans

Isle of Skye is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Le Mans is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Le Mans is not a hiking destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Le Mans Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Le Mans

Both Isle of Skye and Le Mans are good family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

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.

Is Isle of Skye or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Le Mans

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

Isle of Skye is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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 Isle of Skye or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Le Mans

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

Isle of Skye is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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

Isle of Skye
Le Mans

Le Mans is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Le Mans has some 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).

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Le Mans

Le Mans is a good destination for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Le Mans?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.


  • How many days in Isle of Skye or Le Mans? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Le Mans 1-3

One day in Isle of Skye or Le Mans?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Le Mans, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this small town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Le Mans?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. 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 Isle of Skye has to offer.

Le Mans is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Le Mans?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Le Mans. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Isle of Skye or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Le Mans is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans or Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, while the average daily cost in Le Mans is £71. 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 Isle of Skye and Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Le Mans £32
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Le Mans £64
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye


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: Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Le Mans £26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

Also for Isle of Skye, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

Is it cheaper to fly into Isle of Skye or Le Mans?

Prices for flights to both Le Mans and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Le Mans £23

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Le Mans £13

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

For Isle of Skye, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Le Mans £10


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


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Le Mans?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Le Mans. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, 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.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Le Mans in the summer. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, 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. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Le Mans in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Le Mans. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Isle of Skye is cooler than Le Mans. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Le Mans averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in October than Le Mans. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Le Mans in the Winter?

Both Le Mans and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for 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. Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. In January, Isle of Skye is generally around the same temperature as Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Le Mans in the Spring?

Both Le Mans and Isle of Skye during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Le Mans in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Le Mans fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Le Mans. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in April than Le Mans. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)