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

Should you visit Le Mans or Genoa?

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 Le Mans and Genoa can help you decide which place is right for you.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a quaint, small, and historic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the nightlife and museums.

Genoa

Genoa is a energetic, historic, and vibrant port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Le Mans and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Le Mans or Genoa?

You'll generally find more things to do in Genoa than Le Mans. Genoa is bigger than Le Mans, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Genoa is better known for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is more popular for its small town charm. Genoa is more touristy than Le Mans and is known for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Also, Genoa is famous for The Via Garibaldi Palaces. 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.

How is Le Mans different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Genoa is great for its historical sights. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Genoa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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

Genoa 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 Genoa. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

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 Le Mans or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Le Mans and Genoa.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Le Mans or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Genoa is adequate for its beaches. However, Le Mans is not a beach destination.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Le Mans is not a beach destination.

Is Le Mans or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

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

Genoa is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Le Mans or Genoa?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Genoa. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Le Mans or Genoa Better for Families?

Genoa 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.

Genoa is a very family-friendly destination. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Le Mans or Genoa Better for Couples?

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

Genoa is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

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 Le Mans or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Genoa is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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 Le Mans or Genoa Better for Students?

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

Genoa is very popular with students. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

Genoa 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 Genoa is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

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 Le Mans or Genoa a more walkable city?

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

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Le Mans?

How long in Le Mans or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Le Mans or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Genoa due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Le Mans, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

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

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

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

One day in Le Mans or Genoa?

In Le Mans, many people enjoy the nightlife and museums that this quaint destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Le Mans or Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Le Mans. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Genoa, 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 Genoa has to offer.

Five days in Le Mans or Genoa?

Le Mans is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the destination of Le Mans. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Genoa 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.

A week in Le Mans or Genoa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the small destination of Le Mans. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to France, The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Le Mans or Genoa?

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

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 Le Mans or Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa and Le Mans are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Genoa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Le Mans is generally cooler than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Le Mans average around 19°C (66°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Genoa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Le Mans. Le Mans usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during summer. Le Mans gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Le Mans usually receives more rain than Genoa. Le Mans gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Le Mans or Genoa in the Autumn?

Both Genoa and Le Mans during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Le Mans for the small town atmosphere. Also, many visitors come to Genoa in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Le Mans is much colder than Genoa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Le Mans averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Le Mans often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Le Mans gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets less rain in October than Genoa. Le Mans gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Le Mans or Genoa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Le Mans and Genoa. Many visitors come to Le Mans in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Genoa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Le Mans can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Le Mans is much colder than Genoa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Le Mans in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Genoa averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Le Mans usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during winter. Le Mans gets 54 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Le Mans usually receives around the same amount of rain as Genoa. Le Mans gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Le Mans or Genoa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Le Mans as well as Genoa. Most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Genoa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Le Mans is generally cooler than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Le Mans average around 10°C (50°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the spring, Le Mans often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Le Mans gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets less rain in April than Genoa. Le Mans gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Le Mans