A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Le Mans vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a small, historic, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and museums.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a spectacular, scenic, and world-famous national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Le Mans and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

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 walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the terraced chain of lakes


Is there more to do in Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Le Mans and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both popular with visitors, Plitvice Lakes National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is known for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Le Mans and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. It is also home to the terraced chain of lakes. 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 Le Mans different from Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Le Mans
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Le Mans is very good for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Le Mans
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Foodies will find both Le Mans and Plitvice Lakes National Park both to be decent destinations.

Le Mans offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll find a few tourist cafes near the lakes that serve grilled meats and other simple dishes. You can also grab a snack from the food stalls that are near the entrance to the park.

Is Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Le Mans
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Le Mans is very good for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Le Mans
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for hiking. However, Le Mans is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails. There are eight different walking routes that range in length from 3 kilometers to 18 kilometers. They take between 3 and 8 hours and are well marked.

Le Mans is not a hiking destination.


Is Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Le Mans
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very family-friendly destination. It's a fun place to explore with kids, but if you're traveling with young ones, keep a close eye on them. Also take note that it's not stroller-friendly and make sure that you arrive early to avoid the crowds.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Le Mans
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. It's a natural wonder that is beautiful and romantic to explore as a couple. It can get crowded, as it's a top tourist destination is Croatia, so make sure you arrive early to avoid the peak times.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Le Mans
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Le Mans
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Le Mans is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

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).

Public transit is generally limited in Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are several bus stops near the park but the bus service is infrequent and can involve long trips.

Is Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Le Mans
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very easy national park to get around on foot. The park is well organized into several walking routes that can be explored in a few hours.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Le Mans?

How long in Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Le Mans than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Le Mans, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park.


  • How many days in Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Le Mans 1-3 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Le Mans, you'll find museums and nightlife. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Le Mans is a fun place to experience. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Plitvice Lakes National Park has to offer.

Five days in Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quaint destination of Le Mans. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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.

A week in Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The historic town of Le Mans offers nightlife and museums. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Plitvice Lakes National Park or Le Mans?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Le Mans is €83, while the average daily cost in Plitvice Lakes National Park is €125. 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 Le Mans and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Le Mans 37
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Le Mans 74
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Le Mans and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park? 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 Le Mans


Hotels in Plitvice Lakes National Park


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.
    Le Mans 30
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also for Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $271
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zagreb Airport (ZAG): $232
  • Plitvice lakes Guiding with Transfer: $182
  • From Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb private one-way transfer: $150
  • From Zadar: Round-Trip Transfer to Plitvice Lakes: $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Le Mans 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
    Le Mans 27
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Le Mans 15
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Plitvice Lakes National Park.

  • 3,5 hours Guided Buggy Tour in Plitvice lakes: $76
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • Croatia Walking Tour in a Wonderland: $174
  • E-Bike tour Plitvice Big Waterfall Viewpoints & Tito's Villa: $87
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Full Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes from Split & Trogir: $738
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • PLITVICE LAKES FULL DAY TOUR WITH LOCAL: $182
  • Plitvice Countryside Bike Tour with Barac Caves: $76
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Le Mans 12
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


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



When is the best time to visit Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Le Mans are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

Le Mans is cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Le Mans averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Plitvice Lakes National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Le Mans. Le Mans usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Le Mans gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Le Mans usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Le Mans gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Autumn?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Le Mans during the autumn are popular places to visit. The small town atmosphere are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Le Mans often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Le Mans gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Le Mans gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Le Mans and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Le Mans for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Plitvice Lakes National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Le Mans. In January, Le Mans is generally much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Le Mans average around 5°C (40°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Le Mans usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Le Mans gets 54 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Le Mans usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Le Mans gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Le Mans as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Le Mans in the spring for the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

Le Mans is cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Le Mans averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Le Mans often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Le Mans gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Le Mans

Le Mans Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)