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

Should you visit Le Mans or Reykjavik?

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 Reykjavik can help you decide which place is right for you.

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.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a friendly, clean, and green city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Le Mans and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Thermal Pools


Is there more to do in Le Mans or Reykjavik?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Reykjavik than Le Mans. While Le Mans is larger than Reykjavik, Reykjavik has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is known for its museums and small town charm. Reykjavik is more touristy than Le Mans and is known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. It is also home to The Thermal Pools. 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 Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik?

Le Mans
Reykjavik

Le Mans is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Le Mans
Reykjavik

Foodies will find both Le Mans and Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik. Traditional Icelandic food may not have the best reputation, but restaurants these days are pretty good with a variety of dishes to choose from. Popular foods in the area include fish, lamb, and Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt).

Is Le Mans or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Le Mans
Reykjavik

The vibe at night is good in both Le Mans and Reykjavik.

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 Reykjavik. The city offers the best nightlife in Iceland and you'll be surprised at the number of clubs, bars, and craft breweries that you can choose from. Almost all of the popular nightlife spots are around Laugavegur, a major shopping street in town.

Is Le Mans or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Le Mans
Reykjavik

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

Many people visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking. The city offers easy access to some of the world's most spectacular scenery. There are many hikes that you can easily reach from town. They pass through diverse landscapes that include waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and beaches.

Le Mans is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Le Mans or Reykjavik?

Le Mans
Reykjavik

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Reykjavik. The city's main shopping street is Laugavegur, which is where you'll find the most activity around town as well as a bustling atmosphere.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Le Mans or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Le Mans
Reykjavik

Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is a very family-friendly destination. With its many outdoor activities and hands on museums, the city is great for kids. The cafes and restaurants are family-friendly and their are plenty of entertainment options for the whole family.

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 Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Le Mans
Reykjavik

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

Reykjavik is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are museums, outdoor activities, and even the northern lights that make this city very romantic. The cafes are laid-back and the atmosphere is friendly.

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 Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Le Mans
Reykjavik

For backpackers, both Le Mans and Reykjavik are good places to visit.

Le Mans is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While there aren't many hostels specifically designed for backpackers, it is possible to find affordable accommodation at most times.

It's common for backpackers to visit Reykjavik. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is Le Mans or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Le Mans
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Le Mans is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Reykjavik. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

Le Mans
Reykjavik

Le Mans and Reykjavik both offer good public transit to get you around.

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).

Reykjavik has a few public transit options. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.


Is Le Mans or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Le Mans
Reykjavik

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

Reykjavik is very walkable. The city is small and compact, so it's 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 Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Le Mans?

How long in Le Mans or Reykjavik?

In either Le Mans or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Le Mans because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Le Mans, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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


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

One day in Le Mans or Reykjavik?

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.

In Reykjavik, you'll find nightlife and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This city 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 Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic 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.

In Reykjavik, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 Reykjavik has to offer.


Five days in Le Mans or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the historic 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.

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reykjavik has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Le Mans or Reykjavik?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Reykjavik. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to France, The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik is €228. 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 Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Le Mans 37
    Reykjavik 129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Le Mans 74
    Reykjavik 258
Compare Hotels in Le Mans and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Le Mans or Reykjavik? 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 Reykjavik


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 and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Le Mans 30
    Reykjavik 42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

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

  • Reykjavík: South Coast Guided Day Trip by Jeep with Transfer: $1,765
  • From Reykjavik Port: Private Blue Lagoon Transfer: $1,050
  • Blue Lagoon with Private Roundtrip Transfer: $473
  • Door to Door Private Blue Lagoon Transfer: $306
  • From ATV Ride and Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer: $287
  • Lava Tunnel Caving & Snorkeling in Silfra with Transfer | Free Photos: $283
  • Lava Tunnel Caving with Transfer | Small Group: $283
  • Private Luxury Airport Transfer Service: $278
  • Private transfer: Reykjavik to Keflavik International Airport (KEF): $277
  • Private Transfer from Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport : $273
  • Private Airport Transfer: $271
  • Private Airport Transfer from Reykjavik: $270

Is it cheaper to fly into Le Mans or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik 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
    Reykjavik 28

Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    165

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Icelandic Food Tour: $123
  • Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market: $125
  • The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour: $127
  • 3 Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour with Guide in Reykjavik: $129
  • Reykjavik Market & Lunch Food Tour - BitesizedIceland.com: $142
  • Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour - BitesizedIceland.com: $144
  • Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour: $145
  • Icelandic Cooking Class in Downtown Reykjavik with Musical Hosts: $296

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Le Mans 15
    Reykjavik 67

Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Reykjavik's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Museum
    9.97
  • Wine and Spa
    27

Tours and Activities in Reykjavik

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

  • WWII History Tour with a 1940's British Officer in Reykjavik: $148
  • #1 Northern Lights Tour In Iceland from Reykjavik with PRO photos: $145
  • 1 hour Reykjavík E-Scooter Adventure: $58
  • 1-Hour ATV Quad Tour from Reykjavik: $131
  • 1-Hour Helicopter Tour in Iceland: The Geothermal Tour: $435
  • 1hr ATV & Golden Circle Adventure from Reykjavik: $276
  • 1hr Buggy Adventure from Reykjavik: $172
  • 2hr Buggy 'Lava Field Adventure' from Reykjavik: $219
  • 3-Hour Private Discover Reykjavik Photography Tour: $172
  • 3hr Volcanic Springs ATV Adventure from Reykjavik: $299
  • ATV - QUAD Adventure: $174
  • Adventure in Landmannalaugar and Hot Springs - Reykjavík & Hella: $174

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Le Mans 12
    Reykjavik 26

Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Reykjavik are as follows:


  • Beer
    8.15

Sample the Local Flavors in Reykjavik

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Reykjavik:

  • Gin Distillery tour and tasting: $25
  • Eimverk Distillery Tour with Tasting: $32


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


Which is Bigger, Le Mans or Reykjavik?

Le Mans has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Le Mans and Reykjavik, 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 Reykjavik?

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 Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Le Mans and Reykjavik. 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 Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Le Mans is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Le Mans averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Le Mans, it's very sunny this time of the year. Le Mans usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Le Mans gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Le Mans usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Le Mans gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Le Mans as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Le Mans for the small town atmosphere. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the autumn. In the autumn, Le Mans is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Le Mans in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Le Mans often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Le Mans gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Le Mans gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Le Mans are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Le Mans in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during winter. Le Mans can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Le Mans is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Le Mans average around 5°C (40°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Le Mans usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Le Mans gets 54 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Le Mans usually receives around the same amount of rain as Reykjavik. Le Mans gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Le Mans during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town charm during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. Le Mans is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Le Mans averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Le Mans often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Le Mans gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Le Mans gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Le Mans

Le Mans Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)