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

Should you visit Le Mans or Rome?

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

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.

Rome

Rome is a fun-filled, popular, and ancient city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Le Mans and Rome: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Colosseum


Is there more to do in Le Mans or Rome?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rome than Le Mans. Rome is bigger than Le Mans, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rome is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is more popular for its small town charm. Rome is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. Also, Rome is famous for The Colosseum. 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 Colosseum
The Colosseum

How is Le Mans different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Le Mans
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Rome from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Le Mans
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Le Mans is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Rome has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

Le Mans
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

People head to Rome just to party. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Is Le Mans or Rome Better for Music?

Le Mans
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for live music. However, Le Mans is not a live music destination.

Rome is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Le Mans is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Le Mans or Rome?

Le Mans
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Rome. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Le Mans or Rome Better for Families?

Le Mans
Rome

Rome 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.

Rome is a very family-friendly destination. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

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 Rome Better for Couples?

Le Mans
Rome

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

Rome is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

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 Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Le Mans
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Rome. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

Le Mans
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Le Mans is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

Le Mans
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination 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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Rome can get you around easily. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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 Rome a more walkable city?

Le Mans
Rome

Rome 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.

Rome is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Le Mans?

How long in Le Mans or Rome?

Both Le Mans and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Le Mans. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Le Mans, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Le Mans or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    Le Mans 1-3 
    Rome 3-7

One day in Le Mans or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Le Mans. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This 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 Rome?

Le Mans is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Le Mans or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quaint destination of Le Mans. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Le Mans or Rome?

The historic town of Le Mans offers nightlife and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to France, The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Rome 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 Rome is €170. 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 Rome in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Le Mans 37
    Rome 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Le Mans 74
    Rome 178
Compare Hotels in Le Mans and Rome

Looking for a hotel in Le Mans or Rome? 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 Rome


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 Rome Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Le Mans 30
    Rome 21

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Rome:


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    2.00
  • Train to the Airport
    15
  • Taxi to Airport
    45
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • Trieste Port: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Rome Hotels: $2,535
  • Fiumucino Rome Airport (FCO): 1-Way Transfer To Trieste Port: $2,535
  • Rome Airport (FCO): Transfer to/from Venice Port: $2,007
  • Luxury Private Transfer Siena to Rome Fiumicino Airport: $973
  • Private luxury transfer Siena to Rome city center: $936
  • Luxury private transfer Siena to Rome Ciampino airport: $936
  • Private Transfer from Amalfi to Rome or viceversa: $839
  • From Sorrento: Private Transfer to Rome or Vice Versa: $813
  • Verona Airport (VRN) : One-Way Private Transfer to Ravenna: $706
  • Sorrento to Rome 1-Way Private Transfer: $663
  • Private Transfer from Naples to Rome or viceversa: $620
  • From Private Transfer to Naples or Vice Versa: $588

Is it cheaper to fly into Le Mans or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome 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
    Rome 47

Typical Food Prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rome:


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    14
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches
    2.99
  • Cafe e doce
    4.00
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    2.65
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    32
  • Cheese and bread
    10
  • Espresso
    2.00
  • Dinner
    58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rome

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rome.

  • Award-Winning Roman Food Tours: $16
  • Tipsy Food Crawl Walking Tour with Dinner: $31
  • Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32
  • Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
  • Rome Food Tour with Wine Tasting and Farmers Market in Prati Area: $32
  • Guided Food Tour with Food and Drink Tastings: $33
  • Roman Master Chef Cooking Class with Wine: $36
  • Roman Dinner & History Tour: An Epic Journey Through Time: $37
  • Painting & Pizza Party with Unlimited Wine: $40
  • Campo dei Fiori & Jewish Ghetto area Street Food Tour: $42
  • Rome Food Tour : Street Food Testings with Local Guide: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Food Tour at Vatican and Trionfale Farmers: $43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Le Mans 15
    Rome 36

Typical Entertainment Prices in Rome

Here are a few typical costs in Rome for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Rome Museum Vaticano (for 2)
    69
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    33
  • Roma Pass
    30
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    20
  • Segway Tour
    75

Tours and Activities in Rome

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

  • Appian Way and Aqueducts Electric Bike Tour: $82
  • Castel Sant Angelo Skip the Line Tickets: $39
  • Colosseum Arena Floor Guided Tour with Ancient Rome Access : $195
  • Colosseum Gladiator Arena Floor Complete Guided Tour : $206
  • Colosseum Tour With Kids: $195
  • Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tour with Circus Maximus and Forums: $16
  • Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill Professional Guided Tour: $161
  • Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour: $184
  • Complete St Peters Basilica Tour with Dome Climb and Crypt: $43
  • Cruise into Rome?! Full-Day Rome Discovery from Civitavecchia : $96
  • Fast Track Colosseum with Arena and afternoon Vatican Museums Tour: $191
  • Golf Cart Driving Tour: Rome City Highlights in 2.5 hrs: $104

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Le Mans 12
    Rome 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rome:


  • Bottle of Wine
    6.50
  • Pint of Beer
    6.34
  • Beer
    10

Sample the Local Flavors in Rome

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rome:

  • Trionfale and Prati Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $31
  • Trionfale Farmers Market and Vatican Quarter Food and Wine Tour: $32
  • Vatican Food and Wine Tasting Tour next to the Sistine Chapel: $32
  • Cabaret & Burlesque Show: $32
  • Vatican Quarter and Trionfale Farmers Market Food and Wine Tour: $43
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $52
  • Tipsy Tour: Fun Bar Crawl In Rome With Local Guide : $53
  • Wine Tour in Historic Center of Rome: $55
  • Frascati Wine Tasting Experience & Vineyards Tour : $61
  • Pasta Making Class & Wine Tasting in a Trasteve Villa: $68
  • E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $68
  • Private Wine Tasting in Trastevere: $71


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


Which is Bigger, Le Mans or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Le Mans and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Le Mans or Rome in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Le Mans as well as Rome. Many travelers come to Le Mans for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Le Mans is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Le Mans average around 19°C (66°F), and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Le Mans this time of the year. In the summer, Le Mans often gets less sunshine than Rome. Le Mans gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Le Mans gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F) 
    Rome 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Le Mans are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Le Mans in the autumn for the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Le Mans is cooler than Rome in the autumn. The daily temperature in Le Mans averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Le Mans usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Le Mans gets 117 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Le Mans usually receives less rain than Rome. Le Mans gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F) 
    Rome 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Le Mans during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Le Mans for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Rome because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Le Mans can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Le Mans is much colder than Rome. Typically, the winter temperatures in Le Mans in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Rome averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Le Mans often gets less sunshine than Rome. Le Mans gets 54 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets less rain in January than Rome. Le Mans gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F) 
    Rome 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Rome in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Le Mans and Rome. The spring months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the small town charm. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

In April, Le Mans is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Le Mans average around 10°C (50°F), and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. Le Mans usually receives less sunshine than Rome during spring. Le Mans gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Le Mans usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rome. Le Mans gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F) 
    Rome 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Le Mans

Le Mans Rome
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in) 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)