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

Should you visit Le Mans or Split?

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

Le Mans

Le Mans is a historic, quaint, and small town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife and museums.

Split

Split is a fun-filled, budget-friendly, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Le Mans and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Le Mans or Split?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Split than Le Mans. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Split is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Le Mans attracts visitors for its small town charm. Split is more touristy than Le Mans and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Le Mans is famous 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 Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Split 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 Split specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

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 Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Split 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 Split. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

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 Split Better for Nightlife?

Split 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 Split just to party. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

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 Split Better for Resorts?

Split is great for its luxury resorts. However, Le Mans is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Split. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

Le Mans is not a resort destination.

Is Le Mans or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Le Mans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Split. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Le Mans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Le Mans or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is great for its beaches. However, Le Mans is not a beach destination.

Split is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Le Mans is not a beach destination.

Is Le Mans or Split Better for its Old Town?

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

Split is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Le Mans or Split?

Split is great for shopping. However, Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Split. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Le Mans or Split Better for Families?

Split 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.

Split is a very family-friendly destination. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun 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 Split Better for Couples?

Split is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Split has plenty to offer. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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 Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split 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 Split. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

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 Split Better for Students?

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

Split is very popular with students. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

Le Mans and Split both offer nice 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).

Split has a few public transit options. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Le Mans or Split a more walkable city?

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

Split is very walkable. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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 Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Le Mans?

How long in Le Mans or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Le Mans or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Split 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 Split.

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

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

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

One day in Le Mans or Split?

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 Split, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Split?

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 Split, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Split has to offer.

Five days in Le Mans or Split?

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.

Split is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Split?

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 Split. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Split. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Le Mans or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 22% larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Le Mans and Split, 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 Split?

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 Split in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Le Mans and Split. Many visitors come to Le Mans in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Le Mans is cooler than Split. Typically, the summer temperatures in Le Mans in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Split averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In Le Mans, it's very sunny this time of the year. Le Mans usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Le Mans gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Le Mans usually receives more rain than Split. Le Mans gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Le Mans or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Le Mans as well as Split. Most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Split because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Le Mans is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Le Mans average around 13°C (55°F), and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the autumn, Le Mans often gets less sunshine than Split. Le Mans gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets less rain in October than Split. Le Mans gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Le Mans or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Le Mans are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Split this time of year.

The weather in Le Mans can be very cold. Le Mans is much colder than Split in the winter. The daily temperature in Le Mans averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Le Mans usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Le Mans gets 54 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Le Mans usually receives less rain than Split. Le Mans gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Le Mans or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Le Mans during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Le Mans is cooler than Split. Typically, the spring temperatures in Le Mans in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Split averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Le Mans often gets less sunshine than Split. Le Mans gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Le Mans usually gets less rain in April than Split. Le Mans gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Le Mans