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

Should you visit London or Le Mans?

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

London

London is a diverse, iconic, and global city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

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.

Is there more to do in London or Le Mans?

You'll generally find more things to do in London than Le Mans. London is bigger than Le Mans, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. London is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is more popular for its small town charm. London is more touristy than Le Mans and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. 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.

Big Ben
Big Ben

How is London different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

London
Le Mans

London 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 London from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

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 London or Le Mans Better for Theater?

London
Le Mans

London is a world-class destination for theatre. However, Le Mans is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in London is world-class. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Le Mans is not a theatre destination.

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

London
Le Mans

London 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 London. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

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 London or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

London
Le Mans

London 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 London just to party. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

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 London or Le Mans Better for Music?

London
Le Mans

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

London is known as a music capital around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Le Mans is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Le Mans?

London
Le Mans

London 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 London. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is London or Le Mans Better for Christmas?

London
Le Mans

London is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Le Mans does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, London is a top place to visit during Christmas. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Le Mans does not offer Christmas activities.


Is London or Le Mans Better for Christmas Markets?

London
Le Mans

London is a world-class destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Le Mans does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people travel to London specifically for the Christmas markets. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Le Mans does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Le Mans Better for Families?

London
Le Mans

London is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

London is one of the most popular family destinations. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

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 London or Le Mans Better for Couples?

London
Le Mans

London 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, London has plenty to offer. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

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 London or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London
Le Mans

London 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 London. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

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 London or Le Mans Better for Students?

London
Le Mans

London 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 London. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

London
Le Mans

London 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 London can get you around easily. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout 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 London or Le Mans a more walkable city?

London
Le Mans

London 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.

London is a very easy city to get around on foot. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or London?

How long in London or Le Mans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both London and Le Mans. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in London than in Le Mans. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 1-3 days is enough time in Le Mans.

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

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

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


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

One day in London or Le Mans?

Because London 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Le Mans. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in London or Le Mans?

Because London 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.

Le Mans is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in London or Le Mans?

London 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 London has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Le Mans. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in London or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. Because London 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the small destination of Le Mans. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans or London?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in London is £190, while the average daily cost in Le Mans is £71. 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 London and Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    London £123
    Le Mans £32
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    London £246
    Le Mans £64
Compare Hotels in London and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in London or Le Mans? 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 London


Hotels in Le Mans


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: London Hotel Prices and Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    London £26
    Le Mans £26
Typical Local Transportation Prices in London

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


  • Taxi Ride
    £15
  • Heathrow Express
    £18
  • Luggage Storage
    £8.00
  • London Map
    £1.29
  • Oyster Card
    £36
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2)
    £22
  • Oyster Card
    £27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

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

  • Southampton Cruise Terminals: Private Transfer to London: $1,300
  • London Luton Airport (LTN): Transfer to Southampton Port: $830
  • Southampton Port Transfer with Stonehenge stop-over included: $755
  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Transfer to Bristol city: $680
  • London Gatwick Airport (LGW): Transfer to Southampton Port: $650
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port: $575
  • Private Transfer Heathrow to Southampton Cruise Terminal: $562
  • Private Transfer From Southampton Cruise Terminal to London: $562
  • Harry Potter Family Package Tickets with Transfer: $500
  • Harry Potter Family Package with Transfers from London: $500
  • London Stansted Airport (STN): Transfer to Southampton Port: $486
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Harwich Port: $439

Is it cheaper to fly into London or Le Mans?

Prices for flights to both Le Mans and London 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
    London £34
    Le Mans £23
Typical Food Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to London:


  • Lunch at Starbucks
    £13
  • Tea
    £6.00
  • Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason
    £39
  • Morning Tea
    £6.35
  • Pastry
    £5.00
  • Sushi Dinner for One
    £18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London

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

  • Borough Market Food Tour - Self Guided: $6.47
  • Dinner and Live DJ at A Fancy Restaurant: $16
  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $34
  • Picadilly Circus: Hard Rock Cafe Set Menu Lunch or Dinner: $36
  • Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour: $44
  • Pizza Making Cookery Class: $52
  • Borough Bites, The London Food Tour: $66
  • Borough Market Flavors of London Food Tour: $66
  • No Diet Club - Best food Tour in East London: $67
  • African & Caribbean Food Tour in Multi-Cultural Brixton: $74
  • Plant Power - Vegan Food Tour: $87
  • Ultimate London Food Tour: Borough Market & Southwark: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    London £33
    Le Mans £13
Typical Entertainment Prices in London

For London, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Two Tickets to a Concert
    £83
  • London Symphony Orchestra
    £34
  • London Pass
    £47
  • Comedy Show
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in London

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for London.

  • Boogie Shoes Christmas Silent Disco Walking Tours London : $32
  • Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tour Camden: $63
  • Little Venice and Camden Walking Tour: $95
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Medieval Legends, ghosts and fire: $10
  • Silent Disco Walking Tours West End Boogie Shoes: $44
  • The London Dungeon Admission Ticket: $37
  • 'Downton Abbey' TV Locations and Blenheim Palace Tour from London: $220
  • "Luxury Tour: From London to Leeds Castle & Canterbury": $625
  • 1 Hour Unlimited Games and Rides Ticket in Babylon Park: $38
  • 2 Hour Belgravia Walking Tour and High Tea: $125
  • 2 Hours Rock and Roll Historical Walking Tour in London : $62
  • 2 Hours Unlimited Games and Rides Ticket in Babylon Park: $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    London £15
    Le Mans £10

Sample the Local Flavors in London

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

  • Historic Pub Walking Tour of London: $13
  • 2-Hour Haunted Pub Walking Tour: $20
  • Shoreditch Bar Crawl of Five Venues with Drink Deals: $22
  • Central London Pub Crawl: $23
  • 1 Big Night Out Weekday Pub Crawl: $23
  • Camden Pub Crawl in London: $25
  • Craft Brewery Tour with Tasting of 4 Beers: $25
  • Shoreditch Pub Crawl in London: $25
  • Pub Crawl of Central London: $29
  • Burlesque Cabaret Show in Covent Garden: $31
  • Camden Pub Crawl & Bar Tour London: $31
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Tour: $31


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


Which is Bigger, London or Le Mans?

London has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of London and Le Mans, 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 London or Le Mans?

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 London or Le Mans in the Summer?

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

In the summer, London is around the same temperature as Le Mans. Typically, the summer temperatures in London in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Le Mans averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Le Mans. London usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives around the same amount of rain as Le Mans. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    London 18°C (64°F) 
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit London or Le Mans in the Autumn?

Both Le Mans and London during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to London this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Le Mans for the small town atmosphere.

In October, London is generally around the same temperature as Le Mans. Daily temperatures in London average around 12°C (53°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, London often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in October than Le Mans. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    London 12°C (53°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit London or Le Mans in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Le Mans. Many travelers come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Le Mans in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Le Mans can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in London. London is around the same temperature as Le Mans in the winter. The daily temperature in London averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Le Mans fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

London usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Le Mans during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives less rain than Le Mans. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    London 4°C (40°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit London or Le Mans in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to London as well as Le Mans. Many visitors come to London in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, London is cooler than Le Mans. Typically, the spring temperatures in London in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Le Mans averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, London often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in April than Le Mans. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    London 9°C (48°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and London

London Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)