A Travel Price Comparison for France Lyon vs. Le Mans for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Lyon or Le Mans?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or Le Mans, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lyon

Lyon is a quaint, authentic, and historic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a historic, quaint, and small town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife and museums.

Lyon and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Le Mans?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lyon than Le Mans. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lyon is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Le Mans attracts visitors for its small town charm. Lyon is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. 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 Lyon different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon 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 Lyon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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 Lyon or Le Mans? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon 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.

Lyon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is great for nightlife. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Lyon for the nightlife scene. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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 Lyon or Le Mans Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Lyon is revered around the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Le Mans?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lyon or Le Mans Better for Families?

Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

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 Lyon or Le Mans Better for Couples?

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

Lyon is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

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 Lyon or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Lyon is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and 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 Lyon or Le Mans Better for Students?

Lyon 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 Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

Lyon 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 Lyon can get you around easily. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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 Lyon or Le Mans a more walkable city?

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

Lyon is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Le Mans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lyon and Le Mans. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than in Le Mans. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Le Mans.

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

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

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

One day in Lyon or Le Mans?

Because Lyon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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.

A weekend in Lyon or Le Mans?

Because Lyon 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. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lyon has to offer.

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.

Five days in Lyon or Le Mans?

Lyon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lyon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic 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.

A week in Lyon or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lyon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lyon. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Le Mans?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Lyon 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 Lyon or Le Mans?

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 Lyon or Le Mans in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Le Mans. Most visitors come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lyon is generally a little warmer than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 22°C (71°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Le Mans. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. In the summer, Lyon often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets more rain in July than Le Mans. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Le Mans in the Autumn?

Both Le Mans and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year.

Lyon is around the same temperature as Le Mans in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Le Mans fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lyon usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during autumn. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lyon usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lyon or Le Mans in the Winter?

Both Le Mans and Lyon during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lyon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Le Mans for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Le Mans. It's quite cold in Lyon in the winter. In the winter, Lyon is cooler than Le Mans. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lyon in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Le Mans averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Lyon often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets less rain in January than Le Mans. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Le Mans in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Le Mans. Many travelers come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Le Mans in the spring for the small town charm.

In April, Lyon is generally a little warmer than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 11°C (53°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Lyon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Le Mans during spring. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lyon usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Lyon