A Travel Price Comparison for France Montpellier vs. Le Mans for Attractions, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Montpellier or Le Mans?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Montpellier and Le Mans. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a beautiful, friendly, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Montpellier and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Montpellier or Le Mans?

You'll generally find more things to do in Montpellier than Le Mans. Montpellier is bigger than Le Mans, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Montpellier is better known for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is more popular for its small town charm. Montpellier is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. Also, Montpellier is famous for The Place de la Comédie. 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.

How is Montpellier different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montpellier
Le Mans

Montpellier 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 Montpellier specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

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

Montpellier
Le Mans

Montpellier is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Le Mans is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Montpellier. The dishes are made with fresh ingredients produced in the agricultural areas just outside of town. The area is known for its seafood and fish stews.

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 Montpellier or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Montpellier
Le Mans

It's hard to distinguish whether Montpellier or Le Mans has a better nightlife scene.

Montpellier has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The weather is mild, making for a nice evening out. The population is also young, so you can expect a lot of activity during the evenings, particularly in the area around Place Jean Jaurés. Make sure you enjoy local wine and champagne while you're in town.

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.

Is Montpellier or Le Mans Better for Beaches?

Montpellier
Le Mans

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

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The coastline near Montpellier feels pristine and beautiful. You can also visit Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone to the southwest of town, which is a protected area.

Le Mans is not a beach destination.


Is Montpellier or Le Mans Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier
Le Mans

Montpellier 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 Montpellier is revered around the world. Known as L'Écusson the town's old town dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a pedestrian area that is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and churches.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Montpellier or Le Mans?

Montpellier
Le Mans

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Montpellier or Le Mans Better for Families?

Montpellier
Le Mans

Both Montpellier and Le Mans are notable family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Montpellier. Popular activities for kids include taking a ride on the carousel in the Comedie, visiting the playground - Jardin Champs de Mars, and visiting the botanical garden - Jardin des Plantes.

Le Mans offers lots of family activities. 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 Montpellier or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Montpellier
Le Mans

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

Montpellier is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Rich in history and beautiful architecture, this city offers a romantic setting for a great couple's getaway.

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 Montpellier or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier
Le Mans

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

Montpellier is very popular with the backpacker crowd. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of 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 Montpellier or Le Mans Better for Students?

Montpellier
Le Mans

Montpellier 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 Montpellier. Montpellier is a popular university town that is home to many trendy university students. It's also where you'll find the youngest population of any city in France.

Le Mans is not popular with students.


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

Montpellier
Le Mans

Montpellier is great 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.

Public transit in Montpellier is fairly effecient and thorough. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

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 Montpellier or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Montpellier
Le Mans

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

Montpellier is very walkable. Many of the sights and attractions are easily accessible on foot and can be enjoyed as part of a self-guided walking tour.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Le Mans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Montpellier and Le Mans. In our opinion, Montpellier has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Montpellier than Le Mans. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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


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

One day in Montpellier or Le Mans?

In Montpellier, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the quaint town of Le Mans. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Montpellier or Le Mans?

In Montpellier, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Montpellier has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the small destination of Le Mans. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Montpellier or Le Mans?

Montpellier is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

The small town of Le Mans offers nightlife and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Montpellier or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montpellier. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Montpellier. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Le Mans. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans or Montpellier?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Montpellier is €118, while the average daily cost in Le Mans is €83. 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 Montpellier and Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Montpellier 69
    Le Mans 37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Montpellier 138
    Le Mans 74
Compare Hotels in Montpellier and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in Montpellier 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 Montpellier


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: Montpellier Hotel Prices and Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Montpellier 26
    Le Mans 30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montpellier

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Montpellier:

  • Private Transfer from Sète Cruise Port to Marseille city hotels: $133
  • Transfer from Sète Port to Marseille Provence Airport MRS: $133
  • Departure Transfer Cap d'Agde to Montpellier Airport MPL by Private Vehicle: $112
  • Arrival Transfer Montpellier Airport MPL to Cap d'Agde by Private Vehicle: $110
  • Montpellier Private Transfer from Montpellier city centre to Montpellier Airport: $75
  • Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport Transfer: $65
  • Transfer Montpellier Airport and Beziers Airport: $50
  • Departure Transfer Montpellier to Montpellier Airport MPL by Private Vehicle: $23
  • Arrival Transfer Montpellier Airport MPL to Montpellier City by Private Vehicle: $23

Is it cheaper to fly into Montpellier or Le Mans?

Prices for flights to both Le Mans and Montpellier 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
    Montpellier 31
    Le Mans 27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Montpellier

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

  • Guided Food Tour With Local Snacks and Wine: $92
  • Montpellier Food Tour: $94
  • From Pic Saint-Loup Wine and Food Tour: $98
  • Private cooking class with specialized chefs Montpellier: $109
  • Fusion Food Cooking Class: $434

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Montpellier 12
    Le Mans 15

Tours and Activities in Montpellier

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

  • CityTour and Photo Portraits Souvenirs in Montpellier: $39
  • From Half-Day Vineyard & Pic Saint-Loup Tour: $81
  • From Wine and Olive Tour: $76
  • Highlights of Sète : history, food and wine experience: $176
  • Legendary Montpellier, flexible legends and storytelling tour: $17
  • Montpellier - Private Historic Walking tour: $434
  • Montpellier Private Guided Walking Tour: $312
  • Montpellier Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $273
  • Montpellier Wine and Oyster Tour: $87
  • Camargue Winery Tour with Tastings and Picnic: $255
  • Half-Day Hiking Tour of Pic Saint Loup & Picnic: $65
  • Personalized Day-Tour of the South of France: $1,075

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Montpellier 15
    Le Mans 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Montpellier

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

  • The Châteaux of Grès de Montpellier & Wine Tasting: $81
  • Small-Group Half-Day Châteaux of Montpellier Wine Tour: $85
  • Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Pic Saint-Loup Wine Tour from Montpellier: $85
  • Half-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $157
  • Montpellier : half day wine tour in Camargue: $162
  • Private Half-Day Languedoc Wine Tour from Sète: $243
  • Sète: Private Half–Day Wine Tour: $358


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


Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Le Mans?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier 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 Montpellier 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 Montpellier or Le Mans in the Summer?

Both Le Mans and Montpellier during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Montpellier for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Le Mans in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Montpellier is a little warmer than Le Mans. Typically, the summer temperatures in Montpellier in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Le Mans averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Le Mans, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Montpellier. In the summer, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in July than Le Mans. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F) 
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Le Mans in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Le Mans. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town atmosphere during these months.

In October, Montpellier is generally a little warmer than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 15°C (60°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during autumn. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Montpellier gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Montpellier usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Le Mans in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Le Mans. Most visitors come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Le Mans can be very cold. Montpellier is a little warmer than Le Mans in the winter. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Le Mans fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Le Mans. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Montpellier 7°C (44°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Le Mans in the Spring?

Both Le Mans and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year.

In the spring, Montpellier is a little warmer than Le Mans. Typically, the spring temperatures in Montpellier in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Le Mans averages at about 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Montpellier. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during spring. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Montpellier usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Montpellier

Montpellier Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)