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

Should you visit Paphos or Le Mans?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos 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.

Paphos

Paphos is a overlooked, ancient, and beautiful town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a small, historic, and quaint town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for nightlife and museums.

Paphos and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Paphos or Le Mans?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Le Mans are both popular with visitors, Paphos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paphos is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is known for its small town charm. Paphos is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also home to Paphos Archaeological Park. Le Mans is popular 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 Paphos different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paphos
Le Mans

Paphos 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 Paphos from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

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

Paphos
Le Mans

Paphos 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.

Paphos has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

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 Paphos or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Paphos
Le Mans

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

Paphos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

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 Paphos or Le Mans Better for Resorts?

Paphos
Le Mans

Paphos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Le Mans is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Paphos is a perfect choice. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Le Mans is not a resort destination.


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

Paphos
Le Mans

Paphos is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Le Mans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Paphos. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Le Mans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Le Mans Better for Beaches?

Paphos
Le Mans

Paphos is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Le Mans is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Paphos is a very popular vacation destination. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Le Mans is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Le Mans Better for its Old Town?

Paphos
Le Mans

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

Paphos is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Le Mans?

Paphos
Le Mans

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Paphos. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paphos or Le Mans Better for Families?

Paphos
Le Mans

Paphos 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.

Paphos is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

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 Paphos or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Paphos
Le Mans

Paphos 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, Paphos has plenty to offer. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

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 Paphos or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos
Le Mans

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

Paphos is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

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

Paphos
Le Mans

Paphos 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 Paphos is fairly effecient and thorough. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

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 Paphos or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Paphos
Le Mans

Paphos and Le Mans both are good when exploring on foot.

Paphos is somewhat walkable. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Le Mans?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Paphos or Le Mans? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paphos 3-5 
    Le Mans 1-3

One day in Paphos or Le Mans?

In Paphos, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town 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 Paphos or Le Mans?

In Paphos, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Paphos or Le Mans?

Paphos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paphos 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 Paphos or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Paphos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the historic 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans or Paphos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Paphos is €97, 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 Paphos and Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paphos 48
    Le Mans 37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paphos 96
    Le Mans 74
Compare Hotels in Paphos and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in Paphos 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 Paphos


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: Paphos Hotel Prices and Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Le Mans 30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paphos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Paphos:

  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport to Larnaca in Minivan(Taxi): $191
  • Private Transfer Paphos Airport PFO to Paphos City by Luxury Car: $138
  • Paphos Airport (PFO) to Paphos city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $61
  • Choirokitia & Famagusta Guided Tour with Transfers: $43
  • Private Airport Transfer from Hotel to Paphos Airport in a 4-seater taxi: $42
  • Blue Lagoon trip with slide, music & transfer from Paphos: $32
  • Paphos to Paphos Int Airport (PFO) - Departure Private Transfer: $31
  • From Nicosia Sightseeing Tour with Hotel Transfer: $30
  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport (PFO) to Limassol Port: $25

Is it cheaper to fly into Paphos or Le Mans?

Prices for flights to both Le Mans and Paphos 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
    Paphos 38
    Le Mans 27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paphos

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

  • From Sunset Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner: $52
  • Sunset Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner: $54
  • Wave Dancer Fireworks, Buffet Dinner & Show Cruise: $66

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

Tours and Activities in Paphos

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

  • Guided Tour of Limassol with Kourion and Kolossi Castle : $49
  • 100% Cyprus - Tour to Troodos mountains and villages (From Paphos) : $52
  • 3 Hours Sunset Cruise in Atlantida Bay: $54
  • 6 hour Buggy Tour Akamas incl lunch and Adonis Falls: $209
  • 6-Hour Quad or Buggy Tour incl Lunch and Entrance to Adonis Falls: $87
  • Adonis Falls Lazy Sunday Quad and Buggy Adventure : $76
  • Akamas Jeep Safari Tour from Paphos: $62
  • Akamas Panorama: Private Mini Bus Tour With Local Guide: $588
  • Akamas Peninsula Full Day 4x4 Winter Tour: $71
  • Ancient Kourion, Kolossi Castle, Omodos & Winery Tour - Paphos: $94
  • Authentic Cyprus Historic Day Tour from Paphos: $33
  • Blue Lagoon (Akamas) Cruise: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paphos 9.98
    Le Mans 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Paphos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paphos:

  • Wine tasting and winery tour at Fikardos Winery: $28
  • Troodos Mountains Jeep Tour with Wine Tasting: $64
  • Regional Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings: $80
  • WINE TOUR from Paphos: $104


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


Which is Bigger, Paphos or Le Mans?

Le Mans has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos 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 Paphos 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 Paphos or Le Mans in the Summer?

Both Le Mans and Paphos during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Paphos is a little warmer than Le Mans in the summer. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Le Mans fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Le Mans, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Le Mans. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Paphos 27°C (80°F) 
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Le Mans in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Le Mans. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year.

In the autumn, Paphos is much warmer than Le Mans. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paphos in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Le Mans averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Le Mans. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Paphos 21°C (70°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Le Mans in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Le Mans. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Le Mans for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Le Mans. In January, Paphos is generally much warmer than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 12°C (53°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in January than Le Mans. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Paphos 12°C (53°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Le Mans in the Spring?

Both Le Mans and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Le Mans in the spring for the small town charm.

Paphos is much warmer than Le Mans in the spring. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Le Mans fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Le Mans. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Paphos 17°C (62°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Paphos

Paphos Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 1 mm (0 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)


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