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

Should you visit Salzburg or Le Mans?

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

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

Salzburg

Salzburg is a cultural, recognizable, and historic city. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a quaint, small, and historic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include nightlife and museums.

Salzburg and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Salzburg or Le Mans?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Salzburg. Although Salzburg and Le Mans are roughly the same size, Salzburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Salzburg is better known for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Le Mans is more popular for its small town charm. Salzburg is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Also, Salzburg is famous for The Salzburg Old Town. 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.

The Salzburg Old Town
The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Salzburg
Le Mans

Salzburg 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 Salzburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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

Salzburg
Le Mans

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

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 Salzburg or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Salzburg
Le Mans

Both Salzburg and Le Mans are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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 Salzburg or Le Mans Better for Music?

Salzburg
Le Mans

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

Salzburg is known as a music capital around the world. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Le Mans is not a live music destination.


Is Salzburg or Le Mans Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg
Le Mans

Salzburg 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 Salzburg is revered around the world. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Le Mans?

Salzburg
Le Mans

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Salzburg or Le Mans Better for Families?

Salzburg
Le Mans

Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Salzburg
Le Mans

Salzburg 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, Salzburg has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg
Le Mans

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

Salzburg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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 Salzburg or Le Mans Better for Students?

Salzburg
Le Mans

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Le Mans is not popular with students.


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

Salzburg
Le Mans

Salzburg 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 Salzburg is fairly effecient and thorough. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Salzburg or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Salzburg
Le Mans

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

Salzburg is very walkable. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Le Mans?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Salzburg or Le Mans?

In Salzburg, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

The town of Le Mans offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Salzburg or Le Mans?

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Le Mans is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Le Mans, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Salzburg or Le Mans?

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

Le Mans is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Salzburg or Le Mans?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. 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.

Le Mans is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans or Salzburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Salzburg is €155, 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 Salzburg and Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Salzburg 91
    Le Mans 37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Salzburg 182
    Le Mans 74
Compare Hotels in Salzburg and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in Salzburg 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 Salzburg


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: Salzburg Hotel Prices and Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Salzburg 19
    Le Mans 30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salzburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Salzburg:

  • Private transfer from Salzburg to Vienna: $738
  • Private transfer from Salzburg to Prague: $695
  • Cesky Krumlov: Private One-Way Transfer to Salzburg: $629
  • Private transfer from Salzburg to Vienna with 2h of sightseeing: $300
  • Private transfer from Salzburg to Prague: $298
  • Private Transfer from Salzburg to Vienna with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $291
  • Kitzbuhel, Flachau, Transfer From Salzburg & Airport SZG: $288
  • Private transfer Salzburg → Vienna with stop in Mauthausen Concentration Camp: $284
  • From Salzburg to Prague, Private Transfer with 2h of Sightseeing: $283
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Salzburg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $278
  • Private Transfer from Salzburg to Prague with local English-speaking driver: $278
  • Private Transfer from Salzburg City to Vienna City: $272

Is it cheaper to fly into Salzburg or Le Mans?

Prices for flights to both Le Mans and Salzburg 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
    Salzburg 41
    Le Mans 27
Typical Food Prices in Salzburg

Some typical examples of dining costs in Salzburg are as follows:


  • Lunch Salad
    9.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Salzburg

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

  • Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Class Including Lunch: $59
  • Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg: $60
  • Best of Mozart Fortress Concert and Dinner: $81
  • Best of Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $83
  • Mozart Concert with Dinner: $83
  • Dinner Cooking Class and Music: $84
  • Mozart Dinner Concert in Salzburg: $85
  • Dinner Cooking Class - Prezels, Dumplings, Apple Strudel & Music: $86
  • Dinner and Classical Concert at Mirabell Palace: $94
  • Cruise, Dinner & Fortress Concert: $106
  • Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Salzburg with River Cruise: $111
  • Best of Mozart Concert and GOLDEN VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $133

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Salzburg 30
    Le Mans 15

Tours and Activities in Salzburg

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Salzburg are as follows:

  • 2-Hour Private Salzburg City Highlights Tour: $272
  • 3 hour private walking tour - Salzburg: $176
  • 3-Night Salzburg Winter Package with City Highlights Tour: $240
  • 3D Exclusive VR-Tour: $321
  • 3D Unique VR-Tour: $29
  • A day in the life of Salzburg - Private tour with a local: $230
  • A taste of An audio tour through the birthplace of Mozart: $7.47
  • Amphibious Splash Tour on the Water and on the Land in Salzburg: $45
  • Austrian Lakes and Salzburg Private Tour from Vienna: $1,123
  • Best of Mozart Concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg with Amphibious Splash Tour: $94
  • Best of Mozart Concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg with River Cruise: $71
  • Best of Salzburg 1-Hour Private Sightseeing Tour: $163

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Salzburg 26
    Le Mans 12
Typical Alcohol Prices in Salzburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Salzburg:


  • Beer
    3.70

Sample the Local Flavors in Salzburg

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

  • Stiegl Brewery Museum Entry Ticket & Beer Tasting: $16
  • Stiegl Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting: $24
  • Guided Wine Tasting in a Hidden Wine Bar: $36
  • Private Austrian Wine Tasting with a Pro-Sommelière: $185


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


Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Le Mans?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Le Mans. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the music scene 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 the summer, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Le Mans. Typically, the summer temperatures in Salzburg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Le Mans averages at about 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 Salzburg this time of the year. In the summer, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Le Mans. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in July than Le Mans. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Salzburg 20°C (68°F) 
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Le Mans in the Autumn?

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

In October, Salzburg is generally cooler than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (52°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during autumn. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Le Mans. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Salzburg 11°C (52°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Le Mans in the Winter?

Both Le Mans and Salzburg during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Salzburg 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 Salzburg in the winter. Salzburg is much colder than Le Mans in the winter. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Le Mans fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Le Mans. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in January than Le Mans. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Salzburg -0°C (31°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Le Mans in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Le Mans. Typically, the spring temperatures in Salzburg in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Le Mans averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Le Mans during spring. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Salzburg 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
    Salzburg 11°C (51°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Salzburg

Salzburg Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 93 mm (3.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 1°C (35°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)