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

Should you visit Beijing or Le Mans?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Le Mans can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a cultural, fascinating, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Beijing travel costs.

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. See Le Mans travel costs.

Beijing and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Forbidden City
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Beijing or Le Mans?

You'll generally find more things to do in Beijing than Le Mans. Beijing is bigger than Le Mans, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Beijing is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is more popular for its small town charm. Beijing is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. 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 Beijing different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beijing
Le Mans

Beijing 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 Beijing from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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

Beijing
Le Mans

Beijing 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.

Beijing has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

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 Beijing or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Beijing
Le Mans

Beijing 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 Beijing for the nightlife scene. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

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 the Shopping Better in Beijing or Le Mans?

Beijing
Le Mans

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Beijing or Le Mans More Beautiful?

Beijing
Le Mans

Beijing is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Le Mans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Le Mans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Beijing or Le Mans Better for Families?

Beijing
Le Mans

Both Beijing and Le Mans are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beijing. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

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 Beijing or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Beijing
Le Mans

Both Beijing and Le Mans are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Beijing is a good city for couples to visit. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Le Mans is a nice destination for couples. It's a small town, but racing enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum.


Is Beijing or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing
Le Mans

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

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

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 Beijing or Le Mans Better for Students?

Beijing
Le Mans

Beijing is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Le Mans is not popular with students.

Beijing is very popular with students. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

Beijing
Le Mans

Beijing 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 Beijing is fairly effecient and thorough. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

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 Beijing or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Beijing
Le Mans

Le Mans is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Le Mans?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Beijing or Le Mans?

Because Beijing 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.

In Le Mans, you'll find nightlife and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Beijing or Le Mans?

Because Beijing 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.

In Le Mans, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Le Mans has to offer.


Five days in Beijing or Le Mans?

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

Le Mans is a great place to explore. 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.

A week in Beijing or Le Mans?

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

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans or Beijing?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Beijing is $91, while the average daily cost in Le Mans is $121. 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 Beijing and Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beijing $40
    Le Mans $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beijing $80
    Le Mans $88
Compare Hotels in Beijing and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in Beijing 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 Beijing


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: Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beijing $7.83
    Le Mans $35
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Beijing

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


  • Taxi
    $4.78
  • Train from Airport for Two
    $7.01
  • Taxi to Hotel
    $8.41
  • 2 Metro Passes
    $2.24
  • Metro
    $0.56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Beijing

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Beijing:

  • Pivate Transfer To Datong Yungang Grottoes From Beijing: $598
  • Beijing Layover Private Tour: City Highlights With Airport Transfer: $300
  • Beijing Acrobatics Show And Peking Opera Tour With Transfer: $299
  • Beijing Layover Tour with Hutong, Temple of Heaven and Airport Transfer: $296
  • Beijing Layover of Comprehensive City Tour With Airport Transfer: $290
  • Private Day Tour of Beijing City Overview with Airport Transfer: $285
  • Beijing Private Transfer: Mutianyu Great Wall Slow-Paced Visit: $280
  • Beijing Hutong Culture Experience with Airport Transfer: $276
  • Private Transfer to Beidaihe Summer Resort from Beijing: $272
  • Private Transfer To Guyaju Ancient Cave(With Options): $269
  • Private Transfer to Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace with A Guide: $259
  • Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City Private Tour With Airport Transfer: $249

Is it cheaper to fly into Beijing or Le Mans?

Prices for flights to both Le Mans and Beijing 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
    Beijing $34
    Le Mans $55
Typical Food Prices in Beijing

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Beijing:


  • Popcorn
    $0.84
  • Hot Pot Dinner
    $7.01
  • Dumpling Breakfast for Two
    $2.80
  • Watermelon
    $1.96
  • Peking Duck Dinner for 2
    $17
  • Two Popsicles
    $0.84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Beijing

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

  • Online Cooking Class Handmade Noodles by Sunflower Li: $20
  • Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $45
  • 3.5-Hour Walking Food Tour: A Bite of History at Beijing Niujie Street: $49
  • Temple of Heaven Private Tour w/Option Show &Dinner: $54
  • Experience Beijing Walking Food Tour Private : $55
  • Beijing Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
  • China's Favourite Street Food Cooking Workshop: $55
  • Private Local Food Tour in Beijing with a Local Guide: $59
  • Beijing Walking Food Tour with a Local Friend: $60
  • Beijing Shichahai Hutong Dinner and Beer Walking Tour: $68
  • Beijing Hidden Hutong Bike & Food Tour - Pro Photos Included: $71
  • Acrobatic Show with Peking Duck Dinner Private Tour: $72

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beijing $24
    Le Mans $18
Typical Entertainment Prices in Beijing

Here are a few typical costs in Beijing for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Entry to Summer Palace for Two
    $8.41
  • Two Opera Tickets
    $60
  • Temple of Heaven Park Entrance (for 2)
    $9.81
  • Forbidden City (for 2)
    $17
  • Forbidden City Tickets
    $17
  • Audio Guides at Forbidden City
    $11

Tours and Activities in Beijing

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

  • 1-Day Mutianyu Great Wall and Beijing Airport Drop off Tour: $235
  • All Inclusive Mutianyu Great Wall & Summer Palace Private Tour: $188
  • Beijing 2 Summer Palace Private Garden Tour: $140
  • Beijing Art Tour: Seeing Fantastic Ming Murals at Fa Hai Temple : $220
  • Beijing Private Tour of Ming Tombs, Summer Palace, Bird's Nest and Water Cube: $297
  • China Art Museum and 798 Art Zone Private Tour: $137
  • Forbidden City Private Walking Tour with Optional Sights: $81
  • Full Day Private Tour Incredible Beijing City Highlights: $179
  • Lama temple -Confucius temple - DongYue temple Private Cultural Tour: $156
  • Mutianyu Great Wall Ticket with Cable Car option: $16
  • Private Tour Temple of Heaven with Tickets: $33
  • 1-Day Beijing private tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and Ming Tombs: $150

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beijing $12
    Le Mans $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Beijing

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

  • Private Beijing Hutong Night Foodie and Bar Crawl Tour: $98
  • Evening Food Private Tour with Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat in Beijing: $110
  • 5-Hour Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour from Beijing: $178
  • Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour and Mutianyu Great Wall Visit: $238


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Le Mans, we can see that Le Mans is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Le Mans is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Le Mans would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Le Mans than you might in Beijing.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Beijing Expensive? and Is Le Mans Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Beijing or Le Mans?

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

Both Le Mans and Beijing during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Beijing in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Beijing is a little warmer than Le Mans. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beijing in July average around 27°C (80°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 Beijing. In the summer, Beijing often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Le Mans. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Le Mans. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Beijing or Le Mans in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Le Mans. Most visitors come to Beijing for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the small town atmosphere.

In October, Beijing is generally around the same temperature as Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Le Mans. Beijing 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
    Beijing 14°C (56°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Beijing or Le Mans in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Le Mans. The winter months attract visitors to Beijing because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year.

It's quite cold in Le Mans in the winter. The weather in Beijing can be very cold. Beijing is much colder than Le Mans in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Le Mans fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Le Mans. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beijing -4°C (26°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Beijing or Le Mans in the Spring?

Both Le Mans and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Le Mans for the small town charm.

In the spring, Beijing is a little warmer than Le Mans. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Le Mans averages at about 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Le Mans. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beijing 14°C (57°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Beijing

Beijing Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -4°C (26°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb -1°C (30°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 26 mm (1 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 25°C (76°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 176 mm (6.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 182 mm (7.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec -1°C (29°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)