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

Should you visit Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Le Mans and Sao Paulo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a quaint, small, and historic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the nightlife and museums. See Le Mans travel costs.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a colorful, cultural, and dynamic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Le Mans and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sao Paulo than Le Mans. Sao Paulo is bigger than Le Mans, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sao Paulo is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Le Mans is more popular for its small town charm. Sao Paulo is more touristy than Le Mans and is known for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene. Also, Sao Paulo is famous for Ibirapuera Park. 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 Le Mans different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Le Mans
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo 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 Sao Paulo from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. While many visitors overlook Sao Paulo for other destinations in Brazil, those that do visit will be rewarded with a large number of museums and sights. It's the largest city in South America, and there's plenty to do. Highlights include Museu de Arte, Museu de Arte, Museu de Arte Contemporânea, and the 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 Le Mans or Sao Paulo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Le Mans
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo 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 Sao Paulo. The city offers a huge mix of fine dining restaurants, street food vendors, family-friendly restaurants, and large local markets. The cuisine has many influences such as the Portuguese, West Africa, and even the Middle East. Popular dishes include the street food coxinha, feijoada (black bean and beef stew), and cachooro-quente (local hot dogs).

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 Le Mans or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Le Mans
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

People head to Sao Paulo just to party. As the economic hub for Brazil, you'll find tons of bars, clubs, and venues throughout the city. The best neighborhood for a party is Vila Madalena, which is filled with restaurants and bars. For live music and food trucks, check out Rua Augusta. There are also many different neighborhoods in this megacity, and many have a lively energy and plenty to do at night. Every night you should be able to find something different to do.

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 Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

Le Mans
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo 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 Sao Paulo. The shopping opportunities are diverse, from megamalls to local markets, and international boutiques. There are many great neighborhoods for shopping, like Jardins, where you'll find high end stores. The main shopping street is Rua Oscar Freire. Downtown Sao Paulo has a mix of retail stores and market stalls that sell everything from cheap fashion to inexpensive odds and ins.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Le Mans or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Le Mans
Sao Paulo

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Le Mans or Sao Paulo.

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.

Sao Paulo is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy a visit to the zoo or one of the kid-friendly museums around town. There are also a number of parks, some kid-friendly restaurants, and even an amusement park.

Is Le Mans or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

Le Mans
Sao Paulo

Both Le Mans and Sao Paulo are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Sao Paulo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many great activities that will make for an exciting couples trip. There are parks and museums, bars and restaurants, and theaters where you can see a show. Many couples enjoy a visit to the Botanical Garden of Sao Paulo or a stroll through Ibirapuera Park. You can watch the sunset with a view of the city from one of the many rooftop bars and then enjoy some samba dancing on the town.

Is Le Mans or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Le Mans
Sao Paulo

For backpackers, both Le Mans and Sao Paulo are notable places to visit.

Le Mans is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While there aren't many hostels specifically designed for backpackers, it is possible to find affordable accommodation at most times.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sao Paulo. While it's overlooked by many travelers, backpackers who linger for awhile will enjoy the city's authenticity and cultural scene. There are also a number of hostels around town.


Is Le Mans or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Le Mans
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Le Mans is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Sao Paulo. The city is large with a diverse population and plenty to offer students. There are good educational institutions and a great international vibe as well.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

Le Mans
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Sao Paulo can get you around easily. It's a huge city, so you'll likely make use of the metro during your trip. There are six lines to the metro system and they provide convenient access to many of the city's top attractions. The city also has many bus routes as well.

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 Le Mans or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Le Mans
Sao Paulo

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

Sao Paulo is very walkable. It's a megacity that has a wide range of neighborhoods. The city center is generally very walkable, but because of its size, you'll want to have an itinerary planned out for each day.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Le Mans?

How long in Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Le Mans and Sao Paulo. In our opinion, Sao Paulo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sao Paulo than Le Mans. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Le Mans, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sao Paulo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sao Paulo 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 Sao Paulo.


  • How many days in Le Mans or Sao Paulo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Le Mans 1-3 
    Sao Paulo 2-3

One day in Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

You'll find nightlife and museums around the town of Le Mans. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Le Mans has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because Sao Paulo 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.

A weekend in Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quaint destination of Le Mans. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Sao Paulo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sao Paulo has to offer.

Five days in Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the quaint town of Le Mans. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Sao Paulo 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 Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

Le Mans is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sao Paulo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sao Paulo. 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 Adventure Tours to France, The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, The Best 3-Day Tours from Manaus, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Sao Paulo or Le Mans?

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

  • Le Mans Prices
    France Prices
    Sao Paulo Prices
    Brazil Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Le Mans 103
    Sao Paulo 51

The average daily cost (per person) in Le Mans is €103, while the average daily cost in Sao Paulo is €51. 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 Le Mans and Sao Paulo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Le Mans 37
    Sao Paulo 24
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Le Mans 74
    Sao Paulo 48
Compare Hotels in Le Mans and Sao Paulo

Looking for a hotel in Le Mans or Sao Paulo? 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 Le Mans


Hotels in Sao Paulo


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 and Sao Paulo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Le Mans 30
    Sao Paulo 4.90

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sao Paulo

Also for Sao Paulo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo Airport (GRU) to Ilhabela Port: $295
  • Transfer from São Paulo to Port of Santos: $230
  • Private Transfer from Gru Airport to Port or City of Santos (1 to 15 people): $229
  • Private Transfer from Morumbi to Sao Paulo (GRU) Airport: $178
  • Airport Transfer: Sao Paulo to Airport GRU by Luxury Van: $176
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo hotels to Santos Cruise Port: $170
  • Sao Paulo Guarulhos Airport GRU to Sao Paulo RoundTrip Transfer : $158
  • Airport Transfer: Sao Paulo to Airport GRU by Business Car: $143
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo city hotels to Santos Cruise Port: $138
  • Transfer to Guarulhos Airport - up to 4 passengers sedan: $130
  • Private Transfer from Alphaville to Sao Paulo (GRU) Airport: $125
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo City to Congonhas (CGH) Airport: $123

Is it cheaper to fly into Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

Prices for flights to both Sao Paulo and Le Mans 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
    Le Mans 47
    Sao Paulo 21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sao Paulo

For Sao Paulo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Make 9 Brazilian Faves in a 4-Hour Cooking Workshop in Sao Paulo: $85
  • Authentic Brazilian Cooking Experience in SP: Feijoada & Moqueca: $189

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Le Mans 15
    Sao Paulo 3.31

Tours and Activities in Sao Paulo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sao Paulo.

  • São Paulo: 2 Hour Immersion Waling Tour in Paulista Avenue: $34
  • 4 Hour Private Tour - São Paulo: $142
  • 4-Hour Private Tour in Sao Paulo: $300
  • 4-hour Sum-up Private Tour Of São Paulo Including Its Major Attractions : $134
  • 5-hour Pelé Private Tour: The King of Football : $162
  • 5-hour Private Street Art Tour Of São Paulo – The Coolest Urban Art Scenes: $176
  • 5-hour Private Tour Of São Paulo With Its Main Sights – Optional Airport Pickup: $162
  • 5h City Tour (pick up & delivery within SaoPaulo city): $240
  • 6 Hour Ayrton Senna Tour – The Greatest Formula 1 Drivers of all Time: $193
  • 6-Hour Classic Half-Day Private Tour of São Paulo – Optional Airport Pickup : $178
  • 6-Hour Private Layover Tour in São Paulo from GRU & CGH Airports: $178
  • 7-hour Private Tour Overview Of São Paulo – Optional For GRU Airport Pickup: $192

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Le Mans 12
    Sao Paulo 2.88

Sample the Local Flavors in Sao Paulo

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

  • Fine wine tastings in São Roque - Tour with local guides: $192


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Le Mans and Sao Paulo, we can see that Le Mans is more expensive. And not only is Sao Paulo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Le Mans is in Europe and Sao Paulo is in South America, 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 Sao Paulo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sao Paulo 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 Sao Paulo.

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


Which is Bigger, Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Le Mans and Sao Paulo, 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 Le Mans or Sao Paulo?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Sao Paulo is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Le Mans has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Le Mans or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

Both Sao Paulo and Le Mans are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Le Mans is generally cooler than Sao Pauloin January. Daily temperatures in Le Mans average around 19°C (66°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sao Paulo. In July, Le Mans usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin January. Le Mans gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Sao Paulo is October to March.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F) 
    Sao Paulo 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

Both Sao Paulo and Le Mans during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Le Mans for the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Le Mans is much colder than Sao Paulo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Le Mans averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

Le Mans usually gets more rain in October than Sao Pauloin April. Le Mans gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Sao Paulo.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F) 
    Sao Paulo 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Le Mans and Sao Paulo. Many visitors come to Le Mans in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Le Mans can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Le Mans is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Le Mans in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 19°C (66°F)in July.

In January, Le Mans usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin July. Le Mans gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F) 
    Sao Paulo 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Le Mans or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Le Mans as well as Sao Paulo. Most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town charm during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the activities around the city.

In April, Le Mans is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin October. Daily temperatures in Le Mans average around 10°C (50°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Le Mans usually gets less rain in April than Sao Pauloin October. Le Mans gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Sao Paulo is the rainy season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F) 
    Sao Paulo 21°C (70°F)

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Le Mans

Le Mans Sao Paulo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 24°C (75°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in) 23°C (73°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 24°C (75°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)