Le Mans: A Budget-Friendly 2-Day Adventure!

Experience the thrill of racing history on a budget in Le Mans, France.

21 June 2023

A trip to Le Mans, France on a limited budget can be an incredible experience. Focus on free activities like exploring the city on foot, visiting the historic cathedral, or taking a walk along the Sarthe River. Try local cuisine at affordable restaurants or food markets, and save on accommodation by staying in budget hotels or hostels.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering the charm of Le Mans

  • Stay: Hôtel IBIS Budget Le Mans Centre
  • Start with a visit to the city’s iconic Le Mans Cathedral to see stunning Gothic architecture and magnificent stained glass windows.
  • Walk over to the nearby Place des Jacobins and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of one of France's largest markets.
  • Take a stroll to the Jardin des Plantes, an idyllic 19th-century park replete with flower gardens and ponds.
  • For lunch, head to La Taverne Guillaume for authentic French cuisine. Their house-made duck confit with mashed potatoes is a must-try!
  • In the evening, check out the historic quarter, Cité Plantagenêt, take a walk around the ramparts and learn about Le Mans' medieval past.
  • End the day with an outdoor movie at Cinéma en Plein Aira different screening every night at an affordable price!
Day 2

Cars and Castles

  • Breakfast at cozy Le Pain de Sucre and savor their delicious pastries
  • Then make your way to the Musée de Tessé for a diverse collection of art from around the world; from classical Greek statues to modern masterpieces.
  • Take a short ride out of town to the Château de la Groirie, a stunning castle from the 17th century with beautiful gardens to explore.
  • Drive to the famous Circuit de la Sarthe, home to the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans race, where you can take a tour of the facility and see vintage cars.
  • Grab a quick lunch at Le Bistronome, a popular and affordable dining option with great sandwiches and salads.
  • Before returning to the hotel, visit the breathtaking St-Julien Cathedral, a Romanesque wonder with a soaring nave and intricate carvings.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Le Mans by plane is to fly into Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport and then take a train from Gare de l'Est station in Paris to Le Mans station. There are several flights from major cities worldwide that operate into Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport. From there, take the RER B line to Gare du Nord and transfer to Gare de l'Est station to take the train.

Car

The best way to get to Le Mans by car is to drive from Paris. The journey takes around 2 hours and if you don't have a car, you can rent one from any of the major car rental companies in Paris.

Train

The best way to get to Le Mans by train is to take the TGV train from Paris Montparnasse station. This station is easily accessible by metro in Paris. The journey takes around 55 minutes and trains run regularly throughout the day.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Le Mans as the city is located inland. The closest port is in Nantes, which is a 2-hour drive from Le Mans. From Nantes, you can take a regional train to Le Mans station.

Bus

The best way to get to Le Mans by bus is to take a coach from Paris-Bercy station. This station can be accessed by metro in Paris. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and there are several coaches that run daily.

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Le Mans: A Budget-Friendly 2-Day Adventure!

A trip to Le Mans, France on a limited budget can be an incredible experience. Focus on free activities like exploring the city on foot, visiting the historic cathedral, or taking a walk along the Sarthe River. Try local cuisine at affordable restaurants or food markets, and save on accommodation by staying in budget hotels or hostels.