✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Le Mans.
Le Mans, a city steeped in history and charm, is a treasure trove of activities waiting to be discovered.
From exploring its picturesque streets to indulging in its diverse culinary offerings, Le Mans promises visitors an unforgettable experience.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Le Mans:
1. Circuit des 24 Heures du Mans
World famous endurance car race track in Le Mans, France.
What to see or do: Visit the Circuit des 24 Heures du Mans museum to learn about the history of the race.
Take a tour of the track and see the starting grid, pit lane, and famous landmarks such as the Dunlop bridge and the Tertre Rouge corner.
Attend the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in June to see cars from around the world compete in one of the most grueling races in motorsport.
Don’t miss: Taking a photo at the start/finish line, the podium where the winners celebrate, and the museum’s collection of historic cars and memorabilia.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit around the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in June to experience the excitement of the event. Be sure to book your tickets and accommodations in advance, as the race attracts a large crowd.
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved during the tour of the track.
2. Le Mans Cathedral
Le Mans Cathedral, also known as St. Julian’s Cathedral, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture in the city of Le Mans, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the cathedral and the intricacies of its design, including its impressive stained glass windows and ornate carvings.
The cathedral also houses several important artifacts, including the Veil of St. Elizabeth of Hungary.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the cathedral’s towers for stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Additionally, be sure to observe the chantier, or renovation works, that are ongoing in the cathedral.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to visit in the morning as the light shining through the stained glass windows is especially beautiful.
3. Plantagenet City
Plantagenet City is a historic walled district in Le Mans, France, that dates back to the 3rd century.
What to see or do: Explore the winding cobblestone streets and admire the charming half-timbered houses and Gothic architecture. Visit the Musée de Tessé for a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from the region’s history.
Don’t miss the Cathédrale St-Julien, a stunning Romanesque and Gothic cathedral with beautiful stained glass windows.
Insider travel tips: Climb the Tour de Beurre for breathtaking views of the city. Try the local specialty rillettes (meat spread) and wine at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the district.
Check out the nighttime light show during the summer months for a unique experience.
4. Musee de Tesse
A fine arts museum located in the heart of Le Mans, France.
What to see or do: The museum houses an impressive collection of 17th and 18th-century paintings, as well as sculptures, artifacts, and decorative arts.
One of the highlights is the collection of French paintings from the 19th century, including works by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres and Théodore Géricault.
The museum also has a beautiful garden that’s perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Don’t miss: The Egyptian collection, which is one of the most extensive outside of Paris. It includes sarcophagi, mummies, and funerary objects, providing a glimpse into ancient Egyptian culture and beliefs.
Insider travel tips: The museum can get quite busy during peak tourist season, so it’s best to visit in the morning on a weekday.
Also, audio guides are available for an additional fee and are well worth the investment, as they offer valuable insight into the various exhibits.
5. Les Jacobins
Les Jacobins is a historical site located in the heart of Le Mans, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the convent and the impressive Gothic architecture of the church. The site also houses a contemporary art museum with rotating exhibits.
Don’t miss: The stained glass windows in the church are a must-see attraction, as well as the beautiful rose window on the façade.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds, and consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of Les Jacobins.
Additionally, make sure to bring comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved on the site.
6. Musee de la Reine Berengere
A museum in Le Mans, France that showcases historical artifacts and art pieces from various periods.
What to see or do: Discover the rich history of the Pays de la Loire region through the extensive collection of artifacts, including pottery, metalwork, textiles, paintings, and sculptures.
Admire the stunning architecture of the building itself, which dates back to the 15th century.
Don’t miss: The outstanding collection of Gallo-Roman mosaics, which are absolutely breathtaking. Also, be sure to check out the medieval murals that line the walls of the museum.
Insider travel tips: Consider taking a guided tour to get an in-depth look at the collection and to learn more about the history of the region.
The museum is easily accessible by public transportation, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby to explore after your visit.
7. Jardin des Plantes
Botanical garden and natural history museum located in Le Mans, France.
What to see or do: Explore the various sections of the garden including the French garden, English garden, rose garden and the tropical greenhouses. Visit the natural history museum which houses exhibits on dinosaurs and local fauna.
Attend seasonal events and workshops.
Don’t miss: The historic medicinal herb garden featuring over 1,200 species of plants and the iconic Peacock Fountain.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the spring and summer months to witness the garden in full bloom. Take a break at the garden’s café and try out their famous galette-saucisse (a traditional French snack).
Take a guided tour to learn about the garden’s history and biodiversity.
8. Abbaye de l’Epau
Abbaye de l’Epau is a former Cistercian abbey located just outside the city of Le Mans in France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the abbey, including the church, cloister, and other buildings. The beautiful gardens surrounding the abbey are also worth a visit.
Don’t miss: The church, with its striking Romanesque architecture and intricate stone carvings, is a must-see.
Be sure to also check out the tomb of Queen Berengaria, the wife of Richard the Lionheart, who was buried here after her death in 1230.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the abbey and the Cistercian order. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the peaceful surroundings of the abbey gardens.
If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss the annual music festival held in the cloister.
9. Musee Vert
A quaint museum located in the heart of Le Mans, showcasing the city’s history and culture through various exhibits.
What to see or do: Admire the fascinating collection of artifacts, from roman mosaics to vintage cars, and learn about Le Mans’ rich heritage.
Don’t miss: The impressive exhibition of Gallo-Roman artifacts, including intricate jewelry and intricate pottery.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and make sure to allow plenty of time to explore all the exhibitions. If you’re a car enthusiast, don’t skip the section dedicated to the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
10. Le Mans 24-Hour Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the famous Le Mans 24-Hour Race in France.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibits that showcase the evolution of the race cars throughout the years, from classic cars to modern prototypes.
Marvel at the impressive collection of iconic cars, engines, and technological innovations that have played a significant role in the history of the motor racing world.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to see some of the most famous cars that have competed in the race, including the 1991 Mazdaspeed 787B and the 1961 Ferrari 250TRI.
Plus, the chance to experience the thrill of the race through interactive exhibits.
Insider travel tips: – Consider visiting during the off-peak season to avoid the crowds and have more opportunity to fully enjoy the exhibits.
11. Musee du Vieux Mans
Musee du Vieux Mans is a museum located in the historic old town of Le Mans, France.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the culture and history of Le Mans through its collection of artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can explore the town’s ancient ramparts, stunning stained glass windows, and medieval architecture.
The museum also features interactive displays that allow visitors to learn more about the daily lives of the people of Le Mans.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the 24-hour race cars that are on display at the museum. You can also admire the stunning view of the city from the top of the museum’s tower.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the museum early in the day to avoid crowds. The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Also, consider taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the museum’s collections.
12. Musee de la Dentelle et de la Broderie
Musee de la Dentelle et de la Broderie is a museum dedicated to the history and techniques of lace making and embroidery in Le Mans, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore several exhibits showcasing the evolution of lace making and embroidery over the centuries.
View intricate lace and embroidery samples, learn about the materials and tools used in the craft, and admire the stunning clothing designs that incorporate these techniques.
The museum also offers educational workshops and demonstrations.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the museum’s exquisite collection of 18th and 19th-century lace samples, known as Lépinois lace, which was once produced in Le Mans and became popular in Europe during the 19th century.
Insider travel tips: – Guided tours are available in French.
13. Papea City
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and purchase tickets online for a discount.
Bring a change of clothes for the water rides and consider purchasing a “fast pass” for shorter wait times on popular attractions.
14. Circuit des Hunaudières
The Circuit des Hunaudières is a motorsport race track located in Le Mans, France, famous for hosting the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour of the circuit with a guide or walk around it on their own. The museum of the 24 Hours of Le Mans nearby the track is also worth a visit.
Don’t miss: Watching a motor race on the circuit, particularly the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which runs annually in June.
Insider travel tips: – If traveling during the peak summer months, be sure to book your tour in advance.