From its postcard-perfect old town to its legendary sports car race, Le Mans is a city of contrasts. Gallo-Roman walls encircle the city and give Le Mans a fairy-tale feel. Explore the medieval city centre, dine on delights from the Pays de la Loire region and admire one of the most beautiful cathedrals in France.
Things to do in Le Mans
Ancient Gallo-Roman walls encircle the old town, which locals know as Vieux Mans. Getting lost in the cobblestone alleys lined with half-timbered townhouses is the best way to explore Vieux Mans. Cathédrale St-Julien du Mans towers over the old city and combines elements of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. At 134 metres long, it’s one of the most impressive cathedrals in France. Light streams into the nave through beautiful stained-glass windows dating back to the 12th century.
Every winter, the world’s top endurance car drivers descend on the city for the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. If you can’t attend the race, the Musée des 24 Heures is a great alternative. The museum showcased dozens of Le Mans Prototype (LMP) race cars, including Ferraris, Porsches and Jaguars. Self-guided track tours take you past famous landmarks like Dunlop Bridge.
From rich “beurre blanc” butter sauce to “rillettes de porc” slow-poached meat, Le Mans will tantalise your palate with dishes from the Pays de la Loire region. Cabbage pie is a local specialty, made with lashings of pork fat and topped with crispy crackling. You can also try signature dishes like wild pigeon cooked in red wine.
Getting around Le Mans
Le Mans is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, especially in Vieux Mans. Public buses and trams are an easy way to get around the city. High-speed trains run between Le Mans and Paris in around one hour and there are also direct connections to Charles de Gaulle Airport.