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A visitor guide to Le Mans

Buckle up for a trip to Le Mans—home of the legendary 24-hour endurance race and a city packed with charm, history, and excitement. When you hear the name Le Mans, you might think of non-stop speed and roaring engines, but there’s much more to explore beyond the track.

Whether you're heading there for the race weekend or just passing through, here's your guide to making the most of your visit.

When is 24 Hours of Le Mans 2025?

The 2025 race will take place from June 14–15, with fans from around the world heading to the Circuit de la Sarthe just outside the city of Le Mans. The track spans 13.6 km (8.4 miles), blending permanent racing sections with closed public roads. This year, two classes will take part:

Hypercar – the top category, featuring cutting-edge technology and factory teams from Toyota, Ferrari, Porsche and more.
LMGT3 – a new class introduced in 2024, replacing GTE-Am and showcasing GT3-spec cars from brands like Aston Martin, Corvette, and Lamborghini.

Over the course of the race, teams complete hundreds of laps—testing speed, stamina, and strategy. The longest distance ever recorded? A staggering 5,410.7 km.

Where can you stay during Le Mans?

Accommodation in and around Le Mans gets booked up well in advance of race weekend, so plan ahead for the best options.

Hotels – You’ll find everything from boutique hotels in the city centre to larger chains nearby. Expect higher prices during race week, especially close to the track.
Holiday rentals – A great choice for groups, especially if you’re looking for more space. Rentals in nearby villages can offer better value and a quieter stay.
Camping – Popular with fans who want to stay close to the circuit. There are several campsites around the track, some official and some private. If you have a tent or campervan, this can be a budget-friendly and immersive option.

How to get to Le Mans circuit (Circuit de la Sarthe)

Le Mans is located about 80 km north of Tours, in northwestern France. It’s not far from Paris and can be easily reached by road, rail or air.

Tip: parking near the circuit can fill up fast, so arrive early.

By plane

The nearest airport is Le Mans Arnage Airport, about 18 minutes from the city. For more flight options, try Paris Charles de Gaulle or Nantes Atlantique.

By train

High-speed trains from Paris reach Le Mans station in around one hour. From there, it's a 10-minute drive to the city centre or about 20 minutes to the circuit.

By car rental

A rental car is a flexible option, especially during race week when local transport can be busy. Roads like the D314 connect directly to the city and circuit.

What to do at Le Mans

Capture the perfect shot

Whether it’s your first Le Mans or your fifth, make time to explore the most scenic parts of the track for r ace-day photos. The iconic Dunlop Bridge, the sweeping Porsche Curves, and the pit lane at night all offer incredible backdrops. Arrive early for golden hour, or stay late to catch the glow of headlights cutting through the dark. Just remember to check your camera settings—those cars move fast.

Explore the circuit

There’s more to Le Mans than the main event. In the lead-up to the race, the Circuit de la Sarthe comes alive with activities and access points that bring fans closer to the action. Watch scrutineering unfold in the city centre, where cars are inspected up close before race day. Head to the fan zones to catch driver parades and pick up exclusive merch, or walk the track to get a feel for the corners before they’re roaring with engines.

Visit the Le Mans Museum

Right next to the track, the Musée des 24 Heures offers a chance to dive into the race’s rich history. Inside, you’ll find legendary cars, trophies and rare memorabilia—ideal for brushing up on your knowledge between practice sessions. It’s a quiet escape from the crowds and a must for any motorsport fan.

Discover the local area

There’s more to Le Mans than just motorsport. Away from the circuit, the city’s medieval quarter—Cité Plantagenêt—is perfect for a stroll through cobbled streets lined with timber-framed houses and ancient Roman walls. Stop by Saint-Julien Cathedral to admire its towering Gothic architecture, then grab a bite at one of the local cafés serving up traditional French fare. Whether you’re after history, atmosphere or just a quiet moment between races, the city has plenty to explore.

Let’s go!

Le Mans offers something truly special—whether you’re a motorsport fanatic or just looking for a unique destination. The 24-hour race combines speed, endurance and innovation on a legendary track, while the city itself is packed with culture and charm.

2025 is the perfect time to visit. With new racing classes, fan events, and over 100 years of racing heritage behind it, this is more than a race—it’s an experience.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Le Mans now.

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