Le Mans Shopping and Districts

(Le Mans, Pays de la Loire, France)



Photo of local market near the cathedralLe Mans has a good choice of small, independent shops. Some of the chain stores and large supermarkets that are usually to be found in French cities are also found here. For fresh produce, bric-a-brac and locally produced gifts, head for the local markets in Le Mans.

When to Shop and Opening Hours

As elsewhere in France, shops in Le Mans tend to close for two hours at lunchtime, reopening again at 14:00 or 15:00 and then staying open until later in the evening. Larger stores and supermarkets tend to open throughout the day. Many shops still close on Sunday, although you may find the odd gift shop which is open, particularly around Le Mans' main tourist attractions.


Photo of shopping centre in the city

Where to Shop

Visitors looking for gifts and souvenirs to take home won't be disappointed. Among the eclectic mix of shops in Le Mans is a large bookshop, together with a variety of boutiques and craft shops. The city's local craft workshops sell everything from musical instruments and stained glass to jewellery, hats, chocolate and clocks. If you're looking for more everyday items or food, these can be purchased from the French Monoprix supermarket at its branch in Place de la République.

A covered market selling fresh produce, including local cheeses, is held on the Place du Marché every day. Visitors in search of bric-a-brac should head for the market held below the cathedral, on the Place du Jet d'Eau, every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday morning.