Le Mans is mainly known for the 24 Hours car race held here every June, but the town itself is well worth a visit. The Cité Plantagenêt — the old town — is one of the best-preserved medieval quarters in France, with half-timbered houses, Renaissance mansions, and parts of the Gallo-Roman city walls dating back to the 3rd century. The Cathedral of Saint-Julien dominates the hilltop, mixing Romanesque and Gothic styles in a way that traces six centuries of building.
The Circuit de la Sarthe, south of the city, hosts the famous endurance race on public roads and a permanent track. Even outside race week the Musée des 24 Heures is worth a stop for anyone interested in motor racing history. The old town is compact and walkable, with a good selection of restaurants along the narrow streets below the cathedral.