Oxford travel guide

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Introduction to Oxford

Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Covered Market, and Oxford Castle & Prison have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Oxford, England. Oxford has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. This city in Oxfordshire, England is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 152 thousand people, the city of Oxford is truly one of the main highlights of England.

Easily accessible from London Oxford airport, Oxford is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in England any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Oxford as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Oxford is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Oxford below!

History of Oxford

Oxford, a historic city in the heart of England, boasts a rich and fascinating history. It emerged as a significant settlement in the Saxon period, with the University of Oxford, its most renowned entity, first mentioned in 12th century records.

Over the centuries, Oxford became an influential centre for politics and religion, surviving Viking invasions, the Black Death, and the English Civil War. In the 18th century, the industrial revolution brought rapid expansion and the city evolved into an important hub for publishing and automobile industries.

Today, Oxford is globally recognized for its world-class university, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural life. The 'City of Dreaming Spires' continues to enchant visitors with its unique blend of ancient tradition and modern innovation, making it a must-visit destination on any UK itinerary.

Top services in Oxford

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Oxford, England. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 3 airlines that fly to England. Browse the 127 top-rated tours available to you in Oxford. Compare the rates and services of the 4 types of places to stay in Oxford and the 2 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Oxford.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Oxford, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Oxford on your vacation in England.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Oxford from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Oxford!

Best time to visit Oxford

The best time to explore Oxford is during the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is typically mild and the city's famous parks and gardens are at their most beautiful. These periods are less crowded than the peak summer months of July and August, allowing for a more leisurely exploration of Oxford's historic landmarks, like the iconic University buildings. May Day is a particularly special time to visit, with unique celebrations taking place across the city, including the famous choir singing from the Magdalen College tower. For literature lovers, the Oxford Literary Festival in late March offers a week of engaging talks and workshops. Autumn, meanwhile, is characterized by vibrant fall foliage, particularly in University Parks and Christ Church Meadow, enhancing the city's picturesque scenery. Be aware, however, that the city can be bustling during the start of the University term in October. Ultimately, the ideal visit balances pleasant weather, manageable crowd levels, and unique cultural experiences.

Local tip for visiting Oxford

An insider tip for a memorable Oxford experience is to explore the city on foot or by bicycle. Oxford is known as the 'City of Dreaming Spires,' and much of its charm lies in its narrow, winding streets and historic buildings. A leisurely walk or cycle lets you appreciate these at your own pace, and it's a favourite activity of the locals. Renting a bike is quite inexpensive and there's a wealth of cycle paths and routes to discover. Also, consider visiting the city's covered market on High Street. A hidden gem often overlooked by tourists, it houses a variety of stalls selling everything from fresh flowers and locally produced food to unique crafts and antiques. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture while picking up a few souvenirs.

Learn more about England

There are many reasons to visit the city of Oxford, but a trip to England needs no explanation.

Exploring England, which spans 130,278 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. England offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Covered Market, and the Oxford Castle & Prison, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in England.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about England.

What to see in Oxford

Photo of Oxford, United Kingdom by Gianfranco De Bei

Oxford has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Oxford.

Top attractions in Oxford

Home to plenty of top attractions, Oxford is more than just a wonderful city in England. Oxford is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of England.

One fascinating sight in Oxford is the unforgettable Oxford University Museum of Natural History. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Oxford. This remarkable attraction is located at Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3PW, UK and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 10:00-17:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in England, check out our list of top attractions in Oxford below. Discover the best places to visit in Oxford, including the fascinating Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Covered Market, Oxford Castle & Prison, Oxford Botanic Garden, and Christ Church Meadow.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Oxford.

Things to do in Oxford

Photo of Oxford, United Kingdom by David Mark

Enrich your travel experience in Oxford by joining tours and activities. Oxford offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Oxford below.

Most popular experiences in Oxford

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Oxford.

Oxford offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, and Bus Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in England.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Oxford by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Oxford

Travelers in Oxford can choose from 15 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Cultural Tours is the answer.

The most popular tour in Oxford is the fantastic Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Tour. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Oxford one of the best travel destinations in England.

Oxford also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Oxford Outdoor Escape Game: Famous Alumni is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Ancient Rome Tour. This experience costs around 6 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Oxford. This Ancient Rome Tour is available in 1 language: English. Around 1 traveler have given this activity an average rating of 4 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Oxford and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Oxford below.

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Search for things to do in Oxford

Discover the best things to do in Oxford. Choose from 127 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Oxford. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Oxford

In Oxford, England, the culinary scene is as rich as its academic history. The city is full of dining options catering to all tastes and budgets, from bustling street food markets to award-winning high-end restaurants. The Covered Market is an iconic destination for food lovers, offering everything from artisan breads and cheeses to local Oxford delicacies. For a more upscale dining experience, the restaurant at the Old Parsonage Hotel and Quod are some of the best places to eat in Oxford, renowned for their innovative menus. Traditional English fare is readily available, with the Oxford Blue pub serving classics like fish and chips or a hearty Sunday roast. For a quintessential Oxford experience, try local specialties such as Oxford sausages or Banbury cakes. Don't miss out on the chance to try English afternoon tea, a time-honored tradition that can be enjoyed at the Grand Cafe, said to be the first coffee house in England. Remember, reservations are recommended for high-end restaurants, especially during the academic term when the city is at its busiest.

Best Shopping in Oxford

Oxford, the city of dreaming spires, is also a shopper's paradise. The Covered Market, a historic and vibrant arrangement of over 50 independent retailers, is an iconic destination. Here, local craftsmanship comes alive with stalls selling handmade jewelry, artisan bread, and unique clothing items.

For high-end fashion and designer labels, the Westgate Centre is the best place to go shopping in Oxford. This recently revamped shopping district features over 100 stores, including a flagship John Lewis.

In the heart of the city, Broad Street offers a delightful mix of books, antiques, and souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to buy an Oxford University sweatshirt or a beautifully bound copy of an Oxford classic from Blackwell's Bookshop.

Lastly, if you're hunting for unique, vintage treasures, head to the eclectic Cowley Road. Remember, most shops in Oxford open around 9 AM and close by 5.30 PM, with reduced hours on Sunday. Bring ample cash as some smaller vendors may not accept card payments.

Best Free Things to Do in Oxford

Exploring the best free things to do in Oxford, you'll be immersed in centuries of history and academia. Wander the cobbled streets of this renowned university city, taking in the iconic Oxford University, whose 38 colleges are mostly free to visit. Don't miss Christ Church College, famous for its Harry Potter filming locations. Next, explore the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, where you'll find a captivating collection of geological and zoological specimens. The Ashmolean Museum, the world's first university museum, is another must-see, hosting an impressive array of art and archaeology. For a breath of fresh air, stroll through the picturesque University Parks or along the scenic River Cherwell. Literature lovers should venture to the Story Museum, where childhood favourite tales are brought to life. Finally, visit the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, for an insight into the scholarly soul of the city. With so many enriching experiences available for free, you'll discover that Oxford offers more than just outstanding education.

Vacation packages in Oxford

Photo of Oxford, United Kingdom by marlon rondal

The best and easiest way to visit Oxford is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in England.

Booking a vacation package to Oxford means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Oxford to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Oxford is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Oxford, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Oxford.

Find vacation packages in Oxford

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Oxford.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Oxford get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in England. Your customized holiday package to Oxford is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Oxford

To get to the city of Oxford the fastest way possible, travelers from outside England can travel by plane. Some airlines that operate flights to London Oxford airport are Airlink (SAA), CebGo, and Turkish Airlines.

To reach the city of Oxford, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at London Oxford airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Oxford, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to London Oxford airport and Oxford below.

Find cheap flights to Oxford

Photo of Oxford, United Kingdom by Alfonso Cerezo

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Oxford, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in England. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Oxford, England, in August.

The cheapest one-way flight to Oxford costs around 1238 EUR and is offered by the airline CebGo.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Oxford cost approximately 1638 EUR in total. The flight time is around 40 hours per way.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to England and the city of Oxford from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Oxford

Travelers visiting Oxford in England can fly to London Oxford airport directly from 3 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to London Oxford airport and the city of Oxford in England depart from Mthatha airport in Mthatha, South Africa, Moises R. Espinosa airport in Masbate City, Philippines, and Bukhara International airport in Bukhara, Uzbekistan.

Travelers can fly to England by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Mthatha; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Masbate City; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Bukhara.

The airline that operates most flights to England is CebGo. CebGo offers 1 scheduled flight routes to England.

Discover the most popular flights to Oxford below. Click to view flights to Oxford, England from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Oxford

Photo of Oxford, United Kingdom by falco

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Oxford is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Oxford usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Oxford offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Oxford and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Oxford planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Oxford, you'll find 4 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in England can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Oxford. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Oxford.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Oxford in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Oxford

A trip to the fascinating Oxford, England, means opportunities to relax at any of the 4 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 171 hotels, 65 vacation rental apartments, 42 cottages and 5 guesthouses. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Oxford provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Malmaison Oxford is one of the top picks of travelers in Oxford.

The hotel is located at 3 Oxford Castle, Ox1 1ay, Oxford, Ox1 1ay and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, Air conditioning, and Bar.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Oxford. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Oxford, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Travelodge Oxford Peartree Hotel. For approximately 41 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 4 different types of places to stay in Oxford. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Oxford

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Oxford for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 283 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Oxford provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Oxford are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Oxford.

Macdonald Randolph Hotel, Oxford offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Oxford. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Malmaison Oxford, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Oxford, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Hampton by Hilton Oxford, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Oxford. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Oxford

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Oxford on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Oxford that match the information provided.

Car rental in Oxford

Photo of Oxford United Kingdom, by falco-oxford

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Oxford. Oxford has 2 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Oxford start from 83.24 EUR per day or 582.71 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Kia Ceed.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Oxford, starting from 42.53 EUR per day or 297.72 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Vauxhall Astra.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Oxford, England, below.

Popular types of car rental in Oxford

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Oxford to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Oxford can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore England at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Oxford is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Oxford is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Oxford.

Check out all options available in Oxford and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in England below.

Search for car rental in Oxford

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Oxford. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Oxford, England, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Oxford

Oxford, England offers a variety of transportation options that cater to all types of travelers. The city's public transit system, primarily composed of buses, is managed by Oxford Bus Company. There are frequent services throughout the city and to surrounding areas, ensuring a smooth connection to key spots.

For more direct travel, taxis are readily available. Various taxi companies operate in Oxford, and rides can be easily booked using phone apps or at taxi stands.

If you prefer to drive yourself, rental car services are available at the city's airport and in the city center. Companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis offer a variety of vehicles to suit your needs.

One unique local transportation experience is the use of bikes. Oxford is known as the 'city of dreaming spires' and cycling is an excellent way to appreciate its picturesque streets and historic buildings. Numerous bike rental shops are scattered throughout the city, making it easy for visitors to opt for this eco-friendly mode of transport.

Popular destinations to visit after Oxford

Photo of Oxford, United Kingdom by PublicDomainPictures

The city of Oxford is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in England. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that England has it all.

England is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in England that are as magical as the city of Oxford. The most popular travel destinations in England are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in England

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in England. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Oxford

Photo of Oxford United Kingdom, by Alfonso Cerezo-dining room

A taste of England through a visit to Oxford can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Oxford to another remarkable destination in England.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Oxford to other spectacular locations in England, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Search domestic flights from Oxford

Traveling to another city or region in England? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Oxford to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in England on the selected dates.

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