A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bucharest vs. Oxford for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Bucharest or Oxford?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Oxford. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a historical, less touristy, and undiscovered city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful, historic, and scholarly college town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Oxford: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Oxford?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bucharest than Oxford. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bucharest is very popular for its historical sights and big city activities, while Oxford attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Oxford is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. It is also well known for The Palace of Parliament.

How is Bucharest different from Oxford?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Oxford and Bucharest. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bucharest or Oxford?

Oxford is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Oxford. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

Is the Food Better in Bucharest or Oxford? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Bucharest and Oxford.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bucharest. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Oxford is becoming an appealing option for foodies. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Is Bucharest or Oxford Better for Nightlife?

Oxford is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Oxford is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Oxford Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Bucharest is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Oxford?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Oxford and Bucharest.

Bucharest offers some nice shopping areas. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Oxford has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Is Bucharest or Oxford Better for Families?

Oxford is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Oxford. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Oxford Better for Couples?

Oxford is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Oxford frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Oxford Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Bucharest or Oxford Better for Students?

Oxford is renowned for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Oxford is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

Is Bucharest or Oxford Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bucharest is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bucharest. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

You'll find some public transit in Oxford, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

Is Bucharest or Oxford a more walkable city?

Oxford is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Oxford is a very walkable college town. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? and Is Oxford Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oxford or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Oxford?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bucharest and Oxford. In our opinion, Oxford has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Oxford than Bucharest. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Oxford than Bucharest. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Oxford, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Oxford than Bucharest. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Oxford that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bucharest than Oxford if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bucharest.

One day in Bucharest or Oxford?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bucharest. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Even though Oxford is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oxford has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Oxford?

Bucharest is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Oxford is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this college town has to offer. This college town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Oxford?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Oxford is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Oxford?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Bucharest. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Oxford is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bucharest and Oxford, we can see that Oxford is more expensive. And not only is Bucharest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bucharest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bucharest and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Oxford would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oxford than you might in Bucharest.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bucharest Expensive? and Is Oxford Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Oxford?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Oxford. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Oxford, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Bucharest or Oxford?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bucharest or Oxford in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Oxford. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 23°C (73°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bucharest this time of the year. In the summer, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 195 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Oxford. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Oxford in the Autumn?

Both Oxford and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Oxford because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bucharest is a little warmer than Oxford in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Oxford fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Oxford. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Oxford in the Winter?

Both Oxford and Bucharest during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Oxford this time of year.

It's quite cold in Oxford in the winter. The weather in Bucharest can be very cold. In the winter, Bucharest is much colder than Oxford. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bucharest in January average around -1°C (29°F), and Oxford averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 52 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Oxford. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Oxford in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Oxford. The activities around the city are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 12°C (54°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of rain as Oxford. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oxford and Bucharest