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

Should you visit Marbella or Oxford?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Oxford, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marbella

Marbella is a glamorous, fun-filled, and high energy resort town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Oxford

Oxford is a collegiate, beautiful, and historic college town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Marbella and Oxford: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Oxford?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Marbella than Oxford. While Oxford is larger than Marbella, Marbella has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Marbella is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Oxford attracts visitors for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Marbella is more touristy than Oxford and is known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also well known for Plaza de los Naranjos. Oxford is famous for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Marbella different from Oxford?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Oxford is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oxford can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marbella and Oxford offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Marbella has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Oxford area. 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 Marbella or Oxford Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is very popular for nightlife. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Marbella is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. European tourists flock to the town for its beaches and resorts. The town has a glamorous nightlife scene with exclusive clubs and ritzy cocktail bars, particularly in Puerto Banus and along the Golden Mile.

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.

Is Marbella or Oxford Better for Music?

Marbella is a very popular place for live music. However, Oxford is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Marbella while you're in town. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Oxford is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Oxford Better for Resorts?

Marbella is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Oxford is not a resort destination.

Marbella offers an unforgettable resort vacation. From luxury to family-friendly, this area has plenty of resorts to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Marbella Club Hotel, Puente Romano Marbella, and Don Carlos Resort and Spa.

Oxford is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Oxford Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Oxford is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Marbella specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. There are more than 100 dive sights and endless snorkeling opportunities in the area. There are deep offshore reefs that you can explore as well as shallower wrecks and caves.

Oxford is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Oxford Better for Beaches?

Marbella is very popular for its beaches. However, Oxford is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Marbella are among the best in the world. The area boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. They are hubs of activity with lots of energy, and there are more than 18 miles of sandy beach in the area. Popular options include Guadalmina Beach, San Pedro de Alcántara Beach, and Nueva Andalucía Beach.

Oxford is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Oxford Better for its Old Town?

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

Marbella is a good destination for visiting its old town. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Oxford?

Marbella is very popular for shopping. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Marbella. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Oxford offers some nice shopping areas. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Is Marbella or Oxford Better for Families?

Marbella is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Marbella is a very family-friendly destination. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

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.

Is Marbella or Oxford Better for Couples?

Marbella is very popular for romance. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Marbella has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The area has luxury resorts, nice beaches, water sports, golf, and water activities that are perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend or a honeymoon.

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.

Is Marbella or Oxford Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella 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 Marbella. There are a few good hostels in the area for backpackers who want to enjoy this part of Spain's cost. There's also a lively nightlife scene and plenty of opportunities to meet others.

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 Marbella or Oxford Better for Students?

Oxford is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Marbella is not popular with students.

Oxford is a great destination for students. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

Oxford is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marbella is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Oxford has some public transit options. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

Public transit is generally limited in Marbella. There is a bus system through the area, but most visitors prefer to get around by car.

Is Marbella or Oxford a more walkable city?

Marbella and Oxford are superb when it comes to walkability.

Marbella is a very walkable resort town. The old town is particularly walkable and there are a number of hotels and nice resorts within a short walk of the town along a nice promenade.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Oxford or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Oxford?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marbella and Oxford. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marbella than in Oxford. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Marbella, and 1-3 days is enough time in Oxford.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Marbella 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 Marbella.

One day in Marbella or Oxford?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Marbella. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Oxford is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marbella or Oxford?

Marbella 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this college town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oxford, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Oxford?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marbella. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Oxford is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marbella or Oxford?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the ritzy destination of Marbella. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Oxford is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This college town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, 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 Marbella and Oxford, we can see that Oxford is more expensive. And not only is Marbella much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Marbella would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marbella 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 Marbella.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Oxford?

Oxford has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella 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 Marbella or Oxford?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marbella or Oxford in the Summer?

Both Oxford and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Oxford this time of year.

In July, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 25°C (77°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Oxford. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or Oxford in the Autumn?

Both Oxford and Marbella during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oxford for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Marbella is much warmer than Oxford in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Oxford fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 107 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Oxford. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Oxford in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Oxford. Many travelers come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Oxford in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Oxford can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Marbella is much warmer than Oxford. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marbella in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Oxford averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Oxford. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or Oxford in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Oxford. Many visitors come to Marbella in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Marbella is generally much warmer than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 16°C (60°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 147 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Oxford. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oxford and Marbella