A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oxford vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Aix-en-Provence, 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.

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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a vibrant, laid-back, and relaxing town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Oxford and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aix-en-Provence than Oxford, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aix-en-Provence is better known for its food and shopping, while Oxford is more popular for its museums, nightlife, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Oxford is well known for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. Aix-en-Provence is well known for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. Also, Aix-en-Provence is famous for .

How is Oxford different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

Oxford
Aix-en-Provence

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

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.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.


Is the Food Better in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oxford
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Aix-en-Provence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Oxford. 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 Oxford or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Oxford
Aix-en-Provence

Oxford is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

Oxford
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence 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 Aix-en-Provence. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

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 Oxford or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Oxford
Aix-en-Provence

Oxford is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence 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, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Oxford or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Oxford
Aix-en-Provence

Oxford and Aix-en-Provence are both superb to visit as a couple.

Oxford makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Aix-en-Provence frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Is Oxford or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oxford
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence 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 Aix-en-Provence. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

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 Oxford or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Oxford
Aix-en-Provence

Oxford is terrific for students. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Aix-en-Provence. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Is Oxford or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oxford
Aix-en-Provence

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Oxford and Aix-en-Provence.

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

You'll find some public transit in Aix-en-Provence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Oxford or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Oxford
Aix-en-Provence

Oxford and Aix-en-Provence are superb when it comes to walkability.

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

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable college town. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Oxford Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Oxford or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Oxford, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

Families should spend more time in Oxford than Aix-en-Provence. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence 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 Aix-en-Provence.


  • How many days in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oxford 1-3 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

Oxford is a small town with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Aix-en-Provence 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.

Five days in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

Oxford is a great place to explore. This college town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. 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.


A week in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

Since Oxford is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Aix-en-Provence or Oxford?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Oxford is £131, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is £118. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Oxford and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oxford £72
    Aix-en-Provence £69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oxford £144
    Aix-en-Provence £138
Compare Hotels in Oxford and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Oxford or Aix-en-Provence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Oxford


Hotels in Aix-en-Provence


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Oxford Hotel Prices and Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oxford £27
    Aix-en-Provence £28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oxford

Also for Oxford, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: Stansted Airport to Central London: $224
  • Fareham to Southampton Airport (SOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Gatwick Airport to Southampton Port or Hotel Private Airport Arrival Transfer: $230
  • National Express | Between Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airports Bus Transfers: $34
  • Oxford City to London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $196
  • Oxford Private Departure Transfer - Oxford Hotel/Accommodation to Oxford Airport: $68
  • Private One Way or Round Trip Transfer: Kensington SW London to Gatwick Airport: $147
  • Private Transfer from Gatwick city hotels to Dover Cruise Port: $55
  • Southampton - London Transfer: via Bath and Windsor: $234
  • Transfer in private Vehicle from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) - Central London: $96

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Marseille Cruise Port Transfer to Aix en Provence: $118
  • Marseille Airport Transfer From/To Cassis Van 7 pax: $269
  • Aix en Provence: Guided Driving Tour with Hotel Transfer: $1,390
  • Aix en Provence Transfer to Marseille Cruise port: $118
  • Aix TGV transfer to Marseille Port or Airport or Aix city: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Oxford change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Oxford £41
    Aix-en-Provence £28

Typical Food Prices in Aix-en-Provence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Aix-en-Provence:


  • Dinner for 2
    £40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Aix-en-Provence

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Aix-en-Provence.

  • NO DIET CLUB - Best food tour in Aix en Provence (En / Fr): $62
  • Food Tour: $102
  • Aix-en-Provence Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oxford £19
    Aix-en-Provence £19

Tours and Activities in Oxford

For Oxford, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Carfax Tower Entry Ticket: $3.81
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Oxford Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Oxford's Literary Legends and Landmarks" A Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
  • Discover Oxford's Timeless Tales: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Discover Oxford's Timeless Tales: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Explore Oxford's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour for Students: $11
  • Oxford Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Stepping Through Oxford Walking Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few actual costs in Aix-en-Provence for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese - From Aix: $82
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • 2H: Wine-Tour in Provence: $274
  • 4-Hour Lavender Fields Tour in Valensole from Aix-en-Provence: $87
  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese: $80
  • Aix-en-Provence Walking Food and Culture Tour - 3 hour private tour: $131
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Arles & Camargue National Park Private Tour: $1,016
  • Arles, Baux, & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Tour: $1,016
  • Avignon Tour & Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tasting: $1,048
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oxford £21
    Aix-en-Provence £12

Sample the Local Flavors in Oxford

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oxford:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Cambridge: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Edinburgh: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Bristol: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Eccentric Oxford 3-Hour Pub Tour: $150
  • Wine Tasting in the Garden of England: $221

Sample the Local Flavors in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Half day Wine Tour in Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire from Aix en Provence: $93
  • Half Day Wine Tour in Coteaux d'Aix: $96
  • Half day Wine Tour in Côteaux Aix from Aix en Provence: $98
  • Half day Wine Tour in Bandol & Cassis from Aix en Provence: $104
  • From Wine Tour in Cezanne Countryside: $106
  • Provence small group half-day wine tour from Aix: $107
  • Cotes de Provence Wine Tour from Aix-en-Provence: $108
  • Aix en Provence: Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Full Day Wine Tour in Luberon with Tasting: $143
  • Full day Wine Tour around Luberon from Aix en Provence: $151
  • Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting from Aix: $164
  • From Provence Region Tour with Wine Tasting: $166


When comparing the travel costs between Oxford and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Oxford is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

Oxford has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Oxford and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Oxford or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Oxford or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Oxford during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Oxford because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In July, Oxford is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 17°C (63°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets more rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Oxford 17°C (63°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Aix-en-Provence. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Oxford this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Oxford is cooler than Aix-en-Provence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Oxford usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Oxford 11°C (52°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Aix-en-Provence. Many travelers come to Oxford for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Oxford. In the winter, Oxford is much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Oxford in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets more rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Oxford 3°C (38°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Oxford in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Oxford is generally much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 9°C (48°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Oxford usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aix-en-Provence. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Oxford 9°C (48°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Oxford

Oxford Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)