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

Should you visit Oxford or Auxerre?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Auxerre, 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 historic, scholarly, and collegiate college town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a authentic, under-rated, and undiscovered town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Oxford and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Oxford or Auxerre?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oxford than Auxerre, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oxford is more touristy than Auxerre and is known for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. Also, Oxford is famous for Radcliffe Square. Auxerre is well known for its food, wine, and art history.

Radcliffe Square
Radcliffe Square

How is Oxford different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Auxerre 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 Auxerre?

Oxford
Auxerre

Oxford is great for its historical sights. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Oxford specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


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

Oxford
Auxerre

Both Oxford and Auxerre offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Auxerre. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Oxford or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Oxford
Auxerre

Oxford is great for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Oxford for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Auxerre?

Oxford
Auxerre

Oxford is very good for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Oxford or Auxerre Better for Families?

Oxford
Auxerre

Oxford and Auxerre are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Oxford is a family-friendly college town. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Auxerre. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Oxford or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Oxford
Auxerre

Oxford is great for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Oxford is a great college town if you're traveling as 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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.

Is Oxford or Auxerre Better for Students?

Oxford
Auxerre

Oxford is an amazing college town to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Auxerre is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Oxford. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Auxerre is not popular with students.


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

Oxford
Auxerre

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Oxford and Auxerre.

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

You'll find some public transit in Auxerre, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town.

Is Oxford or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Oxford
Auxerre

Oxford is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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.

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

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

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Oxford or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Oxford than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Oxford, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oxford than Auxerre 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 Oxford.


  • How many days in Oxford or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oxford 1-3 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Oxford or Auxerre?

Oxford is a small town with plenty to do. This college town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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


A weekend in Oxford or Auxerre?

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oxford has to offer.

Auxerre 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 Auxerre?

Oxford is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auxerre. 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 Auxerre?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oxford. Since Oxford is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Auxerre. 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, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre 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 Auxerre is £97. 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 Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oxford £72
    Auxerre £44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oxford £144
    Auxerre £88
Compare Hotels in Oxford and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Oxford or Auxerre? 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 Auxerre


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 Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oxford £27
    Auxerre £39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oxford

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Oxford or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre 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
    Auxerre £29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oxford £19
    Auxerre £15

Tours and Activities in Oxford

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

  • "Luxury 8 Hours Day Tour in Oxford!": $491
  • 1.5-hour Oxford University and Colleges Walking Tour: $25
  • 24 Hour Open Top City Tour: $23
  • 24 Hour Open Top City Tour & Carfax Tower Entry: $27
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Oxford With University Alumni Guide: $159
  • 90 Minute Classic Walking Tour of Oxford : $29
  • Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise in Oxford: $62
  • Blenheim Palace Admission Ticket: $35
  • Blenheim Palace Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Brazilian Tapas Dining Experience with Pagode Music and Wine : $44
  • CS Lewis & Tolkien Tour with Magdalen Entry Public tour 11.45am: $64
  • Carfax Tower Entry Ticket: $3.81

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Auxerre.

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oxford £21
    Auxerre £5.26

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 Auxerre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Auxerre:

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Oxford and Auxerre, we can see that Oxford is more expensive. And not only is Auxerre much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Auxerre would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Auxerre 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 Auxerre.

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


Which is Bigger, Oxford or Auxerre?

Oxford has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Auxerre. When comparing the sizes of Oxford and Auxerre, 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 Auxerre?

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 Oxford or Auxerre in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Auxerre. Most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Auxerre because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Oxford is generally around the same temperature as Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 17°C (63°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Auxerre this time of the year. Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Auxerre during summer. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Oxford usually receives less rain than Auxerre. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Oxford 17°C (63°F) 
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Auxerre in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Auxerre. The autumn months attract visitors to Oxford because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Auxerre this time of year.

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

In the autumn, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Auxerre. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 126 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Auxerre. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Oxford 11°C (52°F) 
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Auxerre in the Winter?

Both Auxerre and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Oxford this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Auxerre for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Auxerre. It's quite cold in Oxford in the winter. In the winter, Oxford is a little warmer than Auxerre. Typically, the winter temperatures in Oxford in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Auxerre averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Oxford usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Auxerre during winter. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Oxford usually receives less rain than Auxerre. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Oxford 3°C (38°F) 
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Auxerre in the Spring?

Both Auxerre and Oxford during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Auxerre in the spring for the small town charm.

In April, Oxford is generally cooler than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 9°C (48°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Auxerre. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 167 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in April than Auxerre. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Oxford 9°C (48°F) 
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Oxford

Oxford Auxerre
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)