A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oxford vs. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class, spectacular, and awe-inspiring mountain town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Oxford and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: 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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mont Blanc


Is there more to do in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Although Oxford and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are popular destinations, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its skiing, food, resorts, and hiking, while Oxford attracts visitors for its museums, shopping, and small town charm. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Oxford and is known for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. It is also well known for Mont Blanc. Oxford is famous for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc

How is Oxford different from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Skiing?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for skiing and snowboarding. However, Oxford is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is among the best in the world. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Oxford is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Oxford is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Nightlife?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Oxford and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

Oxford has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.


Is Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Resorts?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Oxford is not a resort destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Oxford is not a resort destination.

Is Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Hiking?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Oxford is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Oxford. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Families?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very family-friendly destination. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

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 Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Couples?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for romance. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

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 Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular with the backpacker crowd. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Students?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Oxford is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not popular with students.

Is Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

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 Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc a more walkable city?

Oxford
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Oxford and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are great 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable college town. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Oxford Worth Visiting? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Both Oxford and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than in Oxford. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Oxford, and 4-7 days is enough time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.


  • How many days in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oxford 1-3 
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 4-7

One day in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Oxford is a small town with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people visit Oxford for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Because Oxford is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Since Oxford is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. This college town offers something for everyone. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the awe-inspiring destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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 Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is £201. 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oxford £72
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc £77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oxford £144
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc £154
Compare Hotels in Oxford and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Looking for a hotel in Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc


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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oxford £27
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc £34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oxford

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer Chamonix and Morzine to Milan Malpensa Airport: $229
  • Private Departure Transfer from Chamonix to Milan Airport: $170
  • Courmayeur, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $153
  • Courmayeur to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Courmayeur to Milan Malpensa Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $137
  • Courmayeur Ski Club to Linate Airport (LIN) - Departure Transfer: $162
  • Chamonix-Morzine-Avoriaz to Geneva Airport GVA-Departure Transfer: $147
  • Chamonix to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $71
  • Chamonix (FR) to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Prices for flights to both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc £41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Food Tour in Chamonix: $444

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oxford £19
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc £69

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Altitude experience above Chamonix by eBike: $298
  • Bespoke Private Chamonix Experience: $196
  • Chamonix: Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • Fly in Paragliding! Paragliding experience over Chamonix!: $171
  • From Geneva: Chamonix Mont-Blanc Private Guided Tour: $416
  • Geneva: Private Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour: $538
  • Live an eBike Mountain Bike Experience in the Heart of Chamonix Mont-Blanc: $195
  • Monte Bianco Skyway Experience : $144
  • On an adventure with Rosalie - Nancy-sur-Cluses: $5.45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oxford £21
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc £8.25

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver - 10 hours: $823


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Oxford and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, we can see that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more expensive. And not only is Oxford much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Oxford would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Oxford 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than you might in Oxford.

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


Which is Bigger, Oxford or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Oxford has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Oxford and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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.