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

Should you visit Oxford or Delft?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Delft, 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. Oxford is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Oxford travel costs.

Delft

Delft is a charming, historic, and quaint town. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Delft travel costs.

Oxford and Delft: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oxford or Delft?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Delft than Oxford. While Oxford is larger than Delft, Delft has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Delft is more popular for its historical sights, while Oxford is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Oxford is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. Delft is popular for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and blue and white ceramic pottery. It is also home to the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk).

How is Oxford different from Delft?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oxford is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Delft offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums that highlight the culture and history of the area. The Vermeer Center offers an immersive experience into the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born in the city. The Royal Delft Factory teaches visitors about the city's iconic blue-and-white pottery. The Delft Museum of Technology and the Old Church also provide insight into the city's engineering, cultural, and religious history.

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

Both Oxford and Delft offer good 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 Delft. There are several local dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or a frikandel (a Dutch snack). The town has countless casual eateries and cozy cafes where you can enjoy pastries, coffee, and Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken). There's also a selection of international restaurants around town that serve Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Local markets and street food stalls provide affordable options, such as fresh herring or delicious Dutch cheese.

Is Oxford or Delft Better for Nightlife?

Oxford is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Delft is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Delft is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It has a low-key and relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of cozy pubs, bars, and cafes, many of which are located along the scenic canals.

Is Oxford or Delft Better for its Old Town?

Delft is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Delft to see the historical old town. The city's old town is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and cobblestone streets. The heart of the old town is centered around the Market Square, where you'll find iconic landmarks such as the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) and the City Hall.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Delft?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Oxford and Delft.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Oxford. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Delft offers some nice shopping areas. The city center is home to many unique shops selling local crafts, Dutch design, and traditional Delftware pottery, making it a great place for souvenirs. You'll also find popular international brands and stores along the main shopping streets. For a more local shopping experience, visit the weekly market in the Market Square, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and regional goods.

Is Oxford or Delft More Beautiful?

Oxford is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Oxford is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The history and architecture make this a beautiful destination.

Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Oxford or Delft Better for Families?

Oxford and Delft are both good 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 Delft. There are boat tours on the canals. There's also the Vermeer Center which has an interactive experience where you can learn about the famous artist, Johannes Vermeer, in a way that's engaging and educational. The Royal Delft Factory is another great stop, where children can see traditional blue-and-white pottery being made and even try painting their own ceramics. If your kids need to stretch their legs, there's the Delftse Hout park which has a large playground, nature trails, and even a petting zoo.

Is Oxford or Delft Better for Couples?

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

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.

Delft makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities for couples like walking through the picturesque canals and cobblestone streets. There are also quaint cafes and romantic restaurants. You can also take a boat ride along the canals or enjoy a peaceful walk through Delftse Hout park.

Is Oxford or Delft Better for Students?

Oxford is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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

Many students visit Delft. It is home to Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), which is a well respected technical university. The city has a vibrant student atmosphere, with plenty of student-friendly cafes, bars, and activities.

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

Delft 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 Delft. There's a bus network that is reliable and convenient. The city's train station is centrally located and offers direct connections to major cities in the Netherlands, making it a great hub for exploring the region.

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 Delft a more walkable city?

Delft is very popular for its walkability. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Delft. The town's compact size and charming layout mean that most of the main attractions, such as the Old Church, New Church, and Market Square, are within walking distance of each other.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Delft or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Delft?

Oxford and Delft both offer plenty of fun activities. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Oxford than Delft because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Oxford, and 1 day is enough time in Delft.

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

Couples should spend more time in Oxford than Delft. 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.

One day in Oxford or Delft?

Even though Oxford is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This college town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Delft. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Oxford or Delft?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oxford. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Delft is a great place to explore. A weekend may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Oxford or Delft?

Oxford is a fun place to experience. Oxford is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Delft. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Delft?

Oxford is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Delft. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Oxford or Delft?

Oxford has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of Delft. When comparing the sizes of Oxford and Delft, 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 Delft?

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 Delft in the Summer?

Both Delft and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Oxford this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Delft for the family-friendly experiences.

Oxford is around the same temperature as Delft in the summer. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Delft fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Delft. Oxford usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Delft during summer. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Delft receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Oxford usually receives less rain than Delft. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Delft receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Oxford or Delft in the Autumn?

Both Delft and Oxford during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Oxford for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Delft in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Oxford is around the same temperature as Delft. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Oxford in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Delft averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Oxford often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Delft. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Delft receives 105 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in October than Delft. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Delft receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Delft in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Delft. Many visitors come to Oxford in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Delft for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Delft can be very cold during winter. Oxford can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Oxford is generally much warmer than Delft. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 3°C (38°F), and Delft fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Oxford usually receives more sunshine than Delft during winter. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Delft receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Oxford usually receives less rain than Delft. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Delft receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Oxford or Delft in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Delft. Most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Oxford is a little warmer than Delft in the spring. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Delft fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Oxford often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Delft. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Delft receives 158 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in April than Delft. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Delft receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Delft and Oxford