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

Should you visit Oxford or Dusseldorf?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Dusseldorf, 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. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a fun-filled, cultural, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Oxford and Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Oxford or Dusseldorf?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dusseldorf than Oxford, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dusseldorf is more popular for its food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Oxford is known for its museums, nightlife, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Oxford is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. Dusseldorf is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. It is also home to Altstadt (the Old Town).

How is Oxford different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oxford
Dusseldorf

Oxford is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.


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

Oxford
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

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 Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Oxford
Dusseldorf

Oxford is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Oxford know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Oxford or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Oxford
Dusseldorf

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

Many visitors go to Dusseldorf to see the historical old town. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Dusseldorf?

Oxford
Dusseldorf

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

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.

Dusseldorf offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Oxford or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Oxford
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly destination. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

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 Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

Oxford
Dusseldorf

Oxford and Dusseldorf are both great 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 Dusseldorf frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.


Is Oxford or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oxford
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

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 Dusseldorf Better for Students?

Oxford
Dusseldorf

Oxford is very popular for students. However, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Oxford
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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 Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Oxford
Dusseldorf

Oxford and Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is a very walkable college town. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Dusseldorf?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Oxford and Dusseldorf. In our opinion, Dusseldorf has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dusseldorf than Oxford. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Oxford, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dusseldorf.

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

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

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


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

One day in Oxford or Dusseldorf?

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oxford, one day is sufficent for most.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Dusseldorf. 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 Dusseldorf?

Even though Oxford is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this college town.

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf?

Oxford, a popular college town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Oxford is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Dusseldorf. This city 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 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 from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf is £158. 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 Dusseldorf in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oxford £72
    Dusseldorf £81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oxford £144
    Dusseldorf £162
Compare Hotels in Oxford and Dusseldorf

Looking for a hotel in Oxford or Dusseldorf? 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 Dusseldorf


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 Dusseldorf Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oxford £27
    Dusseldorf £1.39

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 Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Oxford or Dusseldorf?

Prices for flights to both Dusseldorf 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
    Dusseldorf £65

Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    £1.70
  • Nutella
    £0.86
  • Yogurt
    £0.86

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dusseldorf.

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oxford £19
    Dusseldorf £21

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 Dusseldorf

Here are a few actual costs in Dusseldorf for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • Best Intro Tour of Dusseldorf with a Local: $141
  • City game scavenger hunt Düsseldorf - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Segway Rhein Tour: Rhine River Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Segway Tour: Classical City Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Dusseldorf : Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oxford £21
    Dusseldorf £20

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

Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    £21

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Oxford and Dusseldorf, we can see that Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Oxford or Dusseldorf?

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

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 Dusseldorf in the Summer?

Both Dusseldorf and Oxford during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Oxford is around the same temperature as Dusseldorf in the summer. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the summer, Oxford often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in July than Dusseldorf. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Oxford or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Dusseldorf. Many visitors come to Oxford in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Oxford is around the same temperature as Dusseldorf. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Oxford in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Oxford usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf during autumn. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Oxford usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dusseldorf. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Oxford 11°C (52°F) 
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Dusseldorf. Most visitors come to Oxford for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Dusseldorf can be very cold. Oxford can be very cold during winter. In January, Oxford is generally a little warmer than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 3°C (38°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Oxford often gets more sunshine than Dusseldorf. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in January than Dusseldorf. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Oxford or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

Both Dusseldorf and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Oxford because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

Oxford is around the same temperature as Dusseldorf in the spring. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Oxford usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf during spring. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Oxford usually receives less rain than Dusseldorf. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Oxford 9°C (48°F) 
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Oxford

Oxford Dusseldorf
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)