A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Oxford vs. Edinburgh for Attractions, Backpackers, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Oxford or Edinburgh?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Edinburgh, 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a gothic, ancient, and charming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and live music.

Oxford and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oxford or Edinburgh?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Oxford. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Oxford attracts visitors for its food, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Edinburgh is more touristy than Oxford and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also well known for The Edinburgh Castle. Oxford is famous for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Oxford different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Travelers visit Edinburgh from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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.

Is Oxford or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for theatre. However, Oxford is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Oxford is not a theatre destination.

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

Oxford is a college town with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Oxford has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Oxford or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Oxford and Edinburgh.

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.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Oxford or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is very popular for live music. However, Oxford is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh is known as a music capital around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Oxford is not a live music destination.

Is Oxford or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

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

Edinburgh has a world-famous historical area. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Oxford and Edinburgh are both high quality 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 Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Is Oxford or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Edinburgh. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh Better for Students?

Oxford is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Oxford and Edinburgh.

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

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Oxford or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Edinburgh?

In either Oxford or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh than Oxford because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Oxford, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

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

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

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

One day in Oxford or Edinburgh?

Even though Oxford is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oxford has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh?

Oxford is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this college town has to offer. This college town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh?

Oxford is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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 Edinburgh. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Edinburgh?

Oxford is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the character-filled destination of Edinburgh. 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 Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom.

When comparing the travel costs between Oxford and Edinburgh, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Oxford or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Oxford. When comparing the sizes of Oxford and Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Oxford is a little warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the summer temperatures in Oxford in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Oxford usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during summer. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Oxford usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Oxford or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Oxford is generally a little warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 11°C (52°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Oxford often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in October than Edinburgh. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Edinburgh in the Winter?

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

Edinburgh can be very cold during winter. Oxford can get quite cold in the winter. Oxford is around the same temperature as Edinburgh in the winter. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Oxford usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Oxford usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Oxford or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Edinburgh. Most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Oxford is a little warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the spring temperatures in Oxford in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Oxford often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets more rain in April than Edinburgh. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Oxford