A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Oxford vs. Liverpool for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Oxford or Liverpool?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Liverpool, 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 Oxford is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Oxford travel costs.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a historic, fun-filled, and diverse port city. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and live music. See Liverpool travel costs.

Oxford and Liverpool: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oxford or Liverpool?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Liverpool than Oxford. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Liverpool is very popular for its theatre productions, music, and shopping, while Oxford attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Oxford is famous for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. Liverpool is famous for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." It is also well known for The Liverpool Cathedral.

How is Oxford different from Liverpool?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oxford is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Liverpool. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.

Is Oxford or Liverpool Better for Theater?

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

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Liverpool. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Oxford is not a theatre destination.

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

Oxford is a college town with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Liverpool may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a diversity of flavors that are influenced by the city's international population. There are also several famous local dishes including scouse (a meat stew), toad in the hole (a giant yorkie stuffed with British sausages) and wet nelly (a dessert).

Is Oxford or Liverpool Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Liverpool is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife is fun and diverse Head to the waterfront for comedy clubs or the Ropewalks and Seel Street if you want a swanky experience. Cavern Quarter is the place to go for an all night party.

Is Oxford or Liverpool Better for Music?

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

Liverpool is known as a music capital around the world. Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Oxford is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Liverpool?

Liverpool 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 Liverpool. Head to Liverpool ONE for the area's best shopping. This is the largest open-air shopping center in the UK and it's filled with a mix of name brands and independent vendors.

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 Liverpool More Beautiful?

Oxford is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Liverpool is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Oxford is one of the main draws. The history and architecture make this a beautiful destination.

Liverpool is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Oxford or Liverpool Better for Families?

Liverpool 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.

Liverpool is a very family-friendly destination. One of the most popular activities for families is Pleasureland, an amuseument park with rides that are fun for young kids. The city also has many museums and play spaces that are great for families.

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 Liverpool Better for Couples?

Oxford is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Liverpool is a good college town for couples to visit. The city is fun, and the best way to enjoy a romantic getaway is to find a fun or unique activity that you can enjoy together. Going dancing, dining out, or seeing a show are all fun activities in the area.

Is Oxford or Liverpool Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool 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 Liverpool. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

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 Liverpool Better for Students?

Oxford is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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 Liverpool. The city is diverse, affordable, and offers an excellent academic environment. International students will fill welcomed and enjoy a fun city with a lot to offer.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Liverpool, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

Is Oxford or Liverpool a more walkable city?

Oxford and Liverpool are high quality 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.

Liverpool is a very walkable college town.

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

Should I spend more time in Liverpool or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Liverpool?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Oxford and Liverpool. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Oxford, and 2-3 days is enough time in Liverpool.

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

Couples should spend more time in Oxford than Liverpool. 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 Liverpool 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 Liverpool.

One day in Oxford or Liverpool?

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 destination of Liverpool. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Oxford or Liverpool?

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.

Liverpool is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Liverpool?

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 Liverpool. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Liverpool?

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 historic destination of Liverpool. This port city 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 2-Week Tours in United Kingdom, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Oxford or Liverpool?

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

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 Liverpool in the Summer?

Both Liverpool and Oxford during the summer are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Oxford this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Liverpool for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Oxford is a little warmer than Liverpool. Typically, the summer temperatures in Oxford in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Liverpool averages at about 15°C (60°F).

In the summer, Oxford often gets more sunshine than Liverpool. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Liverpool receives 176 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in July than Liverpool. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Liverpool in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Liverpool. 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 Liverpool in the autumn for the shopping scene and the music scene.

In October, Oxford is generally around the same temperature as Liverpool. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 11°C (52°F), and Liverpool fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Oxford usually receives more sunshine than Liverpool during autumn. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Liverpool receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Oxford usually receives less rain than Liverpool. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Oxford or Liverpool in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Liverpool. Many visitors come to Oxford in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Liverpool for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Oxford can get quite cold in the winter. Oxford is much colder than Liverpool in the winter. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Liverpool fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In the winter, Oxford often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Liverpool. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Liverpool receives 53 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in January than Liverpool. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Liverpool in the Spring?

Both Liverpool and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Oxford is around the same temperature as Liverpool. Typically, the spring temperatures in Oxford in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Liverpool averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Oxford usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Liverpool during spring. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Liverpool receives 144 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Liverpool and Oxford