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

Should you visit Oxford or Paris?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Paris, 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 historic, scholarly, and collegiate college town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Oxford and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oxford or Paris?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Oxford, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Oxford is known for its small town charm. Paris is more touristy than Oxford and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Oxford is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Oxford different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris 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 Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Paris Better for Theater?

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

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Paris. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Oxford is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paris is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is very popular for nightlife. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Paris is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Oxford is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Oxford or Paris Better for Music?

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

Paris is known as a music capital around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Oxford is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Paris?

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

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Oxford does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Oxford does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Oxford or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Paris is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris Better for Couples?

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

Paris has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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 Paris Better for Students?

Both Oxford and Paris are fantastic destinations for students.

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

Paris is a very popular college town for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

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

Paris 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.

Paris has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

Oxford and Paris are very good 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.

Paris is a very walkable college town. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Paris?

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

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

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

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

One day in Oxford or Paris?

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.

Paris is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Oxford or Paris?

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.

Paris 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 Paris?

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 Paris. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Paris?

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.

Paris is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Oxford or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Oxford. When comparing the sizes of Oxford and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Paris. Many visitors come to Oxford in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Oxford is cooler than Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paris this time of the year. Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Paris during summer. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Oxford usually receives less rain than Paris. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Oxford or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Paris. Most visitors come to Oxford for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Paris because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Oxford is cooler than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Oxford in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Paris. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Paris. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Oxford because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

It's quite cold in Paris in the winter. The weather in Oxford can be very cold. In January, Oxford is generally cooler than Paris. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 3°C (38°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Paris during winter. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Oxford usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Oxford or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Oxford during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Oxford this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Oxford is cooler than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Paris. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in April than Paris. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Paris and Oxford