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

Should you visit Oxford or Positano?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Positano, 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Positano

Positano is a charming, picturesque, and colorful Mediterranean village. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Oxford and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oxford or Positano?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Positano than Oxford, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Positano is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Oxford is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Positano is more touristy than Oxford and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Also, Positano is famous for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Oxford is well known for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Oxford different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oxford is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano 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, Positano is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano Better for Nightlife?

Oxford is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Oxford for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Oxford or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Oxford is not a resort destination.

Positano offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Oxford is not a resort destination.

Is Oxford or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Oxford is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Oxford is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Oxford or Positano Better for Beaches?

Positano is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Oxford is not a beach destination.

Positano has a beach worth visiting. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Oxford is not a beach destination.

Is Oxford or Positano Better for its Old Town?

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

Positano has a world-famous historical area. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is Oxford or Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Positano?

Positano 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 Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

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 Positano Better for Families?

Oxford and Positano are both notable 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 Positano. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Oxford or Positano Better for Couples?

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

Positano has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon 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 Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Positano 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 Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

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 Positano Better for Students?

Oxford is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano 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.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Oxford and Positano.

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

You'll find some public transit in Positano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Oxford or Positano a more walkable city?

Positano 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 Positano. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Positano?

Both Oxford and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Oxford. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Oxford, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

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

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

One day in Oxford or Positano?

Oxford is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the quaint small town of Positano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Oxford or Positano?

Oxford is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this college town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oxford, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Positano is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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 Positano?

Oxford is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Positano. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Positano?

Oxford is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This college town offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the colorful small town of Positano. This Mediterranean village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Oxford or Positano?

Oxford has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Oxford and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Positano. Many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Oxford is generally cooler than Positano. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 17°C (63°F), and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Positano this time of the year. Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Positano during summer. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Oxford usually receives more rain than Positano. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Oxford or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Positano. Many visitors come to Oxford in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Oxford is much colder than Positano in the autumn. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Positano. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Oxford usually gets less rain in October than Positano. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Positano in the Winter?

Both Positano and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Oxford for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Positano because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Oxford can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Oxford is much colder than Positano. Typically, the winter temperatures in Oxford in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Positano averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Positano during winter. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Positano. In January, Oxford usually receives less rain than Positano. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Oxford or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Oxford during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Oxford because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

In April, Oxford is generally cooler than Positano. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 9°C (48°F), and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Positano. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in April than Positano. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Positano and Oxford