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

Should you visit Oxford or Strasbourg?

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

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

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a quaint, historic, and charming city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Oxford and Strasbourg: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Oxford or Strasbourg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Strasbourg than Oxford, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Strasbourg is more popular for its food, historical sights, and shopping, while Oxford is known for its nightlife, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Strasbourg is more touristy than Oxford and is known for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. It is also home to The Strasbourg Cathedral. Oxford is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Oxford different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oxford
Strasbourg

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Oxford or Strasbourg.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oxford can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Strasbourg. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.


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

Oxford
Strasbourg

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

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 Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Oxford
Strasbourg

Oxford is a great college town for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Oxford has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Oxford or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Oxford
Strasbourg

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

Strasbourg has a world-famous historical area. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Strasbourg?

Oxford
Strasbourg

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

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 Strasbourg Better for Families?

Oxford
Strasbourg

Oxford and Strasbourg are both good 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 Strasbourg. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Oxford or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Oxford
Strasbourg

Oxford and Strasbourg are both excellent 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 Strasbourg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.


Is Oxford or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oxford
Strasbourg

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring 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 Strasbourg Better for Students?

Oxford
Strasbourg

Oxford is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Oxford. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Strasbourg is a good college town to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Oxford
Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Strasbourg. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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 Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Oxford
Strasbourg

Oxford and Strasbourg are excellent 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.

Strasbourg is a very walkable college town. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Strasbourg?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Oxford or Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg?

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.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg?

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 charming destination of Strasbourg. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg is £118. 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 Strasbourg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oxford £72
    Strasbourg £57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oxford £144
    Strasbourg £114
Compare Hotels in Oxford and Strasbourg

Looking for a hotel in Oxford or Strasbourg? 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 Strasbourg


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 Strasbourg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oxford £27
    Strasbourg £38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oxford

Also for Oxford, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Southampton - London Transfer: via Bath and Windsor: $234
  • Gatwick Airport to Southampton Port or Hotel Private Airport Arrival Transfer: $230
  • Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: Stansted Airport to Central London: $224
  • Oxford City to London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $196
  • Private One Way or Round Trip Transfer: Kensington SW London to Gatwick Airport: $147
  • Transfer in private Vehicle from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) - Central London: $96
  • Oxford Private Departure Transfer - Oxford Hotel/Accommodation to Oxford Airport: $68
  • Private Transfer from Gatwick city hotels to Dover Cruise Port: $55
  • Fareham to Southampton Airport (SOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • National Express | Between Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airports Bus Transfers: $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Strasbourg

Also for Strasbourg, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: $58
  • Private transfer Strasbourg Airport: $59
  • Private Transfer from Strasbourg Train Station to Hotel: $64
  • Private Transfer Strasbourg to Europa Park: $251
  • Door-to-Door private transfer and driver from Strasbourg to Basel: $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Oxford or Strasbourg?

Prices for flights to both Strasbourg 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
    Strasbourg £37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Strasbourg

For Strasbourg, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Strasbourg Private Food Tour: experience the city like a local!: $93
  • Strasbourg Food Tour : Gourmet private Tour with tastings: $102
  • Strasbourg Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oxford £19
    Strasbourg £20

Tours and Activities in Oxford

For Oxford, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • "Luxury 8 Hours Day Tour in Oxford!": $491
  • 1.5-hour Oxford University and Colleges Walking Tour: $25
  • 24 Hour Open Top City Tour: $23
  • 24 Hour Open Top City Tour & Carfax Tower Entry: $27
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Oxford With University Alumni Guide: $159
  • 90 Minute Classic Walking Tour of Oxford : $29
  • Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise in Oxford: $62
  • Blenheim Palace Admission Ticket: $35
  • Blenheim Palace Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Brazilian Tapas Dining Experience with Pagode Music and Wine : $44
  • CS Lewis & Tolkien Tour with Magdalen Entry Public tour 11.45am: $64
  • Carfax Tower Entry Ticket: $3.81

Tours and Activities in Strasbourg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Strasbourg.

  • 2-Hour Strasbourg Euro Tour by Segway: $64
  • Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg: $148
  • Alsace Wine Odyssey: Full-Day Private Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Alsace Wine Route Small Group Half-Day Tour with Tasting from Strasbourg: $107
  • Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour from Strasbourg: $175
  • Alsatian brunch with immersive cellar tour: $49
  • Alsatian tour, tasting and meal - 100% immersive experience: $60
  • Christmas Joy in Strasbourg Walking Tour: $641
  • Culinary city tour in Strasbourg with tastings: $104
  • Gems of Alsace: Private Full-Day Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Gourmet Bike Tour with a Locals in Strasbourg: $71
  • Guided Tours of Strasbourg Cathedral: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oxford £21
    Strasbourg £17

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Strasbourg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Strasbourg:

  • Aperitif at the winemaker with cellar visit and wine tasting in Alsace: $11
  • Wine tasting and immersive cellar tour: $20
  • Wine tour, tasting and picnic basket: $38
  • From Medieval Villages & Wine Tasting Day Trip: $118
  • Medieval Villages and Wine Tasting from Strasbourg: $120
  • Strasbourg : Wine Tour by bike with a local: $150
  • Wine Tasting Private Tour: $545


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


Which is Bigger, Oxford or Strasbourg?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Oxford. When comparing the sizes of Oxford and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Strasbourg. Most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Strasbourg this time of the year. Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Strasbourg during summer. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Oxford usually receives less rain than Strasbourg. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Oxford 17°C (63°F) 
    Strasbourg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Strasbourg. The autumn months attract visitors to Oxford because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year.

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

In the autumn, Oxford often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets more rain in October than Strasbourg. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Oxford or Strasbourg in the Winter?

Both Strasbourg and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Oxford this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Strasbourg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Strasbourg. It's quite cold in Oxford in the winter. In January, Oxford is generally much warmer than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 3°C (38°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Oxford usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during winter. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Oxford usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Oxford 3°C (38°F) 
    Strasbourg 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Strasbourg in the Spring?

Both Strasbourg and Oxford during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Strasbourg in the spring for the natural beauty.

Oxford is cooler than Strasbourg in the spring. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Strasbourg. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Strasbourg. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Oxford 9°C (48°F) 
    Strasbourg 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Oxford

Oxford Strasbourg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 2°C (35°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)