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

Should you visit Oxford or Zurich?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Zurich, 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 scholarly, collegiate, and beautiful college town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Oxford and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oxford or Zurich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich than Oxford. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zurich is very popular for its food, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Oxford attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Zurich is more touristy than Oxford and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Oxford is famous for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Oxford different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Oxford or Zurich.

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 Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Oxford and Zurich.

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.

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Is Oxford or Zurich Better for Music?

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

It's worth checking out the music scene in Zurich while you're in town. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Oxford is not a live music destination.

Is Oxford or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

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

Zurich has a world-famous historical area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Zurich?

Zurich 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 Zurich. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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 Zurich Better for Families?

Zurich 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.

Zurich is a very family-friendly destination. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich Better for Couples?

Oxford and Zurich are both great 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 Zurich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Is Oxford or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich 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 Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

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 Zurich Better for Students?

Both Oxford and Zurich are world-class 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.

Zurich is a very popular college town for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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 Zurich a more walkable city?

Oxford and Zurich are great 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.

Zurich is a very walkable college town. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Zurich?

In either Oxford or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich 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 Zurich.

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

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

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

One day in Oxford or Zurich?

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zurich. 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 Zurich?

Oxford 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.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oxford. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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 Zurich?

Oxford is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This college town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the beautiful destination of Zurich. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Oxford or Zurich?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Oxford. When comparing the sizes of Oxford and Zurich, 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 Zurich?

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 Zurich in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Zurich. Many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Oxford is cooler than Zurich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Oxford in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Zurich averages at about 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. In the summer, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in July than Zurich. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Oxford is generally cooler than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 11°C (52°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during autumn. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Oxford usually receives less rain than Zurich. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Oxford or Zurich in the Winter?

Both Zurich and Oxford during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Oxford for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Zurich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Zurich can be very cold. Oxford can be very cold during winter. Oxford is a little warmer than Zurich in the winter. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Oxford often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in January than Zurich. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Zurich. The spring months attract visitors to Oxford because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

In the spring, Oxford is cooler than Zurich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Oxford in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Zurich averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Oxford usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich during spring. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Oxford usually receives less rain than Zurich. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Oxford