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

Should you visit Warsaw or Oxford?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Warsaw and Oxford can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a historical, under-rated, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Warsaw and Oxford: Pros and Cons

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 walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Warsaw or Oxford?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Warsaw than Oxford, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Warsaw is more popular for its historical sights and big city activities, while Oxford is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Oxford is more touristy than Warsaw and is known for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. Warsaw is popular for its historical position as a cultural and political center. It is also home to The Old Town Market Square.

How is Warsaw different from Oxford?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Oxford and Warsaw. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Warsaw or Oxford?

Warsaw
Oxford

Spend time exploring the high quality sights and museums in either Warsaw or Oxford.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

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.


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

Warsaw
Oxford

Dining out at restaurants in both Warsaw and Oxford can be an enjoyable experience.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

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 Warsaw or Oxford Better for Nightlife?

Warsaw
Oxford

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both Warsaw and Oxford.

The nightlife in Warsaw has something for everybody. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

Oxford offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Warsaw or Oxford Better for its Old Town?

Warsaw
Oxford

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

Many visitors go to Warsaw to see the historical old town. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the old town.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Oxford?

Warsaw
Oxford

If you're looking to go shopping, Warsaw and Oxford both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Warsaw. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

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 Warsaw or Oxford Better for Families?

Warsaw
Oxford

Both Warsaw and Oxford are good to visit with kids.

Warsaw offers lots of family activities. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

Oxford is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Warsaw or Oxford Better for Couples?

Warsaw
Oxford

Oxford is a great college town for romance. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Oxford is a great college town if you're traveling as 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.

Warsaw makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.


Is Warsaw or Oxford Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Warsaw
Oxford

Warsaw 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 Warsaw. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

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 Warsaw or Oxford Better for Students?

Warsaw
Oxford

Oxford is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

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 Warsaw. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

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

Warsaw
Oxford

Warsaw 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 Warsaw. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

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 Warsaw or Oxford a more walkable city?

Warsaw
Oxford

Oxford is a great college town for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of 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.

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

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

Should I spend more time in Oxford or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Oxford?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Warsaw and Oxford. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


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

One day in Warsaw or Oxford?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Warsaw. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

A weekend in Warsaw or Oxford?

Warsaw 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.

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.


Five days in Warsaw or Oxford?

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

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.

A week in Warsaw or Oxford?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Warsaw. 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Poland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Oxford or Warsaw?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Warsaw is $93, while the average daily cost in Oxford is $164. 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 Warsaw and Oxford in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Warsaw $51
    Oxford $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Warsaw $102
    Oxford $178
Compare Hotels in Warsaw and Oxford

Looking for a hotel in Warsaw or Oxford? 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 Warsaw


Hotels in Oxford


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: Warsaw Hotel Prices and Oxford Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Warsaw $4.67
    Oxford $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Warsaw

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

  • from Warsaw to Krakow private transfer: $495
  • Wilanow Palace and Gardens with Guide, Tickets and Transfers: $211
  • Private Transfer to/from Krakow: $446
  • Private Economy Transfer Airport -City 1-3 person: $59
  • Gun Shooting Experience with Transfers: $83
  • Extreme Shooting Range Experience with Transfers: $175
  • Extreme Shooting Range Experience with Transfer: $175
  • Economy Private Warsaw Okecie Airport Transfer: $57
  • Chopin Airport Private Transfer: $82
  • Chopin & Modlin Airport Transfers: $64
  • Bus Transfer to/from Vilnus: $35
  • Warsaw to Krakow or Krakow Airport Transfer Best Value: $240

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Warsaw or Oxford?

Prices for flights to both Oxford and Warsaw 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
    Warsaw $27
    Oxford $51
Typical Food Prices in Warsaw

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Warsaw:


  • Dinner for Two
    $13
  • Lunch for Two
    $10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Warsaw

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

  • Lunch or Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe with Skip-the-Line: $17
  • Warsaw's No 1 cooking class-Polish dumplings with liqueur tasting: $61
  • Polish Dumplings Cooking Class: $62
  • Traditional Polish Cooking Class in Warsaw: $79
  • Traditional Polish Cooking Class with liquor tasting in Warsaw: $89
  • Polish Food Tour: $92
  • Taste of Poland - Old Town food tour and guided walk in one: $94
  • 4-Hour Polish Food Tour: $109
  • The 10 Tastings of Warsaw With Locals: Private Food Tour : $117
  • EVERYDAY Warsaw Traditional Food Tour with Old Town Sightseeing: $156
  • Traditional Food Tour with Old Town Sightseeing: $156

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Warsaw $7.00
    Oxford $24

Tours and Activities in Warsaw

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

  • 2 Hour Super Segway City Tour of Warsaw: $67
  • 2-Hour Breakfast Experience in a Home from Warsaw: $49
  • 3 Hour VIP Warsaw Guided City Tour: $207
  • 3-Hour Guided Cycling Tour of Warsaw: $37
  • 6 Hour Private Car Tour to Treblinka With Hotel Pickup: $305
  • Architecture Walking Tour in Warsaw: $76
  • BIKE ADVENTURE : 4-hour sightseeing tour of Warsaw /inc. Pick-up/: $97
  • Best of Warsaw - private tour by retro minibus with hotel pickup: $131
  • Best of Warsaw Full-Day Private Tour with Private Transport: $154
  • Best of Warsaw Full-Day Private Tour with Private Transport: $154
  • Chopin's Warsaw - guided tour in a minivan with evening piano concert: $67
  • Chopin’s Warsaw - City tour in the footsteps of Frédéric Chopin: $69

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Warsaw $10
    Oxford $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Warsaw

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Warsaw:

  • The Original Pub Crawl: $16
  • #1 Pub Crawl Warsaw with Premium Open Bar: $20
  • Pub Crawl with 1-Hour Open Bar: $20
  • Warsaw Wine Tasting Private Tour with Wine Expert: $176

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Warsaw and Oxford, we can see that Oxford is more expensive. And not only is Warsaw much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Warsaw would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Warsaw 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 Oxford would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oxford than you might in Warsaw.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Warsaw Expensive? and Is Oxford Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Oxford?

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

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 Warsaw or Oxford in the Summer?

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

Warsaw is around the same temperature as Oxford in the summer. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 19°C (65°F) in July, and Oxford fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Warsaw, it's very sunny this time of the year. Warsaw usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during summer. Warsaw gets 353 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Warsaw usually receives more rain than Oxford. Warsaw gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Warsaw 19°C (65°F) 
    Oxford 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Oxford in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Warsaw as well as Oxford. The autumn months attract visitors to Warsaw because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Oxford this time of year.

In the autumn, Warsaw is cooler than Oxford. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Warsaw in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Oxford averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Warsaw often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Warsaw gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 107 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets less rain in October than Oxford. Warsaw gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Warsaw 9°C (49°F) 
    Oxford 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Oxford in the Winter?

Both Oxford and Warsaw 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 Warsaw this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oxford for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Oxford. It's quite cold in Warsaw in the winter. In January, Warsaw is generally much colder than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around -3°C (27°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Warsaw usually receives less sunshine than Oxford during winter. Warsaw gets 35 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Oxford. Warsaw gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Warsaw -3°C (27°F) 
    Oxford 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Oxford in the Spring?

Both Oxford and Warsaw during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Warsaw for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Oxford in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Warsaw is around the same temperature as Oxford in the spring. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Oxford fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Warsaw. In the spring, Warsaw often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Warsaw gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 147 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets less rain in April than Oxford. Warsaw gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Warsaw 9°C (47°F) 
    Oxford 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Oxford and Warsaw

Warsaw Oxford
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb -1°C (30°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Dec -0°C (31°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)