Visit the university town of Oxford
Nestled in the heart of England, Oxford is world-renowned for its prestigious university, rich architecture and intellectual atmosphere. A city on a human scale, it blends history, culture and greenery, offering an escape as enriching as it is exotic, less than two hours from London.
Why visit Oxford?
Oxford attracts visitors from all over the world thanks to its 800-year-old university heritage. The city offers a unique experience: stroll through medieval alleyways, visit historic colleges, explore exceptional museums, all in a peaceful and elegant atmosphere. Oxford appeals to culture buffs as much as to the curious in search of history or picturesque landscapes.
Oxford must-sees
- University of Oxford: one of the world’s oldest universities, with colleges of spectacular architecture
- Bodleian Library: a historic library of unrivalled charm, often used as a film set.
- Radcliffe Camera: An emblematic symbol of the city, this circular building is an architectural masterpiece.
- Ashmolean Museum: the world’s leading university museum, with collections ranging from ancient Egypt to modern art.
- Oxford Covered Market: A lively covered market, ideal for sampling local specialities.
- Christ Church Cathedral: Famous for its Harry Potter connections and magnificent gardens.
- Magdalen College & Deer Park: A peaceful place where nature, history and local wildlife come together.
Neighborhoods to explore
- City Centre: The lively heart of Oxford, with its bookshops, student cafés and historic buildings.
- Jericho: Bohemian neighborhood with small theaters, cozy pubs and trendy restaurants.
- Cowley Road: Renowned for its cultural diversity and vibrant nightlife.
- North Oxford: A leafy residential neighborhood, popular with teachers and families.
Practical tips for visiting Oxford
| Transport | Easily accessible by train from London; use buses and bicycles to get around town. |
| Hosting | A variety of options from quaint B&Bs to luxury hotels. |
| Currency | Pound sterling (£). Contactless payments are widely accepted. |
| Language | English. |
| Weather | Bring an umbrella, as rain is frequent, whatever the season. |
| Formalities | Check whether you need a British ETA or a visa for Oxford |
Where to eat in Oxford
- The Handle Bar Café & Kitchen: Local cuisine, organic products, warm ambience.
- The Old Bookbinders: typical Franco-British pub in the Jericho district.
- Vaults & Garden Café: A quiet lunch in a former university building.
- Quod Restaurant & Bar: An elegant restaurant housed in a former bank.
- G&D’s Ice Cream Café: local institution for artisanal ice cream.
When should you visit Oxford?
The best time to visit Oxford is from May to September, when temperatures are pleasant and the university gardens are in bloom. Summer offers a lively atmosphere thanks to student events, cultural festivals and open-air concerts. Spring and autumn also allow for a more peaceful discovery, with fewer tourists. Be prepared for the changeable weather typical of England, and don’t forget your umbrella!
Conclusion
Oxford is an ideal destination for those who wish to combine culture, history and tranquillity in an enchanting setting. Less crowded than London, but just as rich in heritage, Oxford seduces with its understated elegance, vibrant university life and bucolic strolls. If you like the intellectual atmosphere of Cambridge, the charm of Manchester or the countryside around Edinburgh, Oxford is a must.
The formalities for visiting Oxford depend on your nationality. Citizens of the European Union and many other countries are now required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) if they do not have a visa for England.
The ETA for the UK must be requested online via the official IPhone application. Irish citizens and UK residents are not concerned.
