Oxford-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City Centre

  • Morning
    • Start your day with a visit to the iconic Ashmolean Museum, one of the world’s oldest public museums. Admission is free.
    • Walk through the beautiful Bodleian Library Quads, a stunning example of Oxford’s collegiate architecture.
  • Lunch
    • Head to Quod on High Street for delicious sandwiches and salads in a lovely courtyard setting.
    • Alternatively, try The Grand Cafe, a historic spot with great food and atmosphere.
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, a beautiful church that dates back to 1084.
    • Take a stroll through Radcliffe Square, surrounded by stunning colleges and gardens.
  • Evening
    • Enjoy dinner at The Old Parsonage Hotel, which serves up tasty British cuisine in a lovely setting.
    • After dinner, take a short walk to the Pit River for a scenic view of the city.

Day 2: Colleges and Gardens

  • Morning
    • Visit Christ Church College, one of the largest and most prestigious colleges. Don’t miss the stunning Tom Tower and the famous Hall, where Harry Potter was filmed.
    • Take a stroll through the beautiful Christ Church Meadows, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Lunch
    • Head to The Eagle and Child, a historic pub that served as a regular meeting spot for J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
    • Alternatively, try Brasenose College’s cafeteria for a tasty and affordable meal.
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Pembroke College Gardens, a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.
    • Take a walk along the River Cherwell, which runs through the heart of Oxford.

Day 3: Museums and Culture

  • Morning
    • Visit the Museum of Natural History, home to over 5 million specimens, including dinosaurs and mammals.
    • Explore the Ashmolean’s new building, a stunning example of modern architecture.
  • Lunch
    • Head to The Oxford Castle, which serves up tasty pub grub in a historic setting.
    • Alternatively, try Magdalen College’s cafeteria for a delicious meal in a beautiful setting.
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Modern Art Oxford, a contemporary art gallery featuring work from around the world.
    • Explore the Oxford University Museum of the History of Science, which features a fascinating collection of scientific instruments and artifacts.

Day 4: Markets and Shopping

  • Morning
    • Visit the Covered Market, a bustling marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.
    • Take a stroll along the High Street, lined with beautiful shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
  • Lunch
    • Head to The Oxford Farmers’ Market for delicious street food and local produce.
    • Alternatively, try The Jam Factory, which serves up tasty food and drinks in a unique setting.
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Oxford Shop, a charming store selling gifts, souvenirs, and unique items.
    • Take a walk along the High Street to explore the city’s many shops and cafes.

Where to Stay

  • The Old Parsonage Hotel: A luxurious hotel with beautiful rooms and a lovely garden setting.
  • Quod Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, located in the heart of the city.

Transportation

  • Walking: The best way to explore Oxford is on foot. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
  • Bus: Oxford has a comprehensive bus network that connects all parts of the city. You can buy tickets online or at newsagents.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available and can be booked in advance.

Tips

  • Buy an Oxford City Card: This card gives you access to many attractions, public transport, and discounts at shops and restaurants.
  • Dress for the weather: Oxford’s weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack layers and waterproof gear.
  • Respect local customs: Remember that Oxford is a university town with many students and academics. Be respectful of these individuals and their surroundings.

Other Things to Know

  • Oxford is a compact city: Despite its large student population, Oxford is a relatively small city, making it easy to get around on foot.
  • Many attractions are free: Many museums, galleries, and historical sites offer free admission, so be sure to take advantage of these opportunities.
  • **Don’t miss the Punting experience: Take a leisurely boat ride down the River Cherwell for a unique perspective on the city.