For over 800 years, Oxford has been synonymous with prestige. In fact, its inhabitants have nicknamed it " The Bubble", because it's a self-sufficient city, a world governed by university traditions. As you explore Oxford, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate a number of exceptional buildings, inspiring colleges and film locations from the Harry Potter saga. To discover the city, Petit Futé takes you on a journey through its must-sees.
Good to know: A simple passport is no longer enough to enter the UK for a short stay! From April 2, 2025, French citizens wishing to visit the UK will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), unless they have a visa,settled status orpre-settled status.
1- Discover Oxford city center
Before setting off to discoverOxford's libraries and universities, don't forget to explore its historic center, a place of learning for over 800 years. With its rich cultural heritage, the city has inspired many artists, such as Lewis Caroll. It also boasts a thriving music scene, with the birthplace of legendary bands such as Supertramp, Radiohead and Unbelievable Truth.
Activities to book your guided walking tour of Oxford city center.
The article to read to discover the best cities to study in Europe.
2- Christ Church College & Cathedral
In 1133, Britain's first college was founded to train more educated clerics to combat the illiteracy prevalent throughout England. Indeed, as early as the 10th century, several major European cities such as Salerno, Bologna and Paris already had their own schools of higher learning. Built in 1546, Christ Church is certainly the most famous, and one of the city's finest colleges . Its chapel, which is also the country's smallest cathedral, inspired Lewis Caroll to writeAlice in Wonderland.
3- Take a trip to the Harry Potter film locations
Oxford is also a favorite destination for fans of the Harry Potter saga. Several scenes from the legendary Hogwarts castle were filmed in Oxford. The best-known location is surely the Christ Church Dining Room, which has lent its walls to the castle's Great Hall . The cloister corridors and imposing college staircases are also featured. In the films, you can also see the Bodleian libraries and the exteriors of New College.
Read this article10 Harry Potter film locations to discover.
4- What to visit in Oxford Bodleian Library
Bodleian Library is the UK's largest university library. It contains over 9 million books. As you explore the library, you'll follow in the footsteps of many of the artists and personalities who studied within its walls. These include five kings, 40 Nobel Prize winners and 25 British Prime Ministers, as well as writers such as Oscar Wilde, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.
The article to read to discover the world's most beautiful libraries.
5- Visit the Botanic Garden
Oxford's Botanic Garden, founded in 1621, is the oldest "teaching garden" in the UK. It is also located in the country's oldest university, the University of Oxford. Its original purpose was to study medicinal and scientific plants. Today, you can discover over 6,000 varieties of plants, as well as seven greenhouses housing plant species from all over the world.
The must-read article to discover England's must-sees.
6- Visit the Natural History Museum
Founded in 1860, Oxford'sMuseum of Natural History is well worth a visit for its impressive Gothic architecture and entrance hall alone. At the time of its creation, the building served as a center of scientific study for the city's university. Today, you'll find the Earth & Life Collections, the first of which features Paleolithic artefacts, dinosaur skeletons and almost 30,000 rocks and minerals. The second exhibits over 250,000 stuffed animal specimens of allkinds.
7- What to do in Oxford Visit Magdalen College
Located on the banks of the river, Magdalen College was founded in 1448. Its 15th-century tower is a particularly distinctive feature . Every May 1st, at 6am, a choir performs a Eucharistic hymn, while the school's students gather downstairs after a night of festivities. It's the only college to have a park with deer on its grounds. Legend has it that there are as many deer as there are teachers.
Activities to book a guided cruise on the Oxford River.
8- Carfax Tower
For a great view of the city, head to Carfax Tower. This 23-meter-high tower was erected in the 14th century. As you stroll through the city, the tower easily serves as a landmark. In fact, none of Oxford's buildings should be taller than it. The tower is the only remaining part of St. Martin's Church, built in the 12th century.
9- Discover Oxford Castle
Oxford Castle and Prison are the ruins of a great Norman fortress, standing to the west of the city center. Like most similar sites in England, the castle was largely destroyed during the English Civil War. What remained of it was converted into a prison in the 18th century. Guided tours are now available.
10- See Hertford Bridge
Hertford Bridge, more commonly known as the Bridge of Sighs, links two Hertford College buildings on New College Lane. The nickname comes from its resemblance to the Bridge of Sighs in Venice. It, too, is one of the main points of interest in Oxford city center.
11- A trip to the Cotswolds
Just a few miles from Oxford lies the beautiful Cotswolds region. Surrounded by lush green countryside, you can discover some of the most beautiful English villages in Europe, including Bibury and Castle Combe. The latter attracts many fans of the Harry Potter saga, as its abbey was used as a filming location for certain scenes.
Activities to book an excursion to the Cotswolds, departing from Oxford.
The article to read to discover the must-sees of the Cotswolds.
See also the most popular things to do in and around Oxford:
Where to stay in Oxford?
Petit Futé has compiled a list of the best-rated accommodations in Oxford:
- The most luxurious
The Old Bank Hotel is a beautiful 5-star establishment located in the heart of the historic center. Luxurious, well-equipped rooms, restaurant, terrace and bar are all at your disposal. For more information and reservations, click here.
- Best value for money
The Royal Oxford Hotel is housed in a traditional brick building, and enjoys a central location in the city. Rooms are well-equipped, and the hotel offers a wide range of services. Information and booking here.
- The most affordable
More affordable, Central Backpackers is a youth hostel close to the train and bus stations. The dormitories and communal areas are pleasant, and there's a pub right next door, ideal for partying. Information and booking via this link.
Want to discover Oxford? If you're travelling to the UK, why not book your train tickets now:
