Top 10 Best Things to Do in Oxford
left-leaf
trip-best

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Oxford

right-leaf
Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
2026 Global 100
2026 Global 100 image
Innovation Award
Innovation Award image
Contact Us
facebook icon
instagram icon
tiktok icon
󰴉
Theme filters
Theme filters
  • University of Oxfordtop_1
    󰺂7.9
    Oxford601m from downtown
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 Europe 50 - Family-friendly Attractions
    Highlights:
    󱓊Cobblestone streets & open campus
    󱨜Charming colleges throughout the city
    󱨠Saved by 232 users󱨠183 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    外国妹外国妹

    Oxford University is a public research university with a traditional collegiate system. It's the oldest university in the English-speaking world, and has a significant number of Chinese students. It has 39 colleges, with classic and elegant campus architecture and 4-5 museums. I stayed one night and two days, which felt like enough time. It's conveniently located, just over an hour by bus to London. It's not large; you can mostly walk. The late autumn scenery is stunning. Renting an Airbnb costs around 700 RMB per night, which is worthwhile. The culinary arts college requires an entrance fee; it's become commercialized. This was my second visit.

  • Bridge of Sighstop_2
    󰺂6.3
    Oxford384m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱓊Stroll campus & admire bridges
    󰋄Iconic footbridge at Hertford College
    󱨠54% positive reviews
    4.7/5
    陌染MM陌染MM

    The Bridge of Sighs (Oxford University, UK) is officially called Hertford Bridge. It is a famous attraction at Oxford University. The construction of the Bridge of Sighs began in 1913 (completed in 1914). It crosses New College Road and connects the old and new parts of Hertford College. It is a famous attraction at Oxford University. It was designed by Sir Thomas Jackson. Because the bridge is similar to the Bridge of Sighs in Venice, Italy, it is called the Bridge of Sighs. I came to Oxford University with a tour group and could only take a quick look.

  • University Church of St Mary the Virgintop_3
    󰺂6.0
    Oxford289m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱓊360° Oxford view from tower
    󱨜Gothic university cathedral, centuries-old
    4.2/5
    苏河家园苏河家园

    The Church of the Virgin Mary of Oxford University is the main church of Oxford University. The interior is stained with glass. Traveling through the ancient neighbourhoods of Oxford, you can feel the British academic atmosphere and history.

  • Bodleian Library
    4
    󰺂5.3
    Oxford341m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱓊Strict rules & no exceptions
    Historic library & 11 million books
    󱨠37% positive reviews
    4.7/5
    西溪老翁西溪老翁

    The Bodleian Library - University of Oxford is the main library of the University of Oxford. It is one of the oldest libraries in Europe (opened in 1602) and the second largest in the UK after the British Library. library. This is one of the 6 statutory libraries in the UK. All Oxford publications will be automatically sent to this collection upon publication. There are many branches under the library, among which the Radcliffe Camera branch has become an important landmark of Oxford University. Many books are stored here, and non-Oxford University students can also visit it. Bodori Library is composed of a group of buildings of different historical periods and styles. It is said that there are underground passages connecting each building.

  • Oxford University Museum of Natural History
    5
    󰺂5.2
    Oxford759m from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Oxford
    Highlights:
    󱓊Free entry & 300k visitors
    5 million natural history items
    󱨠49% positive reviews
    4.7/5
    AAA8AAA8

    Earth and life exist in delicate balance. Explore the oceans, land, and air around us to witness this dynamic connection and see what happens when the balance tips.

  • Ashmolean Museum
    6
    󰺂4.8
    Oxford412m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱓊Neoclassical museum & exquisite exhibits
    󱨜Art & history exhibitions regularly
    󱨠39% positive reviews
    4.6/5
    NoemieyNoemiey

    it’s definitely one of my favorite art museums in the UK, not only for its great collections but also the exhibition designs.

  • Oxford Castle & Prison
    7
    󰺂4.5
    Oxford371m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱓊View Oxford's skyline from tower
    󱨜Fortress turned prison over centuries
    4.1/5
    M43***62M43***62

    Covid regulations at the castle/prison dictate that an hours guided tour must be taken. In reality a visit without one would be a mistake. Our tour was conducted by Becca, right from the start it was obvious she has a thorough knowledge of the sights to see at the location. A thoroughly enjoyable, rewarding and enlightening visit. Highly recommended.

  • University College, Oxford
    8
    󰺂4.5
    Oxford392m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱨜Explore Harry Potter film locations
    󱓊Oxford's ancient college since 1249
    4.7/5
    小思文小思文

    Oxford University College is also a very innovative place. This college is also one of the top universities in the world. The famous Oxford University is located in many areas of the city. Many disciplines of the university are in a leading position. There are also many Chinese international students.

  • Radcliffe Camera
    9
    󰺂4.4
    Oxford298m from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰀆Collect all Oxford books
    󱓊Baroque library completed in 1749
    󱨠26% positive reviews
    4.2/5
    BbybellsBbybells

    the Radcliffe camera is stunning and a place that I always take tourists when they visit

  • University Parks
    10
    󰺂4.2
    Oxford1.1 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    Next to Oxford's academic vibe
    󰀆Cherry blossoms: a must-see
    4.5/5
    BbybellsBbybells

    so pretty, lots of squirrels, absolutely perfect for a run, but currently construction

Best things to do in Oxford (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Oxford? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Oxford offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Oxford

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Oxford experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

University of Oxford

• Oxford | 601m from downtown

• : Cobblestone streets & open campus,Charming colleges throughout the city

Bridge of Sighs

• Oxford | 384m from downtown

• : Stroll campus & admire bridges,Iconic footbridge at Hertford College

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

• Oxford | 289m from downtown

• : 360° Oxford view from tower,Gothic university cathedral, centuries-old

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Oxford

If you want to explore attractions just outside Oxford, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Oxford, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Oxford special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Oxford

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Oxford

Ready to explore the best of Oxford? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What Best Things to Do are there in Oxford?
These are all Best Things to Do in Oxford:University of Oxford, Bridge of Sighs, University Church of St Mary the Virgin, Bodleian Library, Oxford University Museum of Natural History
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Oxford?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Oxford include:University of Oxford:4.7, Bridge of Sighs:4.7, University Church of St Mary the Virgin:4.2, Bodleian Library:4.7, Oxford University Museum of Natural History:4.7
At what locations in Oxford can Best Things to Do in Oxford be found?
The Best Things to Do in Oxford are mainly located in:University of Oxford:Oxford, Bridge of Sighs:Oxford, University Church of St Mary the Virgin:Oxford, Bodleian Library:Oxford, Oxford University Museum of Natural History:Oxford
󰴉