There’s something enchanting about exploring college towns. Universities around the world are hubs for creativity and research. The inspiration and excitement that come with education are palpable throughout the communities that surround institutions of higher learning. Oxford and Cambridge, two of the world’s most prestigious colleges, are both incredible places to visit if you’re hoping to immerse yourself in the world of academia during your trip to the United Kingdom. Both are well worth experiencing, but if you’re only able to carve out time in your itinerary to visit one, Rick Steves has some great advice that may help you decide.
Rick Steves is a beloved European travel expert who has been helping travelers plan their perfect European getaway for decades. He’s written multiple best-selling travel guidebooks, hosted a popular travel-themed TV show, and takes thousands of travelers on group tours each year. He believes London is one of the best cities in all of Europe, and has some great advice on things to do while visiting the city. Cambridge and Oxford are both located under an hour away and both make for great side quests during a trip to London, but if you only have time to visit one, Rick Steves thinks it should be Oxford.
Oxford vs. Cambridge
Oxford and Cambridge have a lot of similarities, which makes it all the more challenging to decide which one to visit. “Despite their fierce rivalry — especially when it comes to rowing — Oxford and Cambridge have many similarities,” Steves explains in a post on his website. “Both schools use the ‘collegiate system,’ where the colleges are mixed throughout the town; there’s no sense of one secluded campus typical of many American universities.” He added that both have some gorgeous architecture and walkable streets lined with shops and pubs, and they share a reputation for academic excellence.
The main reason Rick Steves prefers visiting Oxford over Cambridge is because there is slightly more to do, and more places to stay if you’d like to make it an overnight adventure. “Oxford can keep you busy sightseeing for a longer time and has plenty of good hotels — so it’s worth a longer stay.” He also notes Oxford’s proximity to other worthwhile places to visit. If you’re looking to spend a few days outside of the city, base yourself in Oxford and explore Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, and Blenheim Palace — Steve calls them “charming English destinations.”
Oxford is one of the best cities for a day trip if you’re staying in London. The train takes between 45 and 90 minutes and costs around $8-$50 each way. If you’re traveling by car, the drive takes a little over an hour and a half. You can find car rentals in London for about $30 per day. If you choose to drive, keep in mind that you’ll need to prepare yourself for driving on the other side of the road in the UK.
Things to do in Oxford
