3 day itinerary for Oxford

Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historic City Center

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the charming cafes in the city center. Afterward, head to the iconic Radcliffe Camera, a stunning library building that is a symbol of Oxford. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby University Church of St Mary the Virgin, where you can climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.

Next, make your way to the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and see the stunning architecture. From there, wander through the cobbled streets of the city center, exploring the various colleges that make up the University of Oxford. Don't miss Christ Church College, which served as the inspiration for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.

For lunch, indulge in some traditional British pub fare at one of the many cozy pubs in the city center. Afterward, visit the Ashmolean Museum, the oldest public museum in the UK, to admire its vast collection of art and artifacts.

In the evening, enjoy a leisurely punt along the River Cherwell or the River Thames. Sit back and relax as your guide navigates the waterways, providing interesting insights into the history and architecture of Oxford. End the day with a delicious dinner at one of the city's many restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines to suit every taste.

Day 2: Discovering Oxford's Literary Legacy

Start your day with a visit to the Oxford University Press, where you can take a guided tour to learn about the publishing process and the history of this renowned institution. From there, head to the Museum of Oxford, which showcases the city's rich history through interactive exhibits and displays.

Next, explore the Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in the UK. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, admiring the diverse collection of plants and flowers. If you're a fan of Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," don't miss the Alice in Wonderland-themed section of the garden.

For lunch, try some delicious street food at the Covered Market, a historic market with a wide range of food stalls and shops. Afterward, visit the Eagle and Child pub, a famous meeting place for the literary group known as the Inklings, which included J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.

In the afternoon, explore the Oxford Castle and Prison, where you can take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of St. George's Tower. End the day with a visit to the Story Museum, a unique museum dedicated to the art of storytelling, where you can immerse yourself in interactive exhibits and workshops.

Day 3: Exploring Oxford's Surroundings

On your final day in Oxford, venture outside the city to explore its beautiful surroundings. Start with a visit to Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Explore the opulent palace and its stunning gardens, and don't miss the Churchill Exhibition, which provides a fascinating insight into the life of this iconic British leader.

Afterward, head to the picturesque village of Woodstock, located just a short distance from Blenheim Palace. Take a leisurely stroll through its charming streets, browse the boutique shops, and enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea at one of the cozy tea rooms.

In the afternoon, visit the Pitt Rivers Museum, which houses a vast collection of anthropological and archaeological artifacts from around the world. Explore the museum's unique displays, which are organized according to themes rather than geographical regions.

End your day with a relaxing walk along the Oxford Canal, enjoying the peaceful scenery and watching the narrowboats pass by. Alternatively, you can take a scenic drive to the nearby Cotswolds, a picturesque region known for its charming villages and rolling hills.

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and literary legacy, Oxford offers a delightful mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring the city center, discovering its literary connections, or venturing into the surrounding countryside, you're sure to have a memorable three days in this enchanting city.