OxfordUnited Kingdom

Oxford is a city of fascinating architecture, history and nightlife. Admire a cityscape of grand towers and spires. Visit the college buildings that count Aldous Huxley and Stephen Hawking as alumni. Sample the atmosphere of centuries-old pubs. Explore pristine parks lining the River Thames and River Cherwell, the two rivers that cut through the city.

A major highlight of Oxford is Oxford University, with some of England’s most architecturally impressive buildings. These include Christ Church College, Christ Church Cathedral, the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera. Step inside the Sheldonian Theatre, the location of the Oxford Literary Festival. Walk around the Botanic Garden near Magdalen College.

Enjoy the university’s free museums. Spot archaeological and anthropological objects at the Pitt Rivers Museum. Find collections of scientific instruments at the Museum of the History of Science. See artifacts from the Neolithic period to the present at the Ashmolean Museum.

Oxford’s city center presents a mix of retail and entertainment. Find over 50 independent stalls at the Covered Market. Browse for literature at Blackwell’s Bookshop, one of Europe’s largest bookstores. Learn about the legends of Oxford Castle at Oxford Castle Unlocked. Climb to the top of Carfax Tower for unrivaled city views.

Experience the buzz of Oxford’s nightlife, centered on pedestrianized George and Magdalen streets. Watch concerts at Cowley Road’s live music venues. Visit historic pubs such as the Old Parsonage Hotel and the Eagle and Child, the haunts of Oscar Wilde and J.R.R. Tolkien, respectively.

In the summer, punting is a favorite activity. Rent a punt, a flat-bottomed boat, and travel through the city along the gently flowing rivers. Relax with a picnic on the riverbanks or in University Park or Christ Church Meadow.

Getting to Oxford is easy via frequent public train and bus services from London. Be sure to visit attractions outside of the city center, all accessible by rental car. Enjoy daytrips to elegant Blenheim Palace and villages set amid the picturesque Cotswolds countryside.