Oxford 3 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Oxford’s History and Architecture
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Morning:
- Start your day with breakfast at The Handlebar Cafe, a popular spot among locals for its hearty English breakfast. (42 St Giles, Oxford OX1 3LD)
- Visit the University Church of St Mary the Virgin (Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 4BG), one of Oxford’s oldest buildings and offering stunning views over the city from its tower.
- Walk through the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe. You can explore the Old Bodleian, the Radcliffe Camera, and the Duke Humphrey’s Tower. (Broad St, Oxford OX1 3BG)
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Afternoon:
- Lunch at The Turf Tavern, a traditional pub dating back to the 13th century, located near the heart of the city. (2 St Helens Passage, Oxford OX1 3PY)
- Visit the Bridge of Sighs and Hertford College on New College Lane. The Bridge of Sighs is a modern structure that connects two parts of Hertford College, while New College Lane is one of the most picturesque streets in Oxford.
- Explore Christ Church College, famous for its stunning architecture, including Tom Tower and the Great Hall which was used as a filming location for Harry Potter. (St Aldate’s, Oxford OX1 1DP)
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Evening:
- Dinner at George Street Social, offering contemporary British cuisine in a stylish setting. (38 George St, Oxford OX1 2AQ)
- Take a relaxing stroll along the University Parks or enjoy a drink by the Punting Station on Folly Bridge, overlooking the beautiful Isis River.
Day 2: Museums and Natural Beauty
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Morning:
- Breakfast at The Bakery Cafe, serving a variety of freshly baked pastries, bread, and sandwiches. (41 Worcester St, Oxford OX1 2BX)
- Visit the Ashmolean Museum to explore collections spanning ancient Egypt, classical antiquities, and art from across the world. (Beaumont St, Oxford OX1 2PH)
- Walk through Broad Street, the main thoroughfare in Oxford, and admire the architecture of buildings such as the Sheldonian Theatre and the Clarendon Building.
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Afternoon:
- Lunch at The Chef’s Kitchen, offering an extensive menu featuring international dishes with a modern twist. (14 Little Clarendon St, Oxford OX1 2HR)
- Visit the Pitt Rivers Museum to see collections from cultures around the world, focusing on anthropology and archaeology. (South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3PP)
- Take a leisurely walk through Port Meadow, a beautiful green space along the River Thames.
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Evening:
- Dinner at The Oxford Blue in Jericho, known for its gourmet burgers and craft beers. (40 Walton St, Oxford OX2 6AA)
- Catch a show at the New Theatre, featuring a variety of productions from West End hits to local performances. (24-28 George St, Oxford OX1 2AG)
Day 3: University Colleges and Shopping
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Morning:
- Breakfast at Turl Street Kitchen, offering a wide range of dishes from traditional full English to lighter options like acai bowls. (40 Turl St, Oxford OX1 3DQ)
- Visit Magdalen College and its beautiful deer park. Don’t miss the Chapel, one of the most stunning in Oxford. (Oxford OX1 4AU)
- Explore Merton Street, known for its independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.
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Afternoon:
- Lunch at The Grand Cafe, housed in a historic building and offering classic British dishes. (68 St Giles’, Oxford OX1 3LW)
- Visit the Botanic Garden to see a diverse range of plants from around the world, or take a boat trip along the Isis River for a different perspective on the city.
- Browse through the shops in Cornmarket Street, Oxford’s primary shopping street, before heading back to your accommodation.
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Evening:
- Dinner at The Trout Inn, located outside of the city center but offering a quintessential English pub experience by the River Thames. (Weybridge OX3 9AB)
- Return to Oxford for a well-deserved rest, or enjoy a nightcap at one of the many bars in the city center.
Things to Know:
- Oxford is a walkable city, but buses are available if needed. Buses 5, X39, and U1 run frequently between the train station and the city center.
- Many tourist attractions require tickets for entry, so it’s best to check opening times and prices in advance.
- Some colleges may only be accessible with a guided tour or during specific times of day, so plan accordingly.
- Enjoy your trip to Oxford!