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Oxford is one of England's smaller cities, yet with everything so compact and the city having been significantly pedestrianised over the years, it is possible to explore the sights with ease. For those wanting to discover Oxfordshire's attractions a little further out, the city's public transport network is highly efficient in getting people from A to B.
Set in the heart of the English countryside, there will be something for everyone to enjoy here, from historic city tours and exclusive shopping to interesting museums and peaceful boat trips. It would be advisable to plan an itinerary of where you would like to visit when you arrive in Oxford, allowing you to maximise your time here and see all the wonderful things the city has to offer.
Read more on this destination in the AA Essential Guide to England.
Suggested Oxford itinerary
Day One
Morning
Begin your first day in Oxford by uncovering the city's history at Oxford Castle Unlocked, and learning about some of the city's most mysterious characters. After a couple of hours here, head into the beautiful city centre and enjoy brunch at one of Oxford's many riverside café's.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon discovering the city centre and shopping at the numerous original boutiques that Oxford has to offer. Catch a glimpse of the Bridge of Sigh's and be sure to grab a drink in the famous local Turf Tavern after an exciting day of exploration.
Evening
As the sun sets over the city, head down to one of Oxford's best restaurants, Le Petit Blanc Brasserie, for an authentic British meal, before making your way down to the Glee Club. Here you can enjoy an evening of live comedy and entertainment to round off a wonderful first day in Oxford.
Day Two
Morning
To start your second day in Oxford, start by heading down to one of the city's most popular attractions, the Christ Church. Explore the oldest college in Oxford and the school of Harry Potter, as depicted in the recent blockbuster films. After taking a few pictures, make your way round to explore the university's four and a half acre Botanic Gardens.
Afternoon
After lunch in one of Oxford's numerous restaurants, go punting along the river Cherwell or sit back, relax, and take an organised boat trip to enjoy the sights of Oxford from the riverside. Come late afternoon, avoid the queues and take a trip to one of the city's best museums, the Ashmolean.
Evening
Enjoy a traditional Japanese meal at the Edamame restaurant before taking a pleasant evening stroll through the city to the Oxford Playhouse to experience one of Britain's best opera or ballet displays. If the night is still young after a fantastic performance, then put on your dancing shoes and head to the Cowley Road area of the city for cocktails and dancing at Café Coco.