Oxford’s most rewarding tours stick to the historic core, where nearly 40 colleges create Britain’s most remarkable university town. The classic walking tours, typically 2-3 hours, offer the best bang for your buck, threading through narrow lanes and into stunning college courtyards. I’m especially fond of the student-led walks – these young guides share authentic campus life stories while covering the academic landmarks.
For something different, try the evening ghost tours or hop on a bike tour to cover more ground. The Murder Mystery tour, though a bit touristy, cleverly weaves Oxford’s history into an engaging puzzle.
These are our tested-and-true favorite Oxford tours:
Key Points
- Oxford Tours offer immersive experiences with high traveler recommendation rates, knowledgeable guides, and exceptional value for private and group tours.
- The tour options include walking, cycling, open-top bus, and thematic tours that cover iconic landmarks, literary connections, and Harry Potter filming locations.
- Tours provide engaging insights into Oxford’s history, culture, and academic life, with flexibility to accommodate diverse needs and personalized exploration.
- Positive reviews highlight the quality of guided tours, with high ratings for factors like knowledgeable guides, engaging anecdotes, and overall value.
- The tours feature a range of durations and pricing, with options starting at around $30 and offering free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Oxford Official University & City Tour
The Oxford Official University & City Tour offers an immersive exploration of the historic city and its renowned university system.
With over 800 reviews and a 95% traveler recommendation, this guided walking tour provides an insider’s perspective on Oxford’s rich history and vibrant academic life.
Participants can expect to visit college facilities, learn about the university system, and gain local insights from knowledgeable guides.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring personalized attention, and features picturesque views perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Accessible to all, the experience is suitable for various ages and interests, with guides adapting to the group’s needs regardless of weather conditions.
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Oxford: 9 Hours City Tour and Colleges
For those in search of an immersive, comprehensive exploration of Oxford, the 9-Hour City Tour and Colleges experience offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Priced at $736.82 for a group of up to 4 participants, this private tour departs from any London accommodation and showcases the city’s renowned colleges and historical sites.
Highlights include the University Church of St Mary, Balliol College, Exeter College, Hertford College, Magdalen College, and the iconic Christ Church College.
With 5.5 hours allocated for exploring and 3.5 hours for driving, this tour provides a well-paced itinerary that allows ample time to take in Oxford’s rich history and architectural marvels.
Flexible booking and cancellation policies make this tour a convenient and customizable option for discerning travelers.
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Oxford City and University Walking Small Group PUBLIC Tour
Travelers looking to enjoy the rich history and architectural wonders of Oxford need look no further than the Oxford City and University Walking Small Group PUBLIC Tour.
This highly-rated, 95% recommended walking tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city and its prestigious university. Led by knowledgeable guides praised for their expertise, flexibility, and engaging anecdotes, the tour includes visits to select colleges and provides a complimentary map.
While certain colleges are off-limits, the tour still delivers an informative and customizable experience. With a maximum group size of 14, flexible booking, and accessibility features, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an intimate, in-depth look at the storied city of Oxford.
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Oxford: City Bike Tour With Student Guide
Avid cyclists seeking an immersive exploration of Oxford’s iconic landmarks and charming backstreets will find the Oxford: City Bike Tour With Student Guide a captivating experience.
Rated 4.4 out of 7 reviews, this 3-hour tour offers a dynamic way to discover the city, led by knowledgeable student guides.
At Kč 3,834 per person, cyclists will pedal past the University of Oxford, Christ Church, and other historic sites, while learning about the city’s rich heritage.
With an average duration of 3 hours, this tour provides a rundown of Oxford, making it an attractive option for those seeking an active and engaging way to experience the city.
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24 Hour Open Top City Tour
Offering a rundown of Oxford’s iconic landmarks, the Hour Open Top City Tour provides a convenient and flexible way for visitors to explore the historic city.
With 20 stops and a complimentary 45-minute walking tour, the tour allows guests to hop on and off at their leisure, ensuring they don’t miss any of the must-see attractions.
Equipped with informative audio commentary and free Wi-Fi, the open-top buses offer a comfortable and accessible experience, catering to wheelchair users and stroller-toting families alike.
While some travelers have reported minor issues with e-ticket redemption, the tour’s high traveler recommendation and Badge of Excellence suggest it remains an excellent choice for discovering Oxford.
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Oxford: City & University Tour With College Entry Included
Embarking on this comprehensive Oxford City & University Tour unlocks unparalleled access to the city’s esteemed colleges.
From the iconic Martyrs Memorial to the renowned Bodleian Library, this 1.5-hour tour showcases Oxford’s remarkable architecture and rich history.
With an experienced local guide leading the way, groups of up to 8 can explore highlights like Balliol College, Exeter College, and the University Church of St Mary the Virgin.
Flexible start times, the option to take breaks, and a private tour setting ensure a personalized experience.
Capped at €155.33 for up to 14 participants, this tour offers exceptional value and outstanding reviews, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Oxford.
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University and City Historical and Architectural Walking Tour
Guided by an experienced, licensed tour leader, the University and City Historical and Architectural Walking Tour showcases Oxford’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour provides an intimate experience, exploring the city’s medieval colleges and architectural highlights. Guests enjoy complimentary access to a historic college, as well as a map and guidebook for post-tour exploration.
Conveniently located near public transportation, the tour starts at Trinity College Gardens and ends at the Golden Cross, offering the perfect introduction to Oxford’s rich history and stunning architecture.
Backed by 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for visitors seeking an immersive experience in the heart of the city.
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Discover Oxford: City & Countryside Cycling Tour
Why not discover Oxford‘s historic city and picturesque countryside on an immersive 3-hour cycling tour?
The “Discover Oxford: City & Countryside Cycling Tour” provides an award-winning local guide, scenic traffic-free routes, and the opportunity to visit villages, cottages, and an early medieval church.
You’ll also get an introduction to Oxford’s famous sights, including university colleges. The tour can be customized, and equipment like child seats is available.
With a 4.4/5 rating based on 7 reviews, this private group tour offers excellent value at $161.46 per person, with flexible booking and free cancellation.
Read our full review: Discover Oxford: City & Countryside Cycling Tour Review
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City Sightseeing Oxford Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
What better way to explore the historic city of Oxford than the City Sightseeing Oxford Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour? This top-rated tour offers a 24 or 48-hour pass, allowing you to hop on and off at 20 convenient stops covering 16 points of interest.
With on-board audio commentary in 14 languages and a 45-minute walking tour, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of Oxford’s rich history and architecture. The bus operates year-round, with frequencies varying by season.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and mobile tickets are accepted. With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this is an efficient and informative way to discover Oxford at your own pace.
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Oxford: University and City Walking Tour With Alumni Guide
For those eager to explore Oxford’s rich history and prestigious university, the Oxford: University and City Walking Tour with Alumni Guide offers an immersive experience.
This 2-hour tour, priced from $38.16 per person, allows visitors to explore the historic grounds, including the Bodleian Library and Trinity College, as well as a Harry Potter film location.
Led by an alumni guide, the tour provides insightful commentary on university life and town history, with a focus on the architectural features of Oxford University.
With a 4.7/5 overall rating based on over 3,400 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for its knowledgeable guides and value for money.
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Oxford City & University Walking PRIVATE GROUPS Tour
Travelers seeking a more personalized and exclusive Oxford experience can opt for the Oxford City & University Walking PRIVATE GROUPS Tour.
This 2-hour walking tour offers a 5.0-rated experience recommended by 93% of visitors. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour covers Oxford’s iconic landmarks and filming sites from the Harry Potter series.
It also explores connections to British literary legends like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Participants can visit one college, with options to pay for additional entry fees.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though college access may be limited on certain dates.
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Oxford: City & University Walking Tour With College Entry
Ideal for visitors seeking a comprehensive introduction to Oxford’s storied university and historic city, the Oxford: City & University Walking Tour With College Entry immerses participants in the city’s rich heritage.
Led by knowledgeable alumni guides, the 3-hour tour covers key landmarks like the Bridge of Sighs, Carfax Tower, and the renowned Ashmolean Museum.
The highlight is entry to one of Oxford’s iconic colleges, where guests can explore the beautiful architecture and learn about the university’s traditions.
With a 4.5-star rating from over 200 reviews, this tour provides an in-depth, immersive experience that showcases the best of Oxford’s past and present.
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Oxford PRIVATE Pub and City Evening Walking Tour
The Oxford Private Pub and City Evening Walking Tour provides an intimate and engaging exploration of Oxford’s vibrant pub culture and historic landmarks.
Led by a professional guide well-versed in the city’s history, this 3-hour tour visits an average of three pubs, with the first drink included.
Participants will enjoy sightseeing of Oxford’s renowned colleges and other notable spots, though entrance fees aren’t covered.
The tour accommodates private groups only, ensuring a personalized experience. Guests must be at least 18 years old and provide valid photo ID.
Sensible drinking is encouraged, and the tour’s public liability insurance doesn’t cover intoxication-related damages.
With 100% positive reviews, this tour offers a unique way to experience Oxford’s rich heritage and lively social scene.
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Oxford: Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour
Oxford’s “Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour” invites participants on a captivating, tech-enabled adventure through the city’s historic streets.
Using a smartphone app, visitors follow digital clues and interact with characters to solve a simulated murder mystery. Rated as a new activity, this unique tour lasts 1.5 hours and costs €21.67 per person.
Compared to other top tours, it offers a more immersive and engaging experience, blending Oxford’s rich history with modern technology. Participants must download the app beforehand and bring their own smartphones.
This activity caters to those seeking a unique and interactive way to explore the city beyond traditional walking tours.
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24 Hour Open Top City Tour & Carfax Tower Entry
Visitors to Oxford can embark on a comprehensive 24-hour open-top city tour, providing a seamless way to explore the historic city.
Operating daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, the tour offers at least 20 convenient bus stops, allowing you to hop on and off as you please.
Included is a complimentary 45-minute walking tour, as well as access to the Carfax Tower for panoramic city views.
Accessibility features like wheelchair-friendly transportation and stroller access ensure a comfortable experience for all.
With prices starting from $28.54 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour offers excellent value and flexibility for your Oxford adventure.
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Oxford: Private City Tour & University Historical Highlights
For those seeking a more intimate exploration of Oxford, a private city tour showcases the university’s historical highlights.
Priced at $229.06 for up to 20 participants, the 2-hour experience allows visitors to discover the city’s cobbled streets, medieval college buildings, and notable filming locations.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour includes entry fees to colleges, with costs ranging from £3.00 to £16.00 per person.
Highlights include the Bodleian Library’s Old Schools Quadrangle, a Harry Potter filming site, and Radcliffe Square, which inspired the setting of Alice in Wonderland.
Accessible to wheelchair users and available in English and Spanish, the tour offers exceptional value, with a 4.9/5 rating based on 14 reviews.
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A Guide to the City of Dreaming Spires: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Oxford
Discover the charm and history of Oxford through a self-guided audio tour that takes you on a journey across the city’s iconic landmarks.
“A Guide to the City of Dreaming Spires: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Oxford” provides an immersive experience, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace while gaining insights from a knowledgeable guide.
With lifetime access to the tour, you can start, pause, or restart at any time using the VoiceMap app on your Android or iOS device.
The tour features offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, ensuring a seamless experience.
For just SEK 133.85 per person, this private tour offers exceptional value and a 5-star rating from previous participants.
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Oxford: City Exploration Game and Tour
Oxford’s City Exploration Game and Tour offers a unique way to discover the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks.
This self-guided game allows visitors to uncover hidden gems and stories at their own pace. Unlike traditional walking tours, this activity encourages participants to explore the city independently, solving puzzles and completing challenges along the way.
With a duration of 1.5 hours, the tour covers notable sites like the Bridge of Sighs, Carfax Tower, and Ashmolean Museum.
Priced at $22.91 per person, this new activity provides an immersive and engaging experience for those seeking to delve deeper into Oxford’s captivating past.
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Oxford City Twilight Ghost Tour
As the sun sets over the historic city of Oxford, a different kind of adventure awaits.
The Twilight Ghost Tour of Oxford offers a 75-minute exploration of the city’s haunted locations. Priced from $25.39 per person, this immersive experience invites participants to uncover the spine-chilling tales of Oxford’s past, from bishops burnt at the stake to soldiers shot during the English Civil War.
Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, the tour visits ghostly sites like graveyards, the Bridge of Sighs, and Dead Man’s Walk.
With a 4.5/5 rating based on 177 reviews, the tour is wheelchair accessible and offers a reserve now, pay later option.
Travelers praise the informative nature of the experience and the eerie atmosphere created during twilight.
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Oxford: Official University and City Walking Tour
The official University and City Walking Tour of Oxford provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks. Priced at $31.81 per person, the 2-hour tour offers a live, English-speaking guide who’ll lead small groups through Oxford’s architecture, parks, and literary connections.
Participants can expect to visit sites related to Harry Potter and famous authors, as well as witness significant locations like Martyrs Memorial and Radcliffe Square. While college visits may be included, pandemic restrictions may limit access.
The tour operates rain or shine and is wheelchair accessible, with a 4.7/5 overall rating based on 487 reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and value for money.
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Oxford: University and City Walking Tour
Immersing visitors in Oxford’s storied history and architectural marvels, the University and City Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of this renowned academic hub.
Spanning 1.5 hours, the tour takes participants through Oxford’s oldest colleges, including the 14th-century Exeter College and the 15th-century New College.
Along the way, a university-educated guide shares insights into the city’s unique collegiate system and famous alumni, such as the notorious Dr. Spooner.
Highlights include the iconic Bridge of Sighs at Hertford College and locations featured in beloved films and literature.
Priced from $31.75 per person with flexible booking options, this tour provides an engaging and informative introduction to Oxford’s rich heritage.
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Oxford: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
For visitors seeking a comprehensive introduction to Oxford, the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour provides a convenient and flexible way to explore the city’s key landmarks.
Priced at SEK 264 per person, the tour offers 1-2 days of access, with buses running every 15-30 minutes. Passengers can hop on and off at 8 stops, including the Railway Station, Oxford Castle, and Westgate Shopping Centre.
The open-top, double-decker buses offer panoramic views of the city’s renowned architecture and historic sites. Audio guides in 14 languages are included, and an optional upgrade provides entry to Carfax Tower.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5, the tour is a popular choice for visitors looking to make the most of their time in Oxford.
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Recap
Oxford offers a diverse range of city tours, catering to various interests and preferences. From walking tours that explore the university and historic landmarks to bike tours and hop-on hop-off bus tours, visitors can enjoy the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking a guided experience or prefer to explore at your own pace, Oxford has something to suit every traveler.