Two days of budget-friendly fun in Cambridge
Explore Cambridge's rich history and vibrant culture without breaking the bank.
21 June 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Cambridge is an ideal destination for budget travelers with its abundance of affordable accommodations, dining options, and free attractions such as museums, parks, and colleges. Visitors can explore the city's rich history and iconic landmarks such as the University of Cambridge, King's College Chapel, and the River Cam without breaking the bank. Taking advantage of local transportation options, such as cycling or the inexpensive bus system, will also help keep costs low.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the YHA Cambridge, a cosy hostel with a great location.
- Visit the Kettle's Yard art gallery, a quirky collection of contemporary art in a restored home.
- Grab a bite at the Rainbow Cafe, a vegetarian spot with delicious international dishes.
- Walk through Cambridge's idyllic Botanic Garden, with colourful flowers and rare plants.
- Head to the Roof Terrace at the Varsity Hotel for a drink with a panoramic view of the city.
- Catch a performance at the ADC Theatre, a student-run venue showcasing innovative theatre productions.
- Enjoy a full English breakfast at Fitzbillies, a historic bakery known for its scrumptious pastries.
- Take a walking tour through the city's literary landmarks, such as King's College Chapel where Lord Byron once swam.
- Browse through books at the Haunted Bookshop, a charming independent bookstore with its own resident ghost.
- Stop for lunch at the Eagle, a pub frequented by famous scientists such as Francis Crick and James Watson.
- Visit the Cambridge University Library, where you can view original manuscripts by writers like Virginia Woolf and Sylvia Plath.
- End the day with a pint at the Cambridge Blue, an unpretentious pub with a wide selection of local ales.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Cambridge by plane is to fly into London Stansted Airport and take the National Express coach service which goes directly to Cambridge city center. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and the coach departs directly outside the airport terminal.
Car
The most convenient way to reach Cambridge by car is by taking the M11 motorway which is directly linked to London. The city center can be accessed by taking either the A14 or A428 roads.
Train
Cambridge has its own train station which has direct connections to major cities such as London, Birmingham and Edinburgh. It is quick and efficient to travel to Cambridge by train, with regular services available throughout the week.
Boat
Cambridge is not accessible by boat due to its inland location, however, there are a number of punting companies which offer tours along the River Cam which is a popular tourist attraction in the city.
Bus
The easiest way to get to Cambridge by bus is to take the National Express coach service from London Victoria station which departs every hour. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and arrives directly at Cambridge city center.
