Cheap & Cheerful: 3 Days in Cambridge

Discover Cambridge on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Explore the charming city of Cambridge on a limited budget with a variety of affordable options. Start your day by admiring the breathtaking architecture of the University of Cambridge and take a punt down the River Cam for a unique view of the city. End your day with a cozy dinner from one of the many affordable pubs in the city center.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the City

  • Start your day with a coffee at Hot Numbers Coffee – a cosy spot with quirky decor and excellent coffee.
  • Head to Kings College Chapel – the iconic landmark of Cambridge. Marvel at the gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows.
  • Grab a light lunch at Fitzbillies – a Cambridge institution famous for their Chelsea buns (a must-try!).
  • Take a stroll along the River Cam and join a punting tour – sit back and relax as your guide takes you past the famous colleges.
  • Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum – a free-entry museum with an impressive collection of art and antiquities from around the world.
  • End your day with dinner at The Eagle – a historic pub with a unique atmosphere (and the birthplace of DNA!).
  • Hotel recommendation: YHA Cambridge
Day 2

Museums and Gardens

  • Start the day with breakfast at the Cambridge Food Collective – a food hall with plenty of options to start your day.
  • Visit the Botanic Garden – a peaceful haven with beautifully maintained gardens and impressive glasshouses.
  • Discover the history of computing at the Centre for Computing History – an interactive museum with plenty of displays and activities.
  • Grab lunch at the award-winning SmokeWorks BBQ – a favourite for meat-lovers with delicious smoked dishes.
  • Take a trip to the Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology – a fascinating insight into human history and cultures from around the world.
  • For dinner, visit The Rainbow Café – a vegetarian restaurant with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
  • Hotel recommendation: Travelodge Cambridge Newmarket Road
Day 3

Markets and History

  • Start your day with a visit to Cambridge Market – a bustling outdoor market with plenty of food and crafts on offer.
  • Take a trip to the Imperial War Museum Duxford – an interactive museum with historic aircraft and military vehicles.
  • Grab lunch at the Cambridge Street Food Market – a weekly market with plenty of vendors and international cuisine to choose from.
  • Visit the Cambridge Museum of Technology – a hidden gem with hands-on exhibits and fascinating displays.
  • Take a guided tour of the historic Cambridge University Library – an impressive building with a rich history and stunning architecture.
  • End your stay with dinner at Signorelli's Deli – an intimate Italian restaurant with freshly made pasta and delicious wines.
  • Hotel recommendation: Ibis Cambridge Central Station
  • Enjoy your stay in charming Cambridge – a city with so much to offer for all types of travellers.

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.

More travel plans

Cambridge on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun!

Visiting Cambridge on a limited budget is a smart idea as it offers multiple free attractions like the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Botanic Gardens and the Parker's Piece Park. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the city and take in the breathtaking architecture of the buildings and colleges while sipping a drink in a cozy café. Eating at the local eateries, such as The Eagle and Cambridge Chop House, is ideal for trying local cuisine and simple yet filling dishes.

Cambridge in 5: Literary adventures, punting, and more!

A family-friendly trip to Cambridge, United Kingdom offers a perfect blend of education and entertainment. Explore the stunning architecture of Cambridge University, take punting trips along the River Cam, and visit the famous Fitzwilliam Museum for a dose of art and culture. With ample parks and gardens, such as Jesus Green and Parker's Piece, families can enjoy picnics and outdoor activities, creating unforgettable memories in this charming and historic city.

Unwind in Cambridge: The Perfect Weekend Getaway

Cambridge offers a unique blend of history, architecture and academic excellence. It’s a charming university town boasting some of the finest educational institutions in the world, including the University of Cambridge. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, such as the Fitzwilliam Museum and King’s College Chapel, before soaking up the buzz of the lively student scene.

Cambridge: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip Adventure

Cambridge is a charming city known for its prestigious university, historic architecture, and tranquil waterways. While popular tourist attractions such as the colleges and Botanic Garden may require an entrance fee, visitors on a limited budget can still enjoy free activities such as punting on the River Cam, exploring the city’s markets and museums, and wandering the picturesque streets and parks. With affordable accommodation options such as youth hostels and budget hotels, a trip to Cambridge can be an enriching experience without breaking the bank.