The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure in Cambridge

Discover the historic charm and academic brilliance of Cambridge.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Cambridge, you can enjoy a visit to world-renowned universities such as Cambridge University, which boasts a blend of traditional and contemporary architecture. You can also have fun punting down the River Cam or take a guided walking tour to explore the historic city's attractions, including the stunning King's College Chapel and the Fitzwilliam Museum's grand art collections. In addition, Cambridge restaurants offer a diverse range of culinary experiences for both vegetarians and meat-eaters, including hearty pub grub and Michelin-starred dishes.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Cyclists and Crumpets

  • Check into the lovely Gonville Hotel, where you'll be greeted with warm hospitality and charming decor.
  • Rent a bike and pedal along the picturesque River Cam, spotting the famous colleges and gardens along the way.
  • Refuel at The Orchard Tea Garden, where you can indulge in traditional scones with jam & cream.
  • Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum for a dose of culture, with collections spanning across history, art, and archaeology.
  • End the day with dinner at The Oak Bistro, enjoying their modern British cuisine with a glass of locally-brewed ale.
Day 2

A Walk on the Wild Side

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at The Petersfield, known for their delicious brunch dishes.
  • Take a stroll through the Botanic Garden, home to over 8000 plant species from around the world.
  • Stop by the Polar Museum to learn about the intrepid explorers who braved the icy wilderness.
  • Visit the Scott Polar Research Institute, which houses some of the world's finest collections of photography and artefacts.
  • Have a late lunch at The Eagle, one of the oldest pubs in Cambridge, famous for its RAF ceiling graffiti.
Day 3

Punting and Picnic-ing

  • Rent a punting boat and glide along the River Cam, admiring the stunning views of the historic buildings and gardens.
  • Stop by the Market Square and pick up some local cheeses, bread, and wine for the ultimate picnic lunch.
  • Head to Parker's Piece, a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities, and settle down for a leisurely lunch.
  • Walk off the food with a visit to the Cambridge University Library, home to over 9 million books and manuscripts.
  • End the evening with a show at the Cambridge Corn Exchange, one of the region's largest and most vibrant entertainment venues.
Day 4

The Scientist's Tour

  • Fuel up with breakfast at The Cambridge Chop House, where you can indulge in their signature full English breakfast.
  • Visit the Whipple Museum of the History of Science, where you can discover the inventions and discoveries that shaped the world.
  • Stop by the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences to explore geological specimens and dinosaur fossils.
  • Take a tour of the Cavendish Laboratory, the birthplace of the modern computer and pioneering research on particle physics.
  • Dine at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Alimentum for a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
Day 5

Shopping and Sweet Treats

  • Spend the morning wandering around the independent boutiques and vintage shops of Mill Road.
  • Refuel with lunch at The Cambridge Street Kitchen, an eclectic cafe-style restaurant with an ever-changing menu.
  • Take a tour of the Cambridge Distillery, where you can sample locally-distilled gins and spirits.
  • Indulge in some delicious ice cream at Jack's Gelato, which offers unique flavours such as pear and roasted walnut or black sesame.
  • End the day with a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, showcasing some of the best productions in theatre, comedy and music.

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

Romantic Day Trip to Cambridge: A Guide

A romantic trip to Cambridge, United Kingdom promises stunning architecture, picturesque parks, and charming riverside walks. Couples can indulge in the city's rich history and cultural sites, including the famous University of Cambridge and its museums, galleries, and chapels. Additionally, the city's thriving restaurant and nightlife scene offers endless opportunities for intimate dining experiences and memorable evenings out.

Escape to Cambridge: A Romantic Long Weekend

A romantic trip to Cambridge, United Kingdom offers an enchanting escape with picturesque views of architecture and scenery. Take a punt on the River Cam and admire the winding waterway and stunning views of stunning buildings like the King's College and the Clare College. Explore the city's centuries-old museums, galleries, and restaurants and fall deeper in love with your partner amidst the charming and breathtaking surroundings.

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.

Cheap & Cheerful: 3 Days in Cambridge

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.