Cambridge on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Discover history and culture without breaking the bank in charming Cambridge.

21 June 2023

A trip to Cambridge on a limited budget can still be enjoyable and enriching. Explore the many free museums and parks, such as the Fitzwilliam Museum and Grantchester Meadows. Grab a meal from a local market or food truck and take a stroll through the historic city center to see the colleges and architecture.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the City

  • Start with a hearty breakfast at Fitzbillies for their famous sticky buns
  • Take a stroll through the historic colleges and beautiful gardens of Cambridge University
  • Enjoy punting on the River Cam and soak in views of the charming architecture and bridges
  • Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum for a dose of art and culture
  • Have dinner at The Eagle pub, where Watson and Crick announced their discovery of the double-helix structure of DNA
  • Hotel recommendation: YHA Cambridge, a budget-friendly hostel located centrally
Day 2

Day Trip to Ely

  • Catch a train to Ely and visit the iconic Ely Cathedral, known for its stunning stained glass
  • Climb up to the top of the West Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding area
  • Walk along the River Great Ouse towards Jubilee Gardens for a scenic picnic spot
  • Visit Oliver Cromwell's House, a 17th century period home with exhibits on the Civil War and life during that time
  • Return back to Cambridge and grab some late night drinks at Hidden Rooms
Day 3

Foodie Exploration

  • Start the day with brunch at The Pint Shop, famous for their craft beers and artisanal food
  • Visit Cambridge Market square for local delicacies like Scottish smoked salmon and exotic fruits
  • Head over to Cambridge Gin Distillery for a gin masterclass or tasting session
  • Try the award-winning burgers at Steak and Honour for lunch
  • For dinner, head over to Mill Works, a refurbished watermill turned restaurant showcasing seasonal menus featuring produce from local farms
Day 4

Science and Nature

  • Visit the Science Museum, a hands-on interactive museum with exhibits on everything from space exploration to artificial intelligence
  • Take a walk along the Grantchester Meadows and enjoy the picturesque views of the countryside
  • Visit the Botanic Garden, a 40-acre garden with over 8,000 species of plants from around the world
  • End the day with dinner at The Cambridge Chop House, a restaurant serving British classics like steak and kidney pie and fish and chips
Day 5

Art and History

  • Start the day with a visit to Kettle's Yard, a contemporary art gallery and house showcasing the works of modern British artists
  • Walk along the Backs, a picturesque stretch of the River Cam that winds behind some of the oldest and most beautiful colleges of the University of Cambridge
  • For a spot of history, visit the Round Church, one of the oldest buildings in Cambridge and a former Knights Templar church
  • Have a farewell dinner at Midsummer House, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern European cuisine
  • Hotel recommendation: ibis Cambridge Central Station, a budget-friendly hotel located close to the train station and city center.
  • End of itinerary.

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

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 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.

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: 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.