Things To Do
in Cambridge

Cambridge, United Kingdom, is a historic city renowned for its prestigious university, which dates back to the 13th century. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, picturesque river, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can enjoy a blend of academic history and contemporary life, making it a unique destination.

With its cobbled streets and stunning college buildings, Cambridge offers a charming atmosphere that attracts tourists from around the world.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the University and City Centre
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to King's College and its iconic chapel. Take a stroll through the college grounds and enjoy the stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Fitzwilliam Museum to explore its extensive art and antiquities collection. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local café in the city centre.

evening
:

Take a leisurely walk along the River Cam and consider a punt ride to see the city from the water. Finish your day with dinner at a traditional pub.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Botanic Garden for a peaceful morning among beautiful plants and flowers. Enjoy a coffee at the garden café.

afternoon
:

Explore the market square, where you can find local crafts and food. Have lunch at one of the food stalls or nearby restaurants.

evening
:

Catch a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre or enjoy live music at a local bar to experience the city’s nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20
Coffee$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3
🏨Hotel Night$150
🍺Pint of Beer$6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Beautiful architecture and scenic landscapes
  • Vibrant student life and diverse activities
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons
  • Higher living costs compared to other UK cities
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities

Places to Visit in Cambridge

Visit one of these nice places.

King's College Chapel

A magnificent example of Gothic architecture, perfect for capturing stunning photos both inside and out.

The Bridge of Sighs

An iconic bridge connecting two parts of St John's College, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities.

The River Cam

The scenic river provides a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially during punting season in spring and summer.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cambridge

Cambridge offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its rich history and multicultural community. From traditional British fare to international cuisines, there are plenty of options to satisfy every palate.

Cambridge Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pork Pies

A classic British dish, often enjoyed as a snack or picnic item, featuring a savory filling encased in pastry.

Must-Try!

Cambridge Blue Cheese

A unique blue cheese made locally, known for its creamy texture and strong flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cambridge Market

A bustling market in the city centre offering a variety of local produce, street food, and artisanal goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cambridge experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0-5°C (32-41°F). Rainfall is relatively spread throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being October and November. The city can also experience fog and frost in winter, while spring and summer offer more sunshine.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queuing

British people are known for their patience in queuing; always form an orderly line and wait your turn.

Politeness

Using 'please' and 'thank you' is essential in conversations, reflecting good manners and respect.

Respecting Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance when talking to others, as personal space is valued in British culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cambridge is considered a safe city, with low crime rates compared to other urban areas in the UK. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places or when walking alone at night. Emergency services can be contacted by dialing 999, and there are numerous police stations and medical facilities around the city. Additionally, avoid leaving valuables unattended in public spaces.

Tipping in Cambridge

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards; however, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities and picnics.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, with festivals and events; however, it can be crowded with tourists.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage; it's an excellent time for photography and enjoying tranquil walks.

Winter

Winter can be chilly, with festive decorations; visiting during this season offers a cozy atmosphere with fewer crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Cambridge at Night

Cambridge's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a variety of options ranging from cozy pubs and bars to live music venues and nightclubs. The city has a rich student culture, contributing to a lively atmosphere, especially during term time. Popular spots include The Junction for live music, and several pubs that offer quizzes and open mic nights. The city is generally safe to explore at night, with many areas well-lit and frequented by locals and students.

Hiking in Cambridge

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wandlebury Country Park

Located just a few miles south of Cambridge, this park offers scenic trails and beautiful natural landscapes, perfect for hiking.

Coton Nature Reserve

A peaceful nature reserve with a variety of walking paths, ideal for enjoying the local flora and fauna while hiking.

Airports

How to reach Cambridge by plane.

London Stansted Airport

Approximately 30 minutes by train, this airport offers numerous international flights and is the closest major airport to Cambridge.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cambridge is highly walkable, with a compact city centre that is easily navigable on foot. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance, and the flat terrain makes it comfortable for pedestrians. The city also features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian paths, enhancing the overall walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant portion of Cambridge's population consists of students from the University of Cambridge, contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Academics and Researchers

The city is home to many academics and researchers, drawn by the university and its numerous research institutions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rowing

Rowing is a popular sport in Cambridge, with many colleges competing on the River Cam during the annual May Bumps event.

Football

Football (soccer) is widely played and followed, with local teams and university matches attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cambridge can be congested, especially during rush hours, but the city is well-served by public transport options, including buses and trains. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes and rental services available. Walking is also encouraged, as many areas are pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore the city without needing a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cambridge.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Cambridge offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, making it easy to find suitable meals.

Gluten-Free Options

Several cafés and restaurants cater to gluten-free diets, providing marked menus and dedicated kitchen practices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cambridge is accessible through the National Health Service (NHS). There are several hospitals, clinics, and general practitioners available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by calling 999, and many pharmacies provide basic health services. Visitors from the EU may be eligible for healthcare under the EHIC scheme, while others are advised to have travel insurance for coverage.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2025 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide