Evening scenery of Cambridge with a boat floating down the river Cam, England

Things to do in  Cambridge

Take a punt on it

A mecca for magnificent minds, Cambridge is famed for being the home of the University of Cambridge, where academic masterminds such as Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, and Stephen Hawking once studied. While college tours help check off the city’s architectural wonders, there’s a cornucopia of other things to do in Cambridge. Delve into art and culture at the Fitzwilliam Museum; meander along the River Cam on a punting adventure; enjoy some retail therapy at the central market; or immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene.

Top 9 attractions in Cambridge

Queens' College

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Dating back to the 15th century, Queens’ College is among Cambridge University’s oldest colleges. The photogenic, river-straddling campus encompasses medieval courtyards; the President’s Lodge, a Tudor-style half-timbered building; and Mathematical Bridge, a wooden arch footbridge constructed entirely from straight timber beams.More

Trinity College

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Founded by Henry VIII in 1546, Trinity College is the largest Cambridge University college and the alma mater of many British Prime Ministers, Royal Family members, and Nobel Prize winners. Here, visitors can explore the 17th-century Great Court, Trinity College Clock, and Wren Library among other buildings, as well as attend public lectures and rent punts for use along the River Cam.More

Mathematical Bridge

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Spanning the River Cam, this wooden footbridge is often attributed to Isaac Newton, who—as the story goes—designed it in such a way that no bolts were needed to keep it in place. In reality, the bridge was built more than 20 years after Newton’s death, and is held together by bolts, though it is still recognized as an engineering marvel. More

University of Cambridge

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Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is one of Britain’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Made up of six schools, 31 constituent colleges, and more than 100 academic departments, the historic university boasts an impressive alumni, which includes Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Stephen Hawking, and Lord Byron.More

King's College

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Founded in 1441 by Henry VI, King’s College is one of the most prestigious and perhaps the best-known of the Cambridge colleges. Notable alumni include writer Zadie Smith and mathematician Alan Turing; however, it’s the grounds and buildings which are of most interest to visitors. Here, explore landscaped gardens, stroll along the River Cam, and admire the 15th-century Gothic King’s College Chapel.More

River Cam

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The River Cam cuts through the heart of Cambridge and is one of the city’s most important natural attractions. While visitors can stroll along its banks, floating down the River Cam in a traditional flat-bottomed punt is one of the most quintessential Cambridge experiences and a convenient way to see some of Cambridge University’s most prestigious and otherwise inaccessible college buildings.More

Bridge of Sighs

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Built in 1831, this bridge spans the River Cam, linking the New Court of St. John’s College with the older Third Court. While Cambridge’s covered bridge bears only a passing resemblance to its Venetian namesake, the Grade I-listed structure—with its neo-Gothic arches and tracery windows—is architecturally significant in its own right. More

Fitzwilliam Museum

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Fondly known as "the Fitz", this grand neoclassical building houses Cambridge University’s principal museum. Its collection, originally bequeathed by a Cambridge alum and nobleman in the early 19th century, has since grown to include some 500,000 artworks and antiquities; ranging from mummies to paintings by Titian, Matisse, and Rubens.More

King's College Chapel

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Hailed as the most impressive work of medieval architecture and Gothic design in Britain, Kings College Chapel now ranks as the most-visited attraction in Cambridge. The church is famous for its Gothic facade and elaborate stained glass windows, and for the fact that the foundation stone was laid by Henry VI himself in the 15th century.More

Top activities in Cambridge

Private | Cambridge Uni Walking Tour & Punting Tour Led By Alumni
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Walking Tour of Cambridge

Walking Tour of Cambridge

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$101.69
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Private Cambridge Punting Tour

Private Cambridge Punting Tour

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$138.55
per group
Shared Punt Tour - Cambridge

Shared Punt Tour - Cambridge

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$44.49
per group
Private | Cambridge University Punting Tour

Private | Cambridge University Punting Tour

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$374.97
per group
University Walking Tour

University Walking Tour

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$15.25
Private Chauffeur Punt Tour

Private Chauffeur Punt Tour

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$176.68
per group
Shared Chauffeured Punt Tour

Shared Chauffeured Punt Tour

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$57.20
per group
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All about Cambridge

When to visit

Cambridge, like much of the UK, experiences long winters. April onwards is the ideal time to visit as it’s when spring is in full swing. Aligning your visit with the city's lively festival schedule is sure to enhance your experience. Key events include the Cambridge Beer Festival in May, the Strawberry Fair and Cambridge Pride in June, and the Cambridge Folk Festival in July.

Getting around

Cambridge is renowned for its cycling culture, so there are numerous bike rental options available. Apart from cycling, it's an exceptionally walkable city, thanks to its compact center and charming cobbled streets. For those who prefer public transport, the Stagecoach service runs regularly throughout the city. Alternatively, you can find a taxi rank at the railway station.

Traveler tips

Just on the outskirts of the city center, Mill Road is a favorite spot for Cambridge locals. This bustling street boasts plenty of independent shops and restaurants to suit diverse palates. For great Chinese food, make your way to Noodles Plus+ where their dumplings are a standout. Bedouin offers flavors of North African cuisine in an atmospheric setting, while Fancetts serves up French bistro-style delights. If your visit extends into the evening, don’t miss the 196 cocktail bar.

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People Also Ask

What are the must-see attractions in Cambridge?

Home to historic colleges such as King’s, Trinity, and St. John’s, the University of Cambridge is a top draw. Don't miss King's College Chapel, famed for its Gothic architecture and choir. For a quintessential Cambridge experience, punt along the River Cam, offering picturesque views of the college.

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Can you tour the University of Cambridge and its colleges?

Yes, you can tour the University of Cambridge and several of its colleges. Many offer guided tours that provide insights into their history and architecture. However, access might vary depending on the college and time of year, especially during exam time. Therefore, it’s advisable to check specific college websites for visitor information.

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What are the best places for punting in Cambridge?

The best place to start a punting trip is in the Quayside area of Cambridge's city center. From here, you can punt along the River Cam on a route that showcases the College Backs—with views of King’s College, Trinity College, and the Bridge of Sighs.

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Where are the best spots to enjoy Cambridge’s green spaces?

Parker's Piece, close to the city center, is ideal for picnics, football, or cricket, while the Cambridge University Botanic Garden is the perfect place to spend an afternoon discovering diverse plants and flowers. The Backs has scenic riverside paths, and just beyond Cambridge, Grantchester Meadows is a tranquil countryside escape.

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What are some unique shopping experiences in Cambridge?

Don’t miss a visit to the Market Square, which hosts daily markets with local produce, books, souvenirs, crafts, and great street food. For independent shops, head to King’s Parade and Magdalene Street. For great foodie treats, All Saints Passage has a deli, a chocolate shop, and a cheese shop.

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What is the food scene like in Cambridge?

Cambridge’s food scene is diverse, innovative, and exciting. For fine dining, you can find the Michelin-starred Midsummer House and Restaurant Twenty Two. For vegan and vegetarian cuisine, there’s Stem + Glory and Vanderlyle, and Mill Road is the place to go for an eclectic mix of international eateries.

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
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