Top reasons to visit Cambridge
- Cultural Richness: Cambridge boasts a vibrant atmosphere with historic streets, museums, and theaters, perfect for culture enthusiasts.
- Scenic Outdoor Activities: Enjoy tranquil parks and scenic walks, ideal for family-friendly adventures and relaxation.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming boutique hotels to guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.
- Local Shopping: Explore unique shops in the downtown area, showcasing local artisans and products.
- Day Trip Opportunities: Venture to nearby attractions for additional exploration and picturesque views.
Find great hotels in Cambridge
Cambridge offers a variety of accommodation options, from charming boutique hotels to welcoming guesthouses, catering to every traveler’s needs. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly stay, a business-friendly environment, or an LGBTQIA-friendly atmosphere, you'll find the perfect spot to relax and explore this historic city. With numerous choices, including the best hotels and inns in Cambridge, your ideal getaway awaits in this beautiful destination.
- ibis Cambridge Central Station: The ibis Cambridge Central Station is a welcoming 3-star hotel that embodies a city-themed and eco-friendly vacation experience. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.0, this hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a pet-friendly environment in the heart of Cambridge. The property offers amenities such as food and water bowls for pets and a waived fee for service animals, ensuring that your furry friends are accommodated. Its central location makes it easy for guests to explore the vibrant city while enjoying a sustainable stay with eco-certification.
- Holiday Inn Express Cambridge by IHG: Boasting a guest rating of 8.4, the Holiday Inn Express Cambridge by IHG is a fantastic 3-star option for eco-conscious travelers looking for comfort and convenience. This hotel is also pet-friendly, featuring amenities like a waived fee for service animals and specific pet policies to cater to guests traveling with pets. Located centrally, guests will enjoy easy access to local attractions, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers who appreciate a sustainable lodging option.
- Clayton Hotel Cambridge: Recognized for its high standards, the Clayton Hotel Cambridge is a 4-star accommodation with an impressive guest rating of 9.2. This hotel combines a modern business travel environment with a city-themed experience, perfect for professionals on the go. Eco-certified, it reflects a commitment to sustainability while offering upscale amenities and services. Situated in the city center, it provides easy access to Cambridge's attractions, making it a prime choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking a refined stay.
Where to stay in Cambridge
Cambridge, England, is a charming city perfect for culture enthusiasts and families alike. Explore its vibrant downtown, where friendly locals create a warm atmosphere. Venture to nearby areas for a tranquil getaway with beautiful views and budget-friendly excursions. Whether you're wandering historic streets or enjoying outdoor activities, Cambridge offers a delightful mix of experiences that cater to every traveler's needs.
- Cambridge City Centre: The heart of Cambridge, the City Centre is steeped in history and culture, making it a must-visit for any traveler. It's surrounded by stunning historic college universities that showcase beautiful architecture and rich traditions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from catching a show at the theater to shopping at local boutiques. The area offers a vibrant atmosphere, especially during peak months like April, July, and September, providing an enriching experience for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
- Trumpington: Located just south of the City Centre, Trumpington combines a modern lifestyle with historical charm. This neighborhood is popular for business, family, and cultural experiences. You can explore educational institutions and enjoy recreational areas perfect for outdoor activities. The local urban park offers a tranquil escape, while the nearby historic sites add a touch of nostalgia. Peak visitor months are March to April and July, making it a lively spot for those looking to blend work and leisure.
- Petersfield: Nestled close to the City Centre, Petersfield is a vibrant neighborhood known for its outdoor spaces and cultural offerings. It's an ideal destination for families and those who enjoy music and theater. Visitors can explore parks and historic sites while soaking in the local arts scene. The neighborhood sees heightened visitor activity from July to September, making it a bustling area filled with events and concerts that celebrate its rich community spirit.
Things to do near Cambridge
Cambridge offers a delightful blend of culture and outdoor activities perfect for family vacations. Explore its scenic walks, engage in gallery tours, and enjoy the vibrant theater scene. Don't miss the chance to shop in the local areas and consider day trips to nearby attractions for a complete experience. Whether you're interested in education or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Cambridge has something for everyone to enjoy.
Shopping
In the heart of Cambridge, explore the Grand Arcade for high-street brands and boutiques. For a more local vibe, visit the Market Square for unique crafts and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, check out the Grafton Centre for additional shops and dining options.
Recreation
At Lakeside Lodge Golf & Country Club, enjoy a serene escape with luxurious amenities. Indulge in spa treatments, unwind by the picturesque lakeside, and embrace the calming atmosphere that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Perfect for a refreshing retreat just a short drive from Cambridge.
Adventure
Explore the scenic River Cam with a punting adventure, gliding past historic colleges and lush gardens. For thrill-seekers, the Cambridge Escape Rooms offer immersive challenges that test your wits and teamwork. Don't miss the chance to cycle around the city, discovering hidden gems along the way.
Nightlife
Cambridge offers a vibrant nightlife scene, from the lively bars along Mill Road to the historic pubs like The Eagle, where you can enjoy a pint. For a more upscale experience, visit the swanky cocktail bars in the city center, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cambridge
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Cambridge are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Cambridge is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Cambridge is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you choose your budget and preferred location, among other options. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can narrow down your choices by hotel type—if you're interested in sustainability, simply check the Eco-certified filter to view hotels that are environmentally friendly and available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Cambridge with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Cambridge
Cambridge is perfect for culture-themed, family, and outdoor vacations, offering a variety of attractions to explore. You can visit historic churches, enjoy the tranquility of urban parks, and learn at military museums. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, Cambridge's array of points of interest will ensure an enjoyable trip for all types of travelers.
- Imperial War Museum Duxford: Explore one of the world's leading aviation museums, showcasing an impressive collection of military aircraft and exhibits that highlight the history of warfare. Experience the unique atmosphere of this historic site, which offers engaging displays and air shows throughout the year.
- Sawston Hall: Step back in time at this stunning 16th-century manor house, featuring beautiful gardens and exceptional architecture. Discover the rich history and cultural significance of this monument, which reflects the heritage of the area.
- King's College Chapel: Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of this iconic chapel, known for its breathtaking stained glass windows and impressive fan-vaulted ceiling. Attend a choral service to experience its renowned acoustics and spiritual ambiance.
Best time to go to Cambridge
The best time to visit Cambridge can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Cambridge falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Cambridge falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Cambridge
When planning your trip to Cambridge, England, you have several airport options. London Heathrow (LHR) is 56 miles away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, located 2 miles from the airport, and Fairmont Windsor Park, 7 miles away. London Gatwick (LGW) is 73 miles from Cambridge, offering luxurious accommodations such as the 5-star Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 5 miles from the airport. The closest option is London Stansted (STN), just 23 miles away, featuring the 4-star Radisson Blu Hotel, only 0.2 miles from the terminal, and Novotel London Stansted Airport, 2 miles away. Each airport is easily accessible from these hotels.