Itineraries for Your Trip to Cambridge
2 Days in Cambridge for First Timers
In many ways, Cambridge is synonymous with the university at its heart. Like longtime rival Oxford, the University of Cambridge is one of the most prestigious and storied academic institutions in the UK. With a history that dates back to the 13th century and the spectacular architecture and college grounds to show for it, it’s an enchanting attraction that dominates the city.
But take it from me—you don’t have to be a student to appreciate Cambridge. The city is just an hour’s train ride from London, where I live, and I love making weekend trips to visit its historic marvels, go punting on the River Cam, and linger in its cozy pubs. Here are my tips for planning the perfect 2-day trip to Cambridge.
Like much of the rest of the UK, Cambridge has changeable, often damp weather; an umbrella is a must.
If you only have time for one thing, make it exploring Cambridge University’s storied colleges, including The Backs.
When first arriving in a new city, it’s worth getting an overview of its highlights, neighborhoods, and how it all fits together. Start your first morning in Cambridge with the flexible sightseeing experience of [a hop-on hop-off bus tour](https://www.viator.com/Cambridge-tours/Hop-on-Hop-off-Tours/d22327-g12-c97. As you go, spot many of the university’s key colleges and see the city’s historic streets, all while the onboard narration provides the stories behind the sights.
Once you’ve done a loop or two through town, grab a quick bite (the Chelsea buns at Fitzbillies are a must), and then prepare to get academic. On an alumni-led walking tour of some of the University of Cambridge’s top colleges, you’ll learn what student life is like here. Look for an itinerary that visits King’s College and its storied Chapel, known for its Gothic architecture.
As the sun sets over the city, experience one of Cambridge’s most beloved traditions: punting. (In other words, enjoy a leisurely trip down the River Cam aboard a small, flat-bottomed boat propelled by a long pole.) Not only will you get prime views of The Backs—the colleges’ verdant grounds, often closed to the public—but you’ll have a fittingly relaxing end to your first day in town.
On most punting tours, your guide navigates while you kick back and relax. But for a more active way to explore Cambridge’s waterways, book a morning rowing experience on your second day in town. Rowing is one of the University of Cambridge’s top sports, and every year, it faces rival Oxford in the springtime Boat Race, a nearly 200-year-old tradition. Get a first-hand feel of the experience—and indulge your competitive spirit.
After returning to dry land (and refueling with a hearty lunch), continue your Cambridge sightseeing on foot. On a history-themed tour, you’ll learn more about the colleges and expand your scope to the rest of the city. Discover centuries-old churches, explore Cambridge’s oldest buildings, and map the history-steeped pubs that locals and students return to time and time again.
Once you’ve lingered in those pubs and enjoyed a pint alongside some hearty British fare, finish your 2-day adventure in Cambridge with an after-dark excursion. It’s no surprise that a city as old as this one has plenty of spooky stories and haunted lore. On an evening ghost tour, you’ll see a new side of Cambridge’s top landmarks and get schooled in its centuries of macabre and occult happenings.
