Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Cambridge

Accommodation

$25-60 per night

Dorm beds in hostels, basic guesthouses, shared facilities, university accommodation during vacation periods

Food & Dining

$15-35 per day

Supermarket shopping with self-catering, pub meals, casual cafes, market food, occasional college dining

Transportation

$3-12 per day

Walking, cycling, local buses, occasional taxi for longer distances

Activities

$8-25 per day

Free college courtyard visits, self-guided walking tours, occasional museum entries, punting during off-peak times

Visit during university vacation periods when accommodation prices typically drop 20-40%

Walk or cycle instead of taking taxis - Cambridge city center is compact and most attractions are within 15-20 minutes walk

Shop at local supermarkets and prepare some meals yourself - can save 50-70% compared to restaurant dining for every meal

Take advantage of free college courtyard access instead of paid tours - many areas are accessible without entrance fees

Book punting during weekday mornings rather than weekend afternoons for 30-50% lower prices

Use day passes for buses if taking multiple trips - typically 40-60% cheaper than individual tickets

Look for pub lunch deals and early bird dinner specials which can be 25-40% less than standard menu prices

Staying in central Cambridge during graduation season or major university events when prices increase 100-200%

Taking taxis for short distances instead of walking - Cambridge center is very compact and taxi rides can cost 5-8x more than necessary

Eating only in tourist areas near King's College rather than exploring residential neighborhoods where meals cost 40-60% less

Booking punting during peak weekend hours instead of weekday mornings when prices are typically 30-50% lower