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The 15 Best Tours in Cambridge
Cambridge’s charm goes far beyond its famous university. Its scenic waterways, medieval streets, and spooky stories make it a perfect place for a variety of guided tours. If you’re visiting, you’ll want to experience the city from multiple angles—whether that’s gliding along the River Cam or exploring its hidden corners on foot. We love the Shared Guided Punting Tour because it combines effortless sightseeing with engaging storytelling, giving you great views of King’s College Chapel, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Mathematical Bridge. Plus, these tours are incredibly well-reviewed, with ratings like 5.0/5 and glowing comments about knowledgeable guides and smooth rides.
Cambridge is especially good for water-based tours and history-filled walking excursions, but it also offers entertaining ghost walks and private experiences for those wanting a more personalized touch. To help you decide, we’ve gathered the top options, from budget-friendly shared trips to exclusive private adventures. Whether you’re interested in university secrets, spooky tales, or scenic river rides, there’s something that will make your visit memorable.
1. Shared Guided Punting Tour of Cambridge
Sitting at number 1 on our list, the Shared Guided Punting Tour is a classic Cambridge experience. For just about $20, you’ll glide along the River Cam with a small group and learn about the city’s highlights from a knowledgeable guide. The 45-minute trip covers iconic sights like the Bridge of Sighs, King’s College Chapel, and the Mathematical Bridge. The guide’s stories add depth to the beautiful views, making this a top-rated choice with 637 reviews and a perfect 5.0/5 score.
What makes this tour stand out is how relaxed and engaging the experience is. You sit back while the guide steers, and you get plenty of chances to ask questions—whether about Cambridge’s university alumni or the history of its architecture. Reviewers love Mateo, who makes the ride both informative and fun, and many say it’s the essential Cambridge activity. The only downside: on cold days, dress warmly and face the direction of travel.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, enjoyable way to see Cambridge’s top sights without the hassle of navigation. Ideal for first-timers and those short on time.
2. Shared Punt Tour – Cambridge
For a slightly longer ride that feels more in-depth, check out the Shared Punt Tour. This 50-minute experience costs around $48 per group (up to 3 people) and offers a guided trip past Magdalene, Trinity, and King’s College. Travel in a small group capped at six, which makes for a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. The guide steers your boat while you enjoy a unique view of Cambridge’s colleges, including the Wren Library and Jerwood Library.
Guests rave about the engaging commentary and the scenic route under the Bridge of Sighs and King’s Bridge. Many appreciate having a guide do the work, freeing you to enjoy the sights without paddling. The tour is perfect if you want a more rundown of the city’s riverfront and history.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a comfortable, informative river experience with small group intimacy and great photo opportunities.
3. Private Cambridge Punting Tour
If privacy and flexibility top your list, the Private Cambridge Punting Tour offers a custom experience. For about $150, your group (up to 12 people) can relax on a 50-minute, chauffeur-driven trip that passes King’s College, Queens’ College, and the Mathematical Bridge. Your guide is a local expert, able to answer questions about Cambridge’s colleges and alumni.
What makes this tour special is the personalization; you can choose departure times that suit your schedule. Many reviewers praise the smooth ride and the insightful commentary, often mentioning the opportunity to ask about famous former students like Isaac Newton or Stephen Hawking. The only downside might be the higher price point, but the private setting is well worth it for small groups or those celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: A fantastic option for couples or families wanting tailored, intimate river adventures with an expert guide.
4. University Walking Tour
The University Walking Tour is perfect for history buffs eager to explore Cambridge on foot. Over 1.5 to 2 hours, you’ll get a detailed look at Cambridge’s oldest buildings, like the 12th-century Round Church, as well as the colleges, Senate House, and Cambridge University Press. The included ticket to the historic Round Church saves you time and money, plus the guide will share stories about alumni, architecture, and local legends.
Reviews highlight how knowledgeable and entertaining guides like Dave make this tour special. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s academic history and see many key sites without the crowds. The route may vary, but the focus remains on uncovering Cambridge’s scholarly legacy.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed walk through Cambridge’s university and historic sites.
5. Walking Tour of Cambridge
For a flexible, private experience, the Walking Tour of Cambridge offers a tailored route with a qualified guide. You can choose from city center highlights or a scenic riverside route, lasting 1 to 2 hours. The tour is perfect for families or small groups (up to 6), with the guide allowing inside visits to colleges where possible (additional fees may apply).
Guests have praised guides like Dick and Jo for their engaging storytelling and ability to customize the tour to your interests. The route takes in King’s College, Mathematical Bridge, and Silver Street, showing you both the academic and medieval sides of Cambridge.
Bottom Line: A good pick if you want a personalized, private tour that fits your schedule and interests.
6. Creepy Cambridge – Cambridge’s Most Entertaining Ghost Walk
If spooky stories and ghost tales appeal to you, this Creepy Cambridge Ghost Walk is the way to go. It lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, taking you past Magdalene College, Clare College, and King’s College—but instead of history, you’ll hear about hauntings, witches, and phantom figures. The stories include tales of Oliver Cromwell and the Round Church’s exorcisms.
Reviewers love Francesco’s lively storytelling and the chance to see Cambridge’s darker side. The tour’s route is carefully chosen to maximize the spooky ambiance while revealing some of Cambridge’s oldest and most mysterious sites.
Bottom Line: A fun, interactive way to experience Cambridge’s ghostly legends and for those interested in the city’s haunted history.
7. Private Alumni-Led Cambridge Uni Tour w/opt Kings College Entry
This private alumni-led university tour offers an insider’s perspective. For $344, up to 15 people can join a 1.5-hour walk led by a former student. You’ll visit King’s College, Corpus Christi, Queens’, and more, learning what life was like for students and faculty. The guide shares personal anecdotes about Newton, Hawking, and Prince Charles.
Guests highlight the knowledge and approachability of guides like Maria, who make the university’s secrets accessible. The tour is great for those wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Cambridge’s famous colleges without the crowds.
Bottom Line: An exclusive, informative journey perfect for university enthusiasts and curious travelers who want a deep dive into college life.
8. Cambridge | Alumni-Led Walking & Punting Tour w/opt Kings College
Combining walking and punt tours, this Alumni-Led experience offers a 90-minute guided walk followed by a 45-minute scenic punt ride. Led by a Cambridge alumnus or student, it covers King’s College, The Corpus Clock, and The Mathematical Bridge. You can even opt to enter King’s College Chapel.
Guests rave about the personable guides like Rupert and Elliott, whose stories make the city’s landmarks come alive. The combined approach gives a comprehensive view of Cambridge’s architecture and history, making this a flexible choice for travelers who want variety.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a full experience—walking and water—offering both insider stories and scenic views.
9. Rowing experience in Cambridge! No experience required
For something active, try this rowing experience. No previous skill is needed—just a desire to try the Cambridge boat race style. Starting at the City of Cambridge Rowing Club, you’ll get a full intro and practice session before heading out on the river.
The boat used is the same type as the Oxford vs. Cambridge race, making it a memorable challenge. Reviewers say it’s ideal for beginners and a great way to experience the water sports side of Cambridge.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers and sports fans eager to try rowing in one of the world’s most famous university towns.
10. Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Cambridge with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems
This self-guided treasure hunt is a hit for families and groups wanting a playful way to explore. Using your smartphone, solve cryptic clues while wandering through Cambridge’s streets and discovering hidden gems. The route is flexible, so you can start and stop whenever you want, and the clues include fun facts about the city.
Many reviewers enjoyed the mix of challenge and discovery, especially with the added twist of fun accents and themed storytelling. It’s perfect for those who prefer to explore at their own pace without a guide.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or groups who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of puzzle-solving and light adventure.
11. Private Chauffeur Punt Tour
For an extra-special experience, opt for this private chauffeur-driven punt. With prices around $192, you’ll enjoy a 50-minute ride on the River Cam with a dedicated guide. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a romantic or luxurious outing.
Guests love the personalized service and the chance to see Cambridge’s landmarks like Trinity College and King’s College from a private boat. The guide provides in-depth commentary about the bridges, colleges, and historical figures.
Bottom Line: The ultimate in privacy and comfort, ideal for special occasions or those who want the fullest, most relaxed river experience.
12. Cambridge | Ghost Tour Led by University Alumni Guide
For those intrigued by the supernatural, this ghost tour offers a 1-hour walk with a Cambridge alumni guide. You’ll visit King’s College, Clare College, and Market Square, uncovering stories of hauntings, witches, and phantoms.
Reviewers love the enthusiastic storytelling and the chance to explore Cambridge’s haunted reputation. It’s a perfect choice for adults or older children who enjoy spooky stories woven into the city’s fabric.
Bottom Line: A fun, spooky alternative to traditional tours, great for fans of ghost stories and mysterious legends.
13. Shared Chauffeured Punt Tour
This cost-effective shared punt experience offers a 50-minute ride in a small-group setting. For around $62, you’ll pass Magdalene College, Clare College, and King’s College while enjoying the scenic river views. The boats have perspex screens to ensure safety, making it suitable even during times of social distancing.
Guests mention how informative and friendly the guides are, with some noting the easy access and relaxing pace. It’s a good option if you want to avoid the larger groups and still get a comprehensive river tour.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, safe option for a relaxed, guided punt tour with plenty of photo opportunities.
14. Tangential Cambridge: Group Walking Tour of Sights and Highlights
Focused on Cambridge’s scenic and historic highlights, this 2-hour group walking tour explores St Bene’t’s Church, Mathematical Bridge, and Silver Street. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll learn about student riots, scientific breakthroughs, and ancient buildings.
Reviewers praise the entertaining storytelling and the ability to see both well-known and hidden spots, making this tour perfect for those who want a broad overview of the city’s character.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a lively, informative walk with a knowledgeable guide.
15. Shared Punting Tour
Last but not least, the Shared Punting Tour offers a classic ride on the River Cam with shared seating and a friendly guide. For around $27, you’ll enjoy a 50-minute journey passing seven colleges and nine bridges. The boat has on-board tables so you can even bring your own picnic.
Guests appreciate the calm atmosphere, professional guides, and the chance to see Cambridge from the water without the expense of a private boat. It’s a popular choice for solo travelers and small groups.
Bottom Line: A classic, affordable way to enjoy Cambridge’s waterways with friendly service.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Cambridge
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and group size. If you’re short on time, the Shared Guided Punting Tour offers a quick, scenic overview. For more personalized experiences, the Private Cambridge Punting Tour or the Alumni-Led University Tour give inside stories and exclusive access. If you love spooky stories, the Creepy Cambridge Ghost Walk is perfect. Families and puzzle fans might prefer the Treasure Hunt, and active travelers should try the Rowing Experience.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak season, as the most popular tours tend to fill up. Think about the weather, too—most water tours are best on mild days, while walking tours are flexible regardless of rain if you carry an umbrella.
Final Thoughts
Cambridge offers a rich variety of tours that match different interests and budgets. The Shared Guided Punting Tour remains a favorite for its affordability and iconic views, while the Private Cambridge Punting Tour provides an exclusive, relaxed experience. History lovers will enjoy the University Walking Tour, and those wanting a spooky spin will find the Ghost Walk fascinating.
No matter which tour you choose, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for this university city’s timeless charm. Book early, pick the experience that excites you most, and enjoy every minute exploring Cambridge’s historic streets and waterways.
