The historic university city of Cambridge is conveniently close to Stansted, making it an excellent layover destination.

About Cambridge

Cambridge is one of the world's most prestigious university cities, home to the University of Cambridge since 1209. The historic center is a living museum of Gothic, Tudor, and neoclassical architecture, with colleges like King's (and its famous chapel), Trinity, and St John's opening their courtyards to visitors. The River Cam meanders through the 'Backs'—the scenic green lawns behind the colleges—where punting is a quintessential Cambridge experience.

Beyond the university, Cambridge has become a major technology hub, with the 'Silicon Fen' cluster of biotech and tech companies surrounding the city. The Fitzwilliam Museum houses world-class art collections for free, the Eagle pub is where Watson and Crick announced the discovery of DNA's structure, and the market square has hosted traders since the Middle Ages. The city is famously flat and best explored by bicycle.

Nearby Landmarks

King's College Chapel The Backs Fitzwilliam Museum Senate House Eagle Pub

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $50-$65
Time 40-50 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $40-$55
Time 40-50 minutes

Outside arrivals at bus station

Step-by-Step Directions

Take the National Express bus from the bus station outside arrivals directly to Cambridge city centre. Buses run approximately every hour.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $50-$65 40-50 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $40-$55 40-50 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

National Express coaches from Stansted to Cambridge run until approximately 11:30 PM. After that, a taxi costs £50-70. There is no train connection between Stansted and Cambridge (the rail route requires going through London).

Luggage Tips

National Express coaches have large luggage holds underneath. Cambridge has cobblestone streets in the historic center that are challenging for wheeled cases. Consider dropping luggage at your accommodation before exploring.

Accessibility

National Express coaches have wheelchair-accessible vehicles on some services—book in advance to guarantee. Cambridge city center is mostly flat with good wheelchair access on main streets, though some college entrances have steps.