Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge Bus Tours

What is a Hop-on Hop-off tour?

A Hop-on Hop-off tour is the easiest way to explore Cambridge’s famous sights and hidden gems at your own pace. With open-top buses by City Sightseeing Cambridge, you can board at any of the 18 designated stops across the city, including must-see attractions like King’s College Chapel, the Fitzwilliam Museum, and the Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial. Simply hop off whenever something catches your eye, spend as much time as you wish exploring, and then hop back on the next bus to continue your adventure. Buses run every 40 minutes, and a multi-language audio guide shares fascinating stories and facts about Cambridge’s rich university history, making the journey as informative as it is enjoyable.

Why choose Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge

Sightseeing with maximum flexibility

Unlike fixed guided tours, the Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge bus tour lets you create a personalized itinerary. You can spend as much time as you want at iconic sights, then continue your journey on the next bus.

Comprehensive coverage of Cambridge

The tour’s carefully planned route includes over 18 stops, covering must-see landmarks, beautiful college gardens, historic cemeteries, and scenic spots along the River Cam.

Informative audio guides

As you travel between stops, engaging audio guides in multiple languages provide fascinating insights into Cambridge’s rich history, university traditions, and architectural marvels.

Convenient, comfortable & accessible transport

The service runs frequently throughout the day and is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it a convenient choice for families and travelers of all abilities.

Hop-on Hop-off buses are a great choice for

History buffs

Cambridge is renowned for its centuries-old colleges, museums, and historic sites. The Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge bus lets history lovers easily reach landmarks like King’s College Chapel, the Fitzwilliam Museum, and the Cambridge American Cemetery.

Families with kids

With 19 stops covering parks, museums, and family-friendly attractions, City Sightseeing Cambridge is a stress-free way for families to explore. Kids travel free under 4, strollers are welcome, and the flexibility to hop on and off means families can set their own pace.

First-timers

For those new to Cambridge, the open-top bus tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the city’s highlights in just 1 hour 20 minutes, with the freedom to revisit favorite spots or discover hidden gems.

Solo travelers

Solo travelers and independent tourists will appreciate the convenience, safety, and efficiency of City Sightseeing Cambridge bus tours. With regular departures and the ability to join or leave the tour at any stop, it’s the ideal way to maximize sightseeing.

Discovering Cambridge with City Sightseeing Tours

The City Sightseeing Cambridge Red route offers a scenic 18-stop loop through the city’s historic heart and charming outskirts. Highlights include Silver Street, King’s College area, the Fitzwilliam Museum, and the Cambridge American Cemetery. It’s a perfect introduction to the city’s charm, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace while enjoying panoramic views from the open-top deck. This route captures the spirit of Cambridge as a vibrant, historic, and welcoming destination.

Red route

  • Ideal for: Great for curious explorers and first-time visitors who want to experience Cambridge’s iconic colleges, riverside beauty, and historic landmarks. 
  • Popular stops: Silver Street, The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial
  • Timings: 
    - First bus: 10:10am from Silver Street
    - Last bus: 6:10pm from Silver Street
  • Frequency: Every 40 minutes
  • Stops: 18
  • Full loop duration: 1 hour 20 minutes

How to book Hop-on Hop-off tickets

Step 1: Choose your route

Each tour follows a unique route. Review the routes and stops and pick the tour that covers your must-see attractions.

Step 2: Book your tickets

Purchase your Hop-on Hop-off tickets easily using PayPal, credit/debit card, or iDEAL.

Step 3: Check your email

Receive your ticket voucher instantly in your inbox. If you don’t see it, check your spam or junk folder.

Step 4: Download the operator’s app

Track the bus in real-time, plan your journey, and explore routes with an interactive map.

Step 5: Hop-on & explore!

Head to any designated stop, show your mobile voucher to the driver or staff, and start your adventure!

Tips to make the best of your Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge tour

  • Do a full loop first! Stay on for the entire city sightseeing Cambridge route to get your bearings and decide which attractions you want to explore in depth. 
  • Buses generally run every 40 minutes, but service can be less frequent during holidays or bad weather. Always check the latest schedule before heading out. 
  • If possible, start your journey at a main stop like Silver Street to secure the best seats, especially on busy days.
  • Cambridge has 31 colleges, but it’s ideal to focus on the “Big 4”: King’s, Trinity, St John’s, and Corpus Christi for the most iconic experiences.
  • Some college visits require tickets or have limited opening hours. Check ahead and carry some cash for entry fees.
  • Open daily, Market Square is perfect for local food, crafts, and people-watching. Try a Chelsea bun or grab a quick lunch from the food stalls. 
  • Jesus Green and Parker’s Piece are ideal for a picnic or a break between sightseeing. Most parks are free to enter.
  • Tap water is safe, and refill stations are common – save money and reduce plastic waste. 
  • Sample a pint at a historic pub, enjoy afternoon tea, or visit a local bakery for a true taste of Cambridge.

Frequently asked questions: Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge tour

How does the Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge bus tour work?

The City Sightseeing Cambridge tour lets you board and exit the bus at any of the designated stops, as many times as you like within your ticket’s 24-hour validity, making it easy to explore the city’s top attractions at your own pace.

How often do the Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge buses run?

Buses typically run every 40 minutes, but frequency may vary depending on the season, time of day, and city traffic. Always check the current timetable at your stop or online for the most accurate information.

Is the commentary available in different languages?

Yes, the City Sightseeing Cambridge buses offer multi-language audio guides, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Cantonese, Mandarin Chinese, and Russian, so international visitors can enjoy informative commentary.

Do I need to print my ticket, or can I show it on my phone?

Tickets purchased directly online can be shown on your phone.

How long does a full loop of the Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge tour take?

A complete circuit of the Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge tour takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes without getting off, making it a great way to get an overview of Cambridge before deciding where to explore in depth.

Is the City Sightseeing Cambridge bus tour suitable for families and children?

Yes, the service is family-friendly, with easy access for strollers and children. Kids under 4 often travel free, and the open-top deck is popular with younger visitors.

Can I use the Hop-on Hop-off bus to get to the Cambridge American Cemetery?

Yes, the route includes a stop at the Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial, making it convenient for visitors who want to pay their respects or explore this important site.

Are the buses wheelchair accessible?

Most City Sightseeing Cambridge buses are accessible for wheelchair users, but it’s a good idea to confirm accessibility details for your specific travel date when booking.

What should I do if the bus is delayed or doesn’t arrive on time?

While the service is usually reliable, occasional delays may occur due to traffic or weather conditions. If you experience issues, contact customer service, and they will assist you.

Can I cancel/change the date of my bus tour?

Yes, tickets are fully flexible and can be changed at no extra charge, up to 24 hours before your tour date.

Are entrance fees to attractions included in the hop-on hop-off Cambridge ticket?

No, attraction entrance fees are not included.