A university town steeped in history and culture; Cambridge offers plenty to tourists. If you’re already in the UK, it’s one of the places you shouldn’t miss. With a train station that connects it to London in just under an hour, Cambridge makes for a fantastic day trip but it’s also an enjoyable place to stay for a longer time.
Staying in a Cambridge Airbnbs in one of the many unique and historic neighborhoods is an experience which you shouldn’t miss. You can live like a local, mingle with the locals, and get valuable tips to make your time memorable.
Whether you have plenty of money to spend or you are on a strict budget, Cambridge has an Airbnb to suit all your needs.
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 3 Airbnbs in Cambridge
Former Victorian Townhouse Turned Boutique Retreat
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > 2 bedrooms
- > Elegant apartment
Cozy Flat in a Cosmopolitan Area
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Self check-in
- > Located in a Victorian terrace
Central Cambridge Flat for up to 4 People
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Entire apartment
- > Behind Grafton Square
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Cambridge
Steeped in gorgeous architecture and history, Cambridge also offers plenty of sports and culture. Although it’s best known as a student city, with a huge population of students, there’s a lot more to see if you are thinking of making it your next vacation destination.
Finding the right accommodation in Cambridge can be a challenge, so to make sure that you get a place that suits your needs, we’ve listed the variety of property types you can find there.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Cambridge
Cambridge is a wonderful place to discover! Let’s not waste any time, here are the best rentals in the area. We’ve put in effort and time to check the available Airbnbs in Cambridge, so you don’t have to.
Former Victorian Townhouse Turned Boutique Retreat | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Cambridge
This former Victorian townhouse has been converted into an elegant apartment. The property has two bedrooms, the main bedroom has a king bed and the second bedroom has a double bed. Both bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms and room-darkening shades.
The airy living area has a Bridgewater sofa where you can curl up and read a book. Thoughtfully decorated, the entire home has hardwood flooring and neutral hues which lend the home a cozy atmosphere.
Places to visit:
- Cambridge University
- Botanic Gardens
- The Fitzwilliam Museum
Cozy Flat in a Cosmopolitan Area | Best Budget Airbnb in Cambridge
This cozy little property is perfect for those who are on a tight budget. The flat has its own front door to the street and is located on the ground floor of a Victorian terrace. It is within 10 minutes walk from the station and 20 minutes walk from the town center.
The flat has a sitting room, kitchen, shower room, and a bedroom with a king-sized bed. It is within sight of vibrant Mill Road which is packed with delicatessens and cafes where you can go to satisfy your hunger. There is an outside shared patio space with a wooden table, chairs, and a bench.
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View on Osprey View on REICentral Cambridge Flat for up to 4 People | Perfect Airbnb for Digital Nomads
This is the best Airbnb in Cambridge for digital nomads that can be shared by four people for that added savings when traveling.
This lovely one-bedroom apartment has a bedroom and a sofa bed in the living room which can easily accommodate two additional guests.
Located just behind Grafton Square, guests can get all their groceries and other necessities they need if they wish to prepare their own food in the newly-renovated kitchenette.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Cambridge
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Cambridge!
Townhouse with Parking in Historic Cambridge City Center | Most Beautiful Airbnb in Cambridge
This fully-refurbished three-bedroom townhouse overlooks Jesus Green in the historic center of Cambridge. It has two parking spaces and is the perfect base for guests to explore the local area’s delights.
The master bedroom is on the top floor and has a king-sized bed and a spacious en-suite bathroom. The second bedroom is on the first floor and also has a king-sized bed, an en-suite toilet, and a small balcony overlooking Portugal Street.
The third bedroom has a Juliet balcony that overlooks the rear garden with views of the famous Varsity Hotel roof terrace. The ground floor has a study area, and a living area. The dining room is in the basement, as well as the well-equipped kitchen.
17th Century Cottage in the North Essex Countryside | Best Airbnb in Cambridge for a Group of Friends
This expansive 17th-century cottage is the perfect country escape for a group of friends. It’s hidden down a winding lane deep within the North Essex countryside.
The beautifully restored 300-year-old property has four bedrooms, a large family kitchen with a huge farmhouse table, and two large reception rooms. The exterior has a fully heated swimming pool with a terrace, a lounge area, dining table, sun loungers, and a BBQ area for guests to use and enjoy.
The property is near the historic town of Cambridge and the quaint market, Saffron Walden, is just 10 minutes away.
Beautiful House in a Central Location | Best Short-Term Rental Airbnb
Cambridge has its fair share of beautiful homes and this one is no exception. This beautiful period house has two bedrooms with a king-sized bed and a double bed, a courtyard garden, a fully-equipped kitchen where you can prepare your meals, and a breakfast room.
The newly refurbished house is in a popular residential and central location on Norfolk Street and is just a few doors from the popular Norfolk Street Bakery.
There is easy pedestrian access to the train station, the city center, and Mill Road amenities. The stunning interiors and open-plan ground floor give the house an airy and more spacious feel.
Cosy Lodge | Stunning Airbnb for Honeymooners in Cambridge
If you’ve never thought of Cambridge as a honeymoon destination, you should do so now. This luxury Grade II property is located three miles from the City of Cambridge and is set in 23 acres of private parkland.
Honeymooners can come home to a roaring log fire while enjoying a much-deserved gin and tonic from the bar. The property is called The Buttery and comprises a cozy sitting room with a kitchen and dining area with a log-burning stove.
There’s also a sizeable bedroom with a queen-sized bed and an en-suite shower room. There is even underfloor heating throughout the cottage.
Stylish Rural Barn just 5 mins from Stansted | Most Unique Airbnb in Cambridge
This self-contained barn is nestled on a working farm and is only five minutes away from Stansted Airport and four miles from the M11 junction 8 into London and Cambridge. It’s the perfect starting point to explore East Anglia.
This self-catered barn has two bedrooms and can sleep up to four people, a fully-equipped kitchen, a generous dining space, and comfortable seating around a wood burner. Outside there are picnic benches and a barbecue in the wildflower meadow with views out over the fields.
Shared amenities include a washing machine, dryer, a boot room, ice maker, and an American-style fridge. Guests are very much encouraged to walk the footpaths on the farm and the countryside.
Spacious Countryside Home with Amazing Views | Best Airbnb in Cambridge for Families
This spacious countryside home is tastefully decorated and has 2400 sq. ft of versatile living accommodations. There are five bedrooms, three baths, a dining area that can accommodate 10-12 people, a separate sitting room, an open fire with a family and kids’ area with a selection of toys, DVDs, and games, and an extra living room and study.
A natural swimming pool is situated at the end of the garden with decks and sun loungers. There is no fence around the pool area so children need to be supervised at all times. Additional amenities for children in the exteriors are: a climbing frame with a slide, monkey bars, swings, and a pool table in the summer house for older kids.
The property is in the peaceful village of Campton, which is just a short walk away from Shefford. The Arseley train station is just 3.5 miles away and there are also direct trains to London, the drive into Cambridge is less than an hour.
Grand Country House in Audley End Estate | Best Airbnb with Pool & Jacuzzi
This property is located in the magnificent Audley End Estate and is wonderfully set in the open countryside of Saffron Walden, which is just a short train ride away from Cambridge and London.
It is an ideal combination of an authentic farm with modern comfort features. This 17th-century Jacobean mansion is widely regarded as one of the finest homes in England and is approached from a private drive that has ample parking for 8-10 cars.
The villa has nine beautifully furnished bedrooms, four en-suites, two additional bathrooms, a large drawing-room, with a piano and an open fire, a library, a swimming pool, a hot tub, and expansive landscaped grounds.
Entire Cottage near Central Cambridge | Best Airbnb Plus in Cambridge
Granta Cottage is the perfect base if you want to explore Cambridge University and the quaint village of Grantchester. This newly-built townhouse has plenty of natural light, a private patio, and a garden.
The entire unit has heated floors, a fully-equipped kitchen, four bedrooms (one with an en-suite bathroom), three full bathrooms, a dining room, and a backyard with a fire pit and BBQ grill.
Grade II Listed Serviced Apartment | Best Airbnb in Cambridge near Nightlife
This retreat is located in a beautifully refurbished Cambridge villa and is the best Airbnb in Cambridge near nightlife.
It is just moments away from Christ’s Piece, Jesus Green, and Midsummer Common, which has an abundance of bistros, bars, clubs, and restaurants. You can party all night and need not worry about traveling far to crash on your comfortable bed.
This beautifully designed studio property has an extra fold-away king-sized wall bed, a well-appointed kitchen, and a private bath. The area is also near a tennis court, outdoor fitness, and the Jesus Green lido open-air swimming pool.
Contemporary House in Impington | Super Accessible Airbnb in Cambridge
This residential home in Impington is brand new and on a single level. It has two bedrooms, a bathroom, a living room, and a fully-equipped kitchen. It has bifold doors that open out onto the patio and garden where you can relax and have breakfast close to nature.
There is a well-lit path entrance, a step-free entrance to the property, a wide entrance for guests, a disabled parking spot, and a step-free path to the outdoor entrance. All areas inside the home, including the bedrooms and bathrooms, have wide entrances and step-free entrances.
Victorian Home with Courtyard near the City Center | Best Airbnb for a Weekend in Cambridge
This charming Victorian family home is located near the city center and is the best Airbnb in Cambridge if you want to explore the area but only have a limited number of days for vacation.
This spacious and modernized property has three bedrooms with beautiful hardwood floors, a new modern kitchen, a lovely lit garden, and 1.5 bathrooms.
It is just 15 minutes away from all the historic attractions and is also nearby pubs and restaurants, so you need not worry about what to eat should you decide not to cook.
Check out our ideal Cambridge Itinerary for a weekend escape.
Newly Renovated Studio | Best Airbnb on Mill Road
Mill Road is undoubtedly the best location in Cambridge for sampling a wide array of cuisine. It has an abundance of independent restaurants, pubs, and cafes that are just steps away from this property.
The beautiful Botanical gardens is nearby. World-famous universities can be reached on foot and the historic city center is just 10 minutes away. This property has a private entrance, a fully-equipped kitchen, a dining area, and a luxurious and comfy bed.
What to Pack for Cambridge
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Cambridge Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Renting Airbnbs in Cambridge
A vacation or time away in Cambridge need not be complicated. Best known for its university that lends the place undeniable energy, Cambridge is an old town with a web of cobbled stones and the bicycle remains the locals’ favorite way of getting around.
However, Cambridge is not all history, the many minds that have passed through Cambridge University have created a lively industry.
Whether you are in town for just a couple of days or a few weeks, there will be a Cambridge Airbnb just right for you. If you don’t have any plans yet on where to go and what to do, you can always check out Airbnb Experiences.
- Check out our Backpacking the UK guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Cambridge guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in Cambridge too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of the UK.
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