A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cambridge vs. Strasbourg for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cambridge or Strasbourg?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cambridge and Strasbourg. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a historic, beautiful, and collegiate university town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a charming, picturesque, and impressive city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Cambridge and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Cambridge or Strasbourg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Strasbourg than Cambridge, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Strasbourg is more popular for its historical sights, while Cambridge is known for its small town charm. Cambridge is popular for its iconic university and the many colleges associated with it. Strasbourg is popular for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. It is also home to The Strasbourg Cathedral.

How is Cambridge different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Strasbourg and Cambridge. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cambridge or Strasbourg?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Spend time exploring the high quality sights and museums in either Cambridge or Strasbourg.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cambridge. The history is rich and impressive in this university town. There are countless museums and architectural sights that you should check out. High on the list are the Cambridge University buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, The Round Church, and many more.

Strasbourg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.


Is the Food Better in Cambridge or Strasbourg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Both Cambridge and Strasbourg offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cambridge. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Cambridge or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Both Cambridge and Strasbourg have good vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cambridge. The nightlife scene is centered around the student culture and you'll find many university pubs, some lively clubs, theaters, and wine bars around town. Whether you're looking for a chill night with friends or a more wild experience, there are options in Cambridge.

Strasbourg has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Cambridge or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Cambridge does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Strasbourg can be explored in its historical center. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Cambridge does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cambridge or Strasbourg?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Cambridge and Strasbourg.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cambridge. The town offers independent boutique shops, local brands, and a 7 day a week market. The three main shopping areas in town are The Grafton, Lion Yard and Grand Arcade.

Strasbourg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Cambridge or Strasbourg Better for Families?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Both Cambridge and Strasbourg are good family-friendly destinations.

Cambridge is a family-friendly university town. Kids will enjoy following the Treasure Trail, or climbing to the top of the Great St Mary’s Tower. Punting is another iconic experience. On a rainy day, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, the Museum of Zoology, or the Cambridge Science Centre.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Strasbourg. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Cambridge or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Cambridge and Strasbourg both high quality destinations for a couple.

Cambridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The quaint town is fun to explore as a couple. Try your hand at punting or take a tour of one of the colleges. You can also enjoy a picnic in the botanical gardens or have tea at the Orchard Tea Garden.

Couples visit Strasbourg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.


Is Cambridge or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Cambridge and Strasbourg are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cambridge. With a handful of hostels and a vibrant student population, the town makes for a fun stop on your backpacking trip.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Cambridge or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Cambridge is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Cambridge. The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

Strasbourg is a good university town to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Is Cambridge or Strasbourg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Strasbourg is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Strasbourg. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

You'll find some public transit in Cambridge, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a regional bus service that operates through town.


Is Cambridge or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Cambridge
Strasbourg

Cambridge is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Cambridge is a very easy university town to get around on foot. Walking is the best way to explore the town.

Strasbourg is a very walkable university town. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Cambridge Worth Visiting? and Is Strasbourg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Cambridge?

How long in Cambridge or Strasbourg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cambridge and Strasbourg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Strasbourg than in Cambridge. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cambridge, and 2-3 days is enough time in Strasbourg.

Couples should spend more time in Strasbourg than Cambridge. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Strasbourg that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Cambridge or Strasbourg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cambridge 1-2 
    Strasbourg 2-3

One day in Cambridge or Strasbourg?

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful university town of Cambridge, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cambridge, one day is sufficent for most.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Strasbourg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Cambridge or Strasbourg?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Cambridge, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this university town.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the impressive destination of Strasbourg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Cambridge or Strasbourg?

Cambridge, a popular university town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picturesque city of Strasbourg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cambridge or Strasbourg?

Cambridge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Strasbourg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Strasbourg or Cambridge?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cambridge is £134, while the average daily cost in Strasbourg is £118. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cambridge and Strasbourg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cambridge £72
    Strasbourg £57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cambridge £144
    Strasbourg £114
Compare Hotels in Cambridge and Strasbourg

Looking for a hotel in Cambridge or Strasbourg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cambridge


Hotels in Strasbourg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cambridge Hotel Prices and Strasbourg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cambridge £24
    Strasbourg £38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cambridge

Also for Cambridge, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer Heathrow To Cambridge: $175

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Strasbourg

Also for Strasbourg, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: $58
  • Private transfer Strasbourg Airport: $59
  • Private Transfer from Strasbourg Train Station to Hotel: $64
  • Private Transfer Strasbourg to Europa Park: $251
  • Door-to-Door private transfer and driver from Strasbourg to Basel: $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Cambridge or Strasbourg?

Prices for flights to both Strasbourg and Cambridge change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cambridge £41
    Strasbourg £37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Strasbourg

For Strasbourg, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Strasbourg Private Food Tour: experience the city like a local!: $93
  • Strasbourg Food Tour : Gourmet private Tour with tastings: $102
  • Strasbourg Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cambridge £22
    Strasbourg £20

Tours and Activities in Cambridge

For Cambridge, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Historic Walking Tour of Cambridge with Guide and Peek: $25
  • A Guided Public Tour of Historic Cambridge: $32
  • Cambridge - Shared Punting Tour: $13
  • Cambridge Highlights Walking Tour by Cantab Tours: $25
  • Cambridge Instagram Self-Guided Tour - Top Photo Spots: $6.35
  • Cambridge Science Tour : $32
  • Cambridge's History & Secrets with Self-Guided Walking Tours: $32
  • Cambridge’s Colleges and Classic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • 2-Hour Private University Walking Tour: $94
  • Adventure Through Cross-Disciplinary Revolutions: $22
  • Chauffeured Punting Tour: $62
  • Chinese University Student-Guided Walking Tour: $40

Tours and Activities in Strasbourg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Strasbourg.

  • 2-Hour Strasbourg Euro Tour by Segway: $64
  • Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg: $148
  • Alsace Wine Odyssey: Full-Day Private Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Alsace Wine Route Small Group Half-Day Tour with Tasting from Strasbourg: $107
  • Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour from Strasbourg: $175
  • Alsatian brunch with immersive cellar tour: $49
  • Alsatian tour, tasting and meal - 100% immersive experience: $60
  • Christmas Joy in Strasbourg Walking Tour: $641
  • Culinary city tour in Strasbourg with tastings: $104
  • Gems of Alsace: Private Full-Day Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Gourmet Bike Tour with a Locals in Strasbourg: $71
  • Guided Tours of Strasbourg Cathedral: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cambridge £23
    Strasbourg £17

Sample the Local Flavors in Strasbourg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Strasbourg:

  • Aperitif at the winemaker with cellar visit and wine tasting in Alsace: $11
  • Wine tasting and immersive cellar tour: $20
  • Wine tour, tasting and picnic basket: $38
  • From Medieval Villages & Wine Tasting Day Trip: $118
  • Medieval Villages and Wine Tasting from Strasbourg: $120
  • Strasbourg : Wine Tour by bike with a local: $150
  • Wine Tasting Private Tour: $545


When comparing the travel costs between Cambridge and Strasbourg, we can see that Cambridge is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cambridge Expensive? and Is Strasbourg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cambridge or Strasbourg?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cambridge. When comparing the sizes of Cambridge and Strasbourg, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.