The Ferrari site says it on the car’s home page: “Shift to the 12th Dimension.” As a man who loves studying consciousness, I was immediately intrigued.
However, more than just a catchy tagline, the Ferrari 812 Superfast at the time of release was the fastest and most powerful Ferrari yet. This is a new model for the Italian powerhouse of performance, and whenever a fresh face shows itself in the age-old line up, the question is asked by many: what does this new model achieve?
Given that we were handed an iconic V12 beast in the Ferrari F12, the 812 had to offer something different, arguably better, and more exciting with this newly refreshed engine.
The 812 was designed by Ferrari to offer benchmark performance, by making it the fastest road-going Ferrari ever built, whilst also offering a riveting and rewarding driving experience for enthusiasts and fans alike.
It is not a car I would keep in my collection as I am not the type to put my need for a V12 engine in Ferrari’s hands (I prefer my SVJ for that benchmark). And while I don’t personally own one of these bad boys, I can say that if you are looking for a new-age V12 and want to stay true to exotic racing roots, then you may want to consider the 812 for your next hack.
Driving Experience
The Ferrari 812 Superfast was made to be better than its former V12 predecessor the F12. Given that challenge, Ferrari gave this next generation V12 a 6.5-liter engine (the F12 was a 6.3L), and with that added engine power comes a whopping 798 horsepower and 530 pounds of torque. Giving this Ferrari the title of Most Powerful Naturally Aspirated Production Car EVER Made (back in 2018 at the time of its launch) .
All this power gives the impressive car an even more impressive top speed of 211 miles per hour with a 0-60 time of just 2.9 seconds.
The 812 Superfast also has some variations for you to be able to enjoy; just remember the pricing may vary significantly.
The Superfast is a coupe body style, while the 812 GTS is the spider body style.
This is impressive as the F12 never offered a convertible body style option, and here you don’t have to sacrifice fun or performance as the power is all the same as the Superfast, however, the car does way a bit more given the mechanism needed to open/close/store the retractable hard top roof.
Now, the mack daddy of the lineage is the Competizione. This is the 812 I would buy. Just like the Ferrari F12TDF is the only F12 I would buy.
It is a limited production, track-focused variant. Its engine is tuned up to be more powerful without any added modifications from the 812 Superfast, producing 819 horsepower and 510 pounds of torque.
To set it apart even further from the base model, Ferrari has given the car a more aggressive, race car look with added and extensive aerodynamic upgrades that make it look more exciting overall.
There is also a spider/convertible version of this beast and it is simply called the Competizione A, A being for the moniker Ferrari uses for its performance convertibles “Aperta” meaning “open” in Italian.
Ferrari 812 Common Problems
Whenever there is a new chassis introduced to a brand, you can bet your bottom dollar that there are going to be problems that arise. Think of it like a recently built house; you have to use it to find out what needs further work. Sometimes, this means leaky window seals, finicky electronics, and so on.
But I am happy to report that the 812 Superfast is generally super reliable.
However, some issues still exist but are incredibly minor in the grand scheme of things.
Common issues I have seen across the board with the 812 include minor Bluetooth issues like connectivity and searchability problems. It’s annoying but a few extra minutes of messing with the infotainment will get it working.
Another issue is the car’s panel alignment. Many cars I have seen in person or even online have shown to have misaligned body panels throughout the exterior. Making it look like the car has been crashed or in an accident, when in reality it is just poor quality control from the Ferrari factory.
As these models get a bit older and see more usage and miles, another point to note is that some have had the issue of collecting moisture in the front headlights. This is annoying as it makes the car look older and less cared for than it is, and it is also a highly costly repair.
Best Ferrari 812 To Buy
This should also go without saying, but I will repeat it.
Ferrari options are all a la carte.
Meaning unlike McLaren or Aston Martin there are no “packages” that include options, so if it has one it must have the other.
No.
Everything is piece by piece, decided, created, ordered, and placed on the car by whomever originally spec’d the car.
So it is safe to say, the more carbon (inside or outside), the better. It will not only raise the price of the sticker but also make your car a heavier MSRP one. It will also make your spec hotter and more desirable, which directly correlates to resale time.
Otherwise, you want to play into the Ferrari market, meaning red on tan is the iconic exterior/interior spec. So obviously it too will be more desirable.
But a new age approach may also be successful, commanding a premium but requiring a longer hold time.
Such as a white-on-red car, a yellow-on-black car, a black-on-red car, etc.
The timeframe for the best 812 to hack will be one where the car is at least 3 full years old and has reached warranty maturity, so if it is 2023 NOW, you will want to start looking at 2019-2020 models as your best hackable option.
Conclusion
We know that the age of the V12 is dying. Very few, if any, high-performance car brands will continue making the monstrous engine in the coming years.
Whilst it is sad to see the era of true ingenuity and performance dwindle, some embers still make the flame burn bright.
For me, it is the Lamborghini SVJ, as I mentioned before. But for some, and maybe even you, it will be the 812 Superfast.
The Colosseum one of the most popular sights in Rome, and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the entire world. Here are some useful tips for visiting the Colosseum!
No matter if you’re a serious history buff or a Gladiator fan – you can’t miss a visit to the Colosseum on a trip to Rome. I was super excited to see the Colosseum when we were in Rome for the first time, but visiting this historic landmark can be a bit overwhelming.
To ensure that you get the most out of your visit to the Colosseum and to avoid any disappointment, it pays off to plan your visit well in advance.
In this article I’ll be sharing my best tips for how to visit the Colosseum, how to buy tickets, and other things that you should know based on my experience traveling in Italy.
Hi, I’m Matthew Karsten
I’ve been traveling the world for 10+ years as a professional photographer & writer. I hope you enjoy my Colosseum tips! If you find them useful, using my affiliate links to book something will give me a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thanks!
Rome Colosseum Travel Guide
The Colosseum is a famous Roman amphitheater that was built between 72 and 80 AD. The three-tired theater is the largest amphitheater ever built, and the largest (still standing) amphitheater in the entire world.
It is the largest ancient structure to have survived: It stands 157 feet (48 meters) tall and measures 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters). The Colosseum was built to hold more than 50,000 spectators.
Roman theaters were generally built in the same way: circular or oval open-air structures with raised seating. They were used for popular events such as gladiator fights, chariot races, animal slayings and executions.
There are around 230 amphitheaters that were built during the Roman Empire, however, none compare to the Colosseum, which is unique in its style and grandeur. Because it was built by the Flavian Emperor Vespasian and his sons Titus and Domitian, it is also known as the “Flavian Amphitheater”.
The Roman theater has three stacked arcades: the lowest one built in Doric style, the middle arcade built in Ionic style, and the highest one in Corinthian style. It was built in this way to reflect the civilization that created it.
Even though the Colosseum has been severely damaged by earthquakes, visitors can still experience most of the structure that ancient Romans saw when they entered the Colosseum to watch a gladiator fight or spectacle.
How To Get To The Colosseum
The Colosseum is located right in the center of Rome, and the entrance is near the Arch of Constantine.
The nearest metro station is “Colosseo” on the B Line – it is right across the street from the Colosseum, about a 3-minute walk to the entrance.
If you are taking the metro from Termini, take the metro that is going to Laurentina. It’s a 3-minute train ride, or two short stops.
If you have a Rome Hop On Hop Off Bus Ticket, they also stop at the Colosseum. (Hop On Hop Off bus tickets are included in both the Rome and the Vatican Pass).
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How To Visit The Colosseum
There are a different ways to see the Colosseum. You can simply see it from the outside (which is free), or you can book a ticket to go inside.
If you want to go inside, you have the option to book tickets for different areas of the Colosseum.
Furthermore, you can choose to visit the Colosseum independently, or join a guided tour.
How Much Does Visiting The Colosseum Cost?
The general admission ticket to the Colosseum is €18 (€16 + €2 online booking fee) and also includes the Roman Forum and the Palatine. With this ticket, you’ll be able to visit the first and second levels of the Colosseum, including three overlooks, however, NOT the arena level or the hypogeum, the underground area of the Colosseum. (You need to book a guided tour to visit these restricted areas – see below for more details.)
Discounted Tickets: European Union citizens between the age of 18 and 25 only pay €4 (€4 + €2 online booking fee) to visit the Colosseum. However, you must show an ID at the entrance verifying the right to a reduced ticket.
Children / People With Disabilities: Children under 18 and disabled people (plus one family member / helper) don’t have to pay to visit the Colosseum.
Full Experience Tickets: Include entrance to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine as well as the S.U.P.E.R. sites (the Palatine Museum, Neronian Cryptoporticus, House of Augustus, House of Livia and Temple of Romulus) AND a tour in English are €32 (discounted: €12) plus the €2 booking fee per ticket. This ticket option includes access to the arena level and an accompanied visit to the underground, but it does NOT include Level 3 of the Colosseum. “Full Experience Tickets” are valid for 48 hours from the first use.
If you are buying a ticket that includes a guide through the official Colosseum website, be careful when selecting the ticket option: the English version of the website is unfortunately not very well translated and can be a bit confusing. You don’t want to accidentally book an Italian tour.
Skip-The-Line Tickets
If you are pressed for time or simply don’t want to waste time waiting in line, I recommend spending a few more dollars on the Skip-The-Line Ticket (around €22). Just be aware that you must book this ticket with an allocated starting time, and tickets usually sell out, so book your ticket well in advance. Skip-the-line tickets are not sold through the official Colosseum website, but are available through GetYourGuide.
What’s Included In Your Colosseum Ticket
The General Admission Ticket includes the Colosseum (without access to the arena), the Roman Forum archeological area, the Imperial Forums and the Palatine. It also includes admission to temporary exhibitions at these sights.
The ticket is valid for 24 hours, so you don’t have to visit all three sites in the same day. You can decide in which order you visit the sites included in the ticket. The 24 hours start when you access the first monument.
Note: If you buy the ticket online, it is not necessary to print it out, you can simply show it on your smartphone upon arrival at the Colosseum.
What’s Not Included in the Colosseum Ticket
The general admission ticket to the Colosseum doesn’t include access to the arena, the underground area and Level 3 of the Colosseum. To visit these areas, you need to book a special ticket or a guided tour (see below for more details).
How Long Does It Take To Visit?
You need to plan in at least one hour to visit the Colosseum, and if you want to visit the other sights included in the Colosseum ticket, plan in at least one hour for those, too. If you want to take in each monument in more detail, you’ll need about 2 hours for each site. Both the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum are larger, more spread-out areas.
As for distances between the sights: The Palatine is a five-minute walk from the Colosseum, the Roman Forum is also less than five minutes away and the Imperial Fora is about 10 minutes from the Colosseum. If you’re pressed for time, it is possible to visit all three sites in half a day, but ideally, you’ll want to plan in 6 hours for all three sites.
Guided Tours Of The Colosseum
If you have more time and really want to understand the Colosseum, I highly recommend taking a guided tour. There is little signage throughout all the monuments included in the Colosseum ticket, which means that you will have little understanding of what you are looking at unless you are listening to a podcast about the sights, or you are using a guidebook.
1-Hour Express Tour
The 1-hour Express Tour is perfect for people who don’t have a lot of time, and the ticket also allows you to skip the line. Get 1-Hour Express Tickets Here
A tour is required to see the arena floor and hypogeum, the fascinating underground area of the Colosseum. The hypogeum was where gladiators and animals were waiting before their battles, and visiting it with a guide means you’ll learn a lot more about the spectacles that visitors came to see at the amphitheater, the life of the gladiators, and the battles that were fought.
This is a great tour for anyone visiting Rome with kids, since it aims to entertain children and tell stories about ancient Rome in a way that they’re enjoyable for youngsters and adults alike.
There are several ways to buy tickets to the Colosseum. The official ticket website is of course the obvious choice but be aware that you can often only get general admission tickets through the official Colosseum website.
You can buy special access tickets that include a guide through the official Colosseum website, too, but the English-speaking tours are limited and thus often sold out. No worries though: If there are no tours in English available for any of the dates you’re planning to be in Rome, you’re usually still able to find guided Colosseum tours in English through third-party websites.
If you want to book a guided tour or access to special areas, you will have to book through a third-party tour operator who is licensed to offer these tickets.
There is also a ticket office right at the Colosseum but you’ll most likely have to wait in line to purchase a ticket. Since tickets are timed and visitor numbers are capped at 3,000 a day, I strongly recommend buying your Colosseum tickets online.
After clicking on the “Buy Tickets” button, a calendar will pop up, and you can select the date you’re planning to visit the Colosseum on. After choosing a date, you will see all the available time-slots on the date you selected. If there aren’t any tickets available anymore for the time you’d like to visit, try a different date.
It is worth noting that you can only book a timeslot up to one month in advance, so if your trip to Rome is still in the distant future, you may want to put a reminder in your calendar to book a Colosseum ticket a month before your visit.
USEFUL TIP: When selecting a time-slot, remember that it gets quite hot in Rome after noon. I recommend booking a ticket to the Colosseum for the early morning, or an hour before closing, if you visit during the summer months.
Roma Pass / Rome and Vatican Pass
If you have a Roma Pass (which gives you free admission to a couple of landmarks / historic sites and reduced ticket prices to all other museums and archeological sites as well as free use of public transportation), you still have to reserve a time-slot online and pay the €2 reservation fee.
This means you should check availability for the Colosseum as soon as you purchase the Roma Pass, to make sure there are still time-slots available during the days your pass is valid (they are usually valid for 48 or 72 hours). You’ll find the option to reserve a time-slot for Roma Pass holders on the official ticket website.
Visit The Colosseum For Free?
On the first Sunday of every month, the Colosseum can be visited for free. This includes all sites that are usually included in the Colosseum tickets: The Colosseum, Roman Forum and the Palatine.
Be Warned: The sites included in the free ticket tend to get very crowded when they can be visited for free. If you are on a tight budget and would like to take advantage of the Free First Sunday, I recommend arriving as early as possible.
Colosseum Opening Hours
The Colosseum is open seven days a week, and it opens 9am year-round. Closing times differ, depending on the time of year:
2 January – 28 February: 9 – 4.30pm
1 – 26 March: 9am – 5.30pm
27 March – 31 August: 9am – 7.15pm
1 – 30 September: 9am – 7pm
1 – 30 October: 9am – 6.30pm
31 October – 31 December: 9am – 4.30pm
Note: Final admission is one hour before closing time. Colosseum Closed: The Colosseum open year-round, with the exception of two days: Christmas Day (25th December) and New Year’s Day (1st January).
More Tips For Visiting The Colosseum
Large backpacks or suitcases are not allowed. Security is tight, and all bags are screened by a metal detector at the entrance. A medium-sized daypack is ok. Glass bottles and alcohol are not permitted.
Water fountains can be found in several places inside the Colosseum, which is very useful during the hotter months. Bring your reusable water bottle!
If you’re only visiting the outside, look for the water fountain near the Colosseo metro station.
If you visit during the summer months, you’ll need to pack a sunhat / visor or an umbrella. You’ll find yourself exposed to the sun a lot. Apply sunscreen before your visit.
I recommend wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes for your visit to the Colosseum. The surfaces are uneven, and if you visit the other sights included in your ticket: you’ll walk on ancient Roman cobbles and uneven surfaces Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
If you are fascinated by the Gladiator myth and culture, you can train to be a gladiator on your visit to Rome. The Gruppo Storico Romano and Gladiator School offers 2-hour gladiator training courses and will teach you more about the gladiator games, weapons and history.
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I hope you enjoyed my guide to visiting the Colosseum in Rome! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:
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Everyone eventually reaches the point where they are shopping for a retirement car. Many describe it as their ‘last car’.
Some people do it when they hit their retirement day from full-time work, others do it at the first sign of significant health troubles, and others because they feel the need to downsize.
But getting old, or in reality just old(er), shouldn’t be an instant trigger for a car swap. If you have a car you love, and it does the job and owes you nothing, then why change?
That said, my parents bought their ‘last car’ when they retired, expecting it to carry them through to later life in a nursing home, while they were still in their late fifties. But there were five more cars before their time was done.
So choosing a car to take you through the twilight years is not easy. Unless you have the money for a Rolls-Royce Phantom, and a chauffeur as well, it’s going to be some sort of compromise.
The last car also needs to be like the last dance – special.
Reasons to switch
Looking for a ‘last car’ can be a morbid operation. It’s definitely going to be a challenge.
But downsizing, in size or price or both, can also be fun when you’re shopping for a car to tick your later-in-life boxes. Some people will even go for a selfish sports car to enjoy the best of their twilight times.
You could do as one particular 80-year old man did and buy an Alfa Romeo Giulia, joining the community of global Alfa fans known as the ‘Alfisti’ and handing off his Kia Cerato to his son.
A tight budget can mean some secondhand shopping for a lot of down-sizers, but it’s best to stretch the budget and turn a retirement car into a retirement gift.
Going new also eliminates many of the questions and worries, as well as providing the lovely ’new-car smell’ as a later-life highlight.
Even so, there are questions to be answered, and those answers will point to the best choice for the future.
Are you making a switch to save money? Is it because you are travelling less, and staying closer to home? Is it because you’re buying a caravan and heading off on The Big Trip around Australia? Are you looking for a greener solution, either hybrid or battery-electric?
Needs change and so do priorities, but even a retirement car could need space for youngsters – the grandchildren this time – or bicycles or pets.
How to downsize
Choosing the next move on a retirement car is about timing, price and size.
Don’t be rushed on any front – from disposing of a current car through to signing the paperwork for something new. Time is on your side. So, too, should be some expert assistance.
Look for a family member who knows about cars, someone who knows about finances, and perhaps even a relative or family friend who is interested in your current wheels.
A keyboard warrior, to do the inevitable online research and comparison work – looking at everything from cabin space and engine size to insurance and fuel economy – is a must.
Setting the parameters for the change are as simple as answering one basic question: what do you really need for a retirement car?
Most people will want something smaller and more fuel efficient, lots will be looking for a hybrid to cut running costs, and safety should be a high priority.
Then there is a high-rider driving position, to improve visibility and also make it easier to get in and out of a car. So list your needs and then leave some space for a bit of ‘wow factor’ to make buying a reward and not a punishment.
The right size
The easy answer for a retirement car is a compact SUV. Think of it as a small station wagon with extra ride height and easier access.
Everyone has one, from Alfa Romeo to Volkswagen and Volvo, but any easy starting point for comparison work are the Subaru Crosstrek and Forester. They are the closest in concept to an old-school wagon, driving most like a passenger car with the safety advantage of all-wheel drive for greasy or gravel roads.
But things – and pictures – can be deceiving.
The Toyota RAV4 is much bigger today than it was when it first arrived in Australia, catering to growing families, with the Corolla Cross filling its previous position.
Companies such as Hyundai and Kia and Mazda all have SUVs in various sizes, so it takes a trip to the showroom to do the ‘Goldilocks’ work on the right size.
The vast majority of family cars now sold in Australia are SUVs, but it’s important to consider other choices. Skoda has an excellent range of station wagons in addition to its SUVs and, although sub-$20,000 hatchbacks are all but dead in 2024, a city runabout can easily be a Kia Picanto or a Mini.
If you are going to travel, things become much more complicated.
Would it be easier and cheaper to have a city runabout at home and then rent a big four-wheel drive for your adventures? The fuel saving alone would be massive.
It’s best to focus the size questions on the day-to-day passengers, likely one or two people, but also remember there could be extra family members or friends at times. Or a lot of the time.
Safety first
Older people need more help with driving. So, safety is vitally important – but it means much more than the highly touted five-star score from the Australasian New-Car Safety Program.
It means a good view through the windscreen, camera help for parking, an easy-to-use dashboard set-up, and even something as basic as easy access to the boot.
Headlights, too, need to be bright for night driving.
It’s easy to overlook the basics and rely on ANCAP, and things are tougher for secondhand shoppers.
The best source of help is the used-car safety ratings compiled each year by Monash University’s Accident Research Centre. It gives star ratings for hundreds of cars, taking data from real-world crashes involving deaths and injuries.
Then it becomes vital to ensure the car is properly maintained, a job for a pre-purchase inspection by one of Australia’s state motoring bodies. It should identify any and all faults.
On the new-car front, safety first means putting yourself first.
A whole bunch of electronic driver aids sounds impressive, and will help with an ANCAP score, but they mean nothing if you cannot see all four corners of the car or if the headlights are dim.
It’s also important to feel safe. That means a comfortable driving position, a car that provides confidence when cornering or braking, and light controls which provide good feel and feedback.
Also, concentrate on a car which is the right size. It needs to be big enough to feel comfortable, but a suburban couple should avoid the temptations of a high-riding dual-cab ute.
Now a warning: if you’re coming from something old, every new car will feel great. So test drive, often if needed, until you find a car which works for you. Don’t be rushed or bullied, check all the facts and figures you can find, and get help.
It’s easy to be mesmerised by new technology, like 360-degree camera views around the car and head-up displays, but they’re no good if you’re busting your budget or the basics don’t feel right – for you.
The H point
In the car world, ‘H-point’ means the height off the ground for the driver’s hips.
If your hips meet the seat without stretching, up or down, it’s the right start for access and driving.
It’s the reason why so many older drivers want to sit up high, or struggle with access – either down into a sporty sedan or up into a LandCruiser-style off-roader.
It could also be a compromise for a couple, either because one has a health challenge or they are a mismatch on height.
So visit showrooms, climb in and out of cars, and don’t forget to try out the back seat too.
Just as importantly, look at access to the boot or – in the case of an SUV – the load height into the back end. You might also be thinking about a ramp for the dog or stowing a walker or wheelchair.
Everything is important, even the smallest details. Some SUVs have a grab handle to pull yourself into the cabin, but many do not.
Needs and wants
Changes in later life can be scary. Finances are vital, but so too are freedom and mobility, as well as removing the worry that is inevitable on an old ‘clunker’ that requires constant maintenance.
Think carefully, plan smart, and a retirement car can be your new best friend.
Starting on size, get the smallest car that works for you. Everything bigger will be more expensive, from the purchase price to fuel, and never forget about parking…
On the engine front, there is little point in getting a battery-electric car in 2024 if you intend to drive all over and around Australia. They only make sense if you have a comfortable budget and spend most of your driving time on short hops close to charging points.
A hybrid makes plenty of sense if you mostly travel close to home but need extra range and flexibility for occasional long-range runs.
Remember, too, that modern small-capacity turbocharged engines – which can seem feeble if you’re coming from a ‘big Aussie six’ – are actually both punchy and frugal. So a small engine can be a win-win.
If you want leather seats and a sunroof, and it won’t break the budget, get them.
If you need to prioritise the grandchildren, do it. Consider things like space for kiddie seats and USB ports for teenagers can be important. Proper air-conditioning, with rear vents – and, perhaps, individual controls – can never be overlooked.
Lists works and, like every new-car purchase, it’s vital to have everything settled before you head to a dealership.
The spend
The showroom sticker is important, but shouldn’t be the final decider.
You also need to consider running costs, fuel economy, the warranty, proximity of a dealership for service, and perhaps even the resale value for another ‘last car’.
You can actually save money if you’re smart in balancing needs against wants, by buying something smaller than you first chose.
A regular petrol car can also be more cost-efficient than a hybrid, if you look at fuel costs for minimal driving against the higher purchase price.
Then there’s insurance. And annual maintenance, which needs to consider the ‘capped-pricing servicing’ numbers for most major brands. These can vary enormously, and some brands also require six-monthly trips to the dealership when the industry standard is twelve.
It shouldn’t take a spreadsheet to crunch the numbers, but a list – once again – can make things simpler and provide quick-and-easy comparison figures.
Going forward
Visiting a dealership can be intimidating and tough. So never go alone, never be bullied, and always resist any pressure. Take your time, work through your checklist, and then move to some back-to-back test driving.
Some salespeople consider older buyers an easy target, so dodge and weave. Don’t just take the first car and the opening price – now COVID is done, new car demand is falling and buyers have more power than for the past three years.
Don’t be suckered, either, into unwanted extras – even if it’s just extra-cost floor mats. Many dealerships make their big profits from finance packages, ‘protection’ for paint and trim, and extended warranties – often locking you into servicing only at the dealership.
Read everything and ask lots of questions. Always push for a proper answer.
While you’re in the dealership, also ask to meet the service manager. Once you have the car, they are the first point of contact and you need to feel happy that you will be heard and helped once you drive away with your well-deserved retirement car.
The Bugatti Chiron ‘La Mer Argentee’ is the world’s most expensive mirror on wheels and certainly the fastest. It will be on sale at the RM Sotheby’s Paris auction on January 31, 2024.
This chrome Bugatti was one of the first three Chirons delivered. It has the familiar dual-tone split, however, instead of a contrasting color, the owner opted for a polished finish. The result is this unique spec dubbed ‘Silver Sea’ with an Argent Metallic front and Nocturne rear. It also has an Argent Metallic horseshoe grille with the ‘EB’ logo.
The wheels on the Chiron ‘La Mer Argentee’ are polished to match the exterior, while the brake calipers are painted red. On the interior, it has Beluga Black leather with Italian Red quilting.
This car left the factory as a standard Chiron. However, it was upgraded in 2019 with the Performance Package that included a tweaked suspension setup from the Chiron Sport, polished aluminium wheels, and a carbon fibre windshield wiper.
The Chiron ‘La Mer Argentee’ has just 2956 miles on its clock, and is estimated to fetch between $3 million and $3.85 million.
Owning and maintaining a car can be expensive. They are not cheap assets to own, even if they are old or second-hand. The upkeep of a car might be what is costing you a fortune.
But don’t worry, there are savvy ways to save money on your car expenses. Use this guide to start reducing your outgoings when it comes to buying and maintaining a car.
Many people think that to attain the best parts for their vehicles, they need to shop directly with the manufacturers. This is not the case as there are many stockists who sell the exact product you are looking for.
For instance, installing new kumho tyres to your car does not require heading to the manufacturer themselves. You can attain the tyres from a local stockist and pay a fraction of the price. It is more accessible than you think to install the best features in your car. Shopping around will get you the best deals and the best features for your car.
Negotiate with the dealer
Not negotiating prices is a common mistake when shopping for a new car or asking for a price for repairs. Most automotive companies are allowed to reduce prices as they own the vehicle and parts. Their job is to sell them for a profit. Hence, they will likely always offer a high price at first. After that, they can afford to reduce the prices, which can be enjoyed by yourself if you negotiate.
All it involves is asking for a better price or offering a lower price to see what they say. Most dealers will offer a better price as soon as you tell them you are not interested as they will not want to lose business.
Consider buying second-hand
Although you might prefer brand-new cars and parts, it can be a lot more affordable if you purchase second-hand.
You can purchase great quality used cars. Some might not have done many miles and others might be in perfect condition. Hence, why spend more money when you can attain a car that is almost brand new?
Furthermore, it is possible and safe to purchase second-hand parts if you need to perform updates. You can purchase used tyres, brakes, and more to repair your car and resolve its problem.
Get the best insurance
If you lack good car insurance, you might end up paying a lot more than you can afford if you have an incident or something else happens to your vehicle.
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I’ve compiled a list of the 15 best day trips from Cambridge, England. I grew up just a few miles away from the famous University city. So, in addition to enjoying all the wonders that Cambridge has to offer, I also benefitted from being in a great location for exploring slightly further afield.
Situated toward the south-east of England, Cambridge is connected with many major cities and towns via regular and reliable rail and bus networks. If you have a car, even better! Good motorways and road systems allow for easy access to some excellent Cambridge day trips.
Although the city itself has so much to offer, Cambridge is an ideal base for getting out and about. Whether you’re interested in quaint English towns, or vibrant cities, they’ll all be on your doorstep in Cambridge.
Best Day Trips From Cambridge
I’ve considered several factors whilst putting this list together. Questions such as: How easy is it to get to? How long will the journey take? And, Is it really worth leaving lovely Cambridge for? If you have yourself a few spare days in Cambridge, read on for some excellent day trip ideas.
1. London – Overview
How could I not start with the nation’s capital city? London is an easy train, bus, or car journey from Cambridge and is one of the best day trips from Cambridge. There’s so much to do in London that I’m actually just going to give an overview here. Further down I’ll be suggesting a few of my favorite areas to visit on different day trips from Cambridge.
Located 60 miles to the south of Cambridge, even with traffic, you can be in London within 90 minutes. In my experience, the train is the best option. Direct services operate up to 10 times an hour and will get you to King’s Cross Station promptly.
From here, London’s extensive and easy-to-use tube network will take you to all corners of the city efficiently and cheaply. Tap your credit card at the turnstiles on entry and exit and you’ll only pay for the journeys you make. It’s the best way to get around the city.
Distance from Cambridge: 60 miles (96 km) and around 90 minutes south of Cambridge. Location: Kings Cross Station, Euston Road, London N1 9AL, UK Getting There: Equally easy to reach by car, bus, or train from Cambridge. I personally prefer the train – it’s quicker, saves any hassle with parking, and regular and reliable services run throughout the day. Must-Do Activities:The London Eye, the Tower of London, and St Paul’s Cathedral are just a number of amazing sights. A full-day tour is a great way to experience them all during a day trip from Cambridge. Click here to find out about a great London tour. Where to Eat: You’ll be spoilt for choice in London for great restaurants, but I particularly love going to the German Gymnasium. It’s just a few minutes walk from King’s Cross and is a great place for German fayre like schnitzels and sausages.
2. London – Covent Garden
I’ve always loved an afternoon in Covent Garden and it’s one of the best places to visit from Cambridge. The large piazza-style district is home to some outstanding theaters, cafes, restaurants, shops, and bars. Grab a drink and enjoy the talented street artists. Expect to see everything from musicians to magicians showcasing their skills throughout the day.
After a stroll around, and perhaps coffee or a cocktail, take a short walk to see the famous Savoy Hotel. Stop in for a drink here too if you’re so inclined. Be prepared to spend a few quid though, from personal experience, I can tell you it isn’t cheap!
Continue to the banks of the River Thames, keeping the river on your left and passing Cleopatra’s Needle. You’ll soon reach the iconic figure of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Further on awaits Westminster Abbey, all within a 30-minute walk of Covent Garden.
Distance from Cambridge: By car, it’s 60 miles (96 km) south of Cambridge and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s around 1 hour by train and tube. Location: The Piazza, Covent Garden, London WC2E, UK Getting There: Easily accessible by car, train, or bus. By train is the quickest and most efficient way from Cambridge. Simply change at Kings Cross for the tube and the journey will take around an hour in total. Must-Do Activities:Enjoy a drink or lunch in the bustling atmosphere of Covent Garden. Be sure to make your way to Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament. Check out this great guided tour – an excellent way to see these amazing London attractions. Where to Eat: A previous birthday dinner of mine was at San Carlo Ciccheti. They serve some outstanding small traditional Italian plates in a beautiful sophisticated and relaxing environment.
3. Ely
Moving away from London, let’s take a trip to one of my favorite places to visit near Cambridge – Ely. This smaller cathedral city is just 17 miles away from Cambridge and is the location of some famous British history. It also has a great pub scene, which is a bonus in my eyes.
History is all well and good, but my friends, I love Ely for its pubs. Within walking distance of the train station, there are around 15 excellent drinking establishments. The Prince Albert and the Minster Tavern are a couple of my favorites and both are well worth a visit.
Distance from Cambridge: Ely is located 17 miles (27 km) NNE of Cambridge. It should take around 30 – 40 minutes by bus or car, or 15-20 minutes by train. Location:Ely Train Station, Station Rd, Ely CB7 4BS, United Kingdom Getting There: Ely is very easy to get to by car or bus. By train is the quickest option as it the journey only takes around 15 minutes. Regular services run throughout the day. Must-Do Activities: Take a trip to Ely Cathedral, a wonderful and historic sight, visit the former home of the Lord Protector Oliver Cromwell, and be sure to partake in a pub or two along the way. Where to Eat: The Cutter Inn has great views of the River Ouse. It serves an extensive menu of traditional British pub food as well as a choice of international dishes.
4. Peterborough
I was born and spent most of my life in Peterborough. Despite traveling the world for years, Peterborough will always be home. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Cambridge via a straight drive north up the M11. 3 to 4 trains an hour also connect it with Cambridge so I highly recommend you plan a visit.
It’s the proud home of the mighty Peterborough United Football Club (an EFL League 1 soccer team, they’re not so great but I love them). The team is nicknamed The Posh and at their games, you’ll experience football in its truest form. Passionate fans (like me) scream their lungs out every week hoping one day Posh might just make it big.
As well as a beautiful 12th-centurycathedral that dominates the city skyline, Peterborough features one of my favorite pubs in the world. Charters is a converted barge that sits on the River Nene. It’s a unique and delightful place to go drinking. The huge beer garden sits along the banks of the river and is one of the best places to be on a sunny day.
Distance from Cambridge: Peterborough is around 43 miles (70 km) north of Cambridge. It usually takes around 50 minutes by car, train, or bus. Location: Peterborough City Center, Peterborough, Cambs PE1, UK Getting There: Equally easy via car, train, or bus. All options should take less than an hour. Must-Do Activities: If you can get to a Posh game, I guarantee the team and 6,000 fans would love to have you. Visit Charters for a few real ales and some of the best Pan-Asian food you’ll find in the UK. Where to Eat: East is a Pan-Asian restaurant that sits directly above Charters on a barge on the River Nene. The food here is outstanding – it’s one of my favorite places to eat and it offers wonderful river views.
5. London – Camden Town
Perhaps my favorite area of London, and another of the easy day trips from Cambridge by train, is Camden Town. The Camden Town tube station is just 2 stops and around 4 or 5 minutes from King’s Cross.
Camden Town is like nowhere else I have ever really visited. The vibrant district is known for its extensive market, where you’ll find a variety of wares and an array of diverse food options. It’s a great place to shop and eat. The whole district has an alternate vibe based on music, fashion, and liberation.
Amy Winehouse’sfavorite pub, The Hawley Arms sits in the heart of Camden. In fact, a statue of her is situated in the market area. I personally love The World’s End – a huge pub just steps away from the tube and one of the coolest places in London to go drinking. Some mega bands have played in the venue downstairs (The Underworld), I’ve enjoyed many great gigs here.
Distance from Cambridge: Camden is in North London so just under 60 miles (95 km) from Cambridge. It usually takes around 90 minutes via bus and car, or under an hour by train and tube. Location: Camden High St, London NW1 8NH, United Kingdom Getting There: If you’re going for the day, take the train. It’s just easier without parking and the usually heavy traffic, plus it takes less than an hour. Best Tour:Camden Town Brewery makes some great beers that are really popular around the UK. There’s a great beer-tasting tour of their brewery based in the heart of Camden that I highly reccommend. Click here to find out more. Must-Do Activities:Take plenty of time strolling around the huge marketplace. There are so many food options, my advice is to eat little and often to enjoy as much as possible. Have a pint or two in The Hawley Arms and The World’s End, two really cool pubs. Where to Eat: Camden Marketplace has every type of food you can imagine. You’ll find everything from vegan burgers to sushi, and stone-baked pizzas to artisan cheese stalls.
The 23-mile perimeter is an idyllic location for walking and cycling, and it’s the perfect spot for day trips from Cambridge with a dog companion. Parking areas and villages around the water allow you to trek as little or as much as you want. You’ll find a number of great country pubs nearby too like The White Horse at Empingham, which is a great place for lunch.
If you fancy taking a dip, Rutland Water has an aqua park with inflatable slides, obstacle courses, diving boards, and free falls. It’s great fun, more so during warmer weather, however! You can hire bikes at Rutland Water too, and properly explore the beautiful nature of the area.
Distance from Cambridge: 54 miles (87 km) and around an hour north of Cambridge. Location: Rutland Water, Rutland, UK Getting There: This is one of the only day trips from Cambridge that is best reached by car only. In theory, you could take a train to Oakham and then a taxi to Rutland Water. It would take a little longer and some organizing, but is possible. Must-Do Activities:Take a nice walk along the shores of the reservoir, stopping for a coffee or beer at numerous points along the way. Be sure to visit Normanton, where you’ll find a wonderful partially submerged still active 14th-century church and great views of the water. Where to Eat: The White Horse is just a few minutes from the water. It’s a delightful English country pub with a nice beer garden, and a hearty menu of good quality pub food that includes pizzas, burgers, and excellent fish and chips.
7. Norwich
If you’re on the hunt for fun day trips from Cambridge, consider taking a short journey to nearby Norwich. Nestled around an hour away, Norwich has a number of rich historical sights and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s a destination that’s well worth exploring.
One of the biggest draws of visiting Norwich for me is its fascinating history. You can wander through cobbled streets, admire medieval architecture, and explore the iconic cathedral, Norwich even has a centrally located 1,000-year-old castle! The city has a thriving arts and music scene too, making it an ideal place to soak up some culture.
Norwich is also another great location for bars and pubs. The city center is a bustling place and you won’t search long for a good place to eat or drink. Consider stopping in at the Belgian Monk, my favorite pub in Norwich, or The Wallow, a self-service wine bar and a great spot for whiling away a few hours.
Distance from Cambridge: Norwich is around 65 miles (105 km) NE of Cambridge and should take around 90 minutes whichever way you travel there. Location: Norwich City Center, Norwich, Norfolk, UK Getting There: Equally easy by car, bus, or train. All should take around 90 minutes. Best Tour: Take a leisurely guided tour and learn about Norwich’s history and some of its most famous residents. Pub stops and drinks included, click here to find out more. Must-Do Activities: Be sure to visit Norwich Cathedral and explore the castle. The Lanes are a cute shopping arcade and the outdoor market is a great place for shopping and eating. Where to Eat: The Tipsy Vegan is an excellent place to fuel up, whether you’re a vegan or not. They serve non-meat takes on hearty pub cuisine in a cozy pub-like setting.
8. Stamford
We’re heading back towards my neck of the woods now, to the town of Stamford. About 15 minutes further north of Peterborough, Stamford is an idyllic option for a morning of exploring, afternoon shopping, and evening fun. It’s also one of the most romantic day trips from Cambridge and is a great place for a date night.
Many boutique shops, wine bars, traditional pubs, independent restaurants, and cafes are to be found through the many cute streets, cut-throughs, and alcoves. You’ll pass the magnificent Burghley House, home of the world-famous Burghley Horse Trials, on your way into town. It’s a truly awesome spectacle, the 16th-century house and gardens are a must-visit.
Distance from Cambridge: Stamford is around 50 miles (80 km) North of Cambridge and should take under an hour. Location: Stamford, Lincolnshire, UK Getting There: Equally easy by car or direct train and should take around an hour either way from Cambridge. Bus routes are available, but require a change in Peterborough. Best Tour: Enjoy a fully guided tour of Stamford and explore the town’s vibrant history, delving into stories of heart-wrenching love affairs, political intrigue, and numerous hidden anecdotes not typically found in travel guides. Click here to find out more. Must-Do Activities:A trip to Burghley House is a must, and drinks or lunch/dinner at The George Hotelwill make your visit to Stamford one to remember. Where to Eat: The Garden Room at the George Hotel is a wonderful restaurant. The high-end establishment is slightly more casual (and a little cheaper) than the main restaurant at The George whilst maintaining that high level of quality in both food and service.
9. Hunstanton
If you’re craving a beach day I’d recommend you head to Hunstanton. It’s a great English seaside town and one of my favorite places to visit outside Cambridge. I spent many weekends here as a child and it holds lots of treasured memories for me.
In Hunstanton, you’ll find a number of very English seaside attractions such as a fun fair, amusement arcades, fish and chips shops, and donkey rides. The town is also known for its distinctive striped cliffs and is often referred to as “Sunny Hunny” due to it being a popular sunny day spot; it allegedly gets more sun than many other parts of the UK.
The Wash Monster, (no, I’m afraid it’s not a mythical legend like the Loch Ness Monster), is a unique amphibious vessel that offers passengers an engaging and enjoyable means of exploring the native seal population, coastal regions with some amazing views, and the opportunity to delve into local history and legends surrounding The Wash.
Distance from Cambridge: 60 miles NNE of Cambridge, it takes on average just under 2 hours. Location: Hunstanton, Norfolk, UK Getting There: Equally time efficient via car or train. The type of roads make it a slow-going drive from Cambridge and the train requires a change in Kings Lynn. Both should have you on the beach in around 2 hours. Must-Do Activities:Take a ride on The Wash Monster, partake in some people-watching, and simply enjoy a nice relaxing day at the beach. Where to Eat: Elliots Fish and Chips makes the best fish and chips in Hunstanton. There are numerous places to go for the traditional English seaside dish, but this is one of my all-time favorites.
10. Newmarket
Just a stone’s throw away from Cambridge is the town of Newmarket, a place steeped in history and synonymous with the thundering hooves of racehorses. Known as the “Home of Horseracing,” Newmarket is a must-visit destination for race fans, and anyone seeking unique day trips around Cambridge.
Newmarket is all about the races, so if you’re a fan of horse racing, you’re in for a treat. The town is home to two world-renowned racecourses, the Rowley Mile Course and the July Course, where prestigious events like the 1,000 Guineas and 2,000 Guineas Stakes take place every year. I’ve been to a couple of the lesser-known race days here and they were great fun.
The town’s historic streets are great for just wandering through. Be sure to take a visit to St. Mary’s Church, and admire the many architectural gems such as the 17th-century National Horseracing Museum along the way. Whether you’re an avid racing enthusiast or simply after a taste of British heritage, Newmarket offers a unique and memorable day trip from Cambridge.
Distance from Cambridge: Newmarket is around 15 miles east of Cambridge and should take between 20-30 minutes. Location: Newmarket, Suffolk, UK Getting There: It’s very easy to get to Newmarket via car, bus, or train. It’s actually one of the easier day trips from Cambridge by bus and regular and reliable public transport will get you there in 20-30 minutes. Best Tour: Gain exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into this iconic racing hub. Visit the Newmarket Gallops to witness daily horse training, embark on a stable tour, and make a stop at The National Stud to meet resident stallions and retired champions. Click here to book this unique tour now. Must-Do Activities:Take a trip to the National Horse Racing Museum. Even if you’re not a big fan of the races, it’s really quite interesting and the building itself once belonged to King Charles II. It’s a glorious spectacle of English architecture, heritage, and history. Where to Eat: The Pantry Fine Foods is an easygoing restaurant meets deli serving a modern British menu based on local produce and some excellent home-baked cakes.
11. Bath and Stonehenge
You’re sure to clock up a few miles with this one but for non-UK-based visitors, this is a really unique day trip from Cambridge. The city of Bath and the mythical Stonehenge are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are two jewels in British tourism’s crown. Although a fair distance away, visiting them both in one day is absolutely possible from Cambridge.
Bath is a wonderful city, home to the famous Roman Baths upon which it was built. The 17th-centuryBath Abbey, located in the heart of town, is also an iconic and stunning structure not to be missed. There’s so much to do, it’s worth spending a little longer than a day here; get some ideas for a day trip with my previous blog – A Weekend Break in Bath (The Perfect 2 Day Itinerary).
Stonehenge is a world-famous prehistoric monument situated around 30 miles from Bath. The origins of the site date back thousands of years and its purpose is still much of a mystery, though it seems to have links with the sun and the summer solstice. It’s an amazing place to visit and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Distance from Cambridge: 181 miles (291 km) and around 3.5 hours in the car. Location: – Bath, Somerset, UK – Stonehenge – Salisbury SP4 7DE, United Kingdom Getting There: By car is the most direct option from Cambridge, it takes an average of 3.5 hours. Trains are certainly possible but require changing stations in London via the Tube. It’s also possible to book a guided tour of Bath and Stonehenge from Cambridge (see below). Best Tour from Cambridge: One of the best day tours from Cambridge will take you to both sites and back again in one day. It’s a great way to see two unforgettable British attractions from your base in Cambridge. Click here to learn more. Must-Do Activities: Simply visiting Stonehenge and Bath are the must-do activities here. Though be sure to check out my previous blogs about Bath for the best cafes and pubs, and the perfect weekend itinerary. Where to Eat: Visit the Saracens Head in Bath, one of the oldest pubs in the city. It’s full of traditional English pub charm and serves a great menu of hearty English classics.
12. Grantchester Circular Hike
After traveling a fair distance with the previous day trip, let’s keep it closer to home with a visit to the quaint neighboring village of Grantchester. Just a couple of miles out of town, one of my favorite hikes starts from here and takes in some lovely English countryside, a reservoir, and a few nice pub stops too.
The Granchester Circular Hike takes around 2 hours to complete and I’d consider it moderate in difficulty. It’s predominantly flat, but you’ll cover around 5 miles (8.2 km), which is a decent distance. The trail crosses in and out of the center of the village of Grantchester, through farmland, a nature reserve, and the beautiful Grantchester Meadows which runs alongside the River Cam.
It’s easy to get to via car or public transport, and ample free parking in the village is readily available. It’s a lovely hike for all weather, though parts may get a little muddy after heavy rain so pack some suitable shoes.
Distance from Cambridge: Grantchester is just 3 miles outside of central Cambridge and takes 10-15 minutes however you choose to travel there. Location: Burnt Close, Grantchester, Cambridge, UK Getting There: Equally easy by car or bus and should take around 10-15 minutes. Must-Do Activities:It’s a very pretty and scenic route so have a camera to hand and pack a picnic for a pleasant lunch stop along the way. The Java Coffee Club is not far from the trailhead and is a great place for pre-hike coffee. Where to Eat: The Rupert Brooke is a lovely traditional pub very close to the start (and finish) of the hike. A nice spot for a rewarding lunch after a 5-mile trek.
13. Oxford
A day trip from Cambridge to Oxford is not just a journey between two iconic university towns, but a chance to experience a historic academic rivalry. The age-old competition between these two esteemed universities dates back centuries and certainly adds a layer of excitement to a visit.
Oxford and Cambridge are renowned for the annual Boat Race on the River Thames, a historic rowing competition since 1829. Students from both universities fiercely compete, vying for a year’s worth of bragging rights. This global spectacle defines the enduring rivalry between the two cities and their prestigious universities.
The attraction of Oxford extends far beyond the competitive colleges. Oxford has stunning architecture, such as the Bodleian Library, the Christ Church College, and the picturesque Botanic Garden. Wandering through the cobbled streets and exploring the historic colleges you can ask yourself the age-old question – which is prettier Oxford or Cambridge? Tough one.
Distance from Cambridge: Oxford is around 85 miles (136 km) from Cambridge and takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes via car or train. Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK Getting There: Via car is the most direct route, even with traffic the journey should be around 2 hours. Trains are possible and will take around 2.5 – 3 hours. But the train route requires a trip to London, a quick Tube ride, and then another train to Oxford. Best Tour: There are some great walking tours of Oxford available that tick off all the main sights and attractions in one day. I really liked this one led by former Oxford University alumni. Click here to find out more. Must-Do Activities:Harry Potter fans shouldn’t miss a trip to the Bodleian Library, it stood in as the Hogwarts Library in numerous scenes throughout the films. Where to Eat: Stop by Najar’s Place, a permanent kiosk located in central Oxford that serves some fantastic fresh Lebanese food and makes my favorite falafel wrap in the UK.
14. Saffron Walden
One of my first pet-sitting placements was in Saffron Walden. It’s a delightful little town not far from Cambridge and I saw it as the perfect opportunity to rack up a local 5-star review for my burgeoning profile. It worked a treat and I got to spend a few very enjoyable days there looking after a pack of 4 small dogs.
The town, with its medieval roots, is home to lots of impressive architecture, including the stunning St. Mary’s Church and the picturesque Bridge End Gardens. As a historic market town, the market square is a hub of activity. A twice-weekly market (Tuesdays & Saturdays) has lots of stalls offering fresh produce, crafts, and unique finds.
As well as the lovely town and the hub of bars, restaurants, and cafes around the center, there are lots of green, countryside spaces to enjoy nearby too. I’ve spent a few serene sunny afternoons at Bridge End Gardens, it’s a really tranquil spot. The renowned 17th-centuryAudley End House is another amazing location and is absolutely worth a visit.
Distance from Cambridge: Saffron Walden is just 16 miles south on the M11 from Cambridge. An easy journey that should take no longer than 30 minutes. Location: Saffron Walden, Essex, UK Getting There: By car is the quickest and most direct method. Buses and trains or a mix of the two should get you there in well under an hour. Must-Do Activities:Take a trip to Audley End House – a grand country house and estate that’s been used as a filming location for numerous TV shows and movies, including the hit Netflix show The Crown. Where to Eat: Cafe Coucou is a great place for lunch. Especially if you like hearty soups, excellent salads, thick sandwiches, delicious pastry-savory tarts, and filled baked potatoes.
15. The World via Stansted Airport
An absolute bonus of living near wonderful Cambridge is the proximity to an international airport. Stansted Airport is under 30 miles away and is a gateway to the world. I’ve been there more times than I can count, and as a Ryanairhub, cheap flights are always available.
So, let’s finish with a wild card. I put to you a day trip to locations such as Dublin, Barcelona, Milan, Edinburgh, Rome, and Stockholm as all are well within the realms of possibility. At the time of writing, flights to all the places I have just referenced were available for under $50 return. But it’s not unusual to see basic rate flights for under $10!
Expect no frills on a Ryanair flight; you’ll pay for everything additional, including baggage beyond a small rucksack. Food and drink, as well as designated seating, come at additional costs, but they’ll get you there quickly and efficiently for a base rate. So, if you’re planning a few unique day trips near Cambridge, throw Stansted into the mix and the world is your oyster.
Distance from Cambridge: Stansted is 30 miles south of Cambridge and should take no longer than 45 minutes. Location: Stansted Airport, Stansted CM24 1RW, UK Getting There: Equally easy and quick via car, bus, or train. Cambridge is well connected with the airport and all methods should take under an hour. Must-Do Activities: Keep an eye out for some mega cheap late deals and book a surprise break to an incredible destination. Take it from a seasoned traveler, a trip within a trip is a fantastic and memorable experience.
Best Day Trip Tours from Cambridge
Although there are many great tours in Cambridge itself, day trip tours away from the city are few and far between. There is one available and it’s a great option that encapsulates two fantastic destinations in one day trip from Cambridge.
1. Guided Tour to Bath & Stonehenge From Cambridge:This guided tour from Cambridge explores two iconic destinations in one day – Bath and Stonehenge. The extensive organization involved would be a hassle with public transport so travel comfortably in a group vehicle. Walking tours are provided at each site, and delve into the mysteries of Stonehenge as well as Bath’s Roman history.
You’ll save time with this round-trip transport and skip-the-line tickets at Stonehenge (admission included). Plus, there are great insights into local history from your excellent guide. Experience the best of both attractions hassle-free. Click here to learn more and book your day trip from Cambridge.
Day Trips Around Cambridge: FAQs
Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions about the best day trips from Cambridge, England:
What is the most popular day trip from Cambridge?
There are many popular day trips from Cambridge. London is a great option for many people with so much to do in the capital and easy transport links between the two cities. Those looking for something more quaint would perhaps consider the lovely city of Ely or the historic market town of Saffron Walden as a day trip of choice.
How many days do you need in Cambridge?
Cambridge has many things for visitors to enjoy. I’d recommend you take at least a weekend to see everything there is to see. A week or more will also allow visitors to enjoy many of the day trips from Cambridge that are available.
What are the best day trips from Cambridge with a car?
The best day trips from Cambridge by car are Rutland Water, Oxford, and the seaside town of Hunstanton. I’ve selected these as although public transport is available, having a car would make them much more easily accessible. Having a car in certain places like London can be a real hassle with parking, emission zones, traffic, and congestion charges.
What are the best day trips from Cambridge by train?
The best day trips from Cambridge by train are to Stamford, Ely, and London. Cambridge is serviced by a decent-sized train station with regular and reliable services that will take you to all corners of the country. The train is a great way to get to London quickly and efficiently, whilst Ely and Stamford are 2 beautiful must-visit places near Cambridge.
What is the most beautiful place near Cambridge?
The most beautiful place near Cambridge is Ely, in my opinion. The small Cathedral city has an abundance of lovely architecture, a magnificent cathedral, a lovely river running through it, and a thriving pub scene. It’s a wonderful place for a day trip from Cambridge.
Can you take a day trip from Cambridge to Stonehenge?
Yes, you absolutely can take a day trip from Cambridge to Stonehenge. Although it’s a far distance (around 180 miles/ 290 km) getting there and back is completely feasible within a day. There’s a great tour from Cambridge, that in addition to Stonehenge, also includes a trip to the wonderful Roman city of Bath. Click here to learn more.
Which popular place is very close to Cambridge?
Granchester and more specifically Grantchester Meadows is a popular place very close to Cambridge. In fact, it’s only around 3 miles from the city center of Cambridge. It’s an idyllic spot for hiking, relaxing, taking picnics, and dog-walkers.
Is Cambridge good for a weekend?
Cambridge is a great spot for a weekend break. There’s so much to fill a weekend itinerary with from punting on the River Cam, to exploring the stunning and world-famous university buildings. The thriving restaurant, bar, and cafe scene will give visitors no end of options across a weekend visit.
Is Cambridge a safe place to visit?
Yes, Cambridge is generally considered a safe place to visit and ranks as one of the safest cities in the UK, with relatively low crime levels. However, during summer, increased tourism brings a slight uptick in incidents. Anti-social behavior is the most common crime. As always, visitors should practice common sense when out and about in a big city.
What is the best way to tour Cambridge?
The best way to tour Cambridge is on foot. The wonderful university city is full of beautiful buildings, churches, famous monuments, and points of interest at almost every turn. It’s a very walkable location but reliable and efficient public transport is readily available should you need it.
In Conclusion
Cambridge is a wonderful city to visit and benefits greatly from its proximity to many other fantastic towns, cities, and iconic spots. Geographically, Cambridge is perfect for exploring further afield, and the efficient buses and trains, as well as the closeness to one of the main motorways into London, make it an ideal jumping-off destination.
I feel lucky to have lived in Cambridgeshire for most of my life before embarking on a nomadic life of global travel and exploration. I certainly never took for granted having such great day trip opportunities on my doorstep and it’s been a pleasure to revisit them here.
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This is our look back at the Week In Reverse—right here at Green Car Reports—for the week ending January 12, 2024.
At CES in Las Vegas, the Honda Saloon and Space-Hub concepts provided a head-turning first look at the automaker’s 0 Series (Zero Series) EVs set to launch starting in 2026. These models aim to go “thin, light, and wise,” with high efficiency and low battery degradation, and they include by-wire steering.
Kia PV5 Concept
Also at CES, Hyundai outlined its work to establish a “hydrogen value chain,” with a hydrogen vision that extends well beyond cars, trucks, and buses—to trains, ships, generators, steelmaking, robotics, air mobility, and more. To make enough hydrogen, it plans megawatt-scale electrolyzers plus Waste-to-Hydrogen and Plastic-to-Hydrogen innovations. And Kia revealed a new global family of PBV concept electric vans that will provide a modular basis for last-mile delivery, cargo operations, and even robotaxis. Interchangeable modules, an integrated cargo-rail system, and a compact, maneuverability-focused PV1 model are all in the works.
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Sony led its CES presentation by touting all the ways its bringing movies, TV, and gaming to market. It followed by using a PS5 controller to remotely drive in an updated version of the 2026 Afeela electric sedan being co-developed with Honda—an EV that will have a “digital platform for co-creation,” a “conversational personal agent” using AI from Microsoft, and driver-assist systems informed by AI.
Vietnam’s Vinfast revealed an electric pickup concept, a $20,000 mini electric SUV, and a retro-styled e-bike, all at this week’s CES. The three future EVs from Vinfast set a more interesting potential product path for the brand, beyond its VF 8 and VF 9 electric crossovers and toward franchised dealer sales in the U.S.
Vinfast VF Wild concept – CES 2024
Bosch used CES as the backdrop for announcing that it’s working with Volkswagen Group subsidiary Cariad to develop tech that combines automated parking technology with automated charging tech. Could the future include parking garages that return EVs fully charged?
The rental-car giant Hertz has announced that it’s selling a third of its EV fleet—about 20,000 EVs, including some Teslas—to buy gasoline cars. The company points to expensive collision claims and charging issues, and has suggested that Tesla’s price volatility didn’t help.
REE P7-C electric truck
The first vehicle with by-wire steering, braking, and acceleration has passed U.S. safety and EPA certification, the EV startup REE Automotive reported this week. While vehicles offering two of those three types of by-wire tech have been increasingly common, all three help pave the way for radical changes in EV packaging and autonomous vehicle tech.
How much money will EV ownership save versus ownership of a gasoline vehicle? As University of Michigan researchers recently highlighted, it depends on where you live. Looking at 14 different U.S. cities, finding a path for cost parity and savings depends on the region—and in some regions charging at home itself will save EV drivers an extra $10,000 over the life of the vehicle.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 270 miles was the median rated range for new 2023-model-year EVs—meaning just as many EV nameplates had less than 270 miles as had more. As the market norm approaches 300 miles, is that enough?
2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6
Contrary to what’s been alluded to by recent news coverage, electric vehicle sales grew significantly in 2023, and analysts have predicted in the past week that EV growth will continue in 2024. Although the upcoming Presidential election will be a wildcard for U.S. EV policy.
The U.S. EPA on Monday touted another $1 billion of federal spending on electric and low-emission school buses. As we noted, there’s an online dashboard allowing you to see where exactly they’re ending up.
Tesla Model 3 (Europe-market refresh)
The U.S.-spec version of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland—the updated Model 3 with a much-improved, quieter cabin and aero-optimized styling—made a surprise entrance on Tesla’s website earlier this week. Deliveries start as soon as later this month.
And just in time for last weekend, Tesla lowered range estimates for some of its electric cars. Some of the most noteworthy examples included the Model Y Long Range, which dropped from 330 miles to 310 miles, and the Model Y performance, down from 303 miles to 285. The Model X Plaid and Model S Plaid were also affected.
A pair of historically significant Corvettes are among the featured lots at a Mecum auction happening now in Kissimmee, Florida.
Offered as a single lot, the pair are the first and last production L88 Corvettes. The L88 option equipped Corvettes with a 7.0-liter (or 427 cubic inches in period parlance) V-8 that was officially rated at 430 hp, but likely made much more than that. The L88 was the brainchild of Corvette chief engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov, who wanted a more competitive ‘Vette for racing. To that end, L88 cars had performance hardware like aluminum heads, but lacked creature comforts like radios and air conditioning.
A small number of L88s still made it into the hands of the general public as road cars, though. Today, their rarity and the muscular engines make them among the most collectible Corvettes. One particularly good example sold for nearly $2.7 million at auction in 2021.
The two cars currently up for auction include the first L88, a 1967 convertible that was one of just 20 L88s produced that year. It’s also believed to be the only L88 convertible painted Tuxedo Black. It was also raced when new by Tony DeLorenzo and Jerry Thompson, finishing second at the 1967 SCCA Runoffs at Daytona Beach.
First and last Chevrolet Corvette L88 (photo via Mecum Auctions)
L88 production spanned the C2 and C3 generations of the Corvette, so the final production L88 is a Fathom Green C3 coupe from 1969. It was manufactured on Dec. 4 of that year, believed to be the last day of production for the L88.
Both cars have been treated to meticulous restorations, according to the auction listing.
This isn’t the only historic muscle car duo at Mecum’s Florida auction. The company is also offering 1970 Dodge Challenger and Plymouth Barracuda “pilot cars,” believed to be among the earliest Chrysler E-Body convertibles built, once again as a set.
This is the 2024 Audi e-tron Q8 edition Dakar, and you’re probably thinking what I was when I first laid eyes on it: “cool sticker pack, wheels and roof rack… all show and no go”. But there’s a reason I’ve traveled 20 hours to get to the middle of the Omani desert, and that’s because this Audi can cash the cheques the visual impressions suggest.
I was expecting a dirt track, a water splash to take pretty splash photos in and then an hour or two of lunch before heading to the hotel for a swim. I was partly right, I left the confines of the swanky coffee stop based in a hotel lobby, off the drive way an onto a dusty track. I got my brain into gear and started to consider the changes and what I should be looking out for, here are the enhancements that set the edition Dakar from the can upon which it is based.
Audi e-tron edition Dakar
The Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar, modelled on the Q8 advanced 55 e-tron quattro, features a net battery capacity of 106 kWh (gross: 114 kWh) and a quattro drivetrain. This system, equipped with two motors, delivers just over 400 horsepower in boost mode alongside a torque of 664 Nm. As a result, the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. According to the WLTP, its range is 450 kilometres, and its top speed is capped at 200 km/h.
Distinguished from the standard model, this electric SUV is fitted with General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres and boasts a ground clearance enhanced by 65 millimetres, making it more adept at navigating loose terrains like gravel or snow. Initially, the vehicle’s ground clearance stands at 220 millimetres. However, at increased speeds, the vehicle lowers itself incrementally – by 15 millimetres at 85 km/h, 17 millimetres at 100 km/h, and 13 millimetres at 120 km/h. This adjustment enhances driving stability at higher velocities by improving aerodynamics and range efficiency. With a front approach angle of 21 degrees and a rear approach angle of 28 degrees, the electric SUV is suitably equipped for mild off-road challenges. It also features a ramp angle of 19 degrees. The air suspension’s control strategy has been updated to cater to the demands of off-road driving. Furthermore, the SUV is capable of wading through water up to 300 mm deep.
Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar
Enough of the technical details, why was I so surprised? Well, the photos will give you an idea of just how capable a car this is, and it was all in achieved in relative comfort. The ride is exceptional, a combination of the revised suspension and the all terrain tyres. It’s no off-road hero to replace a Land Cruiser or even a Land Rover with, but the comprehensive and challenging test run in southern Oman proved that this is car you can take on some very testing terrain in.
When driven at speed on loose gravel with the ESC & TC off, its propensity to slide provided real entertainment. In steeper terrains, the car remains poised, and the immediate availability of 490lb ft of electric torque is effective in swiftly overcoming steep inclines or navigating small boulders. This torque is more than sufficient to offset the significant heft of this 2.5-tonne vehicle, powered by a large-capacity battery. But with no under-body protection, I was conscious of puncturing a battery or two, although in reality, this was unlikely to happen.
Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar
With all Dakars being delivered with a second set of 20-inch wheels with summer tyres, and with a healthy price premium over the standard Q8 e-tron (the Dakar comes in at €120,000), I suspect it is unlikely that you’ll see a customer dune bashing or river wading in their edition Dakar. The Siam Beige metallic, Mythos Black metallic (just 99 in this colour will be available with this Audi Dakar Rally style wrap for €10,000), or Magnetic Grey cars are more likely to be seen stunting as a one-car family solution, albeit a very cool one.
Having not driven it on the tarmac, it is hard to conclude just how good the edition Dakar is, but I can comment on just how impressive it is off-road. It exceeded expectations and was genuinely entertaining. I’m not sure exactly who this car is for, but it is a way to stand out from the crowd and own an EV with a difference, even if that means you’re see reaching for you kids kit bags from atop the standard with a roof rack.
In this guest post, Craig Makepeace (co-founder and publisher of ThisIsRaleigh.com) shares how to spend 24 hours in Raleigh, North Carolina.
I have called Raleigh, North Carolina, home for over 10 years. As one of the South’s most vibrant and eclectic burgs, this state capital might be one of the fastest-growing midsize cities in the US. It regularly tops the “best places to live and work in the US,” but it still offers small-town charm and Southern hospitality. My wife and I decided to raise our kids here because of this mix.
Nicknamed “the City of Oaks” for the sheer number of majestic oak trees that line the streets, besides offering ample green spaces and trails, Raleigh is home to excellent museums, a thriving restaurant scene, endless craft breweries, fun festivals and events, and college-town vibes!
Many visitors stop in Raleigh as part of a road trip or for work and thus don’t always have a lot of time to fully explore it. However, even if you just have one day, you can still see a lot.
Below is my personal guide to the best things to do in one day.
Breakfast: Big Ed’s City Market
There’s no better Southern breakfast and introduction to Raleigh than at Big Ed’s in historic City Market, serving generous portions of Southern comfort food since 1958.
Here you’ll enjoy a laid-back vibe under a collection of funky antiques hanging from the ceiling, along with warm Southern hospitality and food like Grandma used to make. Especially popular are their giant pancakes, local country ham, fried chicken, aged rib-eye steak and eggs, sliced pork loin, fried catfish, fluffy biscuits, and double-brewed sweet tea. This is the local experience you’re looking for.
Alternate breakfast options include The Mecca, Raleigh’s oldest restaurant, founded by Greek immigrants in 1930; and the State Farmers’ Market Restaurant, another popular place for locals to get a country breakfast and Southern dining experience!
Morning activity: Museums
After filling up on a hearty meal, take in a museum. Raleigh has some excellent ones, and because of the quality and number of free museums it has, the city has often been referred to as “the Smithsonian of the South.”
The fantastic Museum of Natural Sciences is North Carolina’s most visited museum. There are over four floors of exhibits to explore, including live animals, walk-through dioramas, microbes, meteorites, and 3D movies, plus a terrific permanent collection of dinosaur and whale skeletons.
If history is your thing, across the street is the North Carolina Museum of History. Founded in 1902, it welcomes more than 400,000 visitors a year to see its 150,000 artifacts from over 14,000 years of history.
Art lovers should head to the free North Carolina Museum of Art, home to more than a dozen beautiful gallery spaces showcasing art from around the world. You can explore on your own, take an engaging tour, or see some performing arts. Don’t miss taking a stroll through the 164-acre Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, whose trail system through natural areas features more than a dozen commissioned works of art.
Lunch: The Pit Authentic BBQ
North Carolina is a big barbecue state, and enjoying a plate is something they take very seriously in the state capital. It’s one of those “welcome to the South” moments all meat eaters should experience.
In Raleigh, they mainly do Eastern-style barbecue, in which the whole hog is slow-cooked over hot coals; the meat is then pulled, given a little chop, and dressed with a vinegar-based sauce. Typically, it’s served as a sandwich or a plated dish, with all the traditional Southern sides you can handle.
The Pit Authentic BBQ is one of the most popular such spots in Raleigh. As the name suggests, it proudly serves authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked, Eastern-style barbecue. Located in the Warehouse District, it’s well known for baby back ribs and whole-hog chopped barbecue. And for sides, check out the Brunswick stew, heirloom cabbage collards, and fried green tomatoes.
Famous in NC, Sam Jones BBQ in downtown is another excellent option. It smokes whole hogs on-site every day and is popular for its chopped barbecue, fried chicken, ribs, and baked flat cornbread. It also serves one of my favorite sandwiches in Raleigh, the smoked turkey!
If pork barbecue is not your thing but you still want a Southern dining experience, Beasley’s Chicken + Honey is a popular lunch restaurant by famed chef Ashley Christensen that specializes in fried chicken and sandwiches.
Afternoon activity: Umstead State Park
Time to walk off lunch! Just a 15-minute drive from downtown is one of the most popular destinations in Raleigh, and one of North Carolina’s most visited state parks: William B. Umstead State Park, which is easily accessible from Interstate 40 and US-70. Its more than 5,000 acres of forest surround three man-made lakes and contain over 22 miles of trails, ranging from easy to moderate. If you love nature trails, biking, running, picnicking, canoeing, or even horseback riding, put Umstead on your itinerary.
A great introductory trail is the 2.8-mile Sal’s Branch Trail loop, which is mostly shaded and flat, with tall trees and a lake view. If you’re up for a woodland walk, the Sycamore Trail is a 7.2-mile loop and the longest trail. Another popular trail is the six-mile Company Mill Trail loop.
Alternatively, Lake Johnson, just a 10-minute drive from downtown, is my favorite of the lakes in Raleigh. The three-mile paved greenway loop around the western side is popular with NC State students and locals. There’s a 700-foot-long boardwalk across the center of the lake, a boathouse, a small beach area, and picnic shelters.
Pre-dinner drinks: Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing
The best view of the Raleigh skyline can be had from Wye Hill and its outstanding outdoor patio. Take it all in while enjoying refreshing craft beers and unique cocktails. There’s an excellent small-plate menu too!
Whiskey enthusiasts can head to the beautiful open space and hip venue Whiskey Kitchen, featuring a repurposed industrial vibe in which to enjoy any of over 300 whiskies, plus craft cocktails, beer, and wine. Speaking of wine, Vita Vite Art Gallery + Wine Bar doubles as an art gallery and offers a great selection of wine in a classy and relaxed atmosphere.
Dinner: Stanbury
Stanbury is probably the most unique dining experience in Raleigh and one I can’t stop talking about. It has outstanding food, a wonderful ambiance in a quirky, rustic venue, and amazing service! The menu, which changes daily, features modern cuisine (including the best steak I’ve had in Raleigh), plus craft cocktails.
Bida Manda is hands-down the best of the Asian restaurants in Raleigh. Its possibly my favorite Southeast Asian restaurant in North Carolina, if not the US. It is renowned for its authentic Laotian cuisine, including ample vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Looking for Mexican food in Raleigh? Gringo A Go Go is a former gas station and now one of the more popular downtown restaurants, given its colorful outdoor patio area and authentic Mexican food. The menu is a tribute to the family’s Central Mexican heritage, with recipes passed down from the Guadalajara highlands.
After-dinner drinks: Watts & Ward
Watts & Ward is my favorite (underground) bar in Raleigh, a craft cocktail place infused with the spirit of the 1920s. Think leather seating, cozy nooks, rustic tables, dim lighting, and bookshelves full of history. It offers an inventive cocktail menu and low-key jazz events.
But if you have dinner at Stanbury, nearby is my other favorite cocktail bar, William and Company, or Willco to the locals. This cozy neighborhood cocktail bar on the edge of historic Oakwood serves up fresh and unique craft cocktails created by top-notch bartenders.
If you enjoy the concept of a dessert bar — a place where you can get bourbon with your pie or champagne with your cake — then consider Bittersweet, where I love to go for an espresso martini and Irish coffee.
***
If you only have 24 hours in Raleigh, this one-day itinerary is what I suggest for first-time visitors who want to get a real feel for the City of Oaks — its culture, history, food and drink scene, and sense of Southern community. (Of course, I suggest you stay longer, as there are plenty of cool things to do in Raleigh, including awesome festivals and sporting events.)
Craig Makepeace is the co-founder and publisher of ThisIsRaleigh.com, a website dedicated to sharing all the best things to do in Raleigh. Originally from Australia, he first moved to Raleigh in 2004 and fell in love with the city of oaks. He’s a travel addict, sports fanatic, beach lover, and passionate craft beer drinker. You can follow him on Instagram at @ThisIsRaleigh.
Book Your Trip to the USA: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
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