- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Colchester to Cambridge
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€44
Average price
€48
Fastest journey
2 h 55 m
Average duration
3 h 11 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
64 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Colchester to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Cambridge will cost around €48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €44.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Colchester to Cambridge without transferring at least once.
NX717 · NX7276:40 PM2h55Colchester, East Hill / High Street9:35 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)€441One-way1 transfer- NX717 · NX72711:55 AM3h35Colchester, East Hill / High Street3:30 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)€481One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7274:45 PM3h15Colchester, East Hill / High Street8:00 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)€481One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7272:10 PM3h15Colchester, East Hill / High Street5:25 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)€481One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7288:40 AM2h55Colchester, East Hill / High Street11:35 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)€511One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7276:40 PM2h55Colchester, East Hill / High Street9:35 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)€441One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7288:40 AM2h55Colchester, East Hill / High Street11:35 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)€511One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7274:45 PM3h15Colchester, East Hill / High Street8:00 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)€481One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7272:10 PM3h15Colchester, East Hill / High Street5:25 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)€481One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX72711:55 AM3h35Colchester, East Hill / High Street3:30 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)€481One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Colchester to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Colchester to Cambridge run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 51m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €19 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 04:51, the last at 22:00. The fastest bus covers the 39 miles (64 km) distance in 2h 39m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 39 miles (64 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price €19 |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 2h 39m |
First bus 4:51 AM |
Last bus 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 3 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Colchester to Cambridge Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €25 |
Operator Greater Anglia | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 10:22AM | Duration 2h52 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 10:35AM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price €15 |
Operator Greater Anglia | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 11:22AM | Duration 2h52 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price €21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:35PM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:35PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri | Cheapest price €36 |
Live departures
Colchester to Cambridge bus times
The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Cambridge buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:35 PM Colchester | 4h10 | 1:45 AM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| NX717 · NX728 | 8:40 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2h55 | 11:35 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX727 | 11:55 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 3h35 | 3:30 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX727 | 2:10 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 3h15 | 5:25 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX727 | 4:45 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 3h15 | 8:00 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX727 | 6:40 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2h55 | 9:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Colchester to Cambridge buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Colchester to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Colchester to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Colchester to Cambridge.
Bus providers: National Express from Colchester to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Colchester to Cambridge with National Express for as low as €19. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest Price
€19
National Express frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Complete guide to Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Recommended
Scott Polar Research Institute Museum
Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.
- Must visit
The Backs
The city's most famous riverside walking area, lined with college gardens and views. Classic place for strolling, punting and photography.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic central square with market stalls, buskers and everyday city life. A practical and lively base for sightseeing and shopping.
- Recommended
Jesus Green
Leafy riverside common ideal for walking, picnics and broad views of the college skyline. Popular with locals and visitors year-round.
- Vegetarian
Cambridge Burnt Cream
A creamy dessert of whipped cream, meringue and raspberry coulis, created at Cambridge’s Trinity College and named after the River Cam.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Trinity Cream
The Cambridge version of crème brûlée, linked to Trinity College. It has a rich custard base with a hard caramelised sugar top.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cambridgeshire Asparagus
Tender local asparagus from the Cambridgeshire fens, prized in spring for its sweetness and freshness, often served simply with butter or eggs.
Midsummer House
Elegant riverside fine dining restaurant known for refined British tasting menus and polished service in a historic setting.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
Historic city-centre restaurant serving modern British cooking with seasonal ingredients in a smart, intimate atmosphere.
The Eagle
Well-known Cambridge pub and dining room offering classic British dishes, cask ales and a lively, traditional atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.50
To the city center
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) -> Cambridge City Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Cambridge; tap your card or device when you board.
- Parkside is already very central, so many city centre destinations are reachable on foot in about 5 min.
FAQs: Bus from Colchester to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester to Cambridge by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Colchester to Cambridge can start from as little as €19 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Colchester to Cambridge is €28 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Colchester to Cambridge is 2h 39m to travel the 39 miles (64 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Colchester to Cambridge leaves at 4:51 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Colchester to Cambridge leaves at 10:00 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Colchester to Cambridge which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Colchester to Cambridge, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Cambridge. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Colchester and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Colchester to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Colchester to Cambridge for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Colchester to Cambridge depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Colchester to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Colchester to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Colchester to Cambridge:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Colchester to Cambridge.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Colchester to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Colchester to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Colchester to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Colchester to Cambridge
Most Colchester to Cambridge buses use the Colchester, East Hill / High Street to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) station pair. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Cambridge bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Colchester
Arrival bus stations in Cambridge
Which Colchester station do buses to Cambridge leave from?
Buses from Colchester to Cambridge leave from Colchester, East Hill / High Street. The station is from Colchester city centre at Colchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK.
Colchester, East Hill / High StreetColchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, East Hill / High Street from Colchester city centre
Bus1, 2, 3 · 1m · €3 · every ~17 min
107, 105 · 7m · €1 · every ~3 min
Colchester, East Hill / High Street bus station facilities and services
Colchester, East Hill / High Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street. ATMs are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Limited accessibility features.
Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station)Colchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) from Colchester city centre
Bus74B, 107, 105, 43 · 3m · €3 · every ~5 min
Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) bus station facilities and services
Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station). ATMs are available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station): Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) from Cambridge city centre
BusTour · 31m · €2 · every ~6 min
Most popular bus connections from Colchester
More options for your journey from Colchester to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cambridge and Colchester
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