- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
The University of Cambridge’s principal museum, known for outstanding art, antiquities, and manuscripts. A major cultural stop with world-class collections.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Ipswich to Cambridge
Showing times and prices for Jun 09
Cheapest price
$32
Average price
$33
Fastest journey
2 h 45 m
Average duration
3 h 40 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
73 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Ipswich to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ipswich to Cambridge will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Ipswich for Cambridge on Tue, Jun 09, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 09 the direct buses cover the 73 km distance in an average of 3 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 45 m .
On Tue, Jun 09 the slowest buses will take 4 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
5:05 PM3h30Ipswich8:35 PMCambridge$321One-way0 transfers- 9:00 PM4h45Ipswich1:45 AMCambridge$331One-way0 transfers
- 7:50 PM2h45Ipswich10:35 PMCambridge$341One-way0 transfers
- 7:50 PM2h45Ipswich10:35 PMCambridge$341One-way0 transfers
- 5:05 PM3h30Ipswich8:35 PMCambridge$321One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 PM4h45Ipswich1:45 AMCambridge$331One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Ipswich to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ipswich to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 20m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $28, and a bus costs an average of $28.
Distance: 45 miles (73 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$39 Average price | $28 Average price Cheapest | $21 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 7m Average total duration 2h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 50m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Ipswich to Cambridge is a train with an average price of $28 (€23).
This is compared to other travel options from Ipswich to Cambridge:
A train is $11 (€9) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Ipswich to Cambridge costing on average $39 (€32).
The fastest way to travel from Ipswich to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 1h 20m.
Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ipswich and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ipswich to Cambridge among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Ipswich to Cambridge Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greater Anglia | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 09:22AM | Duration 2h02 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator Greater Anglia | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 10:39AM | Duration 2h19 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:50PM | Arrival Time 10:35PM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $33 |
Live departures
Ipswich to Cambridge bus times
The table below shows live departures for Ipswich to Cambridge buses for today, Monday, June 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX717 · NX728 | Delayed 10:25 PM 8:00 AMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 3h35 | 11:35 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX727 | Delayed 10:25 PM 11:15 AMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 4h15 | 3:30 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX727 | Delayed 10:25 PM 1:30 PMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 3h55 | 5:25 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX727 | Delayed 10:25 PM 4:05 PMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 3h55 | 8:00 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX727 | Delayed 10:25 PM 6:05 PMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 3h30 | 9:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX727 | Delayed 10:25 PM 8:50 PMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 2h45 | 11:35 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
Compare prices and tickets Ipswich to Cambridge by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Jun 15
Why should you book Ipswich to Cambridge buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Ipswich to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Cambridge.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Ipswich to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Ipswich to Cambridge run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $28 (€22) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 22:50. The fastest bus covers the 45 miles (73 km) distance in 2h 2m.
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 45 miles (73 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€22) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 2h 2m |
First bus 3:50 AM |
Last bus 10:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Bus providers: National Express from Ipswich to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Ipswich to Cambridge with National Express for as low as $28 (€22). 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
$28 (€23)
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
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
A University museum with important archaeological and ethnographic collections from Cambridge and around the world. Compact but highly regarded.
- Recommended
Museum of Cambridge
A local social history museum in a former coaching inn, focusing on everyday life in Cambridge and the surrounding county.
- Must visit
King's Parade
The city’s signature historic street, lined with college architecture and prime views of King’s College Chapel. Always busy and highly photogenic.
- Must visit
The Backs
The celebrated landscaped area behind several colleges along the River Cam. A classic place for walking, punting views, and postcard scenes.
- Recommended
Market Square
Central public square known for its market stalls and lively atmosphere. A practical and historic focal point for exploring the old center.
- Vegetarian
Chelsea Bun
A sticky, spiral currant bun strongly associated with Cambridge through the historic Fitzbillies bakery, and a classic local sweet treat.
Cambridgeshire Pork Pie
A traditional East Anglian pork pie with seasoned pork encased in hot-water crust pastry, commonly found in local butchers and pubs.
Roast Beef With Yorkshire Pudding
A classic English Sunday roast widely enjoyed in Cambridge pubs, featuring roasted beef, gravy, and Yorkshire pudding.
Midsummer House
A celebrated fine dining restaurant on the River Cam known for refined modern British tasting menus and an elegant atmosphere.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
A well-regarded neighbourhood restaurant offering seasonal British cooking with a polished but intimate dining room.
The Eagle
A famous historic pub serving classic British dishes and ales, best known for its heritage and lively traditional setting.
Pound Sterling
Prices are above the UK average for hotels and dining, especially near the centre and colleges, but cafes, pubs and supermarkets help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway, street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at higher-end restaurants. If not added, tip about 10-12.5% for good service. Rounding up is fine in pubs, cafes and taxis; tipping is not expected for counter service.
My+Trip
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.50
To the city center
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece), Cambridge -> Cambridge Railway Station, Cambridge
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on most Stagecoach buses in Cambridge, and capped fares may apply on some tickets.
- If you travel more than twice in one day, a Cambridge City Dayrider can be better value than single tickets.
FAQs: Bus from Ipswich to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Cambridge can start from as little as $28 (€22) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Ipswich to Cambridge is $39 (€32) ; 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 Ipswich to Cambridge is 2h 2m to travel the 45 miles (73 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 Ipswich to Cambridge leaves at 3:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Ipswich to Cambridge leaves at 10:50 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cambridge from Ipswich is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 2m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Ipswich to Cambridge is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ipswich and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cambridge are:
- King's College Chapel, a stunning example of Gothic architecture known for its impressive fan vault and beautiful stained glass windows
- The Fitzwilliam Museum, a renowned museum housing a vast collection of art and antiquities from around the world
- The Backs, a picturesque area along the River Cam offering scenic views of the colleges and lush gardens
- Trinity College, one of the largest and wealthiest colleges in Cambridge, famous for its historic Great Court and library
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a 40-acre garden showcasing a diverse range of plant species and offering a tranquil escape from the city.
The best things to do in Cambridge include:
- Punting on the River Cam, a traditional Cambridge activity offering scenic views of the colleges and bridges
- Visit the Cambridge Science Centre, an interactive museum perfect for families and science enthusiasts
- Explore the historic Market Square, where you can find local produce, crafts, and street food
- Attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, featuring a variety of shows from drama to comedy
- Take a guided walking tour to discover the rich history and hidden gems of Cambridge.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Cambridge:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Ipswich nor Cambridge are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ipswich to Cambridge among Omio's users.
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 Ipswich to Cambridge
Ipswich
Cambridge
The major bus station for departures in Ipswich is Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) for your trip from Ipswich to Cambridge.
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Cambridge is Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) for your trip to Cambridge from Ipswich.
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
information
Most popular bus connections from Ipswich
More options for your journey from Ipswich to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cambridge and Ipswich
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
