Fitzwilliam Museum

Britain's finest university museum houses Egyptian sarcophagi, Impressionist paintings including works by Monet and Renoir, and medieval manuscripts in a Greek Revival building from 1848. The collection spans 5,000 years from ancient Egypt to contemporary art. It sits in Cambridge's City Centre, close to the other main sights. It sits below the headline sights but earns its place on a longer visit to Cambridge, especially paired with nearby Botanic Garden. Entry is free and 2-3 hours gives you a thorough visit.

Priority: Medium - include with 2+ days Time needed: 2-3 hours Best for: world Skip if: You prefer hands-on experiences over traditional museum displays Cost: Free

You climb marble steps into grand galleries with coffered ceilings and natural light. Egyptian mummies rest in glass cases while Impressionist paintings hang in intimate rooms, and you can get close enough to see individual brush strokes without barriers.

Accessibility: Full wheelchair access via main entrance, lifts to all floors

strong art collection without London crowds or entrance fees. It is not the first thing you should see in Cambridge, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. It pairs naturally with Botanic Garden and King's College Chapel - together they fill a solid half-day. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time. Free entry makes the decision easy - walk in, see if it holds your attention, and leave when you have had enough.

Skip if: You prefer hands-on experiences over traditional museum displays

• Free entry but donations keep the museum running.
• Egyptian galleries are popular with children.
• Cafe serves lunch until 4:30pm with outdoor seating in summer.

Insider tip: The manuscript room on the upper floor is often overlooked but contains illuminated medieval books that rival those in major European libraries

Photography allowed in most galleries but check for temporary exhibition restrictions