Cambridge (Cambridgeshire) to Manchester from $20: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• On this route, you will typically be traveling with operators like Avanti West Coast and Northern. Avanti West Coast offers a First Class service with complimentary food and beverages served at your seat, while Northern provides a more basic service with a 'Grab and Go' catering option available in their Economy seating. Make sure to check their respective websites for the latest onboard menu items. Avanti West Coast: avantiwestcoast.co.uk; Northern: northernrailway.co.uk

• Seating options vary significantly on this route. Avanti West Coast provides First Class, Business Class, and Standard Class (Economy) seating. First Class offers reclining seats, larger tables, and more legroom, along with free Wi-Fi and power sockets. Northern mainly offers Standard (Economy) class seating with minimal frills but generally comfortable arrangements. If you're looking for a more premium experience, opt for First Class on Avanti West Coast.

• Upon arriving at Manchester Piccadilly, expect a busy station with various amenities. You can leave your luggage at the station's left luggage facility, and there are plenty of restrooms available. Showers, however, are not typically available. For the fastest way to the city center, take the Metrolink tram; Lines 1 (Altrincham) and 3 (Ashton-under-Lyne) will get you to central locations quickly. Alternatively, Bus 250 and Bus 201 also connect the station to various areas in the center.

• Consider booking with British Airways for your direct flight from London Heathrow to Manchester, as they offer the most frequent schedules and may allow for easier connections, should your travel plans require them.

• Upon arrival at Manchester Airport, follow the 'Arrivals' signs to locate the SkyLink walkway, which connects to the train station; purchasing a ticket to the city center is quick, but for more comfort, take a taxi from the designated taxi ranks, where you'll find licensed drivers ready to assist you.

• Expect taxi fares from Manchester Airport to the city center to be around £20-£30, depending on traffic and exact destination; for more budget-friendly options, consider using the metrolink tram or train services available at the airport, which can be more cost-effective and efficient.

• To ensure the best price for your ticket, check fares on both the FlixBus website and National Express, as they both offer services on this route; prices typically range from £15 to £21.

• Arrive early at Cambridge station to explore nearby dining options like the popular 'The Espresso Library,' which is great for a pre-journey coffee and snack, just a short walk from the bus terminal.

• Upon arrival at Manchester Station, follow the signage for 'Metrolink Tram' if you need to head into the city center; this station is well-connected and offers multiple destinations within minutes.