The ultimate Boston travel guide
Discover the best of Boston
Welcome to Boston, the capital of Massachusetts and one of the most iconic cities in the United States. With its historical landmarks, world-renowned universities, and vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning an extended stay, our ultimate Boston travel guide will help you make the most of your time in this iconic destination. From the must-see attractions to the best places to eat, this guide has all the insider tips you need to plan the perfect Boston getaway.
About Boston
Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is one of America's oldest cities. It is known for its iconic red brick buildings and cobblestone streets, home to a variety of universities, world-class sports teams, and some of the most delicious seafood in the country. It’s also the de facto home of American freedom, with the American Revolution both gaining momentum and officially beginning not far away in the neighbouring towns of Concord and Lexington.
From world-class museums and institutions to exciting festivals and performances, Boston has something for everyone. The city is also renowned for its thriving music scene, where you can catch everything from classic rock to modern indie acts in some of the best venues in the city.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime local, you're sure to find plenty of attractions to explore in this bustling metropolis. Whether it's visiting the historical sites like the Freedom Trail or the many parks and gardens that dot the cityscape, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Boston.
Boston’s unique history
Boston is a city steeped in history. Founded in 1630 by Puritan settlers from England, Boston has a rich and storied past that is celebrated today. As the site of several pivotal events leading up to the American Revolution, including the Boston Tea Party, Boston played an instrumental role in forming the United States of America.
Throughout its history, Boston has had a tumultuous relationship with the British. From its beginnings as a British colony to the start of the Revolutionary War, Boston has long been an important center for political and economic activity. Today, it is known for its historic sites, such as the Freedom Trail and Paul Revere House.
In the 19th century, Boston underwent an industrial revolution and was home to a booming textile industry. This led to large-scale immigration from Europe and beyond. The influx of new people and cultures helped create the vibrant and diverse city that we know today.
In the late 20th century, Boston saw an economic resurgence with the development of high-tech industries like biotechnology and computer software. While this has helped revitalize much of the city, many of Boston's traditional neighborhoods remain largely unchanged. These areas still retain their unique character and provide a glimpse into the city's past.
Getting there
The closest airport to Boston is Logan International Airport, which is conveniently located just a few miles from downtown. Logan is a major hub for flights from across the country and the world, with direct flights to Europe, the Caribbean, Canada, Mexico and more.
If you’re driving to Boston, there are multiple highways that provide easy access to the city, including I-95, I-93 and the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90). Once you arrive in Boston, you can use the public transportation system to get around the city with ease.
Amtrak services also connect Boston with the rest of the US by rail.
Getting Around
Exploring Boston is easy and convenient with the extensive public transportation system. The MBTA, commonly referred to as “the T,” operates trains, buses, and ferries throughout the city and nearby areas. The subway system consists of five lines, running from north to south and east to west. It’s the easiest way to get around the city and the best way to get to some of the most popular tourist attractions like the Freedom Trail and Fenway Park.
If you’d prefer to explore the city on foot or by bicycle, it’s very easy to do so. There are plenty of dedicated bike lanes throughout the city and many parks for long strolls. You can also rent bicycles through Hubway, which has stations all over the city.
Finally, if you need a ride, Uber and Lyft are both available in Boston. There are also plenty of taxis that can be hailed from the street. Just make sure to have cash on hand, as some drivers won’t accept credit cards.
Where to Stay
When it comes to choosing accommodation in Boston, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
If you're looking for luxurious accommodations, you may want to consider staying at one of the five-star hotels in downtown Boston. The Mandarin Oriental, the Four Seasons Hotel Boston, and The Ritz-Carlton Boston Common all offer the finest luxury amenities and stunning views of the city skyline.
However, our top tip for Boston is to hop on VRBO for a short-term rental. You’ll find great character properties in Back Bay or near Fenway for an authentic Boston feel, and for much better value than a downtown hotel.
No matter what type of accommodation you’re looking for, Boston has something for everyone. To ensure that you get the best deal and the perfect location for your stay, make sure to book your hotel well in advance.
Best things to do in Boston
Boston is an exciting and vibrant city with plenty of things to see and do. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for culture, history, art, shopping, or entertainment. Here are just a few of the activities that should be on your Boston itinerary.
Explore the Freedom Trail
The famous Freedom Trail is a two-and-a-half mile path that takes visitors on a journey through some of the most important historical sites in America. Stops along the trail include the Old North Church, Paul Revere’s house, Bunker Hill Monument, and the USS Constitution.
Visit Fenway Park
A visit to Boston wouldn’t be complete without catching a game at Fenway Park. Home of the Red Sox since 1912, this iconic ballpark is one of the oldest in the country and its atmosphere is truly one of a kind. Even if you can’t get tickets to a game, you can still take a guided tour of the park and get a behind-the-scenes look at Fenway’s storied history.
Go Shopping
From major department stores to trendy boutiques, Boston offers plenty of shopping options. Be sure to check out the bustling Newbury Street and its surrounding blocks for designer shops and high-end boutiques. Also worth a visit is Quincy Market, located in downtown’s Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Here you’ll find dozens of vendors selling everything from souvenirs and clothing to fresh produce and seafood.
Take a Harbor Cruise
What better way to get an up-close look at Boston than from the water? Hop aboard a harbor cruise and you’ll get stunning views of the skyline, as well as historical narration about the city’s fascinating past. There are a number of different types of cruises to choose from, so pick one that suits your interests.
Museum-Hopping
Boston is full of museums and art galleries, from the Institute of Contemporary Art to the Museum of Fine Arts. Whether you’re looking to explore a specific period of history or just want to browse some incredible artwork, there’s a museum here for you.
Boston neighbourhoods
Boston is a city filled with diverse neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique character and charm. From the lively streets of downtown to the more laid-back suburbs, there’s something for everyone.
North End
One of the most iconic neighbourhoods in Boston is the North End. This old Italian neighbourhood is filled with traditional Italian restaurants, bakeries and specialty shops. There’s also a vibrant nightlife and a growing selection of chic boutiques.
Beacon Hill
This is another classic area of Boston, known for its cobblestone streets and Federal-style homes. This charming neighbourhood is full of great restaurants, cafes and bars. It’s also home to some of the oldest homes in the city, including the iconic State House.
South End
The South End is one of the most culturally diverse areas in Boston. With its eclectic mix of Victorian homes, independent businesses and trendy eateries, it’s no surprise that the South End has become a popular spot for young professionals and families.
Fenway-Kenmore
Fenway-Kenmore is one of the most vibrant areas in the city. Home to Fenway Park, this neighbourhood is filled with iconic sports bars, nightclubs, art galleries and music venues. It’s also home to some of the most popular restaurants and pubs in town.
Back Bay
The Back Bay neighbourhood is another popular area in Boston. Filled with historic buildings and beautiful parks, Back Bay is a great place to explore. From designer boutiques to trendy restaurants and art galleries, you’ll find something for everyone here.
Where to Eat and Drink
Boston is home to a vibrant culinary scene, from casual dives to upscale restaurants. There are plenty of options for all budgets and tastes, so you'll have no problem finding something delicious.
For classic seafood dishes like clam chowder and lobster rolls, head to Legal Sea Foods. This popular chain has several locations throughout the city, and also serves up sushi, steaks, and more.
If you're looking for an Italian meal, head to the North End, Boston's Little Italy. Here you can find traditional Italian restaurants such as Filmark, Giacomo's Ristorante, and Mamma Maria. Or if you want to try a contemporary Italian menu, check out Coppa in South End.
For some delicious Mexican cuisine, head to La Verdad in South Boston. They specialize in tacos and offer both a lunch and dinner menu featuring seasonal ingredients. For a more upscale experience, try Casa Romero in Back Bay.
If you're looking for brunch, then the South End is your best bet. Try South End Buttery for their delicious omelettes and pastries, or get some mouthwatering pancakes at Union Street Cafe.
If you're looking for a lively bar scene, there are plenty of places to choose from. The Lansdowne Pub in Fenway is a great spot for live music, while Bukowski Tavern in the South End has over 40 beers on tap. The Kinsale Irish Pub & Restaurant near Downtown Crossing also offers an extensive beer selection along with Irish fare.
When is the best time to visit Boston?
If you're looking for the ideal time to visit Boston, you're in luck! Boston's unique climate means that any time of year can be a great time to plan a trip. The weather is typically mild year-round, with summer and autumn being the most popular months.
The summer months from June to August offer plenty of sunny days and warm temperatures, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities. You can also take advantage of Boston's many festivals and events happening throughout the summer – and of course catch a game of baseball.
Autumn brings a different kind of beauty to the city with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. In September and October, you can explore all the attractions while taking in the seasonal color of the leaves.
Winter may not seem like the ideal time to visit Boston, but it's actually a great time to explore the city without crowds. You'll find many indoor activities like theater performances, art galleries, and museum visits. Plus, you can take in all of the lights during the holiday season.
Springtime in Boston is perfect for exploring outdoors. You can enjoy blooming flowers, warmer temperatures, and outdoor activities like biking and walking tours. The cherry blossoms in April are especially breathtaking.
Overall, no matter when you choose to visit Boston, you'll find plenty of exciting things to do. Each season brings its own unique charm to the city, making it a great destination year-round!
Boston travel tips
Check out the websites of any attractions you want to visit before you go, as there may be discounts or deals available – GetYourGuide is an excellent resource
Make use of the hop-on, hop-off bus tours – they’re a great way to explore the city quickly and easily
Take advantage of free activities, such as walking tours and museum visits
Pre-book tickets for popular attractions to save yourself time waiting in line
Walk the Freedom Trail and explore the historical sites around Boston
Visit one of the public parks for a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the city
Get to know the locals – Bostonians are renowned for their warmth and hospitality
Take a boat tour of the harbor – you’ll get fantastic views and learn lots about Boston’s maritime history
Be prepared for all kinds of weather – even in summer it can be cool or raining, so pack accordingly
Don’t forget your camera – Boston is a very photogenic city!
Boston travel FAQs
Q: What is the best way to get around in Boston?
A: The best way to get around in Boston is by public transportation. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates the T subway system and buses, making it easy to get around the city and its surrounding areas. Additionally, you can use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, as well as bike sharing programs like Bluebikes to get around.
Q: Is Boston a safe city to visit?
A: Yes, Boston is generally a very safe city to visit. While you should always practice basic safety precautions, such as not carrying valuables or keeping your wallet or phone in a secure place, there are also extra security measures in place, such as increased police patrols and 24-hour surveillance cameras.
Q: Are there any free attractions in Boston?
A: Yes, there are plenty of free attractions in Boston. From exploring the scenic Charles River Esplanade to visiting the iconic Quincy Market and Fenway Park, there is no shortage of free activities to enjoy while in the city.
Q: Are there any family-friendly activities in Boston?
A: Yes, there are a variety of family-friendly activities in Boston. From museums like the Museum of Science and the New England Aquarium to kid-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Q: What kind of cuisine is available in Boston?
A: Boston is home to a wide variety of cuisines from all over the world. From classic New England fare like seafood chowder and lobster rolls to traditional Italian dishes like pizza and pasta, there is something for everyone’s tastes.
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