New England’s hub and stage of the American Revolution, where the red-brick Freedom Trail links historic sites; a university city of Harvard and MIT, and home of clam chowder and lobster rolls.
Cool weather for the Freedom Trail, with foliage nearby in October. source
May–June
A pleasant season for parks, the harbour and outdoor dining. source
Weather: May–June and September–October are best, with New England foliage peaking in October; December–March is cold and snowy. source
Times to avoid: Winter (December–March) snow and cold can derail outdoor plans; keep museum days in reserve. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Boston
Freedom Trail A 2.5-mile red-brick trail of historic sites from Boston Common to the Charlestown Navy Yard — free to walk. source
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston One of America’s great art museums, from ancient Egypt to the Impressionists and Japanese art. source
New England Aquarium A harbourfront aquarium famous for its four-storey Giant Ocean Tank. source
Harvard University Across the river in Cambridge on the Red Line; stroll the campus and Harvard Square. source
Where to stay in Boston
Back Bay
Elegant streets and shopping on the Green Line.
Downtown / Faneuil Hall
Near the Freedom Trail and Quincy Market, with easy Silver Line links to the airport.
What to eat in Boston
New England Clam Chowder — Creamy soup of clams and potatoes, Boston’s classic
Lobster Roll — Lobster meat dressed in butter or mayo in a toasted roll
Oysters — Fresh New England oysters on the half shell
Boston tips and things to watch out for
Boston travel tips
Menu prices exclude tax and tip: Massachusetts meals tax is 7% (6.25% state + 0.75% local), and an 18–20% tip is usual. source
Airport to city: the Silver Line SL1 runs from Logan to South Station and is free from the airport; a free shuttle also links to the Blue Line’s Airport station. source
Good to know in United States
In the US, sales tax may be added to the displayed price depending on the place and product. Check a restaurant menu for extra charges before ordering. source
In LA, both public transit and ride-hailing are available. Check Metro routes and ride-hail pickup points before moving between sights. source
Watch out for in United States
Car break-ins are common; never leave bags or anything visible in a parked car. source
In unfamiliar parts of the US, avoid walking alone through quiet areas, especially at night. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Boston are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in United States.
Boston attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (Adult): $30.00
New England Aquarium (Adult): $39.95 · child $30.95