Boston holidays

How to reach Boston

• Flight time: Flights to Boston from London Heathrow take about 7 hours and 30 minutes. There are also direct flights from Manchester and Edinburgh, making Boston holidays an easy option from the UK.

• Transfer time: From Boston’s Logan International Airport, the popular Silver Line bus takes about 20 minutes to reach South Station, downtown.

• Price: The Silver Line bus is free from the airport to South Station. Alternatively, a taxi will cost $35–$45 and will take roughly the same amount of time. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available, with prices ranging from $25–$35.

Weather and best time to visit Boston

Choosing the best time to visit Boston largely depends on your weather preferences and the activities you enjoy the most.

• March to May: In Spring, the city comes alive with blooming flowers and milder weather. Average temperatures range from 5 to 15°C, with 60–90mm of rainfall and around 7 hours of sunshine daily. The Boston Marathon in April is a major event.

• June to August: Summer is Boston's peak tourist season. With average temperatures between 20 and 28°C, it’s perfect for outdoor activities and exploring historic sites. Rainfall is minimal, ranging from 50 to 80mm, and there are about 9 to 10 hours of sunshine daily.

• September to November: Autumn in Boston is renowned for its stunning fall foliage. Temperatures range from 10 to 20°C, making it a pleasant time for walking tours. Rainfall averages 70–100mm, with 6–8 hours of sunshine daily. The city also hosts several festivals, including the Head of the Charles Regatta in October.

• December to February: Winter can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C. Expect around 90–120mm of downpour, mostly snow, and 4–6 hours of sunshine daily.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language spoken in Boston, but you’ll find many residents who speak Spanish and Portuguese.

• Local habits and customs: Bostonians are known for taking pride in their city’s history and sports teams. It's polite to acknowledge this and avoid criticising their beloved Red Sox or Patriots. Tipping is customary, with 15–20 percent expected in restaurants.

• Health and safety: Boston is generally safe, but like any large city, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings. Travel insurance is recommended to cover any medical emergencies.

• Currency: The US Dollar (USD) is used. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash for smaller vendors or tips.

• Getting around: Boston’s public transport system, the MBTA, includes buses, the subway (known as the “T”) and commuter trains. A one-way subway ticket costs $2.40, and it’s $1.70 for the bus. For frequent travel, consider a CharlieCard, which offers discounts. Boston is also very walkable and has bike-sharing services like Bluebikes.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 120V. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Boston operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), 5 hours behind GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens can enter the USA for up to 90 days without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program but must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before departure.

Best things to do in Boston

Planning the perfect holidays to Boston will depend largely on your interests, but there’s a good deal to see and do all year long.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• View Boston: Located on the 50th floor of the Prudential Center, View Boston offers 360-degree views of the city and beyond. It’s a great spot for a bird’s-eye view of the city’s landmarks and harbour.

• Bunker Hill Monument: Climb the 294 steps to the top of this 67-metre granite obelisk for a stunning view of the Charlestown neighbourhood and the city skyline.

The best districts

• Beacon Hill: Wander through this picturesque neighbourhood with its narrow, gas-lit streets and brick sidewalks. Louisburg Square and Acorn Street are particularly charming.

• North End: Known as Boston’s Little Italy, this district is famed for its Italian restaurants, cafés and historic sites. Don’t miss visiting the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church.

• Back Bay: This upscale district is home to Newbury Street, lined with boutiques, art galleries and trendy cafés.

Parks and gardens

• Boston Common: The oldest public park in the United States, Boston Common is the starting point of the Freedom Trail. It’s a lovely spot for a picnic, a leisurely walk or ice skating on Frog Pond in the winter.

• Public Garden: Adjacent to Boston Common, the Public Garden is renowned for its swan boats and beautiful floral displays. The lagoon and weeping willows make it a peaceful retreat.

• Arnold Arboretum: This arboretum, part of Harvard University, offers 114 hectares of trees, shrubs and plants from around the world. It’s perfect for nature walks and birdwatching.

Historic monuments

• Freedom Trail: This 4km-long path takes you to 16 significant historical sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House and the Old North Church. Follow the red-brick line to explore Boston’s rich history.

• Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum: Relive the events of December 16 1773, at this interactive museum. The replica ships and engaging exhibits make it a fun and educational experience.

• USS Constitution: Also known as "Old Ironsides," this historic ship is the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat.

Day trips in the area

• Salem: Famous for its 1692 witch trials, Salem offers a fascinating day trip with its historic sites, museums and haunted happenings. Visit the Salem Witch Museum and the House of the Seven Gables. Discover the best deals on holidays to Salem.

• Cape Cod: Just a short drive from Boston, Cape Cod is perfect for a beach day, charming towns and seafood. The Cape Cod National Seashore offers kilometres of pristine coastline to explore. Check out our holidays to Cape Cod.

• Lexington and Concord: These nearby towns are pivotal in American history as the sites of the first battles of the American Revolution. Explore Minuteman National Historical Park and the Old North Bridge.

Activities for families in Boston

Boston is an excellent destination for family holidays, offering a variety of activities to suit children and adults alike.

• Interactive museums: The Boston Children’s Museum is a must-visit with its hands-on exhibits and interactive learning experiences. The Museum of Science, with its planetarium and IMAX theatre, is another favourite, offering engaging exhibits that appeal to all ages.

• Aquarium and zoos: The New England Aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks and penguins. The Franklin Park Zoo features animals from around the world and offers educational programs and events.

• Theme parks and adventure: For a bit of excitement, consider a Boston Duck Tour. These amphibious vehicle tours provide a fun and engaging way to see the city’s sights on land and water.

Free things to do in Boston

Boston offers many free activities, making it easy to explore the city without spending a lot of money.

• Free events: Boston hosts a variety of free cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Boston Public Library offers free concerts, lectures and workshops, while the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade hosts free outdoor concerts during the summer.

• Free museums: Many of Boston's museums offer free admission at certain times. The Museum of Fine Arts is free on Wednesdays after 4 pm, and the Institute of Contemporary Art offers free admission on Thursday evenings.

• Explore Boston by public transport: The MBTA (known locally as the T) is an affordable way to get around the city. For $2.40 or less, you can hop on the subway or a bus and explore different neighbourhoods. The Freedom Trail is easily accessible by the T, allowing you to visit multiple historic sites.

• Parks and nature: Boston’s parks are free to explore. Visit the Arnold Arboretum for a peaceful walk among diverse plant species, or head to the Charles River Esplanade for a scenic riverside stroll.

Local dishes in Boston

Boston's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional New England fare and diverse international influences.

Some typical dishes

• New England Clam Chowder: A creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, onions and sometimes bacon. It’s a comforting dish, perfect for chilly days.

• Boston Baked Beans: Slow-cooked beans flavoured with molasses and salt pork, this classic dish gave Boston its nickname – “Beantown”.

• Lobster rolls: Enjoy fresh lobster meat, typically mixed with mayonnaise and served in a buttered, toasted roll.

Meat dishes

• Boston roast beef sandwich: Thinly sliced roast beef piled high on a sandwich roll, often served with cheese and barbecue sauce.

• Fenway Frank: A hot dog that’s a favourite among Boston Red Sox fans, best enjoyed at Fenway Park but available throughout the city.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Fried clams: Fresh clams, breaded and fried until golden and crispy, often served with tartar sauce. They’re a staple of Boston’s seaside cuisine.

• Scrod: Cod or haddock, lightly battered and baked or broiled, is a quintessential Boston dish.

Sweets and desserts

• Boston Cream Pie: Despite its name, this is actually a cake filled with custard and topped with chocolate glaze. It’s also the official state dessert of Massachusetts.

• Whoopie Pies: Two soft, cake-like cookies with a creamy filling in the middle. This is a long-standing favourite in the city.

Local drinks

• Samuel Adams beer: Named after the famous patriot, this local beer brand offers a variety of brews, with Boston Lager being the most iconic.

• Harpoon beer: Another beloved Boston brewery known for its wide range of craft beers, including the popular Harpoon IPA.