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Plan Boston

United States · North America

3 days in Boston

A city of history and tradition, Boston offers a proud legacy of culture, education, and numerous sporting championships. Its independent spirit has been displayed to the world ever since colonists were angry over a British tax on their beloved tea.

Plan this trip, free

A city of history and tradition, Boston offers a proud legacy of culture, education, and numerous sporting championships.

When you plan it, day 1 and the last day fit your journey from home: a long flight keeps them light.

3 days5 days

Day 1 · Revolutionary Roots & Waterfront Wonders

10 stops 4.8 km

MorningBegin your Boston adventure by walking the historic Freedom Trail, soaking in the city's colonial past.

AfternoonExplore Faneuil Hall, then head to the waterfront for marine life and an interactive historical experience.

EveningIndulge in a gourmet seafood dinner in the North End, followed by a traditional Italian pastry.

Mostly walking. Short walks between attractions in the morning and afternoon. Walk or short taxi to North End.

Make this trip yours

A free account opens every day of this guide and copies it into your own trip on your dates.

  • All 3 days, 26 stops
  • Route map and walking times
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Must-see in Boston

Save money shopping

Shop smarter in Boston

Where prices are lower than at home, the outlets within reach, and how to get the tax back. Editorial picks; check hours and prices on the official sites before you go.

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Cheaper here than at home

  • Outlets and sportswear

    Outlet malls run 30–70% below retail, and American sportswear (Nike, Levi's, Carhartt) is cheapest at home. Sales tax is added at the till and is not refundable.

Outlet

about 45 min

Wrentham Village Premium Outlets

New England's largest outlet, 170 stores.

Getting there. Car or a shuttle tour from Boston, about 45 minutes.

Official site Transport

Where locals shop

  • Market Basketsupermarket

    Regional supermarket chain famous among locals for its low prices and high volume.

  • Roche Bros.supermarket

    Local grocery chain known for high-quality produce, prepared foods, and friendly service.

  • Faneuil Hall Marketplacefood market

    A historic marketplace consisting of Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market. It offers a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and street performers, perfect for a lively stroll.

  • Boston Public Marketfood market

    An indoor, year-round market featuring fresh, locally sourced food from New England farmers and artisans. It's a great place to sample regional specialties and grab a fresh meal.

Know before you goVisa, safety, money and getting around in Boston
  • Visa: Most international travelers require a visa or an approved ESTA (for eligible countries) to enter the United States.
  • Safety: Mostly safe · 7/10
  • A day: about $230 mid-range
  • Best months: May – Jun
Read it

Know before you go

  • Money$ USD · about US$230 a day
  • LanguageEnglish
  • Local timeAmerica/New York
  • Best monthsMay · Jun · Sep · Oct
  • SafetySafe · 7/10
  • CrowdsBusy

Safety is Travlyo’s own reading, not an official figure. Official advice: UK Foreign Office ↗

Visa

Most international travelers require a visa or an approved ESTA (for eligible countries) to enter the United States.

Read moreShow less

S. government travel sites for specific requirements based on your nationality.

Rules change: check for your passport before you book.

Getting around

Boston's public transportation, the MBTA (known as the 'T'), includes subway, bus, and commuter rail, making it easy to navigate. Walking is also highly recommended for exploring historic areas, and ride-sharing services are readily available.

What a day costs

Per person, for food, getting around and tickets. Stays and getting there come on top.

See the three stylesShow less
  • Budget: about US$140
  • Mid-range: about US$230
  • Comfort: about US$380

Good to know

Wear comfortable shoes; Boston is a very walkable city, especially along the Freedom Trail.

4 more tipsShow less
  • Utilize the MBTA (the 'T') for efficient travel between neighborhoods, especially the subway lines.
  • Book popular attractions like the New England Aquarium or museum tickets online in advance to save time.
  • Explore beyond the Freedom Trail to discover diverse neighborhoods like the North End for Italian food or Cambridge for academic charm.
  • Don't forget to try local specialties like clam chowder, lobster rolls, and Boston cream pie.

Stories

All
  • RRomeRomanticEchoes Beneath the CobblestonesElena Marsh · 12 days · 2 min read
  • PPragueNostalgicGold Leaf and Bitter FoamAisha Rahman · 10 days · 3 min read
  • MMadridElectricElectric Nights and Goya’s GhostJonas Lindqvist · 8 days · 3 min read

Book for Boston

StaysExpedia Tickets and toursGetYourGuide

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Cover: Yuval Zukerman on Unsplash · Photos via Wikimedia Commons · Map © OpenStreetMap contributors