Holidays in Boston have a special appeal, thanks to this destination's distinctly European vibe and fascinating history. It’s a place full of contrasts, from charming cobbled streets to modern skyscrapers.
The capital of Massachusetts and one of the oldest cities in America, Boston provides an opportunity to see world-class works in the Museum of Fine Arts, eat delicious seafood by the harbour and watch its famous sports teams, such as the Red Sox and Celtics, in action.
Highlights of the thriving cultural scene include the landmark Symphony Hall, home to the acclaimed Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Trendy neighbourhoods such as Beacon Hill and Back Bay, meanwhile, are packed with boutiques, bars, restaurants and other hip hangouts.
Find your perfect package and explore dynamic Boston.
Holidays in Boston have something for everyone, whether you’re a sports fan, food lover or looking for endless culture and lively nightlife.
Boston has a widely respected arts and culture scene. The city was dubbed the ‘Athens of America’ in the 19th century and during this period it opened numerous libraries, concert halls and museums.
Today, the Museum of Fine Arts is home to a staggering 450,000 works by the likes of Monet, Van Gogh and Singer Sargent.
The building that houses the Institute of Contemporary Art is a design classic in its own right, while the Museum of Science is another must-see, boasting more than 600 interactive exhibits.
Boston holiday packages give you the chance to see some of the world’s most famous sports teams in action.
The Boston Celtics are a legendary name in basketball, while the New England Patriots – based in the nearby town of Foxborough – are one of the most successful franchises in NFL history.
Perhaps the best-known team in the city, though, are the Boston Red Sox. Playing at Fenway Park, they have won a string of World Series baseball championships and are renowned for the passion shown by their supporters.
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long route that winds its way through downtown Boston. Marked out in red brick, it covers 16 locations that played significant roles in the history of the United States.
The trail was established during the 1950s to commemorate key events – including the Boston Tea Party protest – that led up to and followed the American War of Independence.
It takes in sites such as Massachusetts State House, a statue of founding father Benjamin Franklin and the USS Constitution, a historic naval vessel.
Boston is home to countless great restaurants with menus guaranteed to set your taste buds tingling. For the best Italian dishes, head to Giulia, just north of Harvard Square.
East Street-based O Ya serves up some of the finest sushi in the city, while Salem Street’s Neptune Oyster is another must-visit for fans of seafood.
If you fancy a stylist twist on classic New England fare, check out Cambridge’s Puritan & Company and try its crab salad or buttered lobster bread.
Boston has plenty of green space where you can take a break from exploring the city streets. Boston Common is the oldest public park in the USA and covers 50 picturesque acres in the downtown area.
Attractions here include a winter ice rink and performances of Shakespeare in the summer.
Other spots that are ideal for a relaxing afternoon outdoors include the Charles River Esplanade, the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway and Christopher Columbus Park.
When it comes to luxury, there are few places that can rival the Mandarin Oriental Boston.
Enjoying a coveted location in beautiful Back Bay, this five-star hotel combines a relaxed atmosphere with the very best in service and comfort.
Standout features include a French-inspired bistro, Bar Boulud, where guests can enjoy a superb range of food and drink.
The five-star Boston Harbour Hotel’s enviable position means its guest rooms and suites offer striking views of the city skyline and waterfront.
Amenities here include an indoor pool, health club and fitness centre as well as an award-winning restaurant.
The hotel is handily placed for visits to attractions such as the Freedom Trail and the New England Aquarium.
Sitting in the historic heart of Boston, Copley Square Hotel is a boutique destination that dates back to the 1890s.
Modern comfort meets old-style charm in this cosy four-star hotel, which is a welcoming base for families wanting to explore all that the city has to offer, from Boston Harbour to Fenway Park and much, much more.
The currency in Boston is the US dollar (USD). You’ll find ATMs across the city and most hotels, shops and restaurants accept major credit cards.
The official language in Boston, as in the rest of the US, is American English.
Boston’s subway and bus systems make it easy to explore the city. Its compact layout means it is also a great place for walking and cycling.
Its strong Irish connections mean St. Patrick's Day in Boston is an experience that’s not to be missed, while Patriots Day in April is when the city hosts the prestigious Boston Marathon.
Boston has a top-class food scene and there are some key dishes you should try while you’re here.
The city’s long-standing favourites include clam chowder, made from clams, onions, milk and potatoes and often accompanied with oyster crackers. It’s best enjoyed on a cool day sitting by the harbour.
Lobster roll is another much-loved treat, while oysters are abundant and served in a variety of ways.
Visitors with a sweet tooth should head to the North End neighbourhood, home to an impressive range of Italian bakeries selling handmade cannoli that deliver a glorious sugar rush.
From the arrival of European colonists to the Boston Tea Party and the start of the American War of Independence, Boston has played a central role in some of the USA’s defining days.
Walking the Freedom Trail and heading to the waterfront to see replica Tea Party ships are just two of the many ways to learn about the city’s past.
Historic landmarks worth seeking out include the Bunker Hill Monument, Quincy Market and King’s Chapel.
North Square’s Paul Revere House, a former residential property that now operates as a museum, has a story that can be traced back to the 17th century.
Two of the leading universities in America can be found in the Boston metropolitan area.
Harvard is the country’s oldest institution of higher learning, with a list of alumni that includes several US presidents and dozens of Nobel Prize winners.
Equally impressive is the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), which has carved out a reputation for pushing boundaries in everything from architecture to science.
Situated a short drive from Boston city centre, MIT runs campus tours that provide a rare insight into the work that takes place at this world-famous site.
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