Boston City Guide

Large leafy parks, stylish shops and many fascinating sights ranging from Landmarks of the American Revolution to the Samuel Adams Brewery (a popular stop-off point for beer lovers) - combine to make Boston one of America's most civilised cities, a true joy to discover.

Boston's Top Attractions: Boston was founded in 1630 and is one of the oldest cities in the U.S. To start your Boston tour of discovery - try the 2 1/2 mile walking tour, which begins at the Information Centre in Boston Common. There are two tours; the first is the Freedom Trail which explores the city's revolutionary past and the birth of the modern American Republic, and the second is the Black Heritage Trail - a walking tour exploring the lives of the 19th-century African-American community that lived on the north slope of Beacon Hill. The trail tells the story of the struggle, persistence and hope for equality and freedom.

Other Attractions: Worth visiting is the Kennedy Library, detailing the life and times of President John F. Kennedy. Visit the Boston Tea Party ship and museum, with its unique museum showing the events that led up to the American Revolution, including tours on restored tea ships. Alternatively, you can admire Copley Square & Beacon Hill or relax and take a leisurely cruise around the harbour, or stroll through the Boston Public Garden, America's first public botanical garden, with flowers and exotic trees all beautifully arranged and kept in quality condition throughout.

Boston is a primary university centre, so take the metro and ride to Cambridge, home to the world-renowned Harvard University and MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology). Cambridge is well known for its wealth of museums and art galleries, mostly affiliated with and located within Harvard University. For a wealth of sightseeing around the Boston-Cambridge area, take the subway it's easy to use, cheap, fast and safe.

Boston's Fine Arts: The Museum of Fine Arts houses some of the most famous European paintings, including works by Gauguin and some of the best collections of Impressionist paintings, including works by Monet and Manet. America's best-known art institution, the Boston MFA (Museum of Fine Arts), has one of the world's most comprehensive art collections, with over 20,000 works of art by some of the finest artists in history.

Boston's Culture: Boston is famous for its orchestras, opera, ballet and several theatres, including the Boston Opera House. The Boston Opera House is also known as the Citizens Bank Opera House; it's home to the Boston Ballet, the performing arts - and recently, an e-sports venue. Top Tip: Don't forget to try Boston's famous 'Boston Clam Chowder' or New England lobster which you'll find served at most of Boston's traditional seafood restaurants. The list of attractions in Boston is endless, so plan your time well.

Public Transport: Boston's public transportation system is operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, known locally as the "T" and consists of a subway system, buses, trolley-buses and the harbour ferries, with services operating within the Greater Boston area and beyond. Conveniently the "T" runs throughout Boston, into Cambridge and into nearby suburbs, providing good access to all of Boston's main attractions.

Boston's Subway: The most popular way to travel around Boston is the Subway - it's easy to use, cheap, fast and safe. To ride the Subway or the "T" you need to buy a Charlieticket, or for slightly cheaper fares and greater convenience, consider purchasing a CharlieCard (an easily topped-up smartcard ticket). Charliecard's provide multiple subway rides and are available to buy at vending machines located in most stations or in person at station kiosks.

Boston's Buses: The MBTA runs a comprehensive network of bus routes in downtown Boston and into the suburbs. All intercity and interstate buses depart from South Station. Top Tip: To access bus timetables and to plan your travel route, visit the MBTA online route planner.

Boston Shopping: Shopping in Boston will keep you pleasantly occupied for quite some time. First off - head to the most stylish street in the city, Newbury Street, for upmarket boutiques and world-leading brands. For more mid-range buys, head to Faneuil Hall Marketplace – also known as Quincy Market. Here you'll find 100's of stores, with an appealing mix of shops, all located in the heart of historic Boston. Shops here include local Boston retailers and top international brands; you'll also find many quality restaurants and pubs to keep you refreshed and fully charged.

For larger stores like Macy's - head to the downtown Crossing district. For bargains and a great atmosphere or to 'just chill' - head to Haymarket on Fridays and Saturdays; you'll also find English-style taverns, pubs and quirky bars & restaurants. For more bargains, check out the nearby Outlet Malls just a 5-minute subway ride away. Two of the most popular outlets are Wrentham Village, with over 170 units selling discounted goods, including high-end and luxury brands. Next is Assembly Row in nearby Somerville, offering good discounts on general high street names along with varied entertainment and good quality dining.

Boston Nightlife: Boston's unique mix of traditional colonial buildings, old cobbled stone streets and modern skyscrapers never seem to rest as Boston comes alive at night with a selection of nightlife offerings. From classic cosy piano bars to European-style taverners, trendy wine bars and vibrant dance clubs, whatever your pleasure Boston has it covered. The Seaport District of the city is one of the liveliest, with plenty of bars, pubs and live music venues.

Boston Dining: Boston offers a wide choice of options when it comes to dining, from designer sidewalk cafes and New England lobster shacks to first-class restaurants offering quality international cuisine, making dining out in Boston fun with lots of choices. Boylston Street is a popular dining spot with locals - it's here where you'll find plenty of restaurants serving international cuisine. For traditional Italian seafood and pizza, head to North End, the city's oldest neighbourhood (also known as Little Italy) and for authentic Chinese delicacies, head to Boston's Chinatown.

Boston - Logan International Airport BOS. Boston - Logan International Airport BOS is located four miles (6km) northeast of Boston.

Airport Transport and Shuttle Services:
Boston Logan Airport is located; approximately 3-5 miles from downtown Boston, depending on the neighbourhood you are travelling to or from. Transportation to downtown Boston includes Buses, train/bus mix and taxis. Regular bus and underground services to the city centre are provided by the Massachusetts Bay Transport Authority.
Boston Airport Bus: Silver Line stops at every terminal at Boston Logan Airport and provides a rapid transit bus service to South Station in downtown Boston’s financial district. The Silver Line SL1 runs from approximately 5:30AM to 12:30AM every day of the week.

Boston Taxis: Taxis are available from the arrival levels at all airport terminals; journey time to downtown Boston is approximately 20-25 minutes.

Car Hire: All major car rental companies are represented at Boston BOS airport, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt.