About Boston
Boston sits on a compact stretch of the New England coast. The Freedom Trail links colonial and revolutionary sites from Boston Common through the North End to the Old North Church. Back Bay and Beacon Hill hold brick rowhouses, and Harvard and MIT lie across the river in Cambridge.
The city suits history-focused trips and autumn travel. Short stays cover the downtown sites and waterfront. Longer visits add drives into Vermont, New Hampshire, and the Berkshires, when fall foliage peaks from late September to October.
Why travelers love it
Top attractions
2 Boston itineraries
Boston questions
Is 3 days enough for Boston?
Three days covers the main historic sites and gardens. Walk or use the subway to move between locations.
Do I need to book The Breakers ahead?
Yes, buy tickets online before arrival. Online tickets save time at the entrance on busy days.
How long is the drive from Boston to Portland?
The drive takes two hours on I-95. Rent a car in Boston for the full route to Newport.
Do I need reservations for the Casco Bay ferry?
No advance booking is required for Casco Bay Lines. Buy tickets at the Portland terminal; fares vary by island.
Is 3 days enough for Boston, Portland, and Newport?
Three days works if you drive between cities each morning and limit each stop to a few hours. Allow about two hours from Boston to Portland and about three hours from Portland to Newport.
How long does it take to drive from Boston to Portland?
The drive takes two to two and a half hours via I-95. Leave early to avoid Boston morning traffic and Portland afternoon rush.