Boston 3-Day Itinerary

Boston is compact enough to see its highlights in three days without rushing, mostly on foot. Wear comfortable shoes and use the T for the longer hops.

Day 1: The Freedom Trail and the North End

Start at Boston Common in the morning and follow our Freedom Trail route through downtown to Faneuil Hall. Have lunch in the North End, with a cannoli to follow, then continue to Paul Revere's house and Old North Church. In the afternoon, cross to Charlestown for USS Constitution, and take the ferry back across the harbour. Dinner on the Waterfront or back in the North End.

Day 2: Beacon Hill, Back Bay and the museums

Walk Beacon Hill early, before the crowds, then cross the Public Garden (take a swan boat in season) to Back Bay. See the Boston Public Library and Trinity Church in Copley Square, and stroll along Newbury Street. In the afternoon, visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum or the Museum of Fine Arts. If the Red Sox are at home, finish with a game at Fenway Park. If not, walk the Esplanade at sunset.

Day 3: Cambridge

Take the Red Line to Harvard Square and follow our Cambridge guide: Harvard Yard and a museum in the morning, lunch in the Square, MIT in the afternoon. Walk back over the Harvard Bridge to Back Bay, with the skyline in front of you.

With more time

Add a harbour islands trip in summer, the Seaport and the Institute of Contemporary Art, or a day trip to Salem or Concord.