Where to Stay in Boston: A Neighbourhood Guide

Boston is small, so almost anywhere central works, and most first-timers never need more than a few rides on the T. The choice is really about atmosphere, and about price, since Boston's hotels are among the most expensive in the country.

Back Bay

Our pick for a first visit. Victorian brownstones along Commonwealth Avenue, the shops of Newbury Street, the Public Library and the Public Garden on its edge, with Amtrak trains stopping at Back Bay station. Central, safe and handsome, with hotels from grand to boutique.

Beacon Hill

The most beautiful neighbourhood in the city, and a short walk from the Common and the Freedom Trail. Few hotels, and the steep brick lanes aren't much fun with heavy bags, but Charles Street at the bottom is full of cafés and antique shops.

Downtown and the Waterfront

The Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, the aquarium and the harbour are on the doorstep, and the Blue Line runs to the airport. Busy by day, quieter at night. Harbour-view rooms are the treat.

The North End

Italian bakeries, tiny restaurants and narrow streets, with very few hotels. Characterful and noisy at night. Better for dinner than for sleeping.

The Seaport

A new district of glass towers, restaurants and rooftop bars on the south side of the harbour, with big modern hotels and the Institute of Contemporary Art. Convenient for the Silver Line to the airport, but it lacks old Boston's character.

Cambridge

Hotels around Harvard Square and Kendall Square can be cheaper than central Boston, and the Red Line takes about fifteen minutes to downtown. A good choice if you're visiting the universities or want a livelier student feel. See our Cambridge guide.

Our getting there guide explains the airport links for each area.

Staying for a concert at TD Garden

TD Garden, Boston's main arena for big touring acts, sits on top of North Station, so the Orange and Green Lines and the commuter rail stop underneath it. Hotels in the West End or on the edge of the North End put you a short walk from the doors, which matters when the crowd pours out late at night. Journey play TD Garden on 10 November 2026 on their Final Frontier farewell tour; our tour cities guide covers every stop.