Leave the energy of New York behind and head for Boston, a historic city where every street tells the story of a chapter in the history of the United States. The good news is that the journey is simple, fast and full of options, perfect for a day trip, a weekend away or a cultural interlude between two stops on the East Coast. The red bricks of Beacon Hill, the breath of the Freedom Trail, the legendary universities of Harvard and MIT, the flavors of Quincy Market and the sea air of the Seaport District.
How do I get from New York to Boston?
Connecting New York and Boston has never been so convenient: train, bus, rental car or direct flight from New York’s main airports. Choose according to your budget, your tolerance of traffic and the time you have available: each option has its advantages for your city break on the Atlantic coast of Massachusetts.
By train: Amtrak
Journey time: approx. 4 hours
Price: from €50 (one way) https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Advantages: comfort, optimum speed, spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson and along the coast.
Disadvantages: higher price than the bus.
The trains depart from Penn Station in the heart of Manhattan and arrive at South Station in the center of Boston, close to the Financial District, Chinatown and the Seaport, perfect for exploring the city on foot. The trains offer spacious seats, free Wi-Fi and on-board catering.
By bus: FlixBus, Greyhound
Bus companies are the cheapest way to get from New York to Boston. FlixBus and Greyhound offer several daily options.
Price: from €20 (one-way)
Advantages: very economical, several departures a day, central terminal
Disadvantages: less comfortable than the train, longer journey depending on traffic conditions
Buses mainly depart from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan and arrive at South Station in Boston.
By car: rental car
The route between New York and Boston viaInterstate 95 offers total freedom to explore. This option allows you to discover New England at your own pace.
Journey time: around 4 to 5 hours (not including breaks)
Price: varies according to hire, gas and tolls
https://discovercars.com
Advantages: complete freedom, chance to make scenic stops along the way
Disadvantages: higher cost of gas and tolls, driver fatigue, difficult parking in Boston
The total distance is approximately 350 km. Bear in mind that parking in Boston can be expensive and complex.
By plane: direct flights
The fastest way to reach Boston from New York airports (JFK, LaGuardia, Newark) is by plane.
Journey time: approximately 1 hour
Price: from €80 (one-way)
Advantages: speed, ideal for short breaks
Disadvantages: high cost, waiting time at airports, extra charges
Boston‘s Logan International Airport handles all flights from New York.
What is the best means of transport?
The choice between train, bus, plane or car depends on your priorities:
- If you want to enjoy the journey in optimum comfort, Amtrak is unbeatable.
- If you’re on a tight budget, the bus is the cheapest option.
- If you like to drive and discover places en route, the car is perfect.
- If time is of the essence, flying is the fastest option.
Practical information and advice
Ticket reservations
Book your tickets early, especially in spring, summer and during matches at Fenway Park or TD Garden. Compare the official websites, read the conditions page and check which lines (e.g. Green Line MBTA) serve your hotel. Remember to record your proof of travel on your phone (a useful link in English, French or Spanish is often provided by the operator).
New York airports (JFK, LaGuardia, Newark)
JFK and LaGuardia are convenient if you are staying in NYC (Midtown). Newark (NJ) sometimes simplifies early/late schedules. Tip: some services from Newark offer competitive fares to Logan International Airport in Boston. New York NY is a major city: leaving from the right airport reduces the door-to-door journey.
Penn Station (New York) and South Station (Boston)
Penn Station, located in New York’s Midtown district, is served by several metro lines, making it easily accessible from most neighborhoods. It is just a short walk from the famous Madison Square Garden.
In Boston, the terminal is centrally located, ideal for quick access to areas such as Seaport, Downtown, North End and Back Bay. The station offers clear signage, numerous food and beverage outlets, luggage lockers and various passenger services, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the city.
Tips for a pleasant journey
- Aim for very early departures to ‘save’ half a day in Boston. Dress in layers (the weather changes quickly near the port).
- Download an offline map (useful in some buildings).
- MBTA tip: the CharlieCard makes it easier to get around on the metro (lines: Green, Red, Blue, etc.).
- Itineraries on foot: Freedom Trail, Common, Public Garden, Back Bay, Fenway Park.
What to do in Boston
Boston is a treasure trove of American history and cultural attractions that will appeal to all visitors from New York.
Historical sites not to be missed
The Freedom Trail is Boston’s star attraction. This 4km route, marked on the ground with a red line, links 16 major historic sites, including the Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, the Old State House and the site of the Boston Tea Party. Allow 2 to 3 hours to complete the trail.
The USS Constitution, nicknamed “Old Ironsides”, is the oldest warship still afloat. Moored in the Charlestown Navy Yard, she offers fascinating free guided tours.
Prestigious universities
Harvard University in Cambridge is the most famous university in the United States. A visit to the campus is a must, especially Harvard Yard and the prestigious Widener Library. The neighboring MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) is also worth a visit for its technological innovations.
Emblematic districts
Beacon Hill charms with its Victorian red-brick houses and cobbled streets. Acorn Street is one of the most photographed streets in America. The North End, a historic Italian quarter, is home to excellent restaurants and the Old North Church.
Back Bay has an enchanting Victorian architecture and Newbury Street is a shopper’s paradise. Don’t miss Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library, architectural gems in their own right.
Museums and culture
The Museum of Fine Arts boasts an exceptional collection of world art. The Museum of Science fascinates visitors with its interactive exhibitions and planetarium. The Boston Aquarium presents over 20,000 marine animals in a spectacular setting.
Parks and green spaces
Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States, offers a green oasis in the heart of the city. In winter, the ice rink becomes a magical place. The adjacent Public Gardens are home to the famous swan boats and magnificent botanical gardens.
Recommended routes in Boston
1-day itinerary: express but intense discovery
If you arrive early in the morning from New York, for example on an Amtrak train or direct bus, this itinerary will allow you to see most of Boston in a limited time.
Morning: delve into history
Start at South Station and walk to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in the USA. From there, follow the Freedom Trail, the red brick line on the ground that links 16 historic sites. You will pass the Massachusetts State House (magnificent golden dome), then the Granary Burying Ground, where major figures of the American Revolution are buried. Continue on to Old South Meeting House and Old State House, before reaching Faneuil Hall, nicknamed the “Cradle of Liberty”.
Lunch: local flavours
A stone’s throw away, explore Quincy Market. It’s the perfect place for a quick lunch: steaming clam chowder, buttery lobster rolls or Italian dishes from the North End.
Afternoon: iconic neighborhoods
Walk to the North End, Boston’s “Little Italy”, and visit the Old North Church. Then take the metro or walk to Back Bay. Admire the elegant architecture, stroll along Newbury Street for its boutiques and galleries.
Evening: maritime ambience
Finish in the Seaport District: sunset over the harbour, dinner in a seafood restaurant, then return to South Station for your journey back to New York.
2-day itinerary: culture, neighborhoods and campus
With two days, you’ll have more time to alternate between historic sites, museums and local life.
Day 1: History and architecture
Repeat the stages of the 1-day programme to get to grips with the great classics. Spend more time on Beacon Hill exploring Acorn Street, Louisburg Square and the Victorian houses. Enjoy a café on the terrace to observe the rhythm of the city. At the end of the day, stroll through the Public Garden and why not take in a match or concert at the TD Garden.
Day 2: University spirit and culture
Cross the Charles River by metro (Red Line) to reach Cambridge. Visit Harvard Yard, the Widener Library and Harvard Square for its bookshops and cafés. Continue on to MIT to admire its modern architecture and scientific facilities.
Return to Boston in the afternoon to explore the Museum of Fine Arts or theIsabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Finish with dinner in the South End, renowned for its creative restaurants and galleries.
3-day itinerary: in-depth exploration
Three days offer the chance to combine heritage, culture, nature and gastronomy.
Day 1: the classics
The same itinerary as the 1-day itinerary, but taking more time at each stage, with interior visits (e.g. Old State House Museum).
Day 2: Museums and lively districts
Morning at the Museum of Fine Arts: European painting, Asian art and American collections. Then on to theIsabella Stewart Gardner Museum, which resembles a Venetian palace. Afternoon in the Seaport District for the Harborwalk and theInstitute of Contemporary Art.
Day 3: Escapades and relaxation
Take a cruise to the Boston Harbor Islands (in summer), or take a trip to Salem to delve into the history of New England witches. On your return, explore the North End in the late afternoon, then treat yourself to a last typical dinner before your departure.
Organised tours from New York
Several companies offer organised tours from New York to Boston, perfect for travellers who prefer not to deal with the logistics.
Day tours
These tours generally depart early in the morning (around 7am) from Manhattan and return in the evening (around 9pm). Transport is by air-conditioned bus, with an English-speaking guide available depending on the tour. Prices range from €120 to €180 per person.
Typical program: Freedom Trail, Harvard University, Beacon Hill, free time at Quincy Market. Some tours include a Boston Harbour cruise.
2-day tour
These packages include an overnight stay in a Boston hotel and allow for more in-depth exploration. Prices generally range from €250 to €400 per person, depending on hotel category.
- Advantages of organised tours: transport included, guide, time optimised, group, etc
- Disadvantages: less freedom, fast pace, compulsory sites
Booking tours
Book your organised tours with reputable agencies in New York or directly from France before your trip. Tours generally depart from Times Square or Union Square.
Where to stay in Boston
Back Bay: central, elegant, practical
Ideal for a first stay: close to Copley Square, Newbury Street, Public Garden. Variety of hotels (from boutique to big-name), easy access to MBTA lines, pleasant walk. Tip: book early, more expensive rates on event weekends.
Not far from Back Bay and right next to Fenway Park, I recommend The Verb. The rooms are spacious, the beds comfortable and the prices very reasonable. You do have to book in advance, but the icing on the cake is that the restaurant next door is great! Here are a few photos and if you want to see more, click here:
The Verb Hotel.
Downtown & Financial District
Perfect for walking to the Freedom Trail and Faneuil Hall. A good choice if you arrive at Boston station. Tip: during the week, good deals; at weekends, look for “business-empty” offers.
Beacon Hill & West End
Postcard guaranteed on Beacon Hill. West End puts you right next to the TD Garden. Chic residential atmosphere, quiet alleyways, photogenic staircases. Golden rule: small establishments, sometimes expensive, but a unique experience.
South End
Artsy vibe & top restaurants, galleries, brunches, brownstones. Less touristy, more local. Tip: aim for a hotel near an MBTA station to cut journey times.
Seaport District
New district with sea views, museums, restaurants, Harborwalk. Good for a modern stay with high-end services. Reminder: close to Boston train station; perfect after an Amtrak.
North End & Waterfront
Italian soul, gourmet addresses, proximity to the port. Historic charm and access on foot to the Freedom Trail. Tip: some historic establishments have limited rooms, so book ahead.
Cambridge (for the campus spirit)
Facing the skyline, next to Harvard Square and MIT. Excellent for conferences, university visits and quieter breaks. Note: hotels can be expensive, but excellent transport links (Red Line) and a student atmosphere make it ideal for gentle travel.
History, culture, seasons & events
Historical landmarks
From the Boston Tea Party to the Massachusetts State -house, Boston embodies the Revolution. Each district reflects an “American” aspect: North End (Italian heritage), Back Bay (19th-century urbanism), Seaport (renewal). Tip: guided tours available in English, French and Spanish.
When should you come to Boston?
- Spring and autumn: mild weather, sumptuous foliage.
- Summer: outdoor festivals, terraces.
- Winter: cold light, museums, skating, end-of-year markets. Tip: take advantage of extended hours in summer.
Major events
MLB season at Fenway Park, NBA/NHL at TD Garden, marathons, Head of the Charles. Book your tickets early; early departures from New York maximise your time on site.
Boston gastronomy: eating smart (and good)
Clam chowder, lobster roll, baked beans, oysters: classics to try. Quincy Market and Boston Public Market offer a wide choice. Make a reservation for popular addresses (weekends and high season).
Frequently asked questions
The distance between New York and Boston is approximately 350 km by road.
One day is enough to see the main sights of Boston, but two days will allow you to explore this historic city and its surrounding areas, such as Cambridge, in greater depth.
Back Bay for elegance, Downtown for easy walking, Seaport for views, South End for arty, North End for charm, Cambridge for Harvard. Book early, compare prices, target an MBTA station near your address to go everywhere.
Early start, arrival Boston South, Freedom Trail Quincy Market, Back Bay and Public Garden, dinner at Seaport, late return. Fast, but ultra cost-effective if you want to see the essentials.
Where can you find out more about Boston?
Boston‘s official tourist office has a comprehensive website with details of attractions, hotels and events. French travel guides also offer excellent practical information for organizing your trip from New York.
Boston awaits you for an unforgettable escapade into American history!
