Whether you come for the US revolutionary history, the esteemed institutions better education or perhaps a tasty lobster roll, spending an ideal weekend in Boston is always within reach.
Friday
Evening
Begin your explorations at Boston Common, an intersection of neighborhoods both contemporary and historic. The Massachusetts State House towers within the Common in the northeast corner; fountains and statues dot the park; and Bostonians bustle to and fro. From here, it's a one-mile walk to your dining destination, following a Freedom Trail.
This red-brick path passes some of the landmarks from the colonists' fight for independence from the British crown. Search for the Granary Burying Ground, the ultimate resting host to many revolutionary heroes; the Old South Meeting House, where rabble-rousers instigated the Boston Tea Party; and also the Old State House, site of the 'Boston Massacre,' the very first violent skirmish of the revolution. Faneuil Hall may be the 18th-century meeting and market place that's now the center of Boston tourism action.
Stroll over the North End Park and into the eponymous neighborhood, in which the sounds and scents of Italy drift with the doorways. Boston's Italian heritage will tantalize your senses as you wander with the streets crammed with restaurants, bakeries and cafes. Join the road to have an affordable feast at Giacomo's Ristorante or make a booking for an intimate affair at Pomodoro. The grand finale is cannoli from Modern Pastry Shop.
Saturday
Morning
Rise and shine and learn the best way to see Boston is on two wheels. Rent a motorcycle at Urban Adventours or Blue Bikes. Pedal across the Charles River Esplanade for flowering trees and shady paths. Or cross towards the north side of the river (Cambridge) for views over the city and academic ambiance. Across the Charles River Bike Path, it comes down to 5 miles one way to Harvard Square.
You'll ride beyond the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where one can stop to tour the campus's impressive assortment of modern architecture and public art. Or, continue two miles west to Harvard Square look around the original Ivy League institution, not to mention the bookstores, record shops, clubs and cafes that fill the streets around it. The options for refreshment are all around, including Café Pamplona in Harvard Sq and Roxy's Grilled Cheese near MIT.
Afternoon
Head back downtown over time to hop on a brand new England Aquarium Whale Watch (last boat leaves at noon, 2:30pm or 5:30pm with respect to the season; reserve ahead of time). Feel the ocean breeze and relish the scenery as you journey out to Stellwagen Bank, an abundant feeding ground for marine mammals and birds. Onboard naturalists point out humpbacks, finbacks, minkes, pilot whales and right whales, in addition to dolphins, sharks and much more. Whale sightings are guaranteed.
Evening
Debarking from the cruise at Central Wharf, you're perfectly placed for any stroll along the Rose Kennedy Greenway, a strip of manicured parkland that snakes through downtown Boston. Take a ride on the Carousel, cool-down in the Rings Fountain and admire the lush gardens and eclectic art, while you go to the Seaport District.
This seaside neighborhood was the old fishing district, centered on gritty Fisherman's Wharf. It's been snazzied-up recently, but it is still the best place to sample the city's freshest seafood. Here is your chance to slurp some oysters, savor some chowder or devour a lobster roll. You'll find an array of options for waterfront dining or rooftop drinking; we love to Legal Harborside or Barking Crab for that former, Lookout Rooftop Bar or Trillium Fort Point for that latter. The great views from the Boston Harbor and city skyline are hard to beat.
Sunday
Morning
Reserve a table for Sunday jazz brunch in the Beehive. Feast on decadent food like eggs shakshuka (poached eggs with tomatoes, peppers and spices). Sip a concoction in the Bellini bar. And revel in music thanks to faculty and students from the local Berklee School of Music.
Afternoon
After brunch, stroll through the South End, admiring the Victorian row houses and English gardens. South of Washington St, residential changes to post-industrial. Now referred to as SoWa, this really is Boston's vibrant art district, crammed with studios and galleries and – every sunday – a huge art market. SoWa Open Marketplace is the city's largest gathering spot for makers of all, and you'll find everything from handmade jewelry and designer clothing to artisanal soaps and pottery. Before you to get a one-of-a-kind souvenir to keep in mind your weekend in quirky, creative Boston.
Where to Stay
The Revolution Hotel provides a new concept in affordable lodging. The guest rooms are small but fresh, and furnished with fluffy pillows, quality linens and high-tech gadgetry. Shared bathrooms are spotless, and well stocked with plush towels and high-end toiletries. (En suite bathrooms can also be found.) Art-filled common spaces and also the South End location make this place a fantastic alternative for the budget-conscious traveler.
Alternatively, go upscale at No 284, a boutique hotel housed in a Back Bay brownstone. Luxurious amenities, original art and contemporary design are great complements for this classy location on Commonwealth Ave.
How to obtain there
Logan International Airport is 15-20 minutes from downtown Boston. The disposable Silver Line bus takes passengers to South Station, where the T (Boston's metro system, $2.40 to $2.90) goes almost any place in Boston. Alternatively, a free airport shuttle bus takes passengers towards the Airport T-station.
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