Boston flights and travel guide

One of the oldest cities in America, Boston has historic sites dating back to the Revolutionary War.  There are colonial buildings downtown, brownstones in Beacon Hill and Back Bay and preserved mansions now housing museums or shops. But though this is arguably one of the most historical and cultural cities in the US, it is far from a museum. Modern skyscrapers stretch up into the skyline; it is a leading medical, high-tech and financial centre with more than 40 institutions of higher learning and also great shopping.

As tourists discover almost immediately on alighting from their flights to Boston, this is a great city for walking. Wander through Boston Common, where late night concerts and plays often take place in the summer months. Or follow the Freedom Trail past some of the town’s most famous buildings to take in an overview of what is on offer.

Search and compare: cheap flights to Boston

Back to top

Boston climate

Boston has four distinct seasons: winter, spring, summer and fall. Winter can be extremely cold, with plenty of snow and freezing temperatures. This is the perfect time to find a cheap flight to Boston though, if you can endure the weather once you arrive. Spring and fall are generally warm with some rain. If you arrive during the fall, hire a car and visit New England for the changing colours. During the summer the weather is hot and the city can often feel a bit crowded.

Back to top

When to fly to Boston

Peak Season:

The best time to fly to Boston can be the spring and fall months. The weather is perfect, the city is in full swing and most of the tourists have gone home. You might not get the cheapest flight to Boston during this time, but you'll be experiencing the city at its best.

Off Season:

Boston gets cold in the winter, but if you're looking for cheap flights to Boston, travelling in the winter is your best bet.

Back to top

Getting downtown Boston

The Massachusetts Bay Transport Authority (The ‘T’) provides regular bus and subway services to the city. Taxis are available outside all terminals; the trip to downtown Boston is quick and costs at minimum $15-$25, depending on where you're headed and how long you sit in traffic.

Back to top

Getting around Boston

Boston has plenty of ways to get around, including the world’s oldest subway system, buses, trolley buses, ferries and commuter rail. The quickest, easiest and safest way to travel around Boston and Cambridge is the subway, the “T.” The subway will get you almost anywhere, and while the bus is cheaper, it can be much more confusing. Both the bus and subway run from 5am to 12:30am. A Night Owl bus service now runs until 2:30am on Friday and Saturday nights. It’s easiest to get a travel pass for getting around, since different types of transportation require different tokens. Taxis are easy to find but can be costly. Don’t bother renting a car, unless you’re planning to go outside the city. Traffic can be a nightmare. Most rental agencies rent to drivers age 25 and up. Those drivers ages 21 to 24 will have to pay an extra surcharge.

Back to top

Boston insider information

• The Boston Common (the Common) is the anchor for the Emerald Necklace, five parks spread over 1000 acres and five miles. The Necklace is the only remaining intact linear park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr. Next to the Common is the Public Garden, the country’s first public botanical garden. Within this, the lake is an especially pleasant spot to sit on a sunny day. Swan-shaped boats float past, families play and trees around the edges provide dappled shade.
• Walking the Freedom Trail takes you to 16 historic sites (only a few of which charge admission), including the site of the Boston Massacre, Paul Revere House, Black Heritage Trail, Old North Church, and USS Constitution. The two and a half-mile walk can be done as a self-guided tour or with a tour guide dressed in period costume.
• Bostonians are fervent sports fans. Some consider seeing the Red Sox at a night game at Fenway Park to be a spiritual experience. If you plan to go to a game while you’re in town, it’s a good idea to get your tickets online before you arrive.
• A Boston CityPass will get you to the head of the line at several of the more popular attractions, and, if you’re planning on using the T, a Boston Visitor Pass may save you money too. Another option is the comprehensive Go Boston Card that includes attraction, transportation, dining, and shopping discounts. You can purchase the passes online or at Boston locations specified on the respective web site.

Back to top

Boston airports

The main airport for travellers taking flights to Boston is:

Boston - Logan International Airport (BOS)

The airport is situated four miles northeast of Boston.

Back to top