Where to Stay in Boston, Massachusetts: 7 Areas and Hotels

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Planning a trip to Boston and not sure where to stay? We’ve got you covered.

Boston is one of the most historic cities in the US, and it boasts lots of charming neighborhoods, each of which has its own personality.  But with so many areas packed into this compact city, choosing the right one can really shape your experience! 

We’ve been fortunate enough to take several trips to Boston and have explored its best neighborhoods from top to bottom. Now, we’ve written a guide to the seven best neighborhoods in the city to help you find your perfect fit, whether you’re a first-timer, a foodie, or looking for a local vibe. Let’s go!

Where To Stay In Boston Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Boston

Boston is a compact city, but it’s also got a ton of personality, so each neighborhood has its own distinct character. And Boston is pricey, so if you’re going to spend a lot, then you should definitely stay in an area you love! 

It’s definitely worth picking a location that gives you easy access to everything you want to see and do. Areas like Back Bay, Downtown, and the North End are walkable and packed with sights, while spots like the South End or Seaport offer a more local, laid-back vibe.

The good news is that all the best neighborhoods are central and well connected by Boston’s public transport system, the “T,” so you won’t need a car. And honestly, you won’t want one because the traffic here is a headache and a half, and parking is a real pain.

• Back Bay – This safe and central area is ideal for first-time visitors, as it’s close to everything and features gorgeous architecture. Copley Square Hotel is a stylish and well-priced option in the heart of the neighborhood. Book Copley Square Hotel on Booking.com or Expedia.

• North End/West End – The North End is home to Boston’s top historic landmarks, but there are far more hotel options in the neighboring West End, and both areas are expensive! The Boxer is our favorite hotel around here, and it’s in the heart of all the action. Book The Boxer on Booking.com or Expedia.

• Downtown Boston – This area is close to Faneuil Hall and Chinatown, so it’s amazing for foodies, and it’s within walking distance of the North End’s historic attractions. The Godfrey Hotel Boston is a modern and comfortable stay right in the center. Book The Godfrey Hotel Boston on Booking.com or Expedia.

• South End – Another great pick for foodies, South End is known for its top-notch restaurants as well as its indie shops and artsy vibes. The Revolution Hotel is a fun and central place to stay. Book The Revolution Hotel on Booking.com or Expedia.

• Beacon Hill – This is one of Boston’s oldest and prettiest neighborhoods, with cobblestone streets and elegant row houses. The Whitney Hotel Boston offers a sleek and cozy stay in a charming setting. Book The Whitney Hotel Boston on Booking.com or Expedia.

• Seaport – Boston’s modern waterfront is home to great restaurants, swanky rooftop bars, and interesting museums, so we think it’s perfect for repeat visitors wanting something fresh. Seaport Hotel® Boston delivers comfort, great views, and easy access to the harbor. Book Seaport Hotel® Boston on Booking.com or Expedia.

• Fenway-Kenmore – This area is best known for the famous Fenway Park stadium, and it’s a student-heavy area with a lively energy. citizenM Boston Back Bay is a reasonably priced but glossy hotel in a great location. Book citizenM Boston Back Bay on Booking.com or Expedia.

Where to Stay in Boston 

Back Bay

Back Bay is one of the best places to stay in Boston, especially if it’s your first time visiting! It’s central, elegant, and packed with beautiful architecture, including the iconic brownstones that line Commonwealth Avenue.

We love staying in Back Bay because it puts you close to major attractions like Copley Square, the Boston Public Library, and Newbury Street, which is a hotspot for shopping and cafés.

This area is perfect for travelers who want a mix of history, style, and convenience. It’s also one of the most walkable parts of the city, and it offers easy access to the “T” (Boston’s subway system). From here, you can get almost anywhere without needing a car, which is a HUGE bonus considering how tough Boston traffic and parking can be.

Back Bay has a slightly upscale feel, but there are hotel options across all price ranges. The city of Boston is generally known to have a distaste for chain stores and restaurants, but we noticed that there are quite a few of them around here, although for non-US visitors, this might actually be a plus! It’s also generally safe, clean, and well-lit, so it’s a great choice for solo travelers or families.

Pros

• Central, safe, and very walkable
• Close to major attractions, shopping, and restaurants
  

Cons

• Can be pricey, especially in peak season
• More commercial feel 

The Westin Copley Place – $$$

The Westin Copley Place is a sleek, modern hotel located right in Copley Square. If you’ve got the budget for it, we think it’s an ideal place to stay because it offers four-star comfort in the heart of the city. It really doesn’t get any more central than this! 

You’ll be steps away from Newbury Street, the Boston Public Library, and Prudential Center shopping. Meanwhile, the rooms are spacious and many offer stunning views of the Charles River or the Back Bay skyline. There’s also a well-equipped fitness center, a full-service spa, and several on-site dining options. 

Rooms typically cost between $550 and $900 USD per night during peak season.

Copley Square Hotel – $$

Copley Square Hotel offers a boutique stay in the heart of Back Bay without the luxury price tag. It’s been around since 1891, but has been beautifully updated, so it keeps its historic charm, but it offers modern comfort. And in terms of location, you can’t really beat it because it’s just steps from the Copley T stop and walking distance to all the Back Bay highlights.

We love the rooms here because they’re cozy and well-designed, with a warm, stylish vibe. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of a large hotel, it’s a great mid-range option that puts you close to everything. Rates usually fall between $150 and $550 USD per night.

Copley House – $

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in Back Bay, Copley House is a great option. This charming guesthouse-style property offers furnished apartments with kitchenettes, making it ideal prefer a bit more space and independence.

Some units even have separate living areas, which makes longer stays more comfortable. We also found it helpful to have a kitchenette for easy breakfasts or late-night snacks. The location is quiet and residential but it’s still within walking distance of Newbury Street, Prudential Center, and the T.

It’s not a luxury hotel, but it’s clean, comfortable, and great value for such a central location. Rates typically range from $250 to $400 USD per night, depending on the season.

North End/West End

The North End is one of Boston’s oldest and most iconic neighborhoods. It’s perfect for history lovers, foodies, and anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the city’s colonial past. This is where you’ll find the Freedom Trail, Paul Revere’s House, and Old North Church, and they’re all within walking distance of one another.

We also love this area because it’s the heart of Boston’s Italian community, so expect amazing pastries, fresh pasta, and cozy trattorias around every corner. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it! 

That said, hotel options in the North End are limited. If you want to stay close without splurging, the neighboring West End offers more choices. The West End sits right by TD Garden and it’s a quick walk from the historic sites in the North End, while also being convenient to Beacon Hill and downtown. It’s very walkable and it’s well-connected by public transport, so it truly is perfectly located.

This area will really suit you if you want to dive into Boston’s rich history and enjoy some of its best food and don’t mind the higher price tag. Just know it’s not the quietest corner of the city, and you’ll need to book well in advance to get the best places to stay.

Pros

• Lots of history
• Amazing Italian food
• Great location close to top attractions and the waterfront

Cons

• Fewer hotels in the North End itself
• Can be busy, especially on weekends

Boston Harbor Hotel – $$$

If you’re after a luxurious waterfront stay, Boston Harbor Hotel is hard to beat! It’s located right on Rowes Wharf, and it has that classic East Coast character. It’s refined with sweeping staircases and marble bathrooms, and a tasteful color scheme.

It offers excellent harbor views, and it’s just a short walk from the North End and Downtown, so the location is ideal. There’s also an indoor pool, full-service spa, and upscale dining on-site, so you can really relax and unwind here.

If you’re looking to treat yourself, then we think that the Boston Harbor Hotel is a splurge-worthy pick. King rooms here cost between $600 and $1,100 USD per night.

The Boxer – $$

The Boxer is a stylish boutique hotel in the West End. This is one of our favorite hotels in the city because it has an industrial-chic vibe and lots of personality. It’s also right near TD Garden, so it’s great if you want to catch a hockey game while you’re in town! 

This hotel is just a short walk from T stations, so it’s a really convenient base for exploring Boston. It offers charm, convenience, and it’s well-priced for this part of the city, so we think it’s a solid pick. Standard rooms here generally cost between $300 and $500 USD per night, and king rooms and suites are also available.

Hotel Indigo Boston Garden – $$

Hotel Indigo is directly across from TD Garden, making it a great choice for sports fans or anyone catching a concert. It’s clean and contemporary, and there’s even a small fitness center and a bar on site, so you’ve got everything you need. It’s just a short walk from the North End, and there are three different T stations nearby.

If you want to be in a central spot with easy access to multiple neighborhoods, then we think that this one ticks all the boxes. Rooms here typically cost between $275 and $450 USD per night, depending on the room type and season.

Downtown Boston

Downtown Boston itself is pretty compact, but it actually comprises a number of smaller neighborhoods: Downtown itself, the Financial District, the Theater District, Chinatown, the Waterfront, and the Leather District (yes, really!) 

As you can imagine, this area is a very dynamic mix of history and culture. There’s a fun, modern energy around here, and this bustling district is full of things to do. I mean, this is where you’ll find the iconic Freedom Trail, which weaves through sites such as the Old State House, Boston Common, and Faneuil Hall Marketplace. You won’t get bored around here!

We also enjoyed checking out the Institute of Contemporary Art and catching shows at the various theatres dotted around when we stayed here. We really loved the nightlife, too, as there are lots of fun bars around here.

The area is well-connected by public transport, too, so it’s really easy to explore the surrounding areas. It’s close to the North End/West End Area, and you can get to Back Bay on the T in just 20 minutes.

Downtown has got a little bit of everything, from a diverse food scene to waterfront views. I think everyone can find something to love around here!

Pros

• Home to many major attractions
• Convenient location with easy access to public transport
• Rich history and culture

Cons

• Can be busy and touristy 
• Expensive hotel prices 

Hyatt Centric Faneuil Hall Boston – $$$ 

As you can probably guess from the name, Hyatt Centric Faneuil Hall Boston is right next to Faneuil Hall, so you’ve got the city’s best food right on your doorstep. The Freedom Trail and the Financial District are also right nearby! 

Other than a stellar location, the hotel boasts sleek rooms, and we love the on-site restaurant, Bar Mercato. There’s a very generous cancellation policy, too, which allows you to stay flexible right up until the day before you travel.

Rooms here can cost anywhere between $300 and $800 USD per night, depending on when you want to stay.

The Godfrey Hotel Boston – $$ 

The Godfrey Hotel Boston is a chic boutique hotel in Downtown Crossing, known for its stylish design and excellent service. It’s great for travelers who want a chic stay near Boston Common and the Theatre District. The rooms feel modern and polished, with floor-to-ceiling windows and plush beds that make relaxing easy.

We also love the on-site bar, which serves up cool and creative drinks—in fact, it’s worth stopping by for one even if you don’t stay here! Meanwhile, RUKA, the Japanese-Peruvian restaurant, is both unique and stylish. You can expect to pay between $400 and $600 USD per night for a king room at The Godfrey.

Found Hotel Boston Common – $ 

Found Hotel Boston Common offers a budget-friendly stay in the Theatre District—well, by Boston’s standards, anyway! It’s clean and modern with compact but cozy rooms and friendly staff who can help you with anything you need. 

There are double, queen, and double queen rooms available here. The latter is a great choice for groups! You can also save money by staying in a four-bed mixed dormitory. 

Dorm beds typically cost around $75 USD per night, while double rooms cost between $200 and $450 USD per night.

South End 

Boston’s South End is a charming, historic neighborhood known for its Victorian brownstones, vibrant arts scene, and diverse community. It’s one of the city’s most interesting areas, and there’s always something unique waiting around the corner for you! 

The South End is home to the SoWa Art + Design District, which features a ton of art galleries and studios as well as the SoWa Open Market during the summer. This is an awesome place to shop for arts and crafts and sample some delicious local foods. 

The Open Market is just one reason why this neighborhood is known as a culinary hotspot. It boasts some of Boston’s best restaurants, and it also has lots of cozy cafés and lively bars. Tremont Street and Columbus Avenue, in particular, are lined with award-winning eateries. 

South End was originally built on a landfill back in the 19th century. It has been home to many different communities, from Ireland and Eastern Europe to Jamaica and Barbados, so it boasts a rich and diverse culture.

Whether you’re strolling through its tree-lined streets, admiring its hidden gardens, or enjoying a night out, the South End offers a fun and lively energy that’s hard to resist.

Pros

• Beautiful architecture
• Fantastic food scene
• Diverse and artistic area

Cons

• Fewer hotel options than Downtown and Back Bay
• Dining and accommodation can be pricey

Good Hotels Boston – $$$

Good Hotels Boston offers guests the chance to stay in one of the South End’s historic brownstones! The studio apartments here made us feel like we had bagged our own nice South End apartment – if only for a few days. We loved a taste of what local life is like in Boston, and we were right in the middle of everything that the South End had to offer.

Plus, there are multiple public transport stops just 5–10 minutes’ walk from the property, so it’s a convenient base to explore Boston’s other areas, too. Studio apartments here start between $300 and $700 per night, depending on the season.

The Revolution Hotel – $$

The Revolution Hotel is a trendy yet (relatively) wallet-friendly boutique hotel. It’s perfect for anyone who prefers to stay in properties with charm and character over big chain hotels! It offers modern, stylish rooms and quirky decor that blends industrial chic with creative pops of color. It even boasts a co-working space, which we’re big fans of, since we’re always working while we travel! 

As for the location, this hotel is ideal! You’ve got some great cafes and restaurants right on your doorstep, including the famous Blackbird Donuts. And with easy access to public transport, you won’t struggle to get to Boston’s other neighborhoods, either. King rooms here cost between $200 and $400 USD per night, depending on availability.

Hampton Inn & Suites – $

Hampton Inn & Suites Boston Crosstown Center is a comfortable and budget-friendly hotel option near the South End. It’s ideal for travelers looking for affordability without sacrificing convenience. One standout perk? There’s a heated indoor pool—something you don’t often find at this price point in Boston.

This place isn’t fancy, and the decor is a little dated, but they’re homely and super clean. And trust me, you’ll struggle to find lower prices than these! Plus, a continental breakfast is included each morning, which will save you even more dough. 

Rates typically range from $185 to $300 per night, making it a solid pick for budget-conscious travelers in Boston.

Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is a picturesque neighborhood that just oozes historic charm. Its cobblestone streets, gas-lit lamps, and Federal-style row houses truly belong to a different era. I challenge you not to fall in love with this enchanting section of the city.

The neighborhood is home to the Massachusetts State House and its iconic golden dome, as well as Acorn Street, which just so happens to be one of the most photographed streets in the USA! We love coming here to visit Boston Common and the Boston Public Garden, and to stroll along the Charles River.

As you wander around Beacon Hill, you may notice that there are railings on the sidewalks. This is because this hilly neighborhood gets very icy in the winter, and so it can be a struggle to get around in the colder months, especially if you have mobility issues. However, if you don’t mind the hills, we think this is a wonderful area to stay in during the summer.

It’s easy to get to other areas from Beacon Hill, too. It’s a 20-minute walk or quick T ride over to Back Bay, and you can get to the West End in a similar amount of time. If you’re visiting Boston for its colonial history and charm, then Beacon Hill is a great place to stay!

Pros

• Stunning architecture and historic charm
• Great location near Boston Common and the Charles River

Cons

• The hilly terrain can be difficult for those with mobility issues, and during winter
• Area can be busy with tourists 

Beacon Hill Hotel – $$$ 

Beacon Hill Hotel is a boutique hotel offering stylish, European-inspired accommodations in Boston’s most charming neighborhood. It’s located right near Boston Common—in fact, the entrance is just a minute’s walk away! Gibson House Museum is also just a 7-minute walk away.

The property itself features a small fine-dining restaurant—make sure to treat yourself to one of the desserts here! There’s an open-air terrace that looks onto historic Charles Street, and the rooms have marble bathrooms and lots of natural light. 

Rooms here generally cost between $500 and $800 USD per night, although there are deals available during the off-season.

The Whitney Hotel Boston – $$$

The Whitney Hotel Boston offers a refined boutique stay just a short walk from the Boston Public Garden. We love how peaceful this spot feels, even though it’s in the middle of the city.

Housed in a modern red-brick building, the hotel offers spacious rooms and bathrooms with walk-in showers, as well as a serene garden where guests can relax. It’s a lovely place to come back and chill out after a day of exploring Boston, but there’s a fitness center on site if you have enough energy leftover to squeeze in a workout! 

Classic king rooms at The Whitney cost between $450 and $800 USD per night.

J Miller Flats by Thatch – $$

I think that the J Miller Flats by Thatch are a great choice for groups visiting Boston, as you can get an apartment that sleeps up to 7 people! This aparthotel offers a great home away from home in Boston, and it’s well located, too, as it’s close to the Boston Public Garden and Boston Common.

There are two metro stations nearby as well, so the city’s extensive public transport network is within easy reach. Prices for a studio average at around $520 USD per night, while you’re looking at around $600 USD for a 1-bedroom apartment or $1,200 USD for a 3-bedroom spot.

Check prices and book your stay here!

Seaport  

Seaport is one of Boston’s most happening areas. It’s also pretty new, so if you came to Boston years ago, it was probably full of warehouses and parking lots back then, but trust me, times have changed! Now, this waterfront neighborhood is one of the city’s slickest districts, and it’s packed with fun things to do. 

The Boston Harborwalk runs through Seaport, and it connects several waterfront parks. This walk is actually one of our favorite things to do in Boston because it’s an easy stroll, and you’re rewarded with great views of the Neponset River and the city’s beautiful skyline. There’s truly nothing better on a sunny day in the city, and the sunsets from the Harborwalk are incredible!

And as you wander through Seaport, you’ll come across lots of outdoor art installations and tons of great food and drink options. We love stopping by Marcelino’s for a drink or to play board games at the Flight Club.

This area is well-connected by public transport via the Silver Line, so you can get to Downtown Boston or the South End within minutes. And while Seaport isn’t the cheapest area to stay in, the area’s beauty and lively energy make it well worth the splurge.

Pros

• Modern, trendy vibe 
• Amazing waterfront views
• Excellent bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions

Cons

• One of the most expensive areas to stay in 
• Lacks the historic charm of older neighborhoods

Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Downtown Seaport – $$$

If you’re after a comfortable stay with character and plenty of space, Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Downtown Seaport is a fantastic pick. We love how the exposed brick walls and loft-style windows give the place a cool, industrial feel that’s still totally inviting.

It’s set in a beautifully restored red-brick warehouse that blends historic charm with modern amenities. Every suite comes with a full kitchen and living area, and staying here puts you right in the heart of the buzzing Seaport District!

The hotel is also just a few minutes’ walk from the Silver Line, too, so getting around the rest of the city is easy. King studios here cost between $350 and $700 USD per night.

Seaport Hotel® Boston – $$

The Seaport Hotel® Boston offers a comfortable and welcoming stay right on the waterfront. It’s a large hotel with all the amenities you’ll need for a great stay, including a well-equipped gym, an indoor pool, and even a few in-house dining options.

The rooms are bright and spacious, with great views of the harbor or skyline, depending on your floor. Plus, the hotel is just steps from the Silver Line T stop, so it’s easy to get to other parts of the city from here, and the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center is right nearby.

Best of all, many of the city’s best breweries, museums, and seafood spots are within walking distance, so Seaport is your oyster! Premier king rooms here typically cost between $250 and $650 per night.

YOTEL Boston – $

YOTEL Boston is a budget-friendly but stylish hotel in the heart of Seaport. The rooms are fairly compact, but thanks to the ultra-efficient space-saving designs, this futuristic hotel still delivers a very enjoyable stay. 

And YOTEL offers its guests more than just a bed for the night. The rooftop terrace bar offers first-class views of Boston’s skyline, and there’s also a sleek and sophisticated indoor restaurant on site. If you’re looking to stay in the Seaport without blowing your entire travel budget, this is a smart and fun option. Rooms here typically cost between $185 and $450 USD per night.

Related Read: Want to make the most of your visit? Check out our full list of the best things to do in Boston here—it’s full of fun, local-approved ideas.

Fenway-Kenmore

Sports fans, this one’s for you. Fenway-Kenmore is home to the legendary Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox! They’re arguably the world’s most famous baseball team (sorry, New York), so if catching a Red Sox game is high on your Boston bucket list, this is absolutely the place to be. And if you love art, you’ll be happy to hear the Museum of Fine Arts is nearby as well.

But even if you’re not a baseball or art fan, there’s still a lot to love about this area. It’s packed with museums, green space, and a growing food scene that’s drawing more visitors each year. In fact, Boston’s Time Out Market is here, which brings many of the city’s most beloved eateries all together under one roof.

The area is also known for its fun bars and lively nightlife, so if you’re watching the Red Sox, there are tons of great places to pregame and (hopefully) celebrate afterwards!

There are several major universities, including Boston University and Northeastern, around here, so this is a very student-heavy area with a lively, youthful atmosphere. We think this part of the city is ideal for travelers who are looking for a more local feel but still want to be well-connected to central Boston.

The area borders our favorite area, Back Bay, and the Green Line can have you there in just a few minutes. 

Pros

• Home to Fenway Park and tons of great sports bars
• Burgeoning food scene
• More authentic, local feel

Cons

• Can get very crowded on game days
• Some areas feel more student-heavy and less polished

Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway – $$$

Despite the name, Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway is actually in Fenway, but you can be in Back Bay in 15 minutes or less using the Green Line. Meanwhile, Fenway Park itself is just a 4-minute walk from the property, and the Time Out Market is 6 minutes away on foot, so location-wise, this place could not be better for sports fans and foodies!

This is a sleek and modern all-suite hotel, so it feels more like staying in an apartment than a typical hotel room. There’s a rooftop bar with fantastic views of Fenway Park, and a free breakfast is included with your stay, which is a huge perk in a city as pricey as Boston.

King studio suites start at $360 USD per night but can range up to $930 USD at busy times of year.

citizenM Boston Back Bay – $$

citizenM Boston Back Bay is an artsy and tech-forward hotel. We think it’s perfect for solo travelers or couples who want something a little different! The rooms are compact but thoughtfully designed, with huge windows and comfy king-sized beds.

They’re high-tech, too, as you use tablets to control everything from the lights and the TV to the window blinds! This hotel borders the Back Bay and Fenway neighborhoods, which we actually see as a major advantage, as it offers quick access to both!

So if you’re here for baseball but also want to do some sightseeing, you couldn’t ask for a more convenient location. Rooms here typically cost between $275 and $650 USD per night during baseball season.

The Verb Hotel – $$

What makes The Verb Hotel stand out is its retro vibe! We love its playful, music-inspired theme. There are even vinyl players in each room, and an on-site record library where you can pick out your favorite albums. And for a really special experience, you can even stay in one of the camper van-style trailers! 

As if all that weren’t enough, there’s an outdoor pool on site, which is heated all year round. That’s hard to find in Boston! This place is the opposite of a soulless hotel. It offers a true rock and roll experience!

Oh, and it’s just a 2-minute walk from Fenway Park, so it’s ideal if you want to catch a Red Sox game. Rooms here typically cost between $385 and $550 USD per night during baseball season.

Related Read: Only have a few days? Check out our itinerary for how to spend three days in Boston here—it covers the must-sees and leaves room for good food and strolls.

Top Activities to do in Boston

With your Boston stay sorted, it’s time to explore the city beyond the landmarks—and trust us, it’s packed with character. From local food tours and city bike rides to ferry escapes and whale sightings, Boston gave us no shortage of unforgettable experiences.

These tours helped us dive deeper into the city’s culture, history, and neighborhoods.

• Taste your way through Boston’s North End – From cannoli and cappuccino to savory arancini and thick Sicilian pizza, this small-group food tour through the North End was packed with flavor. Our guide brought history to life between bites, and we left happily full and craving another espresso.

• See Boston by bike – This guided bike tour was such a fun, breezy way to hit Boston’s highlights. We cruised past Fenway Park, the Charles River Esplanade, and historic Beacon Hill, all while learning quirky facts and local stories. It’s fast-paced but totally beginner-friendly and super memorable.

• Escape to Martha’s Vineyard for the day – A smooth ride from Boston and a quick ferry later, we were exploring lighthouses, gingerbread cottages, and sandy beaches. This day trip made Martha’s Vineyard feel totally doable—and our guide helped us make the most of every minute on the island.

• Whale watch off the Boston coast – Seeing a humpback breach in the open ocean was unreal. This whale-watching cruise brought us face-to-face with marine giants just an hour off the coast. The onboard naturalist added so much insight—we couldn’t stop talking about it afterward.

• Walk Boston one donut at a time – This downtown donut tour was pure joy. We sampled everything from maple-glazed classics to creative flavors like raspberry cheesecake. Our guide was super fun and kept things moving with local stories between stops. It’s a sweet (and surprisingly filling) way to explore.

Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

• Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
• Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
• Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

After a day of walking the Freedom Trail, sampling North End pastries, or catching a game at Fenway, having the right home base makes all the difference. Whether you’re soaking up Back Bay’s historic charm or enjoying the waterfront vibes in Seaport, Boston is a city that rewards curious travelers with every turn.

Still planning your U.S. adventure? Be sure to browse all our USA blogs here to help you map out the rest of your trip—or check out a few of our favorites below!

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