Short Break - Boston and North East Coast Explorer

Meet your group and guide on the morning of the first day of your trip, after an introductory meeting, you will start with a day tour in the city. Boston is a magnet for history buffs as well as architecture lovers. Drive through along parts of the iconic Freedom Trail and venture past the must-see historic stops in Boston. Visit Faneuil Hall and see where the first cries for Revolution rang out. Learn about some of the “events” that led to the American Revolution – like a tea party and a Boston Massacre. See where the very first public school in America was located and how it connects us to modern public education. This driving tour will give you an overall history of Boston as well as showing you how a modern city is intimately connected to the past. Along with the must-see stops of the Highlights Tour, you will also visit other famous neighborhoods and landmarks throughout the city. The North End is steeped in colonial history. You can see where Paul Revere lived as well as the famous Old North Church, which played a very important role in the start of the American Revolution. This area is also well-known for Italian eateries. There’s nothing like a delicious cappuccino and freshly made cannoli; your guide will share a taste of it on tour. You’ll also get to explore the narrow streets and beautiful architecture of Beacon Hill. This has always been the most sought after and expensive neighborhood in Boston. You can play the real estate game while standing on the most expensive street of real estate in the city, and you’ll also see the not-to-be-missed, most photographed street in all of Boston. After our day tour, we will check into our overnight hotel and lay ourselves to rest to get ready for the next full day of exploring!

Escape the bustling streets of Boston for a day and embark on an enchanting journey to the historic towns of Salem, MA, and Rockport, MA. Nestled along the picturesque Massachusetts coastline, these charming destinations offer a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Your adventure begins in Salem, a city steeped in captivating tales of colonial America and infamous witch trials. Step back in time as you wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic district, where colonial architecture and centuries-old landmarks transport you to another era. Visit the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the haunting events of 1692, and gain insight into the lives of those accused of witchcraft. Explore the House of the Seven Gables, immortalized in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, and marvel at its intriguing history and architectural splendor. After immersing yourself in Salem’s fascinating past, continue your journey northward to the coastal gem of Rockport. Set against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and sparkling ocean vistas, Rockport exudes quintessential New England charm. Stroll along Bearskin Neck, a quaint waterfront promenade dotted with colorful boutiques, art galleries, and seafood shacks. Be sure to snap a photo of the iconic Motif No. 1, a beloved fishing shack and renowned symbol of the town’s artistic heritage. As the day draws to a close, savor a delectable seafood feast at one of Rockport’s charming waterfront restaurants, where freshly caught lobster, clam chowder, and other local specialties await. Reflect on the day’s discoveries as you bask in the warm glow of a coastal sunset, bidding farewell to Salem and Rockport with cherished memories of a day well spent exploring the best of New England’s coastal treasures.

Enjoy a day away from Boston to visit the beautiful Cape Cod along the South Shore. During your journey south, relax and chat with your local guide as you cross over the Sagamore Bridge, the gateway to Cape Cod. Explore charming towns like Sandwich and Chatham, as well as natural gems like the National Seashore. Arrive in Provincetown, Cape Cod’s top destination, known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and diverse culture. Visit the Pilgrim Monument & Museum for breathtaking views and learn about the town’s fascinating past. Stroll down Commercial Street, Ptown’s lively hub, home to galleries, shops, entertainment, and dining options. Your guide can recommend excellent eateries for snacks or a meal. Enjoy some free time to experience unique activities such as sand dune tours, bike rides along nature trails, or whale-watching excursions. On the return journey, we make sure to capture the essence of history with a photo stop at Plymouth Colony and the Pilgrim tall ship in Plymouth, MA. These iconic landmarks offer a glimpse into the past, allowing you to step back in time to the days of the Pilgrims’ arrival in America aboard the Mayflower. From the replica of the historic ship to the recreated settlement, the scenery provides the perfect backdrop for memorable snapshots that capture the spirit of early colonial life.

On our final day in the Northeast we will start our morning with a visit to Cambridge and Harvard University. Your guide will take you on a 2–hour walking tour designed to give you a taste of Harvard life. It will keep you in and around Harvard’s classic campus, visiting the beautiful, gothic Memorial Hall and charming Memorial Church. Enjoy other Harvard views which include other campus buildings, marveling at the whispering arch at Sever Hall, or taking a stroll across “Havahd Yahd” – as seen in movies such as “Good Will Hunting” and “The Firm”. You will even have time to explore the lush Cambridge Common or Harvard Square, a favorite shopping and socializing spot for students. In the afternoon, you will visit the local side of the Back Bay, exploring inviting bookstores and local boutiques, stopping for lunch or a coffee at one of the numerous restaurants in the area, enjoying an included New England classic like a lobster roll, or seeing many more beautiful homes and buildings dating back to the 19th century. You have time to wander through the Boston Public Garden, the first public botanical garden in America. Or, depending on the season, take a ride on the world-famous Swan Boats. As always, all good things have to come to an end, our Boston and East Coast exploration ends today, early evening. Your local expert guide can support you to your next overnight stay or perhaps to your transfer home.