Boston Massachusetts, USA Travel Guide
Entry into the United States, including Boston, varies by nationality. Most international visitors a visa or an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Plan these arrangements long before your trip.
U.S. Citizens: No visa required. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) eligible nationalities: Citizens of VWP countries (e.g., most EU, Australia, Japan, South Korea) must obtain an approved ESTA online before travel. This allows tourism or business stays up to 90 days. Apply through the official ESTA website or VisaHQ.
ESTA Fee: A fee for ESTA applications, currently $21 USD (early 2024). This fee occurs online during application. Visa Application Fee: Varies by visa type; the B visa typically costs $185 USD (early 2024). This fee occurs at your application appointment.
Upon arrival at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), proceed through passport control. Customs declaration occurs at this point. Prepare to answer questions about your visit. No specific health-related entry requirements exist for general tourism to the United States. Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date for your personal health and safety. Consult with your healthcare provider for recommended travel vaccinations.
ESTA Required
Most EU, Australia, Japan, South Korea.
Up to 90 days for tourism/business.
Visa Required
B-1/B-2 visa at U.S. Embassy/Consulate.
Interview, forms, supporting documents.
All Travelers
6 months validity beyond stay.
Routine vaccinations up-to-date. No specific entry health requirements.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD or $). ATMs are widely available throughout Boston for cash withdrawals. Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) are universally accepted at most establishments. Currency exchange services exist at Logan Airport and some banks, but these often less favorable rates than ATM withdrawals. Inform your bank of your your itinerary to avoid credit card problems.
Tipping for service is customary and expected in the U.S. Restaurants (seated service): 15-20% of the bill for good service (20% common). Bartenders: $1-2 per drink, or 15-20% total bill. Taxi/Rideshare drivers: 10-15% of the fare. Hotel porters/bellhops: $1-2 per bag. Hotel housekeepers: $2-5 per day (leave in a marked envelope). Tour guides: 15-20% of tour cost, or flat amount ($5-20) for free/tip-based tours.
$80 - $150 USD (Hostels, fast food, public transit, free attractions).
$150 - $350 USD (3-star hotels, mid-range dining, public transit/occasional rideshare, paid museums/tours).
$350+ USD (4-5 star hotels, fine dining, private transport, premium experiences).
$22.50 (unlimited subway/bus).
$20-30.
Boston a generally safe city, but like any major urban area, awareness of your surroundings is wise.
No specific vaccinations are required for entry to the U.S. Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, polio, flu, tetanus) up-to-date are a good practice. Consult a healthcare provider for tailored suggestions.
Awareness of common health concerns can improve your travel. Seasonal allergies: common in spring and fall due to pollen. Cold/Flu: Prevalent, especially in colder months. Practice good hand hygiene. Sunburn: Even on cloudy days, Sun protection is advisable. Use Sunscreen. Heat Exhaustion: During summer heatwaves, stay hydrated, seek shade.
If your flight to or from Boston is delayed or canceled, you may a right to compensation. Services simplify this process.
Boston has a array of places to stay. From historic hotels to modern boutique stays, choices match every taste and budget. Booking ahead, especially during peak season, is wise.
Four and five-star properties in areas like Back Bay, Waterfront, and Financial District. Expect premium amenities.
Unique character and personalized service. Many in charming neighborhoods like Beacon Hill or South End.
A cozy, intimate experience, often in historic homes. Found in regions such as the South End.
Consider proximity to attractions, transit, and dining.
Back Bay: Elegant, central, great shopping (Newbury Street) and dining. Access to Public Garden, Esplanade. Beacon Hill: Historic charm, cobblestone streets, close to State House and Boston Common. North End: Boston's Little Italy, incredible food, close to Freedom Trail sites. Waterfront/Seaport: Modern, lively, harbor views, New England Aquarium, Institute of Contemporary Art.
Downtown/Financial District: Central, close to many attractions, business-focused with hotels for various budgets. Cambridge (Harvard/MIT): Across the Charles River, academic atmosphere, cultural vibrancy, easy MBTA access to Boston.
Booking during peak season (summer, fall foliage) advisable due to high demand.
Say "please" and "thank you." Hold doors for others.
Line up for services (coffee shops, public transit, ticket booths).
Be quiet in residential areas, especially late at night.
Boston's calendar a packed schedule of festivals and events throughout the year. These occasions present local culture.
April. Among the world's's most famous road races.
July 4th weekend. Celebrates colonial and maritime heritage.
October. Largest two-day rowing event in the world.
