Thinking about a solo trip to Boston? You’re in for a treat. Boston is one of the best cities in the US for solo travellers — safe, walkable, and bursting with history, food, and charm. Whether you’re following the famous Freedom Trail, wandering cobblestone streets in Beacon Hill, or catching a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, there’s always something to keep you entertained (and you don’t need a travel buddy to enjoy it).
Boston isn’t just one of the most historic cities in the U.S. — it’s also one of the best destinations for solo travellers. Whether you’re wandering the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill, sipping coffee in the North End, or watching the fall foliage transform the Boston Common, this city has a way of making you feel like you belong, even when you’re travelling solo.
When I visited Boston, I was surprised at how quickly I felt at home. The city is compact, so you can explore most neighbourhoods on foot, and locals are friendly enough that striking up a chat over a coffee or in a bar feels natural. Plus, with plenty of tours, museums, and group activities, you’ll never run out of ways to connect with people if you want to.
Every time I go, I uncover something new. It’s a city that blends history, culture, food, and walkability so well that you’ll never feel out of place exploring on your own. If you’ve been dreaming of a solo trip to the U.S. but aren’t sure where to start, Boston is the perfect gateway. Let’s break it down — here’s everything you need to know to plan your first solo trip to Boston, Massachusetts. In this solo travel guide to Boston, I’ll share everything you need to know to plan your trip — from flights and visas to the best places to stay, safety tips, and fun things to do alone in Boston. Let’s get into it!
Planning a solo trip to Boston, MA? Here's where you'll find:
- Everything You Need To Know Before A Solo Trip To Boston
- How To Get To Boston As A Solo Traveller
- Best Time to Book Flights to Boston
- Tips For Finding Cheap Flights To Boston
- Do I Need A Visa For My Trip To Boston?
- How Do I Book A Solo Trip To Boston?
- How To Book Hostels and Hotels in Boston
- Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Boston
- SIM Cards in Boston
- Is Boston a Good Place to Travel Solo?
- How Much Does A Solo Trip To Boston Cost?
- Is Boston Safe For A Solo Female Traveller?
- Best Places For Solo Travel In Boston
- How Do I Make Friends When Solo Travelling Boston?
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Everything You Need To Know Before A Solo Trip To Boston
Before you get carried away with booking Freedom Trail tours and Red Sox tickets, let’s get the practicals sorted. Boston can be pricey if you’re not prepared, but with the right planning you can balance budget-friendly choices with a few indulgences (hello, lobster rolls and rooftop cocktails).
The best time to visit depends on your vibe. For history, spring and summer are buzzing with events. But if you’re like me and love crisp mornings, golden leaves, and smaller crowds, Boston in the fall is absolutely magical. (I wrote a full guide on the best things to do in Boston in the fall — it’s one of my favourite seasons to visit.)
👉 Pro tip: Grab a Go City Boston Pass. It bundles together attractions like the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park tours, and museums — saving you up to 50% if you’re planning on hitting the big sights.
How To Get To Boston As A Solo Traveller
If you’re flying from the UK, you’ll most likely land at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS). Direct flights from London Heathrow to Boston are around 7 hours, which is blissfully short compared to long-hauls to Asia or the West Coast.
Direct flight option: London Heathrow (LHR) → Boston Logan (BOS) in ~7h 30m.
With one layover: Often via Dublin, Reykjavik, or New York, sometimes saving you £100–200 if you’re flexible.
If you have the time for a longer trip – it could be a great opportunity to do a double city break and experience Boston and New York in the same trip – or head to Iceland and enjoy incredible nature and scenery, maybe even the Northern Lights if you're lucky!
When I travelled to Boston, I flew with United Airlines – in premium economy on the way there and business class on the way home which was a luxury I have never recovered from (trust me it will ruin you for flying economy!) If you’re debating splurging on business class, check out my honest United Polaris Business Class review. Spoiler: the Polaris lounge might just win you over.
Best Time to Book Flights to Boston
One of the biggest mistakes I see travellers make is booking flights too last-minute. For Boston, the sweet spot is usually 2–4 months in advance if you’re flying from the U.S., and around 3–6 months ahead if you’re flying from Europe.
👉 Book your flight from London to Boston
The cheapest months to fly are typically January, February, and March — not surprising since Boston winters are freezing and less popular with tourists. If you don’t mind braving the cold (and honestly, the city looks magical in the snow), you can snag some serious bargains.
If you’re dreaming of Boston in the fall (and you should, because the foliage is stunning), you’ll need to book much earlier. September and October are peak months, and flights can get pricey fast. I booked my fall trip about 5 months ahead and still noticed fares creeping up every week I waited. I recommend reading my article on saving money on flights before you book.
👉 Pro tip: Use the price alert tools on Skyscanner and Google Flights. I always set these up as soon as I know I want to go, and they could save you hundreds by flagging fare drops before they disappear. But I recommend booking your flight through WayAway which is a platform that gives you cashback on every booking – a great way to save money!
Tips For Finding Cheap Flights To Boston
Use Flight Comparison Sites
When it comes to booking flights to Boston, comparison sites are the holy grail. I always start with Skyscanner because the “whole month” search tool shows you the cheapest days to fly at a glance. Google Flights is another must-check — it’s brilliant for tracking prices and getting alerts when fares drop. I usually use both before booking through WayAway so I don’t miss a deal, but still get that juicy cashback!
👉 Book your flight from London to Boston
Fly Midweek to Save Money
If you can be flexible, try flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Midweek flights are often much cheaper than weekends. On one of my Boston trips, I saved around £120 just by shifting my departure from Sunday to Tuesday — plus the flight was quieter, so I actually got some space to stretch out.
Consider Alternative Airports
Here’s a sneaky hack: look into flights into New York (JFK or Newark) instead of Boston Logan. They can be £150–200 cheaper, and from there, it’s just a scenic 4-hour Amtrak train ride to Boston’s South Station. If you’re visiting in the fall, this train journey doubles as a foliage-viewing trip — win-win.
Pack Light and Avoid Fees
Boston is super walkable, which also means lots of stairs, cobblestones, and narrow sidewalks. Trust me, dragging a massive suitcase through Beacon Hill is not fun. Sticking to carry-on only will save you airline baggage fees and make your life a whole lot easier once you arrive. If you're stuck finding a carry-on that works for you – here's where you can shop my favourite travel bags & suitcases for maximising space.
Use Points or Miles for Upgrades
If you collect frequent flyer miles, Boston is a great route to cash them in. I once used points to upgrade into United Polaris Business Class, and honestly? Totally worth it for the lie-flat seat and Saks bedding. If you’re debating whether Polaris is worth it, I shared my full United Polaris Business Class review for all the juicy details.
👉 Book your flight from London to Boston
Do I Need A Visa For My Trip To Boston?
If you’re a UK citizen, you don’t need a visa for trips under 90 days, but you do need to apply for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) online before you fly. It costs $21, is valid for two years, and usually gets approved in minutes (though they advise applying at least 72 hours before travel). Make sure you apply directly through the main website here to avoid getting overcharged.
How Do I Book A Solo Trip To Boston?
This depends on your style of travel. Here are three different ways you could book your Boston trip:
- Full itinerary: Flight, hotel, and tours pre-booked. Great if it’s your first solo trip and you want structure.
- Partial plan: Just flights and first-night accommodation. Gives you flexibility once you’re on the ground.
- Spontaneous: Book as you go, especially if you’re road-tripping through New England.
Personally, I like to pre-book big-ticket items like accommodation (because Boston hotels sell out fast during fall) and experiences like whale watching, then leave the smaller things more flexible.
👉 If you want ideas on how to structure your trip, check out my 5 day Boston itinerary — it’s designed for first-time visitors.
How To Book Hotels and Hostels in Boston
Boston is a stunning city, but let’s be honest — hotels in Boston can be expensive compared to many U.S. destinations. With some planning, though, you can find the perfect place for your budget and style.
Hotels in Boston
I always start with Booking.com to compare prices, filter by location, and read real guest reviews. My personal favourite? The Boston Harbor Hotel — read my full review. Waking up in a suite overlooking the harbour is magical, especially if you love sunrise views over the water. The combination of luxury, comfort, and location makes it ideal for a first-time visit.
👉 Book your stay at the Boston Harbor Hotel
👉 Compare prices for Boston Harbor Hotel
Boutique Hotels
If you prefer boutique hotels, Back Bay and Beacon Hill are the areas to explore. Both are central, safe for solo female travellers, and packed with restaurants, cafés, and shops. Staying in these neighbourhoods also makes walking around Boston a breeze — perfect if you want to explore historic streets, green spaces, and markets without relying on transport.
👉 Check out The Newbury Boston or Beacon Hill Hotel
👉 Check out these budget-friendly hotels in Cambridge
Hostels for Solo Travellers
For those on a tighter budget or looking to meet fellow travellers, hostels are a great choice. HI Boston Hostel is one of the top picks for solo visitors. It has welcoming communal areas, a safe environment, and is within walking distance of the city’s main attractions. I’ve met so many solo travellers here, making it a fun and social base for exploring Boston.
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Boston for Solo Travel?
Hands down, Back Bay or Beacon Hill. Both neighbourhoods are central, safe, and walkable, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and things to do in Boston just steps from your door. Whether you’re wandering the Freedom Trail, exploring Boston Common, or catching a game at Fenway Park, staying here makes it easy to see the city and feel part of its vibe.
Tips to Save Money on Boston Accommodation
- Book Early or Last-Minute: Prices can fluctuate, so either lock in early for high-demand dates or check for last-minute deals — sometimes hotels slash rates to fill rooms.
- Flexible Dates: Flying midweek often reduces hotel costs too, especially in busy months like September and October when the fall foliage draws crowds.
- Consider Alternative Neighbourhoods: Areas like South End or Seaport are slightly less central but still safe and walkable, and you can often snag better rates than in Back Bay.
- Use Loyalty Programs and Cashback: Many hotel booking platforms offer points, discounts, or cashback options. Even a few extra dollars saved on each night can add up across a 5-day trip.
- Hostel or Boutique Combo: If you want to experience both luxury and social travel, consider splitting your stay — a couple of nights in a hotel like Boston Harbor, then move to a hostel for a more affordable and sociable experience.
Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Boston
If there’s one thing I will never, ever skip when planning a solo trip, it’s travel insurance. And honestly? Nowhere is that more important than the U.S.
Boston is a fantastic city for solo female travellers — safe, walkable, and easy to navigate — but accidents, delays, and unexpected hiccups can happen anywhere. And here’s the biggie: healthcare in the U.S. is notoriously expensive. Even something as simple as a quick doctor’s visit can cost hundreds of dollars, and a hospital stay could easily run into thousands. Without insurance, you’d be footing that bill yourself. No thanks.
I personally use SafetyWing's Nomad Insurance Essential for most of my international trips, including my time in Boston. What I like is how flexible and affordable it is. You can literally set it up online in about five minutes, and it covers:
- Emergency medical treatment (a must in the U.S.)
- Lost luggage or delayed baggage (because airlines always seem to play games with bags on long-haul flights)
- Trip interruption and cancellation (so you’re not totally out of pocket if something unexpected happens)
- Even some COVID-related coverage, which not every provider includes
Whatever you do, don’t skip it. Even if you’re just doing a 5-day Boston itinerary, the peace of mind is 100% worth it.
👉 Pro tip: Some travel credit cards (like Chase Sapphire Preferred or Amex Platinum) also include built-in travel insurance, so if you’re paying for flights or hotels on one of those, double-check what’s already covered before buying extra.
When you’re solo, you don’t have a partner or travel buddy to lean on if something goes wrong, so having solid travel insurance is basically your safety net. I’d never travel to the U.S. without it, and I wouldn’t recommend you do either.
If you need coverage for a longer period, you might consider looking at their Complete plan - includes all Essential features, plus comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, most countries in the world, including in your home country.
SIM Cards and eSIMs in Boston
Landing in a new country used to mean hunting for a SIM card, wasting time and money. Now, I travel with Holafly eSIMs, which activate the second you land. No queues, no shops, just instant data — perfect for Google Maps in Boston.
- Holafly offers one-off eSIM plans starting at $19 for 5 days, ideal for short trips. (Save 5% with discount code: ABSOLUTELYLUCY)
- For longer stays, their rolling monthly plans automatically renew, making them perfect if you’re combining Boston with other U.S. stops. (Save 10% monthly with my discount code ABSOLUTELYLUCY)
Physical SIM cards from T-Mobile or AT&T are available at Logan Airport, but they’re often pricier and require swapping your regular SIM. My advice? Go eSIM — easier, faster, and now just as cost-effective with rolling plans.
Read my full blog post on the Best eSIM For Solo Female Travellers To Beat Roaming Charges for more information.
Is Boston a Good Place to Travel Solo?
Absolutely. Boston is one of the most walkable cities in America and has a big student population, which gives it a youthful, international feel. You’ll blend in as a solo traveller, whether you’re exploring the Freedom Trail, reading on the Boston Common, or joining a whale watching tour from the harbour.
If you’re still nervous about travelling alone, Boston is a great first solo trip because it’s English-speaking, compact, and friendly.
How Much Does A Solo Trip To Boston Cost?
Boston isn’t the cheapest U.S. city, but with some planning, you can enjoy the best experiences without breaking the bank. Here’s a rough estimate for a 5-day trip from London:
- Flights (London–Boston return): £350–£500
- Hotel (mid-range): £150 per night × 5 = £750
- Food: $30–$50 per day (depending on how many lobster rolls you allow yourself!)
- Transport: $20–$30 for a CharlieCard + occasional Uber rides
- Activities: $50–$200 depending on tours like whale watching, Fenway Park, or museum entry
Check out my food guide to Boston for tips on budget-friendly eats and food tours.
Is Boston Expensive for Solo Travellers?
It can be, but there are plenty of ways to save:
- Stay in hostels or boutique hotels to cut accommodation costs.
- Walk as much as possible — Boston is incredibly walkable, and it’s the best way to soak up the city.
- Take advantage of free attractions like Boston Common, Boston Public Garden, and parts of the Freedom Trail.
- Book tours and activities in advance — online deals often save you a few dollars per attraction.
💡 Want to stretch your budget further? Check out my Boston itinerary guide for tips on seeing all the must-sees without overspending.
Is Boston Safe For A Solo Female Traveller?
Yes! I felt completely comfortable walking around Boston alone, even at night in busy areas. That said, some basic precautions go a long way:
- Stick to well-lit neighbourhoods like Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and Downtown.
- Don’t flash valuables or leave bags unattended.
- Avoid deserted areas late at night.
- Use Uber or Lyft if you’re out past midnight.
What Makes Boston Great for Solo Female Travellers?
Boston is a fantastic city for solo female travellers because it’s safe, walkable, and easy to navigate. I felt completely comfortable exploring on my own, even at night in well-lit areas, and the compact city layout means you can tick off many of the top attractions in just a few days. On top of that, the locals are incredibly friendly — I even had strangers offer restaurant recommendations when I looked a little lost! All of this makes Boston feel welcoming, convenient, and genuinely enjoyable for anyone travelling solo.
Best Neighbourhoods For Solo Travel in Boston
Choosing the right neighbourhood can make your solo trip to Boston far more enjoyable. The city is compact and walkable, but staying in a safe, central, and lively area will save time, keep you comfortable, and make it easier to experience the best of Boston. Here are my top picks for solo travellers, complete with accommodation suggestions.
Back Bay
Back Bay is one of the most upscale and convenient areas in Boston, perfect for first-time solo travellers. It’s safe, full of shops, restaurants, and cafés, and within walking distance of landmarks like Copley Square and the Boston Public Library.
- Hotel Recommendation: The Westin Copley Place – Modern rooms, central location, and easy access to public transport.
- Hostel Recommendation: HI Boston Hostel – A social and safe option with communal areas where you can meet other travellers.
- Best Things To Do In Back Bay
Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill is the picture-perfect historic neighbourhood that you’ve likely seen in photos. Its cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and charming row houses make it an iconic Boston experience. It’s quiet, safe, and central, ideal for solo travellers who want to soak up the city’s charm.
- Hotel Recommendation: XV Beacon – Luxury boutique hotel with attentive service and a great location near the Freedom Trail.
- Hostel Recommendation: For hostels, nearby Back Bay or Downtown is a better bet.
- Best Things To Do In Beacon Hill
North End
The North End is Boston’s Italian district, packed with cozy cafés, bakeries, and some of the city’s best restaurants. It’s a lively and walkable area, perfect if you love food, history, and exploring small streets filled with charm.
- Hotel Recommendation: The Boxer Boston – Trendy, central, and within walking distance of the North End’s best restaurants.
- Hostel Recommendation: HI Boston Hostel – Also a good base for visiting North End, offering social spaces to meet other travellers.
- Best Things To Do In North End
Cambridge
Across the Charles River, Cambridge has a youthful, intellectual vibe thanks to Harvard and MIT. It’s full of bookstores, coffee shops, and parks, giving solo travellers a different pace compared to downtown Boston. The area is safe and walkable, with easy access to public transport into Boston proper.
- Hotel Recommendation: Kimpton Marlowe Hotel – Stylish hotel with excellent amenities, right along the river with easy access to Harvard Square.
- Hostel Recommendation: Airbnb or budget guesthouses – Cambridge doesn’t have traditional hostels, but there are plenty of affordable private stays ideal for solo travellers.
- Best Things To Do In Cambridge
How To Make Friends When Solo Travelling Boston
Boston isn’t as hostel-heavy as Southeast Asia, but there are still plenty of ways to meet people:
- Join a walking tour — the Freedom Trail tours are great for this.
- Stay in a hostel like HI Boston Hostel, which has group activities.
- Check out local events — in fall, farmers’ markets and food festivals are everywhere.
- Strike up conversations in cafes — Bostonians are proud of their city and love to give tips.
Read more of my tips for travelling by yourself.
