Boston’s Historic Heart Private Tour: A Walk Through Time
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This private walking tour introduces you to Boston’s historic heart. You follow a scenic route with a local guide who shares stories about the city. You explore the Greenway, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, and Downtown Crossing. You see Old City Hall and the State House during an exterior visit only. You walk through Beacon Hill and its narrow streets. You end in the Boston Public Garden where calm paths reveal views of the lagoon. This route fits travelers who enjoy history and culture during a two hour walk.
Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.
Available options
French guided tour
Mandarin guided tour
Private historic walking tour in Boston
German guided tour
Spanish guided tour
What's included
Entry/Admission - Greenway Carousel (3 USD per ride)
Professional local guide services
Detailed itinerary
1
A whimsical carousel nestled in Rose Kennedy Greenway, offering a unique ride on Boston-themed characters, perfect for families and fun-seekers.
2
A beautifully landscaped park that winds through the heart of Boston, showcasing contemporary art, lush gardens, and vibrant community spaces.
3
Stop 3
A historic marketplace buzzing with lively shops, eateries, and street performers, ideal for experiencing Boston's rich history and diverse culture.
4
Stop 4
An iconic Boston landmark, Quincy Market offers a bustling atmosphere with an array of food stalls, perfect for foodies and history enthusiasts.
5
A bustling shopping district in the heart of Boston, offering a mix of popular retail stores, historic sites, and lively street life.
6
A stunning example of 19th-century architecture, Old City Hall is a symbol of Boston's rich history and its evolution over centuries. (Outside Visit)
7
Stop 7
An architectural marvel, the State House is the seat of Massachusetts government, boasting a grand facade and a significant history. (Outside Visit)
8
Stop 8
A charming neighborhood known for its narrow, gas-lit streets and Federal-style rowhouses, Beacon Hill is steeped in history and elegance. (Outside Visit)
9
Stop 9
America's first public botanical garden, offering a serene escape with its famous swan boats, lovely flower beds, and tranquil scenery.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
CMN
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We meet at the Greenway Carousel, Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA 02110. Your guide waits near the main entrance of the carousel. Please arrive a few minutes early for a smooth start.
About Boston
Boston, one of the oldest cities in the United States, is rich in history, culture, and education. Known for its significant role in the American Revolution and its prestigious universities, Boston offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy.
Top Attractions
Freedom Trail
A 2.5-mile (4 km) walking route that passes 16 locations significant to the history of the United States, including churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, museums, and historic markers.
Historical
3-4 hours
Free to walk the trail; individual attractions may have admission fees
Fenway Park
Home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball and a must-visit for sports fans and history buffs alike.
Sports/Historical
1-3 hours (tour or game)
Tour: $20-$25; Game tickets: $30-$200+
Boston Common
America's oldest public park, Boston Common is a central gathering place for both locals and visitors, offering green spaces, walking paths, and seasonal activities.
Parks/Historical
1-2 hours
Free (Swan Boats: $4-$5 per ride)
Museum of Fine Arts (MFA)
One of the most comprehensive art museums in the world, the MFA houses nearly 450,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Egyptian to contemporary.
Museum
2-4 hours
$27 (adults), free for children under 17
Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
A group of islands in Boston Harbor offering outdoor recreation, historic sites, and stunning views of the city skyline.
Nature/Historical
Half-day to full-day trip
$5-$15 per person, depending on the island and activities
Must-Try Local Dishes
Clam Chowder
A creamy, hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and sometimes bacon or salt pork. Boston-style clam chowder is typically made with milk or cream and is served with oyster crackers.
Soup
Contains dairy and sometimes pork; vegetarian and vegan versions are available at some restaurants.
Lobster Roll
A buttered, toasted split-top roll filled with lobster meat, usually dressed with mayo or butter. Some versions include celery or other vegetables for added crunch.
Sandwich
Contains shellfish and may contain dairy or eggs; gluten-free buns may be available at some restaurants.
Boston Cream Pie
A layered dessert consisting of sponge cake filled with custard or cream and topped with chocolate glaze. It's the official dessert of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Dessert
Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten; vegan and gluten-free versions may be available at some restaurants.
Oysters
Boston is known for its fresh oysters, which can be found at many seafood restaurants and raw bars. They are typically served on the half-shell with various toppings or sauces.
Appetizer
Contains shellfish; vegan and vegetarian options may be available at some restaurants.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Blue Hills Reservation
Kayaking or paddleboarding in the Charles River
Biking along the Charles River Esplanade
Rock climbing at Brooklyn Boulders
Picnicking in the Boston Common or Public Garden
Strolling along the Charles River Esplanade
Enjoying a spa day at one of Boston's many luxury spas
Reading a book at the Boston Public Library
Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early fall (May to October)
This is the best time to visit Boston for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and outdoor events.
10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, French, Italian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (UTC-4) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Boston is generally a safe city for travelers, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Some areas of the city, such as certain neighborhoods in Dorchester, Roxbury, and Mattapan, have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation
- • Use licensed taxis or rideshare services, and always check the fare before starting your journey
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys, and avoid sharing personal information
Getting there
By air
- Logan International Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from city center
By train
South Station, North Station
By bus
South Station, Logan Airport
Getting around
Public transport
The MBTA subway system is efficient and affordable, with four main lines (Red, Blue, Green, and Orange) connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown/Financial District
Back Bay
North End
South End
Fenway-Kenmore
Beacon Hill
Day trips
Salem
16 miles (26 km) from Boston • Half-day to full-day trip
A historic coastal city known for its connection to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Salem offers a mix of historic sites, museums, and waterfront activities.
Lexington and Concord
10-15 miles (16-24 km) from Boston • Full-day trip
Two historic towns that played significant roles in the American Revolution. Lexington and Concord offer a mix of historic sites, museums, and scenic walking trails.
Cape Cod
60-80 miles (97-129 km) from Boston, depending on the destination • Full-day trip or overnight stay
A popular summer destination known for its beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, and outdoor recreation. Cape Cod offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Festivals
Boston Harbor Hotel Chowder Festival • October (annual)
Boston Pride • June (annual)
Boston Film Festival • September (annual)
Pro tips
- Visit the Freedom Trail early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
- Take advantage of free or discounted admission days at museums and other attractions, such as the Museum of Fine Arts' free Wednesday evenings or the Boston Public Library's free exhibits and events
- Explore Boston's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, history, and attractions
- Try local specialties, such as clam chowder, lobster rolls, and Boston cream pie, at historic and iconic eateries like Union Oyster House, Neptune Oyster, and Mike's Pastry
- Attend a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, one of the most iconic and historic baseball stadiums in the world
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
