Flying Out Of Boston To Spain

Boston has excellent public transportation. Check out https://cdn.mbta.com/sites/default/files/maps/2019-04-08-rapid-transit-key-bus-routes-map-v33.pdf for the map. You are correct that hotels in Boston are pretty expensive.

Boston has an excellent, easy to use and very extensive subway/metro system, called "The T." It also has commuter rail that reaches even farther into the suburbs than the T does. I was never a fan of busses and I don't believe I ever used them when I lived in Boston.

So look for some place to stay that is on either the T or - more likely - commuter rail.

Have fun! Boston is great to visit, and I also greatly enjoyed living there for 17 years.

P.S. Make sure you don't say "chowder," it's "chow-dah."

Willy you don't have to stay in Boston itself. Stay in the towns in close proximity to Boston and Logan airport. Concord Mass. and Medford Mass. are ideal towns to look for accommodations and the distance from those points to Logan airport and downtown Boston is less than an hour.

https://www.adventurouskate.com/where-to-stay-in-boston-best-neighborhoods-and-accommodation/

https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosfm-residence-inn-boston-framingham/

https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosrd-residence-inn-boston-concord/?scid=bb1a189a-fec3-4d19-a255-54ba596febe2

If you do not find a rate you like in Boston proper, please consider Cambridge, Allston area. You can use the "T" to get to many of the Boston sites. I saw the Double Tree in Cambridge for $157 on Expedia for the weekend prior to your flight and the Boston Park Plaza for $158 on Booking. Studio Allston Hotel $134. I would not stay too far out of town.
Enjoy your trip to Spain. We fly from Boston to Madrid and back a couple of years ago and had a wonderful time.

Hi Willy,

What are your areas of interest? Boston is walkable with some pedestrian only areas. It is huge city with many diverse cultures and neighborhoods.

You do not want to stay in Concord, Framingham or Natick. Not wise. Staying there won't be conducive to your touring Boston -- since you suggest your visit would be rather short before you head off to Madrid.

There is nothing of interest in Medford or Malden now. The Orange Line you can pick up at Malden Center. to get into Boston - "Downtown Crossing" or "State Street" stops.

I don't suggest staying in Medford. If it turns out you do, there are buses you can take from the Fellsway to Wellington Circle to catch the Orange Line into Boston - It will naturally be labeled - "Wellington Circle or Wellington T."

You can find a nice hotel in Boston. Staying "downtown area," you will pay premium prices.

Below, I will paste all my suggestions to a fellow member here who is coming to Boston. I omitted his name and one or two non-relevant things.

(cont.)

Here are some suggestions I offered to another poster visiting Boston, MA

http://www.newbury-st.com/

https://www.newburystboston.com/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newbury_Street

https://www.trolleytours.com/boston/newbury-street

There's the Prudential Center - "The Pru"

http://www.prudentialcenter.com/

[The Prudential Center is located near several mass transit stations including: Back Bay Station – commuters can walk from Back Bay Station to the Prudential Center without going outside! Prudential stop on the E line on the green line of the T. Hynes & Copley stops on the B,C, D lines on the green line of the T.]

You may enjoy the "Skywalk" - http://skywalkboston.com/

The famous North End - not like it used to be - but, for someone who has never been, you wouldn't know. The North End was nicknamed "Little Italy." A lot of Italians & Sicilians who came over settled there. Maybe you find a "long lost cousin?" jk.

My family settled there as well as other surrounding neighborhoods. Restaurants, little markets & bakeries were plentiful; inexpensive & delicious. Over the decades, it's changed a lot!!

I favor Spinelli's - but they're in East Boston & Lynnfield - not convenient w/o car.

The Boston Pops - not sure if they'll play that weekend. Maybe there are other concerts at the "Hatch Shell on the Esplanade" - people line up in the early hours with picnic coolers, blankets, chairs to secure a "lawn seat."

Helpful stuff:

Visiting Labor Day Weekend, it'll be jam packed w/travelers, locals, festivities, college kids settling in, end of summer traffic.

Massachusetts Sales Tax is 6.25%.

A (metered) taxi - you can hail one - they'll practically screech up on the curb. I don't know the rates; I don't use cabs.

Crossing Boston streets - look 100 times in each direction....a car will come out of nowhere...Drivers don't always obey traffic signals, crosswalks or they try to pass a stopped bus.

No need for a money belt. As I tell people on the forum, just practice awareness & a big city awareness.

Trains & buses will be crowded. At train stations, make sure you stand "way back" from the yellow line...there have been instances where crazy people have pushed people. Just making you aware...You'll be competing with locals, travelers, musicians, & homeless people.

For train travel, there's the "Charlie Card" - https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/CharlieCard

Past 8- or 9:00 PM, stay away from alleys (shortcuts), "The Boston Common" & "Downtown Crossing" near "The Financial District." Once businesses, banks, law firms & the like close, it becomes a little eerie.

Downtown Crossing shopping is "ok" - nothing to see anymore. The "Jewelers' Building" was great in its heyday. The whole building housed many jewelers - eons go, when gold was dirt cheap/reasonable, you could bargain by comparing with competing businesses.

Back in the day, there was the famous Jordan Marsh - well known for its blueberry muffins - bakery shop was in store. As wee ones, we would get so excited when my family brought home a box. Can still smell the blueberries...

There was Filene's - (Both Jordan Marsh & Filene's were right across from each other & competitors. They also decorated their store windows at Christmas - magical. Filene's had a lovely restaurant.

Filene's also had "The Basement" as it was known back then. They would get surplus of "everything" & sell it at deep discounts. I got some beautiful Italian leather products - gloves, handbags, clothes - for almost nothing. Now it's a little super market (Summer St) similar to a small Coop.

Perhaps you may like to take a peek inside South Station which is right across from the Financial District.

https://www.south-station.net/ - A mini Roma Termini.

We have enjoyed staying at the Buckminster Hotel in Kenmore Square. In March you can get a room there for around $110 per night. Kenmore Square has a T stop, so it is very easy to get around Boston from there. To get to the airport, you could take the Logan Express from the Hynes convention center. The convention center is a 20 minute walk from the Buckminster hotel. From the Logan Express website: As of May 1, passengers who take the Back Bay LEX will get ahead of the security line when they arrive at Logan. The fee will also drop from $7.50 to $3 for a ride to the airport, and FREE from Logan to Back Bay.

While the T is good for getting around town, it is not so great if you have luggage.

(cont.)

Oh, and besides cars, buses and people not paying attention, look out for cyclists too. They come ripping around a corner (and don't always observe traffic signals either.)

Extra tips:
https://www.mbta.com/schedules/subway
https://www.mbta.com/schedules/commuter-rail < useful if you were to stay longer and venture to the outskirts of Boston - like Rockport, Gloucester or Newburyport - all quaint, picturesque little (beach) 'towns' to explore; lovely shops and eateries.

Keep in mind, the Commuter Trains do not have as frequent a schedule as the Boston trains.
Oh, and there is also Salem, MA

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salem,_Massachusetts
http://www.salem.org/

If you like Massachusetts after your visit, you can always plan another trip to see other parts of the Boston/Metropolitan area.

Another thought if you are inclined to explore:

Boston's Theater District --
http://www.touristsbook.com/boston/neighborhoods/theater-district-boston/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boston_Theater_District

I don't know if theater doors are open all day except ticket windows. But, the lobbies and such to some of Boston's old theaters are really architecturally amazing and beautiful.

Don't care for Chinatown. If you are out and about in that area late at night - after about 11:00 PM, just keep aware.

Marblehead
If curious, take a look at this info: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Shore_(Massachusetts)
In the summer, Nahant is beautiful. I had relatives who lived near the beach year round. Lovely.

So, if your travels during your stay in Massachusetts takes you out of Boston and on the "Commuter Rail," you'll pass by some of these towns - depending on your end route of course.

Also, if you plan to go to Cambridge and like Indian cuisine, I can give you the name of the restaurant that my friend goes to. She works in Cambridge and has tried a couple.

Adding additional info to my previous posts - (sometimes, you can forget the little things when you are so used to your own element)

https://www.hotels.com/de1741781/hotels-near-downtown-crossing-station-boston-united-states-of-america/

Downtown Crossing is a good place to access many things. - Trains - Macy's Store - Roche Bros. Market (where you can grab a sandwich, salad or pizza)

Sometimes, there are street musicians or particular groups playing in the center - near Macy's. A few times, a Native American group played there - absolutely stunning! When you can come upon something like that, it is a wonderful memory.

It is pedestrian friendly. Standing at Downtown Crossing, directionally, you can access a lot of 'districts' - a lot within walking distance - Tremont Street, Park Street, Boylston Street, Financial District, and so on.

The "Green Line and "Red Line" will take you to most anywhere in and around the immediate city. The Green Line will also take you toward Kenmore Sq. - Fenway Park if you want to tour the area.

It will be extra crowded with the college kids. The Red Line will take you toward North Cambridge area - all the way to Braintree.

"Orange Line" goes to the "North" as well as to the "South" of Boston. "Blue Line" goes to Logan Airport, the beaches, Revere, Orient Heights

There is also the Seaport District - about 15 minutes from Logan Airport - https://www.trolleytours.com/boston/seaport-district - Boston's Waterfront

Someone mentioned "Durgin Park," (restaurant) - they closed their doors in January. But, there are other restaurants around Faneuil Hall - some cater to the tourist industry, of course. Expect higher prices.

Here's a map to give you an idea of the 'downtown' area:

https://www.google.com/maps/@42.3557853,-71.0644496,16z

So, with much of the information given, hopefully you will pick through, find places of interest and formulate a plan of sightseeing/travel.

(cont.)

For Newbury Street, the area is pleasurable and very nice.

During the day, there will be a lot of hustle bustle with businesses, business people, locals, and travelers.
In the evening, people will still be out and about; especially on the weekend and a long summer weekend at that.

The Prudential Center has a mall inside with shops and restaurants. Retailers generally close by 9:00 PM, but restaurants should be open until much later.

If you are inclined, maybe you and your wife would enjoy the Skywalk Observatory.

The Pru http://www.prudentialcenter.com/dine_category.html and Copley Plaza https://www.simon.com/mall/copley-place/dining have their own restaurants inside their respective mall.

There's also the "Top of the Hub" restaurant. http://topofthehub.net/gallery/ It has a stunning view of the skyline since it's on the 52nd floor. The meals and lounge (drinks) have increased considerably over the years! There is a dress code. In the lounge, they have live music.

Within the distance of your hotel, you will be near Copley Place/Square, Back Bay, Newbury Street. There are a lot of good restaurants; some better than others; different price points. That part of Boston has many brownstone homes and shops; many reflecting European design elements.

Here's a link to spark your interest: http://www.newbury-st.com/Boston/6/Food_and_Dining

Restaurants along Newbury Street have outdoor seating as you walk up and down the neighborhood. People lounge, people watch, enjoy the scenery.

Some eateries are better than others. Some are very small, you have to walk up (or down) cement stairs for some. (I used to know someone who had a small Italian restaurant on Newbury Street years ago. It was small but busy. A patron had to walk down a bunch of stairs.)

A place may strike your fancy as you walk by. I think most of them you can check their menu before you go and sit down.

Maybe look at this link with some suggested restaurants: https://www.google.com/search?q=newbury+street+restaurants&rlz=1C1AOHY_enUS743US743&oq=newburyst&aqs=chrome.3.69i57j0l5.6292j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

A heads up if you buy an expensive 'luxury item': In Massachusetts, all clothing and footwear items at $175 or less are exempt from sales tax. Items above $175 are taxable at the statewide Massachusetts rate of 6.25%.

That's why a lot of Mass people drive over the border to the New Hampshire malls, lol, no taxes at all for expensive electronics and other personal items. There are also benefits to those who own a 'second home' in NH as well.

Hopefully, this added info will be helpful to your making plans for your holiday.

Oh, and of course, Boston has a ton of churches.-- St. Anthony's Shrine on Arch Street up from Downtown Crossing.

St, Stephen's on Hanover Street in the North End. It is no longer a parish church. It holds a special memory for me since my Grandparents were married in that church.

Arlington Street Church (between Arlington and Boylston Streets in the Back Bay)
If interested, here's a link to browse some historical churches, buildings and places.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Register_of_Historic_Places_listings_in_northern_Boston

(cont.)

Oh also Willy, since you are coming out in March....I would definitely dress and bring layers.

"March in Boston/New England" could still be winter time. lol. We have had snow storms in April too. So you never know.

It could be mild also and then wham - snow! Don't always depend on the forecast.

If you have fleece and puffer jackets; sweaters, they should be good. Bring a scarf, hat and gloves. Wear some type of non-skid boots or shoes. Some Boston sidewalks can be slippery.

An umbrella is almost useless in some parts of "downtown Boston." Between the wind and dodging people - not happening.

There are a million banks in Boston, lol. So no worries about ATM's.

If you get caught in a heavy rain, sleet or even snow storm while here, duck into a pub - you'll have a blast. People hanging out, having fun.

We’ve stayed at the Midtown Hotel (https://www.midtownhotel.com) the last two summers and have no complaints. It’s worked well for us (parents and two small boys). There’s no breakfast and it looks like an old school Holiday Inn - but it’s also a 5 minute walk to the Prudential Center and the T (Green line). I put in March 22-24 and got rates of around $170/night for a king bed. Check their website as they sometimes offer good deals on packages. Last year, for example, we got a good deal on rooms, tickets to the Aquarium and breakfast at a (very popular and crowded) restaurant a block away.

As far as what to do - I’m not much help as our trips have been geared towards things the kids will like. I do recommend going on a Duck Tour, which are touristy but also a lot of fun and a great way to tour the city. (See if you can get Rosie the River-Tour (get it?) as your guide.). The National Parks Service offers free walking tours out of Faneuil Hall. The Paul Revere/Old North Church one is more interesting than the Boston Massacre one, at least for me. Lunch at Quincy Market is also a lot of fun. I’ve gotten lobster bisque in a bread bowl on every Boston visit since college. I’m still hoping to get to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and Museum of Fine Arts - both of which are near-ish the Midtown Hotel but probably not walkable in late March. For food, anywhere in the North End is good for Italian.

Have fun!

I love Boston and I've visited quite a few times. Accommodations are pricey especially if you tend to hit a time frame when colleges are having events. In March you could be running into spring break families. I always stay in Boston, just because I've come to see Boston! But, I remain flexible on location. I've stayed in Back bay a few times. Cambridge once, and a few times in the financial area. I look at modest properties, but they need to be clean. I love when reviews say "dated", because that means prices are lower. I love the Freedom Trail and visits into many of the sites. (North Church, Paul Revere's house, etc.) and the cemeteries. I usually walk around Cambridge to see the college campuses. The Longfellow house offers a very nice tour (NPS) The MIT museum is usually quite interesting. I like to spend extra time in North End and Beacon Hill. Sometimes we go to the Science Museum. Charlestowne is an interesting place to wander and see the USS Constitution and Bunker Hill. Also, Boston has a wonderful aquarium.

Back Bay neighborhood is the most convenient place to stay within the city of Boston bar none. There are hotels and airbnbs that are priced reasonably. Review that link Willy.

https://www.adventurouskate.com/where-to-stay-in-boston-best-neighborhoods-and-accommodation/

The airport is another good suggestion, I do recall staying near the airport once where I found a good deal. While I would not hesitate to stay in Back Bay again, I do find the financial area to be more convenient to the things we do, like the Freedom Trail. Back Bay has the fancy shopping which I'm really not interested in but is close to the Public Garden (adjacent to Boston Common)

Willy, I grew up in the Boston area, work and lived in Boston.

Since I love Boston for many reasons and am very familiar with it, I was excited to offer you some suggestions and options -- you can take your pick -- lol.

I think it is quite helpful for new visitors to have a heads up about a city they may not know about.

Also, travelers new to Boston or Massachusetts in general may appreciate some tidbits - for instance, the state tax on most things, trains and stations, some "little history" of Boston and where my family settled. I am proud of it :)

Check out the link I gave about the Newbury Street area - lovely old brownstone homes, cute, boutique-style shops, tons of restaurants and cafes. I don't think you'll be able to sit outside in March, lol, tempermental "New England" weather and all.

Copley Square and The Pru are also wonderful to walk around and visit in.

And of course, Boston --- Home to THE BOSTON RED SOX!!! Best team in the World!!! ;)

I hope you like Boston when you visit. It is a fun and very diverse city! Enjoy!

WOW! Thank you all SO MUCH for these responses! Girasole, especially you. All the detail you provided is appreciated. We will definitely enjoy a Boston stay thanks to the responses received so far. PLEASE, keep 'em coming!

Thanks.

Willy

WOW! Thank you all SO MUCH for these responses! Girasole, especially you. All the detail you provided is appreciated.

You are very welcome, Willy :)

Happy planning!

You've received the names of a couple of reasonable hotels in/near the Back Bay. I'll add the Charlesmark Hotel to the list. I ran March 22 and 23, 2 nights, and the rate was $149.00 per night for the least expensive double. I stay here when I'm downtown doing research so I don't have to go home. It is a European style room; ie, small but reasonable, IMO, ensuite. If you stay there consider, eating in their bar one night...I had an amazing meal there last time, but I'm blank on what dish it was at this point, if it comes to mind I'll let you know. LOL Also, their website indicates a sister hotel near the harbor, Harborside, that you might want to look at (I didn't, but also an excellent location. Also, you could walk to the waterfront and just take a ferry or water taxi to Logan from there.) If you just have a carryon and personal item, I don't see that the subway would be a problem...that's how we get to the airport. However, there is a Logan Express site to look at (I'd subway from downtown) or subway and silver line bus, OR for a bit more, subway and water taxi or ferry to airport. Many choices besides a taxi. The Back Bay is a convenient part of Boston to stay in, and one of my favorite architecturally.

If you are only in Boston for a couple of days, I'd suggest just enjoying Boston proper and save outlying towns for another trip.

RE: traffic. In Boston and through the O'Neil tunnel, I rarely get bogged down in traffic. So it shouldn't hold you up if in a vehicle to Logan, unless there is an unusual problem. I think the people in the suburbs hit traffic because they decide to drive in and out of Boston, and it is on the roads a bit out from Boston where the traffic is. (This is an opinion due to having to travel to the suburbs north of Boston for grandson...so I'm truly unimpressed with suburbia, LOL.)

I think RJean was using humor, not sarcasm. I will also agree with RJean that the Back Bay is a prime location. My second choice would be the waterfront...although I have never stayed there.

I am sure you will get some tour guides for Boston. I was just reading an article that locals (I am one) are not good sources for what to see as we are not tourists in our own cities.

For what it's worth, I just searched Boston hotels on Trivago for 2 people for 3 nights (3/21 to 3/24) and found many very reasonably priced, well-located, and even higher end hotels. For just a few examples, the Park Plaza for $158/night, the Fairmont Copley Plaza for $240ish/night, the Bostonian for $210/night, the Hyatt Regency for $219/night, the Omni Parker House for $200/night. I think you've got a lot of options.