In this post, I will discuss about where to stay in Boston first-time, best areas to stay in Boston for first-timers (with a map and video), best hotels in Boston for all budgets (including the hotel where I stayed), and safest places to stay in Boston.
Boston is the capital and most populous city in the state of Massachusetts and in the New England region of America. With a rich history, countless tourist attractions, and a number of successful sports teams, Boston is an incredibly popular destination for tourists.
Boston has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and the “T” subway system, making it relatively easy to navigate the city without a car. Amtrak trains connect Boston to other major cities on the East Coast, as well as Greyhound, Megabus, and BoltBus buses.
🎬You can watch this short video about the best areas of Boston, and continue reading for more detail of each area and places to stay:
Where to stay in Boston first time?
The best areas to stay in Boston for first-time tourists are Downtown Boston, Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Waterfront, and North End. These are safe and popular neighborhoods, offering a wide variety of attractions and amenities for all budgets.
Downtown and Back Bay are the most popular areas in Boston for first timers due to their central location, safety, and excellent connections to transportation. Downtown is the best place for historical attractions, Back Bay offers more in terms of shopping and dining.
The Waterfront, The Financial District, Chinatown/ Theater District are sub sections of Downtown Boston. The Financial District is ideal for business travelers. The Waterfront offer stunning harbor views and easy access to the Aquarium, Tea Party Ships & Museum, and Seaport District.
Northend is Boston’s Little Italy with narrow streets, historic sites, and excellent Italian restaurants. Close to the Freedom Trail, Paul Revere’s House, and Old North Church.
South End is a great base for those interested in Latin culture or traveling on a budget, while South Boston is the best choice for those interested in Irish culture or near the airport.
Beacon Hill is perfect for high-end accommodation, while Charlestown offers something a little quieter and more residential.
Boston is generally a safe city for tourists, but as any big city, you should use common sense, take common sense precautions, and stick into tourist areas. You should avoid Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan as it’s more dangerous than other part of city.
Downtown and Back Bay are the safest areas in Boston for tourists. Other safe residential areas are Allston-Brighton, East Boston, and Hyde Park. Always take precautions, avoid poorly lit areas at night, be mindful of belongings, and use reputable transportations.
Where did I stay in Boston?
When I first visited Boston, I stayed for 3 nights at The Godfrey Hotel Boston. It was a good value for money hotel that has a prime location in Downtown Boston, easy access to major sights on foot and by metro. My room was spacious with a comfortable bed, and big bathroom.
| đź’– Best Area for first-timers: | Downtown Boston |
| đź’Ž Best luxury hotel: | InterContinental Boston, an IHG Hotel |
| 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: | The Godfrey Hotel Boston |
| đź’° Best budget hotel: | HI Boston Hostel |
Map of areas and neighborhoods in Boston:
10 Best areas to stay in Boston for first-time tourists:
1. Downtown Boston
Downtown, along with Back Bay, is the most popular base in Boston for first-timers. It has a central location and proximity to tons of historical attractions including the Boston Common, Public Gardens, City Hall, Freedom Trail, Haymarket, Faneuil Hall, and Quincy Market.
Additionally, Downtown offers great shopping, lively nightlife, and fine dining. Some of the best hotels, bars, restaurants and shops are centrally located within walking distance of one another.
Boston has a long history, dating back to the founding of the U.S, and was one of the most important locations in the war for independence. The Boston Tea Party was a political protest that took place in the Boston Harbor and was responsible for considerable growth within the American revolution.
Visitors to the Waterfront will not only get a sense of everything that happened to shape the country but can also visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum to learn more about the most infamous event in Boston’s history.
You’ll also find the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, an ideal place to stay in Boston for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The Waterfront isn’t the only part of Downtown that has attractions on offer though. There is the iconic Boston Center Plaza and City Hall, where the city’s governors have worked since 1968.
Then you have Faneuil Hall Marketplace, a legendary marketplace and meeting hall that was opened by Samuel Adams in 1743. It is one of the most iconic buildings in Boston, now being listed as a National Historical Park and featuring the popular Quincy Market.
Downtown has plenty of accommodation options that suit all budgets from backpackers hostels, guesthouses, and apartments in historic buildings to luxury lodgings.
Stay in Downtown if you are a first-time visitors, families, couples wanting a central location; you travel without a car; you want easy access to historical attractions;
Best places to stay in Boston Downtown for first-timers:
luxury ($$$): InterContinental Boston, an IHG Hotel, 5-star hotel located in the waterfront area of Downtown Boston, short distance from famous Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, Tea Party and Aquarium. You can choose to stay in a room with a wonderful view of the harbor.
mid-range ($$) : The Godfrey Hotel Boston, popular 4-star good value for money hotel in the real heart of Boston, easy walk from the Freedom Trail. Great base for the first visit. It has family rooms, 24-hour front desk, 2 restaurants, and private parking.
mid-range ($$): Hyatt Centric Faneuil Hall Boston, great 4-star hotel centrally located in Downtown Boston, a short walk to everything including Boston-North End, Seaport, Theater District. You can find many eateries in its surroundings.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN DOWNTOWN BOSTON2. Back Bay
Back Bay is the favorite area of many first-time visitors. It is a beautiful Parisian-style and affluent area located on the banks of the Charles River, right next to Downtown Boston. The area is home to major attractions such as the Copley Square, Trinity Church, Copley Place, Boston Public Library.
The Back Bay/Copley is one of the most popular and safe areas in Boston for visitors. While Downtown offers easier access to historical attractions, Back Bay is a better location for an upscale atmosphere with lot of options for shopping and dining.
Back Bay is known as a great neighborhood for shopping. It is home to huge shopping malls, Copley Place and Prudential Center, aka The Pru by locals. Connected by a sky bridge and featuring a combined 155 stores, hotels, and eateries.
The Skywalk Observatory is the city’s only sky-high vantage point offering a sweeping 360-degree view. For more shopping, head to Boylston Street and Newbury Street.
In addition to shops and restaurants, Back Bay is the location of the finish line for the world-famous Boston Marathon. Despite being called the Boston Marathon, the race actually begins in a separate city altogether, Hopkinton.
The competitors then race the 26 miles between the two, following a route just south of Commonwealth Avenue. This makes Back Bay a perfect place for anyone visiting Boston to take part in the festivities of the event.
One of the most-visited parts of Back Bay, Copley Square features sculptures, green spaces, and a farmer market every Tuesday and Friday. It is surrounded by buildings with iconic architecture, making it a great place to relax and take in some history.
Some of those buildings are the Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library. Opened in 1895 and proclaimed a palace for the people, Boston Public Library boasts lavish decorations, an arcaded courtyard, and consistently displays a collection of works of art.
Another is the John Hancock Tower, the tallest skyscraper in all of New England. While its famous viewing deck has been closed for some time now, it still gives a stark comparison between the distinctive architectural styles Boston has seen throughout the years.
Just around the corner you also have the Hynes Convention Center. Home to a number of the most popular events and conventions held in the city, it can make Back Bay a great place to stay in Boston if you’re here to attend more than one thing.
Another interesting place to visit is the Mapparium, an inside-out stained-glass globe that is bisected in the middle by a glass walkway, located inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library.
Back Bay is adjacent to the picturesque Boston Public Garden and the Charles River Esplanade. These green spaces provide opportunities for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities.
The Back Bay/Copley Square is easily explored on foot and by public transportation. It offers easy access to both the Orange and Green MBTA lines, making it one of the best locations in Boston for car-travelers.
Back Bay offers a wide choices of accommodations that suits all budget travelers from budget apartments to luxury lodges.
Stay in Back Bay if you’re first-timers, families, couples seeking lots of shopping and dining options; you at Boston Marathon or event at the Hynes Convention Center;
Best places to stay in Boston Back Bay for first-time visitors:
- luxury ($$$): The Eliot Suite Hotel, 5-star hotel, located in Back Bay, a short distance from Hynes Convention Center, Prudential Shopping Center and Newbury Street shops.
- mid-range ($$): The Lenox, 4-star boutique hotel, located in the historic Back Bay area, short walk from the John Hancock Tower, as well as restaurants and shops on Newbury Street.
- budget ($): Newbury Guest House, great 3-star historic guest house is located in Back Bay district, short walk from Hynes Convention Cente, Newbury Street, and Hynes Convention Center Subway Station.
3. Financial District
The Financial District is actually a section of Downtown Boston. Home to the headquarters of countless major corporations, it is the best neighborhood to stay in Boston for business travelers, as it provides them with the utmost convenience.
In the Financial District, you will find the headquarters of famous financial institutions such as DWS Scudder Investments, Putnam Investments, and Fidelity Investments.
Not only does it have numerous bars, hotels, and restaurants catering to those staying in the area while working in the city, but it also has attractions for you to enjoy as well.
For example, locations like Post Office Square provide beautiful examples of the historic architecture Boston is known for.
In the neighborhood, you can also find Exchange Place and International Place complexes, Custom House Tower, Old State House, Bell-in-Hand Tavern, the Frost Ice Loft, and Howl at the Moon.
On top of that, the rest of the attractions and amenities Downtown Boston is known for are just a short walk away. That makes it ideal for when you have a slightly longer break from work as well.
While accommodation prices in the area are admittedly quite high and cater to business hotels, its location still makes it the prime choice for anyone whose main purpose for their visit is work.
Stay in Financial District if you are traveling on business; you don’t plan to hire a car during your trip; you aren’t concerned about price.
Best places to stay in Financial District:
- luxury ($$$): The Langham, Boston, 5-star hotel, former Federal Reserve Bank, located in the heart of Boston, ideal place base for families, couples, and those travel without a car. It offers views of Norman B. Leventhal Park.
- mid-range ($$): Hilton Boston Downtown/Faneuil Hall, 4-star hotel, located in Boston city center, easy walk from Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall, Seaport, North End, and attractions.
- budget ($): Harborside Inn, 3-star hotel, located in Boston’s waterfront district, short walk from the harbor and the Aquarium Subway Station.
You can continue reading for the detail of each area, or if you are a car-free travelers, you can check this article: Best areas to stay in Boston without a car.
4. Chinatown/Theater District
The Theater District and Chinatown are a pair of neighboring districts sandwiched between Boston Common and Downtown Boston. With their compact, intertwined nature, they are two of the best neighborhoods in the city for those who prioritize diversity in their attractions.
The Chinatown district is one of the largest Asian areas in America outside of New York City and is the last remaining historic Chinatown in all of New England.
Featuring shops, bars, restaurants, and various other businesses run by Chinese, as well as Vietnamese, Korean, and Filipino people, it’s a great place to enjoy a different type of culture and cuisine.
Some of the best restaurants in Chinatown to try are Shabu-Zen, Gourmet Dumpling House, and Winsor Dim Sum Café.
Meanwhile, the Theater District is the heart of the city’s theatre scene. The Washington Street Theatre District at the center of the area contains 7 buildings listed on the National Register Of Historic Places, including the Boston Opera House, Paramount Theatre and Modern Theatre.
Stay in the Theater District and Chinatown if you are a foodie who is interested in east Asian cuisine and culture; you want to catch a theatre performance.
Best places to stay in Boston in Chinatown:
- luxury ($$$): Four Seasons Boston, 5-star hotel, located easy distance from Boston Common, the Public Garden, Boston Opera House, and Arlington train Station.
- mid-range ($$): Revere Hotel Boston Common, 4-star hotel, located close to Boston Common and Newbury Street. It has a rooftop terrace with views of the city and Back Bay.
- budget ($): HI Boston Hostel, great hostel, located in the heart of Boston, easy access to public transportation, shopping and dining venues.
5. Fenway-Kenmore
Fenway-Kenmore is located on the west side of Boston, immediately west of Back Bay, on the southern bank of the Charles River. it is an academic and cultural district with many universities and colleges.
Fenway-Kenmore has great nightlife scene around Lansdowne Street with plenty of bars and clubs. There are several Boston’s top sports bars such as House of Blues, Bill’s Bar, and Loretta’s Last Call.
The most popular attraction in the area, and what most people associate Fenway-Kenmore with, is Fenway Park. Fenway Park is an outdoor stadium capable of holding more than 37,000 people and is the home of Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox.
This makes Fenway-Kenmore the best place to stay in Boston for anyone visiting to attend a game. Baseball isn’t the only thing the stadium is used for though. Over the years, soccer, American football, and boxing matches have all been held here, along with events like concerts and extreme sports competitions.
Located just a short walk from the stadium, you will also find the iconic Kenmore Square. It features a number of sports bars, buzzy restaurants, and even the iconic Citgo sign.
There’s even Symphony Hall in the southeast section of the district. Home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the second oldest of America’s “Big Five”, it makes a great stop for anyone seeking a slightly more refined style of entertainment.
It isn’t all sports and tourism that make Fenway-Kenmore popular though, as the neighborhood is also the location of Boston University. With nearly 34,000 students studying a range of subjects, it is also one of the best places to stay in Boston for anyone who is, or is visiting, a student there.
Just across the river, you have Harvard Square, home to the world-famous Harvard University. You’ll also find Boston Latin School, Simmons University, and Wentworth Institute of Technology.
If you like history, there are also several museums to explore include the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Museum of Fine Arts which is one of North America’s largest.
Stay in Kenway-Kenmore if you want to spend an evening at Kenmore Square and see the iconic Citgo sign; you want to attend a performance by the Boston Symphony Orchestra;
Best places to stay in Fenway-Kenmore:
- luxury ($$$): Boston Hotel Commonwealth, 5-star hotel, located close to Fenway Park and Boston University. You can choose to stay in suites with views of Kenmore Square and the Citgo Sign.
- budget ($): Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway, 3-star hotel, located located within walking distance of Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox.
6. South End
South End is a trendy, arty neighborhood located just minutes from downtown and Back Bay. It’s one of the most beautiful and the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in Boston.
It has many old-school diners, noodle houses, Spanish tapas restaurants, an Italian wine bar, and French bistros.
This historic neighborhood features the largest intact Victorian house row district in the country. You can find many of them along Tremont Street, Columbus Avenue, and Massachusetts Avenue.
You will find the Boston Center for the Arts, which is a visual and performing arts complex. It is home to the Cyclorama that hosts Art Book Fair every year; the Mills Gallery, Calderwood Pavilion, the Plaza Theatre, and Plaza Black Box Theatre.
If you like holy architecture of the Gothic Revival style, head to the largest Roman Catholic church in New England, Cathedral of the Holy Cross.
Other interesting places are the Underground at Ink Block, Titus Sparrow Park, Harriet Tubman Park which is also known as Harriet Tubman Square.
South End offers more affordable accommodation than many other parts of the city. Connected to Downtown by Washington Street, it’s quick and easy to get between the two, making South End a great choice for those on a budget.
This area also have easy access to Jamaica Plain, aka Latin Quarter of Boston, featuring a high Latin population, as well as numerous businesses, festivals, and churches. It even contains the oldest community theatre in America, the Footlight Club.
South end also hosts the 5th Annual SoWa Winter Festival in December in the South of Washington Art Design District. You can enjoy food and activities, the galleries, and artist studios.
Stay in South End if you love good food; you are traveling on a budget; you want easy access to the city center.
Best places to stay in Boston’s South End:
- budget ($): Residence Inn Boston Downtown/South End
- budget ($): Inn at St. Botolph
7. South Boston
Located immediately to the east of South End, South Boston, known as Southie by locals, encompasses the areas of Fort Point, the Seaport District, West Broadway, City Point, and Telegraph Hill. Dorchester Heights is Southie’s central area and the highest point.
Located just 3 miles from Boston Logan International Airport, it is the best neighborhood in the city for those who prioritize staying near the airport during their visit.
While Boston as a whole is known for its Irish American community, perhaps nowhere in the city is quite as abundant with the culture as South Boston. In addition to the various bars, restaurants, and businesses, it is also the location of Boston’s legendary St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
This makes South Boston the perfect choice for anyone who prioritizes experiencing the unique culture of the city during their stay. Beyond the culture, there are plenty of other attractions in the area too.
The historic 22-acre peninsula, Castle Island is a beautiful place for sunrise and sunset. You can visit Fort Independence and take a stroll along the Pleasure Bay.
If you want to visit one of the Boston Harbor Islands, you will have a chance to take a ferries ride to the Thompson Island on the weekends from June to October.
You will find several museums such as the John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library which is is full of interesting artifacts, photos, videos, and some of his spouse Jackie’s dresses; and the Boston Children’s Museum is fun option for families and kids.
If you love art, have look at the Institute of Contemporary Art to admire its architecturally intriguing, and collections of Yayoi Kusama, and enjoy the views of Boston habor.
In the Seaport District, you can find the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, Boston Design Center, Lawn on D with its popular attraction, Swing Time, where you can spin and sway on circular swings for free.
A collection of parks like South Boston Maritime Park, Raymond L. Flynn Marine Park, churches, and a vibrant array of events make this a fabulous location for a whole range of interests.
In the center of Thomas Park stands Dorchester Heights Monument, which is a white marble monument to commemorate a 1776 colonialist victory over the British. It was built by Peabody and Stearns.
Best places to stay in South Boston:
- mid-range ($$): Seaport Hotel Boston, 4-star hotel, located in the historic waterfront, next to the Silver Line Bus Station, short distance from Boston Exhibition and Convention Center.
- budget ($): Hyatt Place Boston/Seaport District, great 3-star hotel with a restaurant, private parking, and a terrace.
Other interesting article about Boston: Where to stay in Boston without a car
8. North End
North End is one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods, located immediately north of Downtown. It is known for its collection of historic buildings and attractions, with the Blackstone Block Historic District located at its core.
The Freedom Trail winds through the North End, on its way from Boston Common to Charlestown. Dotted along it are some of the most historic buildings in the city, most of which are walking distance apart, making it a great place for a stroll for history buffs.
North End is the location of the Old North Church (Christ Church). Built in 1723, it is the oldest church in Boston, featuring a bust of George Washington.
North End is also the location of the Paul Revere House, the former home of the American revolutionary. It has been converted into a museum, allowing visitors to learn about people and events that would have stood and occurred in the very spot they currently occupy.
You can also find the Copp’s Burying Ground, which dating back 1650s. This Boston’s second-oldest cemetery is the final resting place of thousands of people, .
North End’s Main Street is Hanover Street. The street has a countless Italian restaurants, souvenir shop, boutiques, and gelato stands.
There are many green spaces in this area including the haborside Langone Park. It’s home to a Little League baseball diamond. you will also have the Christopher Columbus Park, New England Aquarium, and the the Rose Kennedy Greenway nearby.
North End is unofficially known as Little Italy too. Home to the largest Italian American population in the city, it boasts numerous Italian restaurants and shops.
North End host the Saint Anthony’s Feast, the largest Italian Religious Festival in New England. The cobblestone streets filled with parades, pushcarts full of Italian foods.
Best places to stay in Boston’s North End:
- mid-range ($$): Boston Marriott Long Wharf, 4-star hotel, located on Long Wharf, next to New England Aquarium and Blue Line Subway Station.
- mid-range ($$): Boston Yacht Haven, 4-star waterfront inn, located within walking distance from Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market.
- budget ($): Harborside Inn, 3-star hotel located in Boston’s waterfront district, close to the harbor, Aquarium Subway Station, and Paul Revere House.
9. Charlestown
Located immediately across the Charles River from North End, Charlestown is a historic, waterfront district in Boston, as well as the end of the Freedom Trail. Originally settled in 1629 as a separate town, it was the original capital of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
While its Revolutionary War history means it is filled with sites of historical significance, modern-day Charlestown is a largely residential area. This makes it a great place for visitors to come and explore some of the area’s background, without being surrounded by mobs of tourists the whole time.
You can climb to the top of the well-known Bunker Hill Monument. The memorial celebrate the Battle of Bunker Hill, the first important battle of the Revolutionary War. You can learn more about the history at the Battle of Bunker Hill Museum.
Charlestown is home to the Charlestown Navy Yard, opened in 1800. The famous USS Merrimack was built hre. The Navy Yard is where you can find the USS Constitution which is the oldest ship still afloat in the world.
If you like achitecture, stop by th St. Mary–St. Catherine of Siena Church, opened in 1828. You can admire its Romanesque interior with a hammer-beam oak ceiling and stained glass windows by Franz Mayer & Co.
Sites like the Boston National Historical Park is a fabulous place that often get missed by those who don’t venture outside of the city center.
In addition to its history, Charlestown also offers stunning views of the Charles River. Combined with its smaller population, it makes the area one of the most relaxing neighborhoods in the city.
If you are looking somewhere good to grab a meal and a drink, check out the Pier 6. You can find more shopping opputinites, gastropubs, restaurants, bars on the Main Street.
Best places to stay in Boston in Charlestown:
- Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf
- Moroccan Boutique Guest House
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Boston – Cambridge, an IHG Hotel
10. Beacon Hill
Known as the neighborhood of Federal-style rowhouses, Beacon Hill is located immediately west of Downtown Boston. This is one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods which is considered to be one of the most expensive areas to live or stay in Boston.
The name derives from the fact it is the location of the Massachusetts State House. Traditional federal buildings surround it, with gas lamps and brick sidewalks completing the distinctly historic feel of the neighborhood.
Perhaps nothing symbolizes what Beacon Hill is all about better than the old Charles Street Jail. Located on Charles Street, it was built in 1851 and housed a number of infamous prisoners. It operated until 1990, before being closed due to being considered unconstitutional.
In 2007, it was renovated and reopened as the luxury Liberty Hotel. One of the best hotels in the area, it perfectly combines the style and history Beacon Hill is renowned for.
In the Beacan Hill, you will find the oldest public park in the country, Boston Common. This 50-acre green oasis hosts many cultural events. It has an old-fashioned carousel, and the adjacent Frog Pond in summer, an ice-skating rink in winter.
You can also take the Guided Freedom Trail tours that start in front of the Visitor Information Center. This 2.5-mile Freedom Trail will give you a chance to see 16 historic sites including King’s Chapel, Faneuil Hall, and the Bunker Hill Monument.
If you head to the 10 1/2 Beacon Street, you will see Boston Athenaeum, which is one of the oldest libraries in the United States. Established in 1807, this historic building is home to an art gallery with a range of exhibits.
You can easily explore Faneuil Hall with Old Town Trolley tour 90 minute historic sightseeing tour, visit the attractions of the Charles River Esplanade and Acorn Street.
If you like museums, the Museum of African American History within the African Meeting House is worth visiting. it has of a range of exhibits, programs, events and educational activities.
Stay in Beacon Hill if you want to stay in one of the wealthiest parts of Boston; you want to see the Massachusetts State House or the old Charles Street Jail.
Best places to stay in Boston in Beacon Hill:
- luxury ($$$): The Whitney Hotel, 5-star hotel, located close to King’s Chapel and Burying Ground, Boston North Station and TD Garden.
- luxury ($$$): The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel, 5-star histori hotel, offering views of Charles River, in Boston city centre. It is located at the foot of Beacon Hill, only steps from the Museum of Science and Kendall Square.
- budget ($): Boston Omni Parker House Hotel, 4-star hotel, located on Freedom Trail and a short walk from Boston Common.
Is it better to stay Downtown or Back Bay Boston?
They are both ideal and safe locations for first-timers, both families, couples, and solo travelers. Downtown is best for those wanting to stay closer to historical sites, Back Bay is best for more options in upscale shopping, fine dining, and a more picturesque and romantic setting.
What are the best places to stay in Boston for couples?
Beacon Hill, Back Bay, North End, Seaport, Downtown are some of the best areas for couples. They are romantic areas with plenty of boutique hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, and charming inns. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
What is the Best area to stay in Boston with family?
Back Bay, Downtown, Beacon Hill, Waterfront, North End are some of the best places to stay in Boston for family with kids. They offers plenty of family-friendly accommodations, and things to do and see for children of all ages.
What is the safest area to stay in Boston?
Downtown and Back Bay are the safest places to stay in Boston for tourists with plenty of things to do and see. Other safe residential areas are Allston-Brighton, East Boston, and Hyde Park. As any major urban area, you should always use common sense, take care of your belongings, and avoid poorly lit areas at night.
Where not to stay in Boston?
You should avoid Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan because they have high crime rates. As with any city, staying aware of your surroundings and taking common-sense precautions will contribute to a safer experience.
🎬You can watch this full video about the best areas of Boston in my youtube channel.
Read More: Best areas to Stay in New York and Best areas to Stay in Austin.
To sum up, Downtown, Back Bay, Financial District, Beacon Hill, South Boston, South End, and North End are the best places to stay in Boston for tourists and first-time travelers. These are popular and safe areas with a wide range of tourist amenities for all budgets.
Overall, Downtown is the best area to stay in Boston for first-timers due to its central location, easy access to public transportation, and wide range of accommodation options. It also offers easy access to tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, and shops.
For booking a hotel, I recommend spending at least 3 days in Boston, which is enough to see major attractions, enjoy food and drinks, as well as get a sense of the local culture and history. You can always come back next time and discover more!