Boston: Private City Tour of Boston & Cambridge

Explore Boston and Cambridge in a Private 7-Hour Journey for $138

This private city tour of Boston and Cambridge offers a full-day experience packed with history, iconic landmarks, and local flavor. For $138 per person, the tour spans 7 hours and is ideal for those who want an intimate, personalized look at some of Massachusetts’s most famous sites. Guided by a knowledgeable host, travelers visit landmarks like the Old North Church, Paul Revere’s house, and the USS Constitution, all while enjoying a local snack and exploring university campuses. This tour particularly appeals to history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone interested in detailed stories behind Boston’s founding.

While the tour offers an impressive lineup of stops, it’s important to note that lunch is not included. Travelers should plan for a mid-day break at local eateries or markets. The tour’s private format and small group size mean more personalized attention and flexibility, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a tailored experience.

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Key Points

• Private 7-hour tour exploring Boston and Cambridge for $138 per person
• Includes visits to Old North Church, Paul Revere’s house, and USS Constitution
• Walks through Boston Common, Beacon Hill, and Boston Public Garden
• Drive through prominent university campuses Harvard and MIT
• Starts with coffee and cannoli, and includes bottled water and parking fees
• Tour is suitable for most travelers, but not wheelchair accessible and no lunch included

Discovering Boston’s Historic Landmarks

The tour begins with a morning coffee and cannoli, offering a taste of local Italian treats. From here, the guide leads you through Paul Revere’s House, one of the oldest wooden structures in Boston, revealing stories of colonial life and revolutionary fervor. Nearby, the Old North Church stands as a symbol of the start of the Revolution, where visitors sit in historical pews and hear detailed accounts of the events that unfolded there.

Next, the Copp’s Hill Burying Ground offers a glimpse into Boston’s colonial past with its bullet holes in gravestones, a reminder of the British occupation during the Revolution. The Paul Revere Mall park, with its iconic statue, provides a perfect photo stop and a chance to learn about other Revolutionary figures commemorated nearby.

Exploring Boston’s Iconic Parks and Neighborhoods

A walk through Boston Common — the oldest public park in America — introduces visitors to the city’s green spaces and public gathering spots. Adjacent to the Common, the Boston Public Garden offers a peaceful stroll among its famous swan boats and meticulously maintained botanical displays. The guide highlights the neighborhood of Beacon Hill, known for its historic brick row houses and elegant streets, exemplifying Boston’s wealthiest and most prestigious residential area.

Midday gives travelers time for lunch and souvenirs at options like the city’s oldest tavern or an artisanal market with over 20 vendors, featuring regional specialties such as chowder, lobster rolls, and homemade doughnuts.

Visiting the USS Constitution and Historic Charlestown

In the afternoon, the tour moves to Charlestown, home to the USS Constitution, the oldest wooden ship still in service worldwide. Visitors learn about the ship’s role in naval history and its famous battles, including the Battle of Bunker Hill. The story of how George Washington and Henry Knox helped turn the tide against the British is woven into the visit, offering visitors a vivid picture of early American resolve.

The Bunker Hill Monument nearby marks a pivotal Revolutionary War victory and provides additional historical context for the era’s battles.

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Cambridge: Harvard and MIT Highlights

Crossing into Cambridge, the tour showcases the city’s reputation as a hub of innovation and education. The guide points out Kendall Square, known as “the most innovative square mile on the planet,” emphasizing its status as a center of technological advancement. The drive through the MIT campus introduces the university’s “theory and practice” motto, illustrating its role in fostering invention and research.

The walk through Harvard Yard reveals the heart of America’s oldest college, founded by Puritans in 1636. Tourists see the campus’s historic buildings and learn about Harvard’s evolution from a religious institution to a global academic leader. The tour concludes with time to browse Harvard’s co-op shop, a three-story building filled with university memorabilia.

Landmark Photo Stops and Cultural Highlights

A quick visit to Copley Square caps off the tour. Known as the “Jewel of the Back Bay,” it features striking architecture and cultural landmarks like the Boston Public Library. The guide shares insights about Boston’s development and the significance of each site, enhancing understanding beyond just sightseeing.

The tour ends with drop-off at your hotel, airport, or cruise terminal, accommodating groups of up to 6 people for a comfortable experience.

Practical Details and Tour Inclusions

The tour includes air-conditioned private transportation, ensuring comfort throughout the day. All parking fees, fuel surcharge, and the entrance fee for the Old North Church are covered, simplifying logistics. The tour also provides bottled water and parking fees, making the day smooth from start to finish.

Lunch is not included, so travelers should plan their meal at one of the local eatery options or markets during the midday break. The live English-speaking guide offers detailed storytelling and is available to answer questions along the way.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This private tour emphasizes a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide, allowing flexibility and tailored attention. The inclusion of both historic sites and university campuses provides a comprehensive view of Boston’s past and present. Its carefully curated stops and storytelling make it especially appealing to visitors interested in history and culture, while the private format prevents large crowds.

The tour’s 7-hour duration balances a thorough exploration with manageable pacing, and the $138 price offers good value considering the private setting and range of sites covered.

Limitations and Considerations

One notable limitation is that lunch is not included, so travelers should arrange their own meals. Plus, this tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not suit guests with mobility challenges. It also requires participants to be comfortable walking and standing for periods, especially at stops like Harvard Yard and Boston Common.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The Boston: Private City Tour of Boston & Cambridge offers a detailed, flexible way to see some of Massachusetts’s most significant landmarks in one day. Its combination of historic, educational, and scenic sites makes it a well-rounded experience for those keen on understanding Boston’s roots and modern academic influence.

The personalized guide and private transport add value, making the day both educational and enjoyable. It’s a solid choice for visitors who want to explore history without the rush of large group tours or public transportation schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, coffee and cannoli, bottled water, parking fees, fuel surcharge, and the Old North Church entrance fee.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for 7 hours, providing ample time to visit all major sites at a comfortable pace.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are options for lunch and souvenirs during a designated break.

Is this tour suitable for children or wheelchair users?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but not wheelchair accessible and may involve walking and standing at various stops.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, the guide can offer some flexibility within the scheduled stops, but the overall itinerary covers key landmarks in Boston and Cambridge.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made in advance, with options to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

This Boston: Private City Tour of Boston & Cambridge delivers a well-organized, engaging experience that balances history, culture, and university visits, all wrapped in a private, comfortable setting. It’s perfect for those seeking a deeper understanding of Boston’s past and its academic hubs in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby