One of the favorite weekend getaways from Montreal, outside Quebec City and New York, is Boston, in the state of Massachusetts. It’s only a short 6 hour drive or 8 hour bus-ride, and with such pretty sights, it’s only normal that many Montrealers opt for the tranquil beauty of Boston instead of the New York hustle.

Boston Common

Boston Common

My favorite time of the year to visit Boston is definitely spring – despite the fact that my favorite season to travel is fall! It’s only because of the cherry blossoms all over Boston Common. How pretty are they? And boy, the smell. THE SMELL. It floats through the whole city, like some free aromatherapy session. Boston Common is my favorite place in the city – I love seeing the contrast between all the green trees, the colorful flowers, the metallic skyscrapers and the red brick State House. I think it represents the city very well!

Beacon Hill © Viator

Nearby the park is the most beautiful neighborhood of the city, and one of the most expensive, too: Beacon Hill. So romantic and old-world! Despite a rather sketchy start in the 1800s (the neighborhood was nicknamed Mount Whoredom – that gives you an idea), it’s now today a rather charming series of federal-style houses, famous residents and luxurious SUVs. I love how, even today, 200 years after they were built, houses are almost intact and if you try to imagine the streets sans cars, you can almost picture what the area was like back in the days. The most popular stops? Louisburg Square and the hip boutiques of Charles Street.

Of course, a weekend in Boston wouldn’t be complete without a short (or extensive) stop in Cambridge, at world famous Harvard University or the MIT. Touristy stops, yes, but mandatory nonetheless. As I always say, touristy places are touristy for a reason!

Harvard campus

Harvard Marching Band

The walk along the Charles River alone is worth the detour.

Boston skyline

Other areas I have a soft spot for? The Italian eateries of the North End, colonial Charlestown, vibrant Quincy Market and the posh buildings of the Back Bay. Whatever place you opt to visit during your weekend in Boston, you are guaranteed a good time. It does not disappoint!

What’s your favorite thing to do in Boston? Do you prefer history, architecture or food?