A Travel Price Comparison for Massachusetts Boston vs. Cape Cod for Families, Food, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Boston or Cape Cod?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boston and Cape Cod. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boston

Boston is a traditional, classic, and proud city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Boston and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Cape Cod?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boston than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boston is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Cape Cod is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Boston is well known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Boston different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cape Cod and Boston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boston or Cape Cod?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Boston has many famous sights for visitors. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Theater?

Boston is great for its shows and theatre. However, Cape Cod is not a theatre destination.

Boston offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Cape Cod is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Boston or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Boston and Cape Cod can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Cape Cod has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Boston is great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Music?

Boston is a good destination for its music scene. However, Cape Cod is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Cape Cod is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod is a good destination for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod is notable for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

Many people visit Cape Cod for it's beautiful beaches. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Boston offers plenty to see. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod offers some nice hiking trails. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Cape Cod?

Cape Cod is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Christmas?

Boston is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cape Cod does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is a very popular destination during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Cape Cod does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Cape Cod does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Cape Cod does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Cape Cod is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Students?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Boston is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Is Boston or Cape Cod Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Boston or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its walkability.

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

For even more information, also check out Is Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Boston?

How long in Boston or Cape Cod?

Both Boston and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Boston. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

Families should spend more time in Boston than Cape Cod. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Boston than Cape Cod. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Boston that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Cape Cod if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Boston.

One day in Boston or Cape Cod?

Boston is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boston or Cape Cod?

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Cape Cod?

Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boston, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or Cape Cod?

Boston is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Cape Cod, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Cape Cod much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cape Cod would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cape Cod and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Cape Cod.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Boston Expensive? and Is Cape Cod Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Boston or Cape Cod?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Boston or Cape Cod in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Boston as well as Cape Cod. The summer months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

In July, Boston is generally a little warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 73°F (23°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In the summer, Boston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod. Boston gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets less rain in July than Cape Cod. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

Both Cape Cod and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Boston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Boston is around the same temperature as Cape Cod in the autumn. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Boston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod during autumn. Boston gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In October, Boston usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Boston or Cape Cod in the Winter?

Both Cape Cod and Boston during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Cape Cod can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Boston. In the winter, Boston is much colder than Cape Cod. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boston in January average around 29°F (-2°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

In the winter, Boston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod. Boston gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Boston usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Cape Cod in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Cape Cod. Many visitors come to Boston in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Boston is generally a little warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 48°F (9°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod during spring. Boston gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Boston usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Boston