A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. Newport for Attractions, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Boston or Newport?

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 Newport. 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 proud, loyal, and historic 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.

Newport

Newport is a coastal, seaside, and historical town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Boston and Newport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Newport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boston than Newport, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boston is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Newport is more popular for its beaches, shopping, and small town charm. 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. Newport is well known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history.

How is Boston different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newport 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 Newport?

Boston is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newport can be an interesting and educational experience. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Is Boston or Newport Better for Theater?

Boston is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Newport is not a theatre destination.

Boston has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. 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.

Newport is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Boston and Newport 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.

Newport has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Boston or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Boston is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Boston has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Boston or Newport Better for Music?

Boston is very good for its music scene. However, Newport is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Newport is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Newport Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Newport for it's beautiful beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park 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 Newport Better for its Old Town?

Boston is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Boston has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Newport?

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

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport Better for Christmas?

Boston is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Newport does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Newport does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Newport Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Newport does not offer Christmas markets.

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

Newport does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Newport Better for Families?

Boston is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Boston or Newport Better for Couples?

Newport is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Boston is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

Is Boston or Newport Better for Students?

Boston is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Newport is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boston. 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.

Newport is not popular with students.

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

Boston is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Boston can take you anywhere. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Is Boston or Newport a more walkable city?

Boston is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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

Should I spend more time in Newport or Boston?

How long in Boston or Newport?

In either Boston or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Boston has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Boston than Newport. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

Families should spend more time in Boston than Newport. 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 Newport. 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 Newport 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 Newport?

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Newport. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boston or Newport?

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Newport is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Newport?

Boston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newport. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Boston. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Newport. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Newport, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Newport much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Newport would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Newport 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 Newport.

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or Newport?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Newport, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Boston or Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

Both Newport and Boston during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Boston is generally around the same temperature as Newport. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 73°F (23°C), and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Boston. In the summer, Boston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Boston gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Newport. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Newport. Many visitors come to Boston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. Boston usually receives less sunshine than Newport during autumn. Boston gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Boston usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Boston or Newport in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Boston as well as Newport. Most visitors come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. Boston can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Boston is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boston in January average around 29°F (-2°C), and Newport averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Boston often gets less sunshine than Newport. Boston gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Newport. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

In April, Boston is generally around the same temperature as Newport. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 48°F (9°C), and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. Boston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during spring. Boston gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boston usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Newport and Boston