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

Should you visit Boston or Sedona?

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 Sedona. 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 classic, proud, and loyal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Sedona

Sedona is a desert, dramatic, and scenic town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Boston and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular old town
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Boston or Sedona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and Sedona are popular destinations, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Sedona attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Boston is famous for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail. Sedona is famous for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats.

How is Boston different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston
Sedona

Boston is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Boston are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Sedona. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.


Is Boston or Sedona Better for Theater?

Boston
Sedona

Boston is great for its theatre productions. However, Sedona is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. 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.

Sedona is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston
Sedona

Dining out at restaurants in both Boston and Sedona 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.

Sedona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Is Boston or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Boston
Sedona

Boston is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.


Is Boston or Sedona Better for Music?

Boston
Sedona

Boston is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Sedona is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Sedona is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Boston
Sedona

Sedona is notable for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Sedona to choose from. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Boston or Sedona Better for Beaches?

Boston
Sedona

Boston is adequate for the beache. However, Sedona is not a beach destination.

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.

Sedona is not a beach destination.


Is Boston or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Boston
Sedona

Boston is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its historic old town charm.

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.

Sedona offers a nice historic old town area. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Is Boston or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Boston
Sedona

Sedona is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Sedona is a popular spot for hiking. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Sedona?

Boston
Sedona

Sedona is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Sedona is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

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 Sedona Better for Christmas?

Boston
Sedona

Boston is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Sedona Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston
Sedona

Boston is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Sedona Better for Families?

Boston
Sedona

Boston is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Boston is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Sedona is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.


Is Boston or Sedona Better for Couples?

Boston
Sedona

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

Sedona is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

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 Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston
Sedona

Both Boston and Sedona are nice destinations for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Sedona. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Is Boston or Sedona Better for Students?

Boston
Sedona

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

Many students frequent 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.

Sedona is not popular with students.


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

Boston
Sedona

Boston is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Sedona 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 Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Is Boston or Sedona a more walkable city?

Boston
Sedona

Boston is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

Sedona is a somewhat walkable city. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Boston?

How long in Boston or Sedona?

In either Boston or Sedona, 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 Sedona. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Boston than Sedona. 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 Sedona. 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 Sedona 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.


  • How many days in Boston or Sedona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boston 3-5 
    Sedona 3-5

One day in Boston or Sedona?

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Boston or Sedona?

Boston is a great place to explore. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sedona is a great place to explore. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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 Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sedona. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Sedona?

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the classic big city of Boston. This city 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.

Sedona is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.


Which place is cheaper, Sedona or Boston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $255, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $165. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Boston and Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boston $166
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boston $332
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Boston and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Boston or Sedona? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Boston


Hotels in Sedona


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Boston Hotel Prices and Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boston $37
    Sedona $40
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Luxor Limo Private Transfer and City Tour: $1,195
  • Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Boston: $959
  • Flynn Cruiseport Private Transfer to Boston: $684
  • Round trip Airport Transfer: Logan - Boston: $300
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS): Private Transfer to Boston city: $243
  • Boston’s Logan International Airport to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $170
  • Boston Airport (BOS): Transfer to Flynn Cruise Port Boston: $168
  • Private Transfer in Boston (BOS) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $160
  • Limo Private Transfer Boston to Logan International Airport : $160
  • Limo Private Transfer Logan International Airport to Boston: $160
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $158
  • Private Transfer between Boston Logan Airport and Boston City: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Boston or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona and Boston change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Boston $49
    Sedona $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.

  • AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston's North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour: $49
  • North End Pizza Tour with 3 Slices and Cannoli: $55
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $68
  • Boston Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor: $77
  • Ultimate Food Tour of North End & Public Market: $79
  • Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour : $81
  • Ultimate Boston Food Tour: North End & Boston Public Market: $89
  • Union Square, Somerville Neighborhood Food Tour: $90
  • Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $108
  • Local Gems of the South End Neighborhood Food Tour: $110

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $119
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $241
  • Cooking class and candlelit dinner with a view: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boston $33
    Sedona $19
Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:

  • "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem: $25
  • 1 If By Land Walking Tours: History Walking Tour of Boston: $45
  • 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with Harbor Cruise Option: $46
  • 1-Day Tour to Portland-Maine from Boston: $175
  • 1692 Salem Day Tour: $32
  • 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour: $32
  • 2 Hour North End 'Little Italy' Walking Tour : $35
  • 2-Hour Beacon Hill True Crime Expert Guided Tour: $35
  • 90-Minute Boston Harbor Sunset Sightseeing Cruise: $43
  • A Bostonian Christmas Tour: $423
  • A Bostonian Christmas Tour: $216

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sedona.

  • Self-Guided Driving Tour with GPS Audio Guide App: $8.99
  • Sedona & Red Rock State Park: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Jerome Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Grand Canyon & Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle: $25
  • From Boynton Canyon Trolley Tour: $25
  • Jerome Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Out of Africa Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $43
  • Feel the Sedona Vortex Mindfulness Game and Adventure: $45
  • Sedona Hi-Points Luxury Van Tour: $46
  • The Best Private Vortex and City Tour of Sedona: $50
  • Hi-Points Tour in Luxury Van: $50
  • The Magic of Sedona Highlights Tour: $63

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boston $27
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $30
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $35
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $59
  • Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl: $60
  • Boston Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $105

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Elevated Social Wine Tours of Sedona's Vineyards : $85
  • Bliss Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour with Lunch Included: $115
  • All inclusive Sedona Join in Wine Tour 200+ 5 star reviews!: $179
  • Tastings Included! EXPRESS PRIVATE ELEVATED WINE TOUR: $199
  • Pedal and Paddle Wine Tour in Arizona: $235
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $295


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

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


Which is Bigger, Boston or Sedona?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Sedona, 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.