A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Durham vs. Boston for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Durham or Boston?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Durham and Boston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Durham

Durham is a student-filled, sports oriented, and diverse city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

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. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Durham and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Durham or Boston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Boston than Durham. Boston is bigger than Durham, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Boston is more touristy than Durham and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail. Durham is well known for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Durham different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Durham or Boston?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Boston on the map. 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 Durham can be an interesting and educational experience. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

Is Durham or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is a well-known place for its shows and theatre. However, Durham 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.

Durham is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Boston is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Durham. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

Is Durham or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Boston is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Boston offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

Is Durham or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is very good for its music scene. However, Durham 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.

Durham is not a live music destination.

Is Durham or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a moderate city for the beach. However, Durham is not a beach destination.

The beach in Boston is worth checking out. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Durham is not a beach destination.

Is Durham or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Durham does not have a historic old town.

Boston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Durham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Durham or Boston?

Both Durham and Boston are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Durham to go shopping. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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 Durham or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Durham does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Durham does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Durham or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a well-known place for its Christmas markets. However, Durham does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Boston offer plenty to see during the holidays. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Durham does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Durham or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

Durham is a family-friendly city. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

Is Durham or Boston Better for Couples?

Both Durham and Boston are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Durham is a good city for couples to visit. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Boston is a nice destination for couples. 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 Durham or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is very good for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Durham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The student population means there are a number of parties and bars around town, but most backpackers overlook this city.

Is Durham or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Durham is a great city to visit as a student. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

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

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Durham is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Boston is top-notch. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

Is Durham or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Durham is not a good city for its walkability.

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

Durham is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Durham?

How long in Durham or Boston?

In either Durham or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Durham because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Durham, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Durham 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 Durham or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Durham. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

A weekend in Durham or Boston?

Durham 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.

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.

Five days in Durham or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Durham. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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.

A week in Durham or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the student-filled destination of Durham. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the historic 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Durham or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Durham. When comparing the sizes of Durham and Boston, 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 Durham or Boston?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Durham or Boston in the Summer?

Both Boston and Durham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Durham in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Durham is a little warmer than Boston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Durham in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Boston averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Boston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Durham. Durham usually receives less sunshine than Boston during summer. Durham gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Durham. In July, Durham usually receives more rain than Boston. Durham gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Durham or Boston in the Autumn?

Both Boston and Durham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Durham for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Boston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Durham is generally a little warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 61°F (16°C), and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Durham. In the autumn, Durham often gets more sunshine than Boston. Durham gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets less rain in October than Boston. Durham gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Durham or Boston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Durham and Boston. The winter months attract visitors to Durham because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

It's quite cold in Boston in the winter. The weather in Durham can be very cold. Durham is much warmer than Boston in the winter. The daily temperature in Durham averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

Durham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Boston during winter. Durham gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Durham usually receives around the same amount of rain as Boston. Durham gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Durham or Boston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Durham as well as Boston. Additionally, many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Durham is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Durham in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Boston averages at about 48°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Durham this time of the year. In the spring, Durham often gets more sunshine than Boston. Durham gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets less rain in April than Boston. Durham gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Boston and Durham