A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Florence vs. Boston for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Florence or Boston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Florence or Boston, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Florence

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional 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.

Florence and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florence or Boston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston than Florence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Boston is very popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Florence attracts visitors for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Florence is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. 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.

How is Florence different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Florence and Boston.

The museums and tourist attractions in Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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.

Is Florence or Boston Better for Theater?

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

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting 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.

Florence is not a theatre destination.

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

Florence is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Florence or Boston Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Boston has something for everybody. 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 Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Florence or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Florence or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is adequate for the beache. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Florence or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Florence and Boston both have world-class historical old towns that attract visitors.

With a famous historical old-town, Florence offers plenty to see. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

The rich history of Boston can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Florence or Boston?

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

Florence is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Florence 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.

Florence does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Florence or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a great city for visiting Christmas markets. However, Florence 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.

Florence does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Florence or Boston Better for Families?

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

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Florence or Boston Better for Couples?

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

Florence is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Florence is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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

Is Florence or Boston Better for Students?

For students, both Florence and Boston are world-class places to visit.

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Boston is a very popular city 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.

Is Florence or Boston 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. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Florence or Boston a more walkable city?

Florence and Boston are world-class when it comes to walkability.

Florence is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Florence?

How long in Florence or Boston?

In either Florence or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Florence, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

One day in Florence or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. 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.

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.

A weekend in Florence or Boston?

Florence 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 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.

Five days in Florence or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. 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.

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.

A week in Florence or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the artistic destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in 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.

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.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Florence and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Florence much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Florence is in Europe and Boston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Florence would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Florence 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 Florence.

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

Which is Bigger, Florence or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Florence 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 Florence or Boston?

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 Florence or Boston in the Summer?

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

In July, Florence is generally around the same temperature as Boston. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 25°C (77°F), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Florence. In the summer, Florence often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Boston. Florence gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets less rain in July than Boston. Florence gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Boston in the Autumn?

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

Florence is a little warmer than Boston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Florence usually receives less sunshine than Boston during autumn. Florence gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Florence usually receives more rain than Boston. Florence gets 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Florence or Boston in the Winter?

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

The weather in Boston can be very cold. In the winter, Florence is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Florence in January average around 7°C (45°F), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Florence often gets less sunshine than Boston. Florence gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Florence gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Boston in the Spring?

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

In April, Florence is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 14°C (57°F), and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Boston. Florence usually receives less sunshine than Boston during spring. Florence gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Florence usually receives less rain than Boston. Florence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Boston and Florence