A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paris vs. Boston for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Paris or Boston?

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

Should I visit Paris or Boston? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Boston

Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Paris and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Boston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Boston, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Boston is known for its beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Paris is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the amazing sights and museums in either Paris or Boston.

Travelers visit Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 Paris or Boston Better for Theater?

Paris is an unbeatable place for theatre. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its theatre productions.

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

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.

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

Paris 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 Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Paris is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Paris is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Paris or Boston Better for Music?

Paris is an unbeatable place for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

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

Is Paris or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is adequate for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Paris or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a 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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Boston?

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

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris or Boston Better for Christmas?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences.

Paris is a fantastic destination at Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

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.

Is Paris or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Paris does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Paris or Boston Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Paris or Boston.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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.

Is Paris or Boston Better for Couples?

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

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris 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.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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

Is Paris or Boston Better for Students?

For students, both Paris and Boston are amazing places to visit.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad 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.

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

Paris and Boston both offer amazing public transit to get you around.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Boston has a great public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Is Paris or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Paris?

How long in Paris or Boston?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris 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 Paris.

One day in Paris or Boston?

Paris is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Boston, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this loyal big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paris or Boston?

Paris 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paris or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 fun place to experience. In Boston, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this big city destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Paris or Boston?

Paris is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the loyal big city of Boston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Paris and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Paris is in Europe and Boston is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Paris or Boston?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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 Paris 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 Paris or Boston in the Summer?

Both Boston and Paris during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Paris is cooler than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paris. In the summer, Paris often gets less sunshine than Boston. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in July than Boston. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Boston. The autumn months attract visitors to Paris because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

In the autumn, Paris is around the same temperature as Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paris in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Boston during autumn. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paris usually receives less rain than Boston. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paris or Boston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paris as well as Boston. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Boston. It's quite cold in Paris in the winter. In January, Paris is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 5°C (40°F), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Paris often gets less sunshine than Boston. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Paris is a little warmer than Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Boston. Paris usually receives less sunshine than Boston during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paris usually receives less rain than Boston. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Boston and Paris