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

Should you visit Venice 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 Venice and Boston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a beautiful, romantic, and cultural city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Venice and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or Boston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Boston than Venice. Boston is bigger than Venice, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Boston is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Venice is more popular for its shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Venice is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. 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.

How is Venice different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Boston and Venice.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Venice has many famous sights for visitors. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. 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 Venice or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is great for its shows and theatre. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Boston has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Venice or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Boston is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Venice or Boston Better for Music?

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

Venice is not a live music destination.

Is Venice or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is adequate for the beach. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Venice or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Venice and Boston are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

The historic old town of Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Venice or Boston?

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

Venice is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice or Boston Better for Christmas?

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

Venice does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Venice or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Venice does not offer Christmas markets.

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

Venice does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Venice or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Venice is a very family-friendly place to visit. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Is Venice or Boston Better for Couples?

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

Venice is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Venice is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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

Is Venice or Boston Better for Students?

For students, both Venice and Boston are first-rate places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Boston is a great destination 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 Venice or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Venice and Boston both offer first-rate public transit to get you around.

With a huge network, the transit system in Venice can get you around easily. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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.

Is Venice or Boston a more walkable city?

Venice and Boston are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

Venice is a very easy city to get around on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Venice?

How long in Venice or Boston?

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

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

One day in Venice or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Venice. 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 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 Venice or Boston?

Venice 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 Venice or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Venice. 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 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 Venice or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Venice. 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.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the traditional 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in 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 comparing the travel costs between Venice 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 Venice 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 Venice Expensive? and Is Boston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Venice or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Venice. When comparing the sizes of Venice 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 Venice 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 Venice or Boston in the Summer?

Both Boston and Venice during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Venice 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, Venice is around the same temperature as Boston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Venice in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Boston averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Venice. In the summer, Venice often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Boston. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets less rain in July than Boston. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Boston. Most visitors come to Venice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, 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, Venice is generally a little warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 14°C (57°F), and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Venice usually receives less sunshine than Boston during autumn. Venice gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Venice usually receives less rain than Boston. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Venice or Boston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Venice as well as Boston. The winter months attract visitors to Venice because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Venice can be very cold. Venice is much warmer than Boston in the winter. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Venice often gets less sunshine than Boston. Venice gets 88 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Venice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Venice is a little warmer than Boston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Venice in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Boston averages at about 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Boston. Venice usually receives less sunshine than Boston during spring. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Venice usually receives less rain than Boston. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Boston and Venice