While some cities feel like a rush, Boston, Massachusetts, feels more like a rhythm. As a culturally-rich travel destination, the city reflects New England in a graceful, sophisticated, and character-rich manner, heightened by a palpable energy and a deeply ingrained sense of higher purpose.

This impressive East Coast setting is a place where timeless, ivy-covered architecture meets quiet ambition, and where tradition and refinement are just part of the spirit of the city. While it’s become synonymous with higher education (given that so many top-ranked universities are based here, including Harvard, MIT, and more), it’s more than just a landing place for scholars. In fact, many locals (and tourists alike) fall in love with its gorgeous traditional architecture, unique role in American history, undeniable beauty, and refined atmosphere.

There’s a reason people adore Boston, both to live in and to explore.

For me, the affinity began years ago, when my family and I would visit my brother while he was attending Babson College (a renowned entrepreneurial college based in Wellesley, which is an upscale suburb of Boston). Those early trips introduced me to the historic charm and modern luxury of the Back Bay neighborhood, which is an area where classic brick buildings are framed by vibrant, blooming flowers.

Even now, Boston continues to enchant me. Unlike most major cities (which can sometimes feel overwhelming), Boston feels both engaging and relaxing, depending on what you’re seeking. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, from lush, tree-lined parks, lively restaurants and bars, and action-packed baseball games, to picturesque neighborhoods that simply beckon you to unwind and take in the surroundings.

In addition to this, Boston also feels safe, navigable, and visually appealing, making it a delightful city to discover. During a recent visit here, I had the opportunity to see how the area has evolved over the years, while discovering several of the best places to stay, dine, and explore in Boston.

Where to Stay in Boston: Mandarin Oriental, Boston

Nestled in the heart of Back Bay, the Mandarin Oriental, Boston is more than a 5-star luxury hotel, as it embodies the essence of a sophisticated, Zen-like sanctuary, peacefully tucked away from the bustle of the vibrant city streets. The moment you walk through the lobby doors, the sounds of the city gently fade away into a bubble of quiet serenity.

To start with, its location is unmatched: just a block from Newbury Street and a short stroll to Copley Square, it provides immediate access to Boston’s most iconic landmarks, upscale boutiques, world-class restaurants, and walkable neighborhoods bursting with charm and aesthetic appeal.

The design of the hotel reflects an elegant harmony between East and West. Inspired by feng shui principles, each space is thoughtfully arranged to promote the balance between vitality and tranquility. This Eastern-origin design ethos is intended to allow “chi” (the natural energy of a space) to meander slowly and intentionally throughout the interiors.

Subtle Asian influences appear in clean lines, a cheery and inviting color palette creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and curated plush furnishings encourage you to enjoy a moment of stillness amid a busy day. The ambiance is uplifting and contemporary, combining a seamless blend of intentionality and elegance that encourages guests to feel deeply at ease.

The rooms themselves are expansive and luxuriously appointed. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping skyline views, while walk-in closets, plush premium-quality beds, and marble-clad bathrooms offer both function and indulgence. A deep soaking tub invites relaxation, while double vanities and separate shower areas ensure a smooth experience for travelers who appreciate thoughtful design. Every corner feels purposeful, built to elevate your stay, from the turndown service to the understated decor and ambient lighting.

The hotel’s Forbes Five-Star-rated Spa at Mandarin Oriental is a destination in itself. Tranquil and exquisitely maintained, it includes steam and sauna rooms, a Jacuzzi, and an elegant relaxation area with mindful details like adult coloring books and a Zen sand garden. The Forest Therapy massage is a standout experience, beginning with a guided visualization, designed to transport your mind into a peaceful natural setting. Paired with essential oils and rhythmic techniques, the treatment feels like a grounding sensory retreat in the middle of the city.

Whether you come for business or stay for pleasure, the hotel’s staff prides itself on exceeding expectations through thoughtful gestures (such as a creatively designed, customized dessert arrangement featuring delectable Boston-inspired cookies and chocolates) and their superb attention to detail. It’s no wonder that the hotel has earned recognition as one of the most outstanding luxury hotels in Boston.

Where to Eat in Boston

Tatte Bakery & Café (Copley Square)

At first glance, Tatte might seem like another chic café, but its roots make it especially meaningful, especially in its popular Copley Square location, where its story began. Years ago, founder and pastry chef Tzurit Or, having immigrated from Israel, began selling her handmade pastries at the local farmers market just steps away. Tatte was born from a desire to create home, belonging, and community through food.

While the chain has grown to include locations throughout Boston and nearby areas, today, the Copley Square café still captures that warmth. Airy and sun-filled, it’s a common stop for locals grabbing a matcha latte before work or settling in for a social brunch with friends and colleagues. Menu favorites include the shakshuka, creamy egg sandwiches, flaky pastries, and to-go items like yogurt parfaits topped with seasonal fruit. Whether you come for the coffee or the sense of camaraderie, Tatte feels like a Boston institution rooted in both heart and history.

Saltie Girl Seafood Bar (Back Bay)

Known for its raw bar, vibrant seafood dishes, and glamorous, Insta-worthy aesthetic, Saltie Girl is both a culinary destination and a visual delight. Located in Back Bay, the stylish space pairs Art Deco details with coastal charm. Blush pink interiors that would make Barbie swoon, lavish fresh flower arrangements, and festive nautical touches that infuse a dash of whimsy. The restaurant boasts multiple dining rooms, fireplaces, and a chic patio, making it ideal for lunch or brunch, especially during warm Summer days.

The menu shines with fresh, flavorful combinations. The pan-seared halibut, served with sautéed spring vegetables, beurre blanc sauce, fried garlic, and pea tendrils, is a standout dish. The little gem salad offers the perfect balance of creamy avocado, asparagus, red onion, fennel, and an eight-minute egg, all dressed in crème fraîche. Whether you’re indulging in oysters or sipping wine, Saltie Girl delivers both flavor and flair.

Pasta Beach (Rowes Wharf)

Located near Boston’s scenic waterfront, Pasta Beach brings together a breezy coastal vibe with authentic Italian heritage. Owned by the Ropolo family of Torino, Italy, the eye-catching space was designed in part by the founder’s son (who helped co-design the statement-worthy custom lighting hanging over the bar), and reflects a modern take on Italian warmth with its playful tropical wallpaper, vibrant colors (that simply put you in a jovial mood), and nautical touches, that infuse it with a fresh, trendy energy.

The menu features house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and light, flavorful fare. It’s the kind of place where you can linger with friends over a crisp white wine and a bowl of linguine alle vongole. The vibe is lively and youthful, and the décor makes it feel more like an Italian seaside café than a city lunch spot. A perfect midday break after exploring the wharfs or the park nearby.

Eastern Standard Kitchen & Drinks (Fenway)

Eastern Standard Kitchen and Drinks has long held legendary status in Boston’s dining scene, and its recent revival near Fenway Park (home of the Boston Red Sox) only adds to the legacy. In speaking with the proprietor (Garrett Harker), he explained that the restaurant’s name and design were inspired when he was viewing a famous photograph that captured a WWII-era image of soldiers bidding farewell in Penn Station beneath a large clock reading “Eastern Standard Time.” That moment became the soul of the restaurant’s design, echoed in its 1930s-style Art Deco flourishes, sculptural curves, and train-station-meets-modern-brasserie vibe. The owner’s goal was to create an atmosphere that infused a feeling of nostalgia, making it an inviting space for families, friends, and visitors from both far and near.

The cocktail program here is considered exceptional, making it one of the best places in Boston to come for dinner and drinks. The dishes at Eastern Standard are thoughtfully crafted to highlight seasonally-focused New England interpretations of classic brasserie fare. Start with the steak tartare, served with cornichons and a baguette, or the burrata salad topped with asparagus, Meyer lemon, fennel pollen, and sourdough migas. Entrées like seared salmon with spring vegetables and grain mustard aioli are rich in flavor but perfectly balanced.

Ramsay’s Kitchen (Back Bay)

Ramsay’s Kitchen, the Mandarin Oriental, Boston’s signature restaurant, adds another layer of prestige. Helmed by world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay (an acclaimed restaurateur with dining establishments around the globe, host of numerous television shows, including Hell’s Kitchen, and the author of more than 25 cookbooks), the restaurant showcases his take on global bites and British staples (like Beef Wellington). The space is modern with coastal-inspired elements, featuring a striking sculptural wall piece of Ramsay’s face that greets you upon entry, but fades into abstract form as you move through the dining room.

Dishes like the braised octopus appetizer with hummus and chimichurri, or the baked mac and cheese made with smoked gouda, mozzarella, and chives, offer indulgence without heaviness. Entrées such as the 8-oz filet mignon with herb-roasted tomato and béarnaise sauce, or the crispy skin salmon served with coconut green curry, sticky rice, and Thai apple slaw, are expertly balanced and full of flavor. Service is seamless and attentive; always polished but never pretentious, reflecting the restaurant’s standard of thoughtful hospitality and its commitment to exceeding guest expectations with subtle touches of surprise and delight.

Eva (Back Bay)

Set along the fashionable Newbury Street, Eva is a perfect ending to any Boston evening. Its foxglove-trimmed patio is arguably one of the prettiest in the city, making it an ideal spot for people-watching over dessert and cocktails. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and upscale, with soft lighting and an inviting ambiance that attracts a well-dressed social set.

Don’t miss the red wine–poached pear, served with black raspberry cabernet sorbet and almond crumble, which is an exquisite dessert that’s as photogenic as it is flavorful. Pair it with one of Eva’s signature cocktails, like the “Cruel Summer” (vodka, chinola passion fruit, blood orange) or “Lavender Haze” (gin, lavender honey, italicus). If you’re having a dry summer, even the mocktails will surely impress you. Try the Mediterranean Breeze, made with pomegranate juice, honey, and orange syrup, which is both refreshing and beautifully balanced.

What to Do & See in Boston

Newbury Street

Newbury Street is the pulse of Back Bay’s refined yet vibrant culture. Considered Boston’s premier shopping destination, this iconic street combines history and fashion in equal measure. Stroll past rows of 19th-century brownstones that now house designer boutiques, contemporary brands, art galleries, and independent concept stores. Each block reveals something new, whether it’s a chic storefront window, a bustling café patio, or the warm scent of fresh pastries wafting from a side alley.

It’s a destination that feels as much about people-watching as it is about shopping. Locals and visitors alike sip iced lattes while walking their dogs or catching up with friends over brunch. With designer brands and high-end retailers like Chanel, Zimmermann, Alice + Olivia, and trendy apparel stores targeted to 20-somethings (like Milk Money and Cattivo), Newbury Street offers a curated blend of timeless appeal with a zest of youthful energy. The atmosphere on Newbury feels social, stylish, and distinctly Bostonian; equal parts prep, polish, and charm.

Beacon Hill

One of Boston’s most beloved and historic neighborhoods, Beacon Hill is like stepping into a sepia-toned photograph that has come to life. Its enchanting cobblestone streets, gas-lit lanterns, and impeccably preserved Federal-style rowhouses (that were originally built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries) tell a story of another era.

Acorn Street, in particular, is famed for its picturesque beauty and is often considered the most photographed street in the country. Famed for its cobblestone road, historic red brick row houses, and lush window boxes overflowing with colorful blooms, this Americana enclave epitomizes the classic style of the Beacon Hill neighborhood.

Time seems to slow down as you walk through the neighborhood, especially when you spot quiet moments, like a romantic couple taking engagement photos in front of DeLuca’s Market or a golden retriever lounging on a stoop beneath a blooming flower box.

Just a few steps from Charles Street’s upscale boutiques is a true literary treasure: Beacon Hill Books & Café. This whimsical bookshop is more than a retail space; it’s an experience.

With multiple stories to peruse, each floor features cozy corners with fireplaces and tucked-away reading nooks that invite you to settle in with a new novel, while the attached café serves scrumptious teas and light bites, making it a dreamy escape on a drizzly afternoon or a peaceful place to start your morning. Every detail, from the curated shelves to the café’s vintage-inspired décor, speaks to a love of storytelling, making it a must-visit for anyone who appreciates beauty, intellect, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Boston Public Garden

Heralded as the first public botanical garden in the United States, the Boston Public Garden is a spectacular crown jewel of the city. Created in 1837, the flourishing garden serves as a floral oasis in the heart of Boston (just steps away from Beacon Hill), making it a must-visit during warm Summer days.

Strolling through its well-manicured paths, you’ll encounter colorful flower beds, towering trees draped over the lagoon, and families of ducks lounging by the water. Open daily from April to September, the famed Swan Boats, a seasonal tradition since the late 1800s, add to the storybook feel of the setting, offering visitors an opportunity to glide gracefully across the lake.

Victorian influence is everywhere here, from the floral patterns designed by master horticulturalists to dozens of species of plants that bloom throughout the seasons. Statues and sculptures pay homage to Boston’s storied past, including an equestrian monument of George Washington. Whether you come for a brisk morning walk, to lounge on a park bench while watching the world go by, or to simply take in the natural beauty of the garden, this incredible oasis is as much of a refuge as it is an attraction.

Rowes Wharf, Union Wharf & Battery Wharf

Another scenic area to explore on foot is Boston’s waterfront, which offers a breath of fresh, salty air combined with unparalleled vistas.

Rowes Wharf, home to the stately Boston Harbor Hotel, provides a striking view of the marina, often filled with yachts and sailboats. The curved architecture of the wharf creates a grand arrival for harbor cruises and water taxis, but it’s also ideal for a casual stroll along the promenade. After walking through this delightful setting, meander through the idyllic Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park, one of America’s earliest waterfront parks of the modern era, and the starting point of the Boston Irish Heritage Trail.

Just beyond it, Union Wharf and Battery Wharf provide a more residential, intimate experience. This lesser-known wharf is tucked away, offering picturesque walking paths and peaceful spots to relax with a book or camera in hand. You’ll find benches facing the water, brick walkways bordered by flower beds, and locals enjoying the calm.

The juxtaposition of the historic brick buildings with the openness of the harbor makes this area particularly photogenic, making it an ideal spot for slow mornings or golden hour captures. For travelers looking to escape the bustle without leaving the city, this hidden pocket of Boston offers an elegant and restorative retreat.

View Boston (Prudential Center)

Last, but certainly not least, is one of the most impressive attractions to see in Boston. Perched atop the Prudential Tower, View Boston offers a breathtaking 360° panoramic perspective of the city and beyond. On a clear day, you can see everything from the Charles River, the Massachusetts State House, and Fenway Park to the Harbor Islands. With immersive exhibits, interactive maps, and several indoor and outdoor seating areas, the three-level attraction is a wonderful place to learn more about the city while taking in expansive views.

Beyond everything that it offers as a travel destination, it’s clear that Boston is a city that lives its values. It’s a place where ambition is inherent, where luxury feels earned, and where every corner tells a story. Maybe that’s why I found myself imagining a life split between Carmel and Boston one morning over breakfast in Copley Square. While pondering the possibilities, in a moment of uncanny synchronicity, a patron wearing a “Carmel, California” t-shirt walked in. Perhaps it was a sign?!

Either way, if there’s anything I came to appreciate after my most recent visit to Boston, it’s this: This city reminds you that modern luxury can harmoniously co-exist with rich heritage, timeless character, and an innate beauty that goes far beyond the physical realm. It’s a distinguished destination that inherently embraces both a progressive, forward-moving spirit and honors the people, places, and stories of the past.

To inspire you to discover other fantastic vacation spots, explore the Travel section of Inspirations & Celebrations. Read about extraordinary destinations, world-class hotels, acclaimed restaurants, and must-experience activities tailored for discerning travelers. Elevate your journey by joining our community of 100,000+ email subscribers; sign up for exclusive I&C newsletters and unlock insider recommendations, curated itineraries, and luxurious getaway ideas delivered straight to your inbox.

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[Disclosure: Hosted accommodations, spa treatment, and meals provided by The Mandarin Oriental, Boston, Ramsay’s Kitchen, Eastern Standard Kitchen and Drinks, and Pasta Beach. All opinions are my own. Image credits: Christina-Lauren Pollack for Inspirations & Celebrations]