Described as a ‘hip & historic’ city thanks to its mix of gourmet food and trendy hangouts, alongside some of the nation’s most important historic landmarks, Boston has become one of America’s most popular cities. When you pick up a hire car in Boston, you’ll find that central city’s road system is more like a European city than an American one - you won’t find many streets running in a grid pattern.

The city has grown out from the harbour at the mouth of the Charles River, and the main sights of the area can be found in this old centre, close to the waterfront. The I-90 runs from the harbour east, becoming the Massachusetts Turnpike and heading all the way inland to Springfield. The I-95 meanwhile, forms a loose beltway or ring-road around the south, west and north of the main city, allowing traffic to travel the length other city without trying to negotiate the busier streets of downtown Boston.

Another memorable part of driving in Boston will be locals’ directions: many routes have colourful old names that are still often used. So the Longfellow Bridge on Route 3 is often called the ‘Salt & Pepper’ Bridge, the Land Boulevard Overpass is known as ‘Prison Point Bridge’ and Route 28 is ‘O'Brien Highway’.

Like in most cities across the country, the driving rules and regulations differ in Boston compared to other areas of the USA. To make sure you're clear with the do's and don'ts, you can read all the city's driving laws here.

With almost 400 years of history behind it, Boston is one of America’s most interesting cities to visit. It has an attractive waterfront and a landmark historic trail between the major sights relating to the birth of America as an independent nation.

Down by the water

Start at the lively harbourside, where there is always something to see. Water taxis ply to and fro across the busy harbour where the famous Boston Tea Party took place in 1773. Across the water, you’ll see the runways of Boston Logan International Airport on the East Boston headland, often known as ‘Jefferies Point’.

Head down to the banks of the Charles River and you’ll find Faneuil Hall standing on the harbour side. As one of Boston’s top attractions, the hall dates back to the 18th century and was where many of the founders of the independence movement would meet. It has been beautifully preserved and restored and now forms the centre of a colourful tourist area. You’ll find intriguing market stalls, street food stores and cafes packed in and around the hall. It’s a great spot for souvenir shopping or spending an afternoon at a pavement cafe people watching.

Take the Trail

The Freedom Trail is an easy way of linking the major historic attractions. This 2.5-mile marked walking route winds through the downtown district. Follow this brick pathway and you’ll discover 16 different important sights of the American Revolution. It’s a great way to learn about the history of Boston and the USA.

The sights along the Freedom Trail include the 17th-century house of Independence hero Paul Revere, one of America’s first warships, the USS Constitution and the site of Boston Common. You’ll also be able to visit the spot where the Tea Party was actually planned in the Old South Meeting House, and see the Old State House, one of America’s first public buildings.

Not far away is Bunker Hill, another significant landmark in the war for independence. It is the spot where settlers fought a battle against the ruling English colonial forces. The spot is now marked by a 221ft granite tower and there are great views from here across the city and harbour from the top.

Tempting day trips

If you have a hire car in Boston you’ll find that the arterial roads lead out in all directions from the city centre. This means it easy to drive out of the city for day trips into the rest of Massachusetts and New England. There are major attractions a short drive away, like the original colonial settlement at Plimoth Plantation to the north of the city, and the historic waterfront at the town of Salem.

Just inland you’ll find the notorious Salem ‘Witch House’, which dates back to the witch hunts and trials of the 17th century, and to the south you can explore the beaches and seaside towns of the Cape Cod peninsular. And, of course, all of New England is world famous for an event that happens every fall: the appearance of vast swathes of colourful autumnal leaves.