Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour –  tickets, prices, top attractions, benefits

Boston, or “The Hub” or “Beantown,” is Massachusetts’ capital and largest city.

Boston is a vibrant and diverse city with a unique blend of historical charm, modernity, and academic influence.

The city has numerous historical landmarks, including the Freedom Trail. 

This 2.5 miles (4 km) long path takes visitors through 16 historically significant sites, such as the Massachusetts State House, Faneuil Hall, and Paul Revere’s House.

Discover the best of Boston with the hop-on hop-off Boston tour. 

This flexible sightseeing HOHO bus tour allows you to hop on and off at iconic stops, explore famous landmarks, and enjoy live commentary. 

Book your tickets online for a family-friendly adventure in Boston!

This article shares everything you must know before buying your Boston hop-on hop-off bus tour tickets.

Top Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours Ticket
# Hop-on Hop-off Old Town Trolley Tour
# Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Ticket
# Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

Boston Hop-On Hop Off Tour

How does the Boston Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour work

The Boston hop-on hop-off tour is an easy and adaptable approach to seeing the city’s finest sights. 

A single ticket lets you start a fantastic tour through Boston’s lively culture and rich history. 

The sightseeing tour’s flexibility allows you to personalize your route by hopping on and off the bus at any of the city’s well-placed stops.

Enjoy well-known sites like New England Aquarium, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, Fenway Park, and more. 

As you progress, enlightening live commentary in several languages keeps you interested while offering fascinating tidbits about the city’s colorful past. 

The tour is ideal for families because it provides unlimited rides within 24 or 48 hours, allowing you to take your time discovering each location.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Boston with the sightseeing HOHO bus tour.

Book your tickets online to explore the city’s hidden gems at your own pace!


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Where to buy tickets for Boston Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour

You can purchase tickets for hop-on hop-off Boston online, where the bus tour starts (the main station) or at each bus stop.

However, booking your tickets online is recommended to save the hassle of lining up and wasting time. 

Additionally, booking tickets online can help you get great discounts and offers.

Booking online also helps avoid last-minute disappointment and delays.

Go to the Boston hop-on hop-off tour booking page, select your preferred date and the number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.

After the purchase, you will receive the tickets in your email.

Best Hop-On Hop-Off tours in Boston

Boston offers many sightseeing HOHO bus tours, and we have handpicked three of our favorites for you. 

We explain them below.

Boston Hop On Hop Off Tour
Image: getyourguide.com

Hop-on Hop-off Old Town Trolley Tour

Book this ticket online for a hop-on hop-off Boston tour to explore the city’s hidden secrets at your own pace!

Take in all Boston offers as you travel the city in a hop-on hop-off trolley.  

With a one- or two-day ticket, you can get off at 14 stops with more than 100 points of interest throughout Boston.

With this ticket, you can discover the Historic North End, the Seaport District, and the Old North Church and see the bar where the TV show Cheers was filmed and Boston Tea Party locations.

On the double-decker trolleys, enjoy the freedom to hop on or off all day and discover sights like the Boston State House, Liberty Wharf, and the Charlestown Navy Yard. 

The tour departs from boarding locations approximately every half hour.

The Boston sightseeing bus tour tickets are valid until the end of the business day on the day(s) of use.

Ticket Prices

1-Day Ticket

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$51
Child Ticket (4 to 12 years): US$29
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

2-Day Ticket

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$79
Child Ticket (4 to 12 years): US$46
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Ticket

Explore Boston at your own pace on the thorough hop-on and hop-off trolley bus and learn about the Cradle of Liberty and the Birthplace of Freedom. 

Jump off at landmarks such as Boston Common, the USS Constitution, and Freedom Trail stops.

The ticket helps you learn the history of the United States at some of the most significant historical sites of the nation’s origins.

You can visit American Revolution patriot Paul Revere’s former home and explore Boston’s oldest residential area at North End.

Walk through Boston Common, enjoy a picnic in the Public Garden, wander the historic neighborhood of Beacon Hill, and admire the stately building of Massachusetts State House.

Friendly tour guides are on board and ready to narrate your tour, and you can join and exit the tour at any of the stops along the way.

We recommend bringing your packed lunch for the tour and wearing comfortable shoes and clothing. 

Ticket Prices

1-Day Ticket

Adult Ticket (12 to 64 years): US$44
Child Ticket (3 to 11 years): US$21
Senior Ticket (65+ years): US$42
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

2-Day Ticket

Adult Ticket (12 to 64 years): US$88
Child Ticket (3 to 11 years): US$42
Senior Ticket (65+ years): US$84
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

On a hop-on hop-off bus in Boston, take in all the city’s best attractions. 

As you learn about the city’s history and culture, take in sights like City Hall, the John Hancock Tower, and other attractions.

Explore Boston’s historic neighborhoods like Beacon Hill, Downtown, and more, and admire the unique architecture of Boston City Hall and Boston Faneuil Hall.

Spend time in the Boston Public Garden, the oldest garden in the United States, and remember the crisis of World War II at the New England Holocaust Memorial.

The bus departs every 30 to 35 minutes.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$50
Child Ticket (up to 12 years): US$40


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Must-see attractions in Boston

Boston hop-on-hop-off-tour
Image: trolleytours.com

The attractions covered on a hop-on hop-off Boston bus or Old Town Trolley tours include the following:

Freedom Trail

The 2.5-mile (4 km) long Freedom Trail leads to 16 historically significant locations, such as the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church.

USS Constitution Museum

The Museum is devoted to the history of the USS Constitution, the world’s oldest operational warship, and is situated in the Charlestown Navy Yard.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Faneuil Hall is a historic market building with shops, restaurants, and street performances.

Quincy Market

Take a walking tour of Quincy Market, adjacent to Faneuil Hall. This indoor market offers a wide variety of food vendors and shops.

Beacon Hill

Visit the Cheers Pub in Beacon Hill. Wander the historic neighborhood of Beacon Hill and admire the stately building of the Massachusetts State House. 

Boston Common

It is the oldest public park in the United States. Walk through Boston Common and enjoy a picnic in the Public Garden.

Copley Square

The Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library are two prominent historical structures in the thriving neighborhood of Copley Square.

Newbury Street

Walk through Newbury Street, a famous shopping street with upscale boutiques and restaurants.

Fenway Park

One of the nation’s oldest baseball parks, Fenway Park is the home field of the Boston Red Sox.

These are just a few examples of the top attractions you can explore on the hop-on hop-off Boston.

Remember, on a hop-on hop-off bus in Boston, you can spend as much time as you like at each landmark.


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Why choose a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour in Boston

Exploring this vibrant city has never been more convenient and enjoyable than with a hop-on hop-off bus in Boston.

Here are the top reasons why choosing a hop-on hop-off Boston bus tour is an ideal way to make the most of your visit.

Seamless sightseeing

A sightseeing HOHO bus tour allows you to take in the best of Boston’s attractions without the hassle of navigating public transportation or unfamiliar streets. 

The buses/trolleys are strategically designed to cover all the must-see places, ensuring you won’t miss any of the city’s highlights.

Cost-effective

Opting for a HOHO bus tour of Boston can be a cost-effective way to see numerous attractions in the city. 

Instead of purchasing individual tickets for each location, one ticket covers access to multiple stops. 

This bundled approach can lead to substantial savings, especially for travelers who want to see many different sights quickly.

Engaging audio commentary

During the bus tour, you will receive insightful live commentary about Boston’s history, architecture, and culture. 

The live commentary in English adds depth to your sightseeing, offering intriguing facts and stories about the city’s rich heritage.

Flexibility to explore

Unlike conventional guided tours, the hop-on hop-off buses allow you to explore each stop at your pace. 

You can disembark whenever an attraction piques your interest, spend as much time as you desire, and then hop back on the next available bus to continue your journey. 

This level of freedom allows you to personalize your itinerary according to your preferences and schedule.

Hop-on hop-off convenience

The hop-on hop-off bus stops are strategically positioned near major hotels, popular neighborhoods, and key landmarks, making it easy to hop on or off wherever it suits your schedule. 

The well-planned routes ensure you won’t waste valuable time commuting to and from attractions.


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Insider tips for a successful bus tour

Boston-hop-on-hop-off-tour
Image: getyourguide.com

Here are some essential insider tips to ensure a successful and unforgettable experience on your Boston hop-on hop-off adventure.

Optimal route planning and timing

Plan your route to make the most of your Boston hop-on hop-off tour. 

Research the various sightseeing ticket options and their routes to find the one that covers the attractions you most want to see. 

Additionally, consider the time you have and the opening hours of the sites you want to visit. 

By strategically planning your itinerary, you can avoid long waiting times at the attractions and maximize your time exploring Boston’s top landmarks.

Dress comfortably and prepare for the weather

Boston’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to dress in layers and be prepared for rain or shine. 

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you will likely do some exploring at each stop. 

A light jacket or an umbrella can also be useful during unexpected weather changes on your Boston sightseeing bus tour.

Secure good seats

The hop-on hop-off bus seating in Boston often includes an open-top section, which offers fantastic views of the city’s iconic landmarks. 

For the best experience, try to secure seats on the upper deck, preferably near the front. 

This will ensure unobstructed views and excellent photo opportunities throughout the tour.

Utilize the on-board tour guide

Most sightseeing HOHO bus tours provide informative audio guides that share intriguing facts and stories about the city’s attractions. 

Pay attention to the narration, as it enhances the experience and deepens your understanding of Boston’s history and culture.

Time your stops wisely

On your hop-on hop-off Boston tour, to avoid crowds and long queues, time your visits to popular attractions strategically. 

Plan to arrive early at major landmarks like Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, or the USS Constitution Museum, as they tend to be less crowded in the morning.

Snack smartly

While some Boston hop-on hop-off tour buses offer snacks or drinks, bringing your snacks and water bottle is a good idea. 

This way, you can quickly bite whenever you feel hungry, saving time and ensuring you stay energized throughout the tour. 

Inquiring about the tour operator’s snack policy would be a good idea.

Get the early bird advantage

Booking your hop-on hop-off Boston tickets in advance has its perks. 

Many tour operators offer early bird discounts, so you can save money while securing your spot. 

This also helps you avoid last-minute disappointments, especially during peak tourist seasons when buses might get fully booked quickly.

These insider tips will prepare you for an incredible Boston sightseeing bus tour. 


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FAQs about Boston Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour

Here are some questions travelers usually ask before taking Boston hop-on hop-off bus tour:

How does a hop-on hop-off bus tour work in Boston?

Hop-on hop-off bus tours allow you to get on and off the bus at designated Boston hop-on hop-off bus stops and explore important attractions. 

You can hop on and off the bus as often as you wish.

Those who want to tour the city’s top attractions have two options: stay on board for the entire route and enjoy a fascinating, gorgeous voyage, or get off at the destinations to explore more. 

Tourists can also easily continue their tour of the remaining locations by boarding the next bus.

How frequently do the buses run on the Boston hop-on hop-off bus tour?

The buses on Boston hop-on hop-off bus tours run every 10 to 30 minutes.

What are the popular routes and stops covered by the hop-on hop-off bus tour in Boston?

Some of the popular attractions covered on the Boston hop-on hop-off bus tour are:

Freedom Trail
USS Constitution Museum
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Quincy Market
Beacon Hill
Boston Common
Copley Square
Newbury Street
Fenway Park, and more.

Can I get off at any stop and rejoin the tour later?

You can get off the hop-on hop-off bus at any stop, explore the attraction, and get on the next bus to continue your journey.

Is the commentary available on the hop-on hop-off buses in multiple languages?

On most hop-on-hop-off buses in Boston, passengers can listen to commentary by expert live tour guides in English.

The commentator narrates the city’s intriguing history, facts, figures, and stories about architecture and culture belonging to each landmark the bus passes through.

Can I purchase the hop-on hop-off bus tour ticket in advance, or is it available only on the day of the tour?

Yes, you can purchase Boston hop-on hop-off tour tickets online in advance; you can select your desired date and purchase tickets.

Purchasing tickets online in advance is useful during peak tourist seasons when tours can sell out quickly. 

Moreover, purchasing your ticket online can save time and avoid disappointment on the tour day. This also allows you to secure your spot and plan your itinerary.

Are the buses air-conditioned to provide comfort during the tour?

Yes, the hop-on hop-off buses in Boston are generally air-conditioned to comfort passengers during the tour. 

Some tour companies operate open-top double-decker buses so you can feel the wind blowing in your hair as the bus speeds down the city’s sleek roads.

Are there any restrictions on luggage or large bags on the hop-on hop-off buses?

Most Boston hop-on hop-off bus operators restrict luggage and large bags, prioritizing passenger comfort and safety. 

Typically, these buses offer limited storage for small bags and hand luggage in overhead compartments or under seats.

However, larger suitcases or bulky items are generally not permitted onboard. Specific policies may vary among operators.

Can I bring food and drinks on the hop-on hop-off bus in Boston?

You can usually bring small snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for personal consumption. 

However, policies regarding bringing food and drinks on hop-on hop-off buses in Boston can vary between tour operators. Thus, checking the food and drink policies with the tour operators is recommended.

Are the buses wheelchair accessible for individuals with mobility challenges?

Hop-on hop-off buses in Boston are wheelchair accessible to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

Some hop-on hop-off buses in Boston have ramps or lifts to facilitate wheelchair boarding and disembarking. 

These accessibility features allow individuals using wheelchairs or mobility aids to access the bus easily and comfortably.

Can I use the hop-on hop-off bus ticket for unlimited rides during its validity?

Yes, hop-on hop-off bus tickets allow for unlimited rides within their validity period. 

These tickets are designed to provide flexibility and convenience, allowing passengers to hop on and off the bus at various stops as often as they like during the specified duration of the ticket.

During the validity period of your ticket, you can board the bus at any designated stop and disembark at any of the stops along the route.

How can I find out the current bus schedule and any route updates or changes?

You can download the tour bus app in advance to live-track buses, view bus stop locations, and more.

Can I purchase a combined ticket for the bus tour and other attractions in Boston?

You can purchase the Boston hop-on hop-off bus tour ticket individually and check which complementary attractions have been added.

If you wish to visit other attractions, you can purchase the entry tickets separately to avoid last-minute disappointment.

Is the Boston hop-on hop-off bus tour suitable for children?

Yes, the Boston hop-on hop-off bus tour is suitable for children. 

These tours are designed to cater to a wide range of visitors, including families with children. 

Children can enjoy the experience of traveling around and seeing the sights from an open-top bus.

Is the ticket valid for 24 hours from purchase or until the end of the day?

The ticket is usually valid for a set number of hours (e.g., 24 or 48 hours) from its first use. So, activating your ticket at 2 pm will be valid until 2 pm on the next day.

Can I use the hop-on hop-off bus pass for public transportation in Boston?

The hop-on hop-off bus pass is usually specific to the tour buses and doesn’t grant access to public transportation like trams, buses, or trains in Boston.