Pack all of the highlights of New England into just eight days, featuring Cape Cod, The White Mountains and mid coast Maine.
Expect to find
Discover quaint harbourside villages with scenic waterfronts and fresh seafood.
Follow the Boston Freedom Trail and explore historic landmarks
Enjoy peaceful walks, riverboat rides, and stunning seasonal landscapes.
Overview
New England offers a mix of coastal cities, picturesque small towns and stunning rural scenery. Boston is the region’s lively hub, but beyond the city, you will find peaceful communities that are easy to explore on foot, by tram or even by riverboat. From the waterfront cities of New Haven, Providence and Portland to the smaller towns of Burlington, Rockport and Bar Harbor, the region is full of historic sites, traditional crafts and excellent seafood.
Whether you are planning a romantic break or a family road trip, New England is ideal for relaxed walks, scenic drives and discovering the changing seasons.
Call us to Tailor Make your New England Holiday
Experience charming towns, autumn foliage and picturesque trails in New England.
Ready to start planning? Call our Personal Travel Planners to book your next New England break.
New England Holidays
Discover charming towns, scenic coastlines and vibrant cities with our handpicked New England holiday offers.

New England Explorer Self Drive

Colours of New England Escorted Tour
Discover Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire on this picturesque tour, be sure to have your camera ready!

Fall Colours of New England Escorted Tour
New England is famous for picturesque towns that showcase the spectacular colours of Fall.

Boston Direct
This itinerary is the perfect opportunity to explore Boston in one of America's most traditional holidays!

Boston & Dominican Republic
Visit Boston for three nights before flying to Dominican Republic and spending a week on this stunning Caribbean Island.

Boston, New York & Washington, DC
Visit three of America’s most famous cities Boston, New York & Washington DC in one incredible holiday.
Places to Visit
Massachusetts
Massachusetts is home to New England’s best-known city, Boston. Rich in history, it offers landmarks such as the Freedom Trail and Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. Beyond the city, you’ll find Cape Cod’s sandy beaches, the scenic islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, and the Berkshires, which host the renowned Tanglewood music festival each summer when the Boston Symphony Orchestra performs in a beautiful countryside setting.
Rhode Island
The smallest state in the US packs in plenty of charm. Visit Newport to explore the famous Gilded Age mansions along the dramatic coastline, once the summer playground of America’s elite. The state capital, Providence, offers riverside walks, arts venues and excellent dining. Take a coastal drive through the beautiful New England scenery, passing lighthouses, quaint towns and secluded beaches.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers rugged natural beauty, from the lakes and forests to the dramatic White Mountains, which are popular for hiking, scenic drives and autumn foliage. The state also has a short but lively coastline, including Hampton Beach, which hosts the popular Seafood Festival each September. Inland, quaint villages and covered bridges give the state a traditional feel.
Vermont
Known for its mountain views and picturesque villages, Vermont is perfect for lovers of the outdoors. The town of Stowe is a standout, known for its postcard-perfect setting and as the home of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. Autumn is particularly stunning here, but year-round, Vermont’s small towns, artisan producers and peaceful trails offer an authentic New England experience.
Maine
Maine is known for its dramatic coastline, historic harbours and unbeatable seafood. Bar Harbor is a popular base for visiting Acadia National Park, where you can hike, cycle or take in views from the summit of Cadillac Mountain. Portland offers a vibrant food scene and charming waterfront, while the state’s small fishing villages give a real taste of coastal New England life.
Connecticut
Connecticut is known for its historic towns, scenic coastline and academia. In New Haven, you can explore the campus of Yale University, home to world-class museums and impressive architecture. Along the shore, places like Mystic offer maritime charm, fresh seafood and family-friendly attractions. Inland, you’ll find rolling countryside, classic New England villages and plenty of quiet backroads to explore.
Guides
New England FAQs
What states are included in New England, and which ones are best for a first-time visit?
New England includes Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. For first-timers, Massachusetts (especially Boston), Vermont’s scenic small towns, and Maine’s coastal scenery make for the perfect introduction to New England.
How long should I plan for a New England trip to experience a mix of coast, countryside and towns?
A ten to fourteen night trip gives you enough time to explore a variety of places. You could start in Boston, head to the Maine coast, travel inland through the mountains of New Hampshire and Vermont, and then return via Rhode Island and Connecticut.
Is it easy to explore New England without visiting major cities like Boston?
Yes, you can explore New England without stopping in the big cities. Many small towns and coastal villages are well connected by car and offer a more relaxed experience with plenty of character.
What is the best way to get around New England – should I rent a car or rely on trains and buses?
Hiring a car is the best way to explore New England, especially if you want to visit countryside areas or follow scenic routes. Trains and buses work well between larger towns and cities but do not cover all rural or coastal locations.
What are the top scenic drives in New England, especially during autumn foliage season?
Some of the most popular routes include the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, the Acadia Loop Road in Maine, the Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts and the drive between Stowe and Morrisville in Vermont. All offer fabulous autumn views.
What are the must-visit small towns or villages in New England?
Top picks include Stowe in Vermont, known for its mountain views and relaxed feel, and Bar Harbor in Maine, the gateway to Acadia National Park. Mystic in Connecticut, Rockport in Massachusetts and Newport in Rhode Island are great places to stop off at.
Are New England’s coastal areas suitable for beach holidays?
Yes, the coast is perfect for a relaxed summer break. Cape Cod and Rhode Island have long sandy beaches and warm waters, while Maine’s coastline is more rugged and scenic, ideal for boat trips and seafood lovers.
Are there any unique foods or regional specialities I should try in New England?
Yes, New England is known for its food. Try lobster rolls, clam chowder and fresh oysters on the coast. Vermont is famous for its maple syrup and Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. You will also find plenty of local produce at farmers’ markets and roadside stalls.
What should I pack for a New England holiday, considering the region’s varied weather?
Bring a range of clothing so you can dress in layers. Include comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, a warm jumper or fleece, sunglasses and sun cream. In autumn, you may need a light coat, while in winter you will want gloves, boots and warm outerwear.