Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
USA - East - Boston - New York - Philadelphia - Washington
100% customisable for you
Your American East Coast adventure starts today. Head to the airport and whizz through security in preparation for your seven-and-a-half-hour flight to Boston.
When you land, a private driver will be waiting to transfer you to your first accommodation for the next two nights: a contemporary, centrally-located hotel in the city.
Spend the afternoon as you please. Kick back and relax in your hotel or stroll around your new surroundings. For a spot of culture, visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, home to major works by Botticelli, Rubens, Delacroix and Matisse. Or take a short trip to nearby Cambridge and explore the campuses of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). If it’s relaxation you’re after? The stylish rooftop bars lining Newbury Street are calling your name.
Today is all about exploring the city’s charming streets. The capital of Massachusetts, Boston is one of the oldest cities in the US. From the Revolutionary War in the late 18th century to being a vital port and industrial hub in the late 19th century, it merges European and American charm.
Embrace your inner history buff as you trace the footsteps of revolutionaries on Boston’s Freedom Trail. Stroll along the winding red-brick pathway which connects 16 historic sites from Boston Common (America’s oldest public park) to Bunker Hill Monument. By the end of the day, you’re sure to have reached your daily step count goals.
Worked up an appetite? Enjoy a delicious dinner at a cosy local restaurant. Whether you fancy fresh seafood or hearty Italian dishes, our Concierge can recommend the best spots.
Let the train trip begin. Today, you’ll board a comfortable train at Boston’s South Station for a roughly four-hour journey to New York City.
Once you arrive, check in for three nights at a stylish hotel in the heart of Manhattan. The afternoon is yours to spend as you please. Dive into the contemporary works at MoMA (The Museum of Modern Art), browse the trendy art galleries of Tribeca or hop across the river to Williamsburg and sample treats from its hipster chocolatiers.
Rise and shine, it’s your first full day in the city that never sleeps. After tucking into a classic New York City bagel, it’s time to explore some of the most iconic neighbourhoods.
On a walking tour with an expert guide you’ll stroll through Greenwich Village and immerse yourself in its vibrant art scene before heading to trendy SoHo, where luxury shops, stylish bars and contemporary art galleries await.
Next, wander through the bustling streets of Little Italy, browse the local eateries and fill up on cannoli. This neighbourhood began to form in the mid-19th century when the first wave of Italian immigrants arrived. Finally, wrap up your walking tour in the bustling heart of Chinatown.
This morning is yours to spend as you please. After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, head out for your final full day in New York.
Soak up the last of the city’s famous sites with a stroll through Central Park before heading to Times Square. For a fresh perspective of the Statue of Liberty, Battery Park is your best bet, offering waterfront views of Ellis Island over the Hudson. And why not grab a bite to eat at a local diner for the authentic American experience?
When the evening rolls around, we recommend hopping aboard the Shearwater for a scenic sailing trip around New York’s harbour. Built in 1929 in Maine, the Shearwater provides incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and the illuminated Skyline of Manhattan, so have your camera at the ready. Accommodating up to 48 passengers, the classic schooner has been sailing visitors around the picturesque harbour since 2001.
Wave goodbye to New York City; it’s time to catch your one-and-a-half-hour train to Philadelphia. When you arrive, you’ll be met and privately transferred to your comfortable downtown hotel which is home for the next two nights.
Philadelphia, the Cradle of Independence, is more central to American history than any other city. Every neighbourhood in Philly has a distinctive character, from the brick houses of Society Hill and the Old City art galleries to the Rittenhouse Square galleries. Dance aficionados will be in their element at the Philadelphia Ballet, while art enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate at the Rodin Museum. And don’t miss the Reading Terminal Market. Philly’s oldest public market is home to a mix of local farmers, butchers and artisanal food stalls.
Today, immerse yourself in Philadelphia’s eclectic art scene with a visit to the Barnes Foundation in downtown Philadelphia. The gallery, established in 1922 by Albert Barnes, was originally located in Merion before being moved to its current contemporary building in 2012. Discover one of the world's largest private collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and Modern art, with works by the likes of Renoir, Braque, Picasso, Matisse and Van Gogh, as well as various tribal art objects.
Once you’ve had your fill of art, why not soak up Philadelphia’s sights on a bike tour? Pedal past iconic landmarks from the Liberty Bell to Independence Hall and then take the scenic route along the city’s riverfront.
After a bright and early breakfast at the hotel this morning, set off to catch a two-hour train to Washington DC. Check into your charming hotel in the Dupont Circle district, in the heart of the city, which will be your base for the next two nights.
Once you’ve unpacked and gotten settled it’s time to tick off some of the city’s must-visit spots. We’re talking: the White House, the Capitol Building (home to Congress), the National Mall and the memorial to Abraham Lincoln, whose famous statue faces the sunrise.
If you’re an art lover, don’t miss a visit to the Contemporary Art Wing of the National Gallery, before grabbing a hot dog or burger at Ben's Chili Bowl (one of Barack Obama's favourite spots). Alternatively, stroll through Little Ethiopia and treat yourself to some authentic Ethiopian cuisine.
Cycling is the preferred mode of transport for many residents in Washington DC so what better way to see the city than by bike? On a privately guided bike tour, pedal from the breezy banks of the Potomac River to the tree-lined streets of Capitol Hill.
After you’ve grabbed a bite to eat, it’s time to head to the National Museum of African American History and Culture for an insight into the nation’s past. Opened by President Barack Obama in September 2016, it’s the largest museum in the country devoted to African American history, with informative exhibits showcasing artwork, historic documents and cultural artefacts.
Sadly, your US East Coast adventure has come to an end. Take one final stroll around the city to soak up the last of DC’s grand monuments before heading to the airport. Most direct flights to the UK depart in the afternoon and last about seven-and-a-half hours, so you’ll fly overnight and arrive back in London the next day.
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
ENQUIRE NOWOur team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges