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With charming villages, spectacular summits and beautiful scenery, you can spend weeks hiking, biking or exploring New England by coach or car. Find sumptuous seafood, fantastic winter ski, and a ‘fall foliage’ where leaves turn the most glorious shades of gold.

Essential information for New England

  1. Time Zone

    UK - 5hrs

  2. Language

    American English

  3. Currency

    US Dollar $

  4. Flight information

    7h 40m direct

  1. Flight schedule

    Virgin Atlantic fly daily to Boston from Heathrow.

  2. Do I need a visa?

    To travel to the USA, you will need an ESTA visa. Please make sure that you have this approved at least 3 days before you head off on holiday.

  3. When is the best time to visit?

    Come in the autumn to witness nature’s spectacular display of iridescent ‘fall foliage’. In the winter, there is skiing in the mountains, and fireside comfort in the inns of Cape Cod. Spring and summer are for hiking and biking around the lakes and mountains, or for heading to the beach.

Where to stay in New England

Cape Cod holidays

Vermont holidays

New Hampshire holidays

Fly, drive and explore the East Coast

Enjoying the best of New England

Rolling mountains, charming villages and breath-taking fall colours are just some of the holiday ingredients you will find in New England. Here are its best attractions:

Enjoy charming villages and scenery with Virgin Atlantic Holidays' range of New England holidays. Visit us now to book New England hotels and holiday packages, tours and fly-drives.

 

Need more travel tips or holiday help?

Looking for the kind of place that feels like it stepped out of a storybook and into your travel plans? Then, Portland, Maine, is your dream come true. It’s New England coastal charm with a cool, creative twist—think historic harbours, hip cafés, indie galleries, and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat.

This isn’t just pretty. It’s Pinterest-board pretty.

Why Portland, Maine is a Must-See:

  • Coastal Charm: Situated right on the edge of Casco Bay, this city offers sweeping ocean views, rocky shores, and some of the most beautiful waterfront walks in the region.

  • Old Port District: With its cobblestone streets, 19th-century warehouses turned trendy boutiques and restaurants, and an irresistible old-world vibe, the Old Port is pure New England magic.

  • Foodie Paradise: From famous lobster rolls to award-winning farm-to-table dining, Portland is a rising star on the culinary map.

  • Portland Head Light – The most photographed lighthouse in America, and for good reason.

Short answer? Anywhere from a long weekend to two weeks, depending on how deep you want to dive. New England isn’t just one destination—it’s six states full of coastal towns, mountain escapes, historic cities, and postcard-perfect villages.

 
  • Autumn (Sept–Oct)Peak Foliage: Stunning fall colours, crisp air, and cosy vibes. Perfect for scenic drives and hikes.

  • Summer (Jun–Aug)Sun & Sea: Ideal for beach towns, seafood, and outdoor adventures. Great for families and coastal escapes.

  • Spring (Apr–May)Quiet & Pretty: Fewer crowds, blooming gardens, and mild weather. A peaceful time to explore cities and countryside.

  • Winter (Dec–Feb)Snowy & Magical: Ski resorts, snow-covered landscapes, and festive charm. A dream for winter sports and cosy getaways.

  • Top pick? Late September to October for the best fall foliage.
 
  • Portsmouth, New Hampshire
  • This charming, historic town is the perfect mix of old-world character and seaside cool. With its cosy streets, quirky shops, and waterfront dining, it’s ideal for a laid-back escape. Don’t miss the Strawbery Banke Museum and the gorgeous harbour views.
  • Newport, Rhode Island
  • If you’re craving Gatsby vibes and oceanfront elegance, Newport is your place. The Cliff Walk offers jaw-dropping views, and the Gilded Age mansions like The Breakers are as glamorous as they come. It's a haven for history lovers and beach bums alike.
  • Bar Harbor, Maine
  • This town is a perfect blend of natural beauty and coastal charm. Surrounded by Acadia National Park, it’s the perfect base for exploring mountains, forests, and the ocean. And let’s not forget the famous Maine lobster rolls!
  • Cape Cod, Massachusetts
  • With miles of sandy beaches, classic New England lighthouses, and quaint little villages, Cape Cod is the quintessential coastal getaway. Spend your days cycling the Cape Cod Rail Trail, soaking up the sun, or exploring the lively streets of Provincetown.
  • Mystic, Connecticut
  • Mystic is everything you want from a coastal town—charming streets, beautiful waterside views, and a rich maritime history. A visit to Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Aquarium will bring out your inner adventurer, and the Mystic River is perfect for a peaceful stroll.
  • Rockport, Massachusetts
  • A little art haven with a whole lot of coastal beauty, Rockport is a must for anyone who loves quirky galleries and picturesque harbours. Wander along Bearskin Neck, pop into galleries, and snap a photo of the iconic Motif Number 1 fishing shack.
  • Kennebunkport, Maine
  • This picturesque seaside village is known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches. It’s got the perfect balance of charm, history, and gorgeous views. Check out the bustling Dock Square and take a stroll along Goose Rocks Beach.

Kick things off by exploring Boston's history, Freedom Trail, and trendy neighbourhoods like Seaport.

Stop 1: Cape Cod (1.5 hours)

Classic beaches, lighthouses, and seafood shacks. Don’t miss Provincetown, Chatham Lighthouse, and the Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Stop 2: Plymouth (40 minutes)

History alert! Visit Plymouth Rock, Plimoth Patuxet Museums, and enjoy a peaceful stroll at Jenney Pond.

Stop 3: The Berkshires (2.5 hours)

Roll through mountains, small towns, and cultural gems like Tanglewood and Mass MoCA.

Stop 4: Montpelier, Vermont (3 hours)

Charming Vermont capital with great shops, local beer, and a visit to the State House.

Stop 5: Burlington, Vermont (45 minutes)

Wrap it up in Burlington with Lake Champlain views, a stroll through Church Street Marketplace, and some time at Shelburne Farms.

Return to Boston (3.5 hours)

Head back with memories of coastal beauty, mountain views, and quaint New England towns!

If you're looking to experience New England's stunning autumn landscapes, you're in for a treat! The region is famous for its vibrant fall foliage, and there are some truly spectacular spots to witness the colours in all their glory.

Here are the best places to take in those breathtaking autumn views:

White Mountains, New Hampshire

Drive Kancamagus Highway for breathtaking views of vibrant foliage and mountains. Mount Washington offers epic vistas.

Stowe, Vermont

A fall favourite with incredible mountain and forest views, especially around Smugglers' Notch.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Enjoy the stunning contrast of colourful foliage against the coast at Cadillac Mountain and Jordan Pond.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Explore charming towns like Lenox with rolling hills and scenic roads, especially from Mount Greylock.

Connecticut River Valley, Connecticut

A peaceful drive along the river with quaint towns and golden landscapes.

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Get a mix of lakes and fall foliage with scenic drives or boat rides around the lake.

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