Ultimate 7-Day Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Boston

Boston, MA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Paramount

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this iconic eatery known for its scrumptious pancakes and omelets.
Located in the Beacon Hill neighborhood, a short drive from most hotels.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Freedom Trail Walk

Embark on the historic Freedom Trail, visiting 16 significant sites including Boston Common and Paul Revere's House.
Walk the 2.5 miles of the trail starting from Boston Common.
USD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Quincy Market

Indulge in local flavors at Quincy Market, known for its diverse food stalls and historic ambiance.
Located just a short walk from the Freedom Trail.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

New England Aquarium

Visit one of the most renowned aquariums in America, showcasing marine life from the New England region.
A 10-minute walk from Quincy Market.
USD31, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Legal Sea Foods

Enjoy a seafood dinner at Legal Sea Foods, a Boston staple known for its fresh catch of fish.
Located on the waterfront, a short drive away.
USD40, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Stroll along the Harborwalk

Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll along the Harborwalk, soaking in the scenic views of the Boston skyline.
Accessible directly from Legal Sea Foods.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Art and History

Boston, MA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Flour Bakery

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and artisanal sandwiches that define this Harvard Square favorite.
Located a quick drive from downtown Boston.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Museum of Fine Arts

Explore an exceptional collection of art, from ancient to contemporary, in this acclaimed museum.
A 15-minute drive from the bakery.
USD25, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Eataly

Enjoy a vibrant Italian lunch at Eataly, featuring fresh pasta and unique culinary specialties.
Located near the Museum of Fine Arts.
USD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Marvel at this stunning museum modeled after a Venetian palace, showcasing art in a beautiful garden setting.
Walking distance from Eataly.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Boston Public Garden

Take a relaxing walk or a swan boat ride in the picturesque Boston Public Garden.
A short drive away or about 20 minutes walking.
USD15 (Swan Boat Ride), 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at North End (Carmine's)

Savor the Italian flavors in Boston’s North End at Carmine's, famous for its family-style meals.
A 10-minute drive from the Public Garden.
USD50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Visit the Skywalk Observatory

Catch breathtaking views of the city skyline from the 50th floor of the Prudential Tower.
A short drive away from North End.
USD20, 1 hour
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Day 3: Boston to Portland

Portland, ME

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tatte Bakery

Enjoy a delightful breakfast featuring Mediterranean-inspired pastries and dishes before hitting the road.
Located a short drive from downtown Boston.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Depart Boston for Portland

Begin your journey northward along I-95, enjoying scenic views of New England landscapes.
Approx. 70 miles, about 1.5 hours drive.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Arrive in Portland

Upon arrival, head to the Old Port district, known for its cobblestone streets and charming boutiques.
Park near the waterfront area for easy access to shops and restaurants.
USD0, 0.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Eventide Oyster Co.

Dig into some of the best seafood, featuring fresh oysters and delicious lobster rolls.
Located in the Old Port district.
USD35, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Portland Head Light

Visit this iconic lighthouse at Fort Williams Park, perfect for photo opportunities and enjoying the ocean view.
A 15-minute drive from Old Port.
USD0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Portland Museum of Art

Discover an impressive collection of American, European, and contemporary art at this well-rounded museum.
A short drive from the lighthouse.
USD15, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Hotel Check-in at Portland

Relax and refresh at your hotel before the evening activities.
Choose from several hotels in the downtown area.
Varies, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Duckfat

Indulge in gourmet fries and sandwiches at the famous Duckfat, known for its homestyle dishes.
Located near your hotel in downtown Portland.
USD25, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening at the Old Port

Enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the Old Port, filled with great shops, bars, and waterfront views.
Walking distance from Duckfat.
USD0, 2 hours
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Day 4: Camden Experience

Camden, ME

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bayside Bowl

Savor your morning meal in this colorful spot known for delicious breakfast bowls and coffee.
Located a short drive from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart Portland for Camden

Drive along the coast, taking in the picturesque views as you journey to Camden.
Follow Route 1 north, approx. 80 miles.
USD0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Arrive in Camden

Explore the quaint town of Camden, known for its stunning harbor and surrounding mountains.
Park near the harbor for easy access.
USD0, 0.5 hours

11:00AM

Camden Hills State Park

Hike up to the top of Mount Battie for breathtaking views of Camden and the Penobscot Bay.
A short drive from downtown Camden (10 min).
USD6, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Waterfront

Enjoy waterfront dining with delicious seafood options and gorgeous harbor views.
Located back in Camden’s downtown area.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Stroll around Camden Village

Roam through Camden's vibrant shops and boutiques, perfect for souvenirs.
You can walk to most shops from the restaurant.
USD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Hotel Check-in at Camden

Settle into your accommodation and rest before dinner.
Choose a hotel with a harbor view if available.
Varies, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Theθέατρο

Dine at Theθέατρο, acclaimed for its locally sourced foods and cozy atmosphere.
Walking distance from most hotels.
USD40, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Sunset at Camden Harbor

End your day with a picturesque sunset by the harbor, a perfect way to unwind.
Directly accessible from your dinner spot.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 5: To Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor, ME

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Drouthy Bear

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in this cozy establishment known for its warm atmosphere and delicious fare.
Located in Camden.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart Camden for Bar Harbor

Depart Camden and drive toward Bar Harbor, enjoying the views along Route 1.
Approx. 50 miles, around an hour drive.
USD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Arrive in Bar Harbor

Explore the charming town of Bar Harbor, nestled at the edge of Acadia National Park.
Park in the downtown area.
USD0, 0.5 hours

10:30AM

Acadia National Park - Jordan Pond

Hike around the scenic Jordan Pond, famous for its stunning views of the Bubbles mountains.
Drive to the park entrance, about a 15-minute drive.
USD30 (Park Pass), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Jordan Pond House

Savor classic popovers and local specialties while overlooking the picturesque Jordan Pond.
Located within Acadia National Park.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Acadia National Park

Continue your adventure in the park by exploring more trails or riding the scenic loop road.
Various trails accessible from Jordan Pond.
USD0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Bar Harbor Hotel

Relax and refresh at your hotel after an exciting day of exploring.
Choose a hotel in Bar Harbor for a convenient stay.
Varies, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Lobster Shack

A must-visit for lobster lovers, offering fresh lobster rolls and classic New England clams.
Located near the waterfront.
USD35, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Stroll along the Shore Path

Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the scenic Shore Path in Bar Harbor.
Accessible from downtown.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 6: More of Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor, ME

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe This Way

Start the day with a hearty breakfast in this local favorite known for its innovative dishes.
A short walk from most hotels.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Bike the Carriage Roads

Enjoy breathtaking views as you bike along the scenic carriage roads in Acadia National Park.
Bike rentals are available in Bar Harbor.
USD20 (Bike Rental), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe This Way

Return to Cafe This Way for delicious options, featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Walking distance from the bike rental.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Acadia National Park's Cadillac Mountain

Drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain to catch sweeping vistas of the surroundings.
About a 15-minute drive from Bar Harbor.
USD30 (National Park Pass if needed), 2 hours

4:00PM

Afternoon Kayaking

Experience the beauty of Bar Harbor from the water with an afternoon of kayaking along the coastline.
Kayak rentals and tours are available at the harbor.
USD50, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Stewman's Lobster Pound

Treat yourself to a classic Maine lobster dinner at this waterside establishment.
Short drive or walk from downtown.
USD45, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening stroll around Bar Harbor

Enjoy your last evening in Bar Harbor with a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets.
Accessible from your dining location.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 7: Return to Boston

Boston, MA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannie's Breakfast

Start with a classic breakfast diner experience, perfect for fueling up before the drive back.
Located in Bar Harbor.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart Bar Harbor for Boston

Begin the journey back to Boston, reflecting on your memorable trip.
Approx. 280 miles, about 4.5 hours drive.
USD0, 4.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Rosebud American Diner

Stop for a late lunch at this beloved diner known for its classic American comfort food.
Located in Somerville, MA on your way back.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Arrive back in Boston

Conclude your adventure back in the vibrant city of Boston.
Time to unwind and reflect on your fantastic trip.
USD0, 0.5 hours
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