4-Day Relaxation and Cultural Immersion in Salem, MA on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Travel to Marblehead

New York City, NY on October 9, 2025

8:00AM

Depart from Moynihan Station

Board your train at Moynihan Station and settle in for a smooth ride to Back Bay Station.
Train ride to Back Bay Station
USD 50, 3 hours

11:00AM

Arrive at Back Bay Station

Arrive and follow the signs to transfer to the MBTA commuter rail to Salem, taking in the city’s skyline.
Walk to the commuter rail station
USD 10, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Flour Bakery

Indulge in fresh sandwiches and pastries at Flour Bakery, a local favorite known for its cozy atmosphere.
Take MBTA train from Back Bay to Salem, then bus to Marblehead
USD 15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Check into Airbnb

Settle into your Airbnb in Marblehead, enjoying the charming coastal views.
Local bus or rideshare
USD 20, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Stroll along Marblehead Harbor

Take a leisurely walk along the scenic harbor, admiring the historic homes and sailing boats.
Walk from Airbnb
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Landing Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and local fare with a view of the harbor, it’s the perfect way to end your first day.
Walk from harbor
USD 30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Exploring Salem

Salem, MA on October 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at A&J King Bakery

Start your day with fresh-baked pastries and coffee from A&J King Bakery, a beloved local spot.
Take the MBTA to Salem
USD 2.50, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit Salem Witch Museum

Dive into Salem's haunting history at the Salem Witch Museum, an essential stop on your cultural journey.
Walking from breakfast
USD 12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Peabody Essex Museum

Discover the vast collection of art and culture at the Peabody Essex Museum, renowned for its exhibits on American decorative arts.
Walk to the museum
USD 20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bewitched in Salem

Enjoy a themed dining experience at Bewitched in Salem, indulging in classic comfort food.
Walk from the museum
USD 15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Walk through the Historic District

Take a self-guided walking tour through Salem's Historic District, appreciating its stunning architecture and rich history.
Walking through the district
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Olde Main Street Pub

Conclude your day with hearty pub fare at The Olde Main Street Pub, where you can mingle with locals.
Walk from Historic District
USD 25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Marvel at Marblehead

Marblehead, MA on October 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Barnacle

Savor an ocean view while enjoying delicious breakfast options at The Barnacle, a lovely spot by the water.
Walking from Airbnb
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Marblehead Lighthouse

Take a short trek to Marblehead Lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline.
Walking distance from restaurant
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Tour Historic Fort Sewall

Explore the historic Fort Sewall, providing insight into the area's military history and lovely scenic views.
Walk from lighthouse
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Shubies

Indulge in artisan sandwiches or grab a local snack at Shubies, a go-to spot for locals.
Walk back to Marblehead
USD 15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Devereux Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding at Devereux Beach, soaking in the serenity and stunning views of the Atlantic.
Local bus or walk
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Sticky Rice

Experience delightful Thai cuisine at The Sticky Rice, a hidden gem beloved by locals.
Walk from beach
USD 20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Return Home

Marblehead, MA on October 12, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Redd's in the Square

Enjoy your final breakfast at Redd's, known for its warm bagels and coffee.
Walking from Airbnb
USD 15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Check out of Airbnb

Bid farewell to Marblehead as you check out of your Airbnb, packing cherished memories.
Walking to bus stop
Free, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Travel to Salem

Catch the local bus to Salem and take a moment to reflect on your trip.
Local bus to Salem
USD 5, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Visit The Witch House

Explore The Witch House, the only structure still standing in Salem with ties to the Witch Trials of 1692.
Walking from bus station
USD 10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Olde Salem Wharf

Enjoy waterfront dining with a view at the Olde Salem Wharf restaurant, a perfect farewell luncheon.
Walk from The Witch House
USD 20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to NYC from Salem

Take the MBTA commuter rail back to Back Bay Station and then the Amtrak to Moynihan Station, reminiscing about your relaxing journey.
Train to Back Bay, then Amtrak to NYC
USD 60, 3.5 hours
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