Classic New England fall foliage self-drive tour

You will start the day with a guided walk along the Freedom Trail, taking in the city's iconic sights and autumnal hues while gaining an insight into its fascinating history. You have the rest of the day at leisure — you may wish to visit Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, the red-brick houses of Beacon Hill or the world-famous Harvard University over the river in Cambridge.

Experience the charm of Boston with a guided foodie tour through the cobblestone streets of the North End. Sample delicious pizza, pastries, meats, and cheeses, while your guide directs you to a hidden generations-old bakery, an authentic Italian Salumeria, and a family-run pastry shop. Relax Italian-style and enjoy one of the best cups of cappuccino or espresso in Boston with a pastry. This culinary adventure is a great way to engage yourself in the tastes and history of this city.

A short drive north takes you to the coastal town of Kennebunkport, perched on Maine's rocky Atlantic coastline, where you can enjoy the beautiful foliage, warm days and crisp nights, and several fall festivals. Your afternoon is free to enjoy the brisk ocean air on an invigorating beach walk or peruse this pretty coastal town's galleries and craft shops.

Take the time to explore Cape Porpoise, located on the quiet side of Kennebunkport. Easy does it in this small, seaside village, where you can stroll on soft sands, view one of Maine’s oldest lighthouses, and dine on clam chowder while witnessing hardworking fishermen hauling their lobster traps.

Today's drive takes you inland, the road weaving its way through New Hampshire's Lakes Region to the picture-postcard town of Jackson. The traditional town comes complete with a wooden covered bridge and white clapboard houses and is in the heart of the White Mountains National Forest. There are many scenic walks and drives to enjoy in the surrounding area during the fall foliage, or you can relax in your hotel while taking in the beautiful mountain scenery.

This morning, you will make your way to North Conway, where you will enjoy a train journey on an authentic cog railway up to Mount Washington's summit, the region's highest peak. You have the rest of the day at leisure to explore New Hampshire's White Mountains. This rugged region is a paradise for hikers, allowing an opportunity to sample the Appalachian Trail that stretches from Maine to Georgia. If you'd prefer to enjoy the panorama from the comfort of your car, we can recommend some excellent scenic drives that weave their way through the mountains and reveal the finest autumnal hues.

A final day to enjoy the White Mountains. Jackson boats an enviable array of well-maintained hiking trails. Some curve through the forest, some strike out to full-throttle waterfalls, and some beat a more rugged uphill path, including the hike up Mount Washington itself.

Continue your journey southwest into Vermont — a particularly scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway Mountain Road, which is frequently rated as one of America's best scenic byways. Allow yourself plenty of time to stop at the numerous viewpoints for leaf peeping, and if you're lucky, you may even see moose meandering across the road, so ensure you have your camera on hand. This drive takes you across the state border into Vermont and to the rolling, forested Green Mountains. The rest of the day is free to explore Manchester's undulating roads and rural villages.

A day at leisure to enjoy Vermont's Green Mountains, where rich tones of ruby, fire orange and gold can be seen. Take a scenic drive around some of the picturesque towns here or enjoy some easy hiking in the nearby hills. For those interested in history, Abraham Lincoln's family home at Hildene is just a short drive away, and shoppers can pick up bargains at Manchester's small selection of outlet stores.

A short drive today takes you to Lenox, Massachusetts, nestled in the Berkshire Mountains and known for its blend of cultural and outdoor attractions. Admire the trees turning amber, auburn, crimson, and russet shades as you stroll through Lenox's charming downtown, which is filled with boutique shops, art galleries and excellent dining options.

A further day to explore Lenox, perhaps visit the historic estates like The Mount, Edith Wharton's home, with its attractive parks and trails. Or Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Return to Boston today to end your New England journey. Return your hire car at Boston Airport before boarding your onward flight home. Please note this itinerary is priced over the fall season in October, which is peak season in New England. This itinerary can also be booked from mid to late May up until September to enjoy the spring and summer climate of New England. Please speak to your Country Specialist for further details to create your bespoke itinerary.

Arrive home today to complete your journey.