East USA & Canada: historic cities and Niagara Falls

As the largest of the seven villages of Barnstable and commercial hub of the region, Hyannis is often referred to as the ‘Capital of Cape Cod’, popular with families and holidaymakers who come to enjoy the tranquility and charm of the peninsula. Hyannis is a great base for day trips to the surrounding villages, beaches and bays, and the village itself features a picturesque harbour lined with excellent eateries as well as the bustling Main Street, filled with speciality shops and attractions.

Boston uniquely combines rich historical heritage with a lively, modern urban culture. Walk the Freedom Trail and discover the birthplace of the American Revolution, from Faneuil Hall to the Old North Church. The city breathes academic excellence thanks to world-renowned institutions like Harvard and MIT. Enjoy fresh seafood in the historic North End, the Italian heart of the city, or take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Beacon Hill. The compact city center makes Boston perfectly walkable. Fenway Park, the iconic baseball stadium, and the green oasis of Boston Common offer relaxation amid the urban buzz. Boston surprises with its perfect blend of tradition, innovation and New England charm.

A town hard to beat for its nature, wildlife and activities, Bar Harbor has everything on its doorstep. From the Acadia National Park where visitors can spend days hiking, cycling or climbing, to numerous water sports and whale-watching on the coast, the possibilities are endless. Admire the diverse fauna and flora and make sure to sample the famous lobster in this natural paradise.

Settled on cliffs overlooking the St. Lawrence Seaway is Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the capital of Canada’s Quebec Province. Its colonial centre features winding cobblestone streets lined with bistros and boutiques, magnificent architecture dating from the 1600s, and is topped by the spectacular Château Frontenac. Quebec City mixes its history with modernity and hosts a wide range of cultural events including an incredible winter festival.

Montreal may not be the political centre of Quebec, but it certainly is the region’s cultural heart. Boasting itself as one of the most diverse cities of North America, French speaking Montreal dazzles with its architecture, frequent festivals and an excellent music scene. However, nothing is as persuading as the first-class gastronomy, which includes top-notch patisseries and cafés and outstanding restaurants and bars with an endless supply of local and international dishes.

Family-friendly, vibrant and self-confident - Ottawa is Canada’s often overlooked capital city. The city boasts architecturally magnificent houses which line its picturesque streets, first-class museums worthy of spending a few hours wandering, and is set around a picturesque river and canals as well as numerous city parks. Residents embrace the city’s chilly winter temperatures by celebrating with winter festivals hosting ice-skating rinks on the canal and ski routes on its icy streets.

Visitors to Toronto are welcomed by its diverse population with famed Canadian friendliness and hospitality. Set along Lake Ontario’s Northern Shore, the city has something to offer for everyone and is home to countless restaurants, lively nightlife and a large cultural scene with theatre, art galleries and museums. Despite its big city status, Toronto offers a safe and peaceful environment as well as many green spaces and parks within its centre.

Niagara Falls stands as one of North America's most iconic natural wonders, where three magnificent waterfalls thunder over limestone cliffs between the United States and Canada. The Horseshoe Falls dominates the landscape with its curved cascade, while the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls complete this spectacular trio. Visitors can witness the raw power of nature as over six million cubic feet of water plunge 167 feet every minute. The mist creates rainbows that dance in the sunlight, adding magic to an already extraordinary scene. Observation decks, boat tours, and walking trails provide multiple vantage points to experience this natural masterpiece. The surrounding area offers charming towns, parks, and attractions that complement the falls perfectly. Whether viewed from above, below, or behind the cascading water, Niagara Falls delivers an unforgettable encounter with nature's grandeur.

The town of Gettysburg is synonymous with the tragic bloody battles of the American Civil War in 1863, which marked a turning point in the history of the country. Abraham Lincoln gave the Gettysburg Address here later that year, which is now marked by a memorial at the Gettysburg National Cemetery. A must for those interested in American history, the town features enough monuments and museums sure to keep you busy for a day or two.

Washington D.C. welcomes you with its impressive blend of history, culture, and political significance. The National Mall stretches before you like an open-air museum, lined with iconic monuments including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the moving Vietnam Veterans Memorial. You'll find some of the world's finest museums here, with the Smithsonian Institution offering free access to treasures ranging from dinosaur fossils to space shuttles. Beyond the monuments, diverse neighborhoods like Georgetown charm you with cobblestone streets and waterfront dining, while Dupont Circle buzzes with galleries, bookshops, and sidewalk cafés. The city's cherry blossoms transform the Tidal Basin into a pink paradise each spring, creating picture-perfect moments you'll treasure forever. Whether you're exploring the halls of power on Capitol Hill or enjoying the lively atmosphere of Eastern Market, Washington D.C. reveals itself as much more than just a political capital.

Philadelphia stands as America's birthplace, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed in Independence Hall. The city seamlessly weaves together colonial cobblestone streets with modern skyscrapers, creating a dynamic urban landscape. Visitors can explore world-renowned museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, famous for its Rocky Steps, and the innovative Barnes Foundation. The diverse neighborhoods each offer their own character, from the trendy Northern Liberties to the historic Old City. Philadelphia's food culture is legendary, featuring everything from authentic cheesesteaks at Pat's and Geno's to innovative farm-to-table restaurants. The city's passionate sports culture and friendly locals create an authentic American experience. With excellent walkability and rich cultural offerings, Philadelphia provides an perfect blend of history, culture, and modern city life.

Manhattan is the vibrant epicenter of New York City, where iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Central Park welcome you. Explore diverse neighborhoods such as trendy SoHo with its boutiques, artistic Greenwich Village, or the financial district around Wall Street. Culture enthusiasts will be delighted by world-renowned museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art. Broadway attracts theater lovers from around the world with spectacular shows and musicals. The skyline with its impressive skyscrapers forms a breathtaking backdrop for your urban adventure. Culinary-wise, Manhattan is a melting pot of flavors, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic food trucks. This dynamic city never sleeps and offers unforgettable experiences at any time of day.