The North End, Boston, Massachsusetts

Starting at the very northeastern tip of Boston's peninsula, the North End (map) is one of the city's oldest neighborhoods.

Old North Church ("One of by land, two if by sea") is its best-known landmark.

Paul Revere's House, the city's oldest house still standing, is another. It's located on pretty, cobbled North Square (map).

The narrow streets and four-story brick buildings are now home to Italian-American families who preserve much of the old country's daily life in their Italian groceries, butcher shops, cafes, vegetable stands and restaurants.

Come to the North End to visit the historic landmarks, stop in for an espresso and a cannolli at one of the cafes or pastry shops, or even stay for lunch or dinner.

Hanover Street is the North End's "Main Street," lined with cafes, pastry shops and restaurants. Follow it north to St Stephen's Church, designed by famous Boston architect Charles Bulfinch. Turn left at the church into Paul Revere Park to reach Old North Church.

After visiting the church, walk up the hill in front of it on Hull Street to reach Copp's Hill Burying Ground, Boston's second-oldest cemetery with tombstones from the 1600s, 1700s and later. Then, enjoy the view all the way to Charlestown, Bunker Hill and the USS Constitution.

Boston's North End is particularly lively during Italian church festivals, with decorations, processions and special events.