4 Towns to Visit on Cape Cod

While Cape Cod may appear rather small on a map, the peninsula is actually quite large, encompassing more than a dozen towns across four regions. With a bit of driving, you can see the entire Cape during one trip, but you’ll want to pick a homebase. Here are some of your better options.

Provincetown
Probably the most popular destination on the Cape, Provincetown is known for its charm, LGBTQIA+ community and history. You’ll find lots to do and see here, as well as plenty of options for dining, drinking and accommodations (though also a fair number of crowds).

Yarmouth
Situated mid-Cape and significantly quieter, Yarmouth gives you access to beaches on both the Cape Cod Bay and Nantucket Sound sides of the Cape. While you won’t have as much to keep you occupied as you might in Provincetown, you’ll still be within easy reach of historical attractions and lots of dining.

Hyannis
Nearby Hyannis is where you’ll want to stay if you value the convenience of having access to big-box stores and chain restaurants. You’ll also find plenty of local bars, restaurants and shopping, too, though.

Chatham
Chatham is like Provincetown-lite — cute and charming with plenty to see and do, but not as wildly popular (though still expect crowds in peak summer).