To get around in Boston, you can use a variety of transportation options, including the subway, buses, taxis, ride-hailing services, and rental cars, all of which provide convenient and relatively affordable ways to navigate the city.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Boston is easily accessible by air, with Logan International Airport (BOS) serving as the main gateway to the city. Located just a few miles from downtown Boston, Logan Airport offers direct flights to numerous domestic and international destinations. If you're traveling from within the United States, you can also consider flying into one of the nearby airports, such as Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) in New Hampshire or T.F. Green Airport (PVD) in Rhode Island. Overland entry points include I-90 and I-93, which connect Boston to other major cities in the Northeast.
For those traveling from outside the United States, Logan Airport is a major hub with flights from many international destinations. You can also consider taking a bus or train from nearby cities, such as New York City or Providence, which offer convenient and affordable transportation options. Once you arrive in Boston, you can use public transportation or a ride-hailing service to get to your destination.
Domestic Flights
Boston is well-connected to other major cities in the United States, with numerous domestic airlines offering flights to and from Logan Airport. Some of the main domestic airlines that operate out of Boston include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and JetBlue Airways. You can fly to destinations such as New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Miami, among many others. When booking domestic flights, it's a good idea to compare prices across different airlines and book in advance to get the best deals. Approximate costs for domestic flights can range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on the destination and time of year.
Trains & Rail
Boston has an extensive rail network, with Amtrak offering frequent trains to nearby cities such as New York City, Providence, and Washington, D.C. The Acela Express is a high-speed train that connects Boston to New York City and Washington, D.C., with journey times of just over 3.5 hours and 4.5 hours, respectively. You can book train tickets online or at the train station, and prices vary depending on the route and class of service. The rail network in Boston is generally of high quality, with modern trains and comfortable seating.
Buses & Coaches
There are several intercity bus companies that operate out of Boston, including Greyhound, Megabus, and BoltBus. These buses offer affordable and convenient transportation to nearby cities, such as New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. The quality of the buses is generally good, with comfortable seating and onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi and power outlets. Prices vary depending on the route and time of year, but you can expect to pay between $10 and $50 for a one-way ticket.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Boston | $2.75 | The T is Boston's public transportation system, with five subway lines and numerous bus routes |
| City Bus | Boston | $2.75 | The T bus system offers extensive coverage of the city, with over 180 bus routes |
| Taxi | everywhere | $2.75 + $2.60/mile | Taxis are widely available in Boston, but can be more expensive than public transportation |
| Ride-Hailing | Boston | $5-$10 | Uber and Lyft operate in Boston, offering convenient and affordable transportation |
| Ferry | Boston Harbor | $17.50 | The Boston Harbor Cruises ferry offers scenic tours of the harbor and surrounding islands |
Driving
- To drive in Boston, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or state.
- Road conditions in Boston are generally good, but be aware of narrow streets and heavy traffic in the city center.
- Fuel costs can vary depending on the location and type of fuel, but you can expect to pay around $2.50 per gallon for gasoline.
- Car rental companies such as Enterprise and Hertz have locations at Logan Airport and throughout the city.
- When driving in Boston, be aware of pedestrian traffic and cyclists, as the city has a strong focus on alternative transportation.
- Parking in Boston can be challenging, especially in the city center, so be prepared to pay for parking or use public transportation.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of traffic congestion in the city center, especially during rush hour, and plan your route accordingly.
- Consider purchasing a CharlieCard, which offers convenient and affordable access to public transportation in Boston.
- Download the Transit app to plan your route and track public transportation in real-time.
- Be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas, such as subway stations and tourist attractions.
- Use a reputable taxi company or ride-hailing service to avoid scams.
- Be prepared for weather conditions, such as snow and ice in the winter, and plan your transportation accordingly.
- Consider walking or cycling, as Boston is a walkable city with many scenic bike paths and pedestrian areas.