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How to Get to Boston

How to Get to Boston

Boston Massachusetts, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Boston Logan International Airport BOS

BOS handles a large volume of domestic and international flights. It connections for both domestic and international travelers, a convenient entry point to the city.

Airlines & Routes

  • Major U.S. Carriers: American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue.
  • International Carriers: Aer Lingus, Air Canada, British Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa, etc.
  • Direct flights from major hubs in North America, Europe, Middle East, Asia.

Seasonal Fluctuations & Facilities

Flight prices vary by season. BOS facilities a wide range of services for travelers.

Details

  • Highest prices: Summer (June-Aug), fall foliage (Sept-Oct), major holidays.
  • Lower prices: Winter (Jan-Mar), outside holidays.
  • Airport Facilities: Restaurants, shops, duty-free, lounges, ATMs, free Wi-Fi.

MBTA Blue Line

Free shuttle (Route SL1) connects terminals to Airport Station. Downtown travel: 15-20 min. Cost-effective.

MBTA Silver Line

Route SL1 offers free direct service from terminals to South Station, a major hub.

Taxis & Rideshare

Available from designated pick-up areas at each terminal. Follow airport signage.

Flight Booking & Airport Transfers

Flight Resources

  • Dollar Flight Club: Alerts for cheap flights.
  • Skyscanner: Compare flight prices.
  • Water Taxi: Seasonal assistance from Logan Dock to Boston waterfront (scenic).
  • Car Rental: Agencies at airport with shuttle service.

General Transfer Tips

  • Free airport transfer service connects terminals to MBTA Airport Station.
  • MBTA Blue Line travel to downtown ~15-20 minutes.
  • Follow airport signage for taxis and rideshare pick-up.
  • Consider luggage volume when choosing public transit.

Airport Facilities

Dining & Shopping

Restaurants, shops, and duty-free stores available across terminals.

Passenger Services

Airline lounges, currency exchange, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, nursing rooms.

Accessibility

Pet relief areas, accessible restrooms, TTY phones, Aira service for visually impaired.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Boston a central point for land travel. Extensive train and bus services connect it to other cities in the New england area.

Amtrak & Commuter Rail

  • Amtrak South Station: Northeast Corridor (NYC, Philadelphia, DC), Lake Shore Limited (Chicago).
  • Amtrak North Station: Downeaster line (Maine).
  • MBTA Commuter Rail: Connects downtown to surrounding MA/RI towns (day trips).

Long-Distance Bus Options

South Station Bus Terminal a major hub for intercity bus services. These services connect Boston to major cities throughout the Northeast part U.S.

Bus Companies

  • Greyhound, Peter Pan Bus Lines, Megabus.
  • Concord Coach Lines: Serving New Hampshire and Maine.
  • All operate from South Station Bus Terminal.

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving is an option, but has challenges within the city. Traffic is heavy and confusing. Parking is scarce and expensive.

Requirements & Challenges

  • Valid U.S. Driver's license or International Driver's Permit (IDP).
  • Major credit card. Minimum age 21-25 (surcharge for under 25).
  • Navigation: One-way streets and rotaries challenging for unfamiliar drivers.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road conditions are generally well-maintained. City streets can be congested. Winter weather impacts conditions.

Safety Notes

  • Anticipate aggressive drivers and dense traffic.
  • Caution for pedestrians and cyclists in urban areas.
  • Winter weather: Snow and ice significantly affect driving.

Car Rental Resources

  • Major companies: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty.
  • Compare choices at DiscoverCars.com.
  • Located at Logan Air terminal and various city locations.
  • Parking: Very expensive and difficult to find.
  • Not recommended for purely urban sightseeing.
  • Best for excursions outside the city.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Boston's coastal location also makes it accessible by water, mainly through ferry services and cruise lines.

Options

  • Boston Harbor City Cruises: Seasonal ferries to Provincetown, Salem, Harbor Islands.
  • MBTA Ferry: Commuter services to Charlestown, Hingham.
  • Cruise Port: Black Falcon The Cruise ship terminal (Flynn Cruiseport Boston) in Seaport District.

River Transportation & Procedures

The Charles River offers scenic boat tours. International cruise arrivals follow standard U.S. Customs procedures.

Details

  • Charles River Vessel Company: Scenic river tours.
  • Immigration: Standard U.S. Customs and Border Protection for international cruise.
  • Connections: From cruise terminal, taxis, rideshare, MBTA Silver Line (SL2) to South Station.

Harbor Ferries

Explore coastal towns like Salem or the Boston Harbor Islands via seasonal ferry service.

Cruise Departures

Black Falcon Terminal serves voyages to Bermuda, Canada/The Northeastern us states, and transatlantic routes.

River Tours

Enjoy scenic boat tours on the Charles River, an unique perspective of the city.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes are imposed on travelers departing the U.S.

Timing Recommendations

  • International Flights: Arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Procedures: Check-in, baggage drop, TSA security screening.

Airport & Station Facilities

Boston's departure points present a range of facilities for your comfort. Dining, shopping, and waiting areas are available for occupants.

Amenities

  • Logan Airfield: Stores, dining, airline lounges, duty-free stores, free Wi-Fi.
  • South/North Station: Restaurants, shops, waiting areas, restrooms.
  • Comfortable waiting areas for train and bus passengers.

Airline Baggage Information

Carry-on Limits

Check your airline’s specific dimensions and weight restrictions.

Checked Baggage

Most airlines charge for checked bags; verify weight and size limits.

Liquids Rule

TSA 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids (3.4 oz containers, 1 quart-sized bag, 1 bag per passenger).

Departure Reminder

Allow extra time for travel to the airport or transportation hub during rush hour or inclement weather. Check your flight or train status before heading out.

How to Get to Boston. Flights, Transportation, Airlines