8 Tips for Getting Around Boston Efficiently
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Are you headed to Massachusetts soon and looking for tips for getting around Boston? Then you’re in the right place!
Getting around Boston, also known as America’s Walking City, is quite easy!
While it’s not my first time in Boston, it has been many years since I visited. While I was planning our 3-day itinerary, Zack and I were planning on renting a vehicle because I wanted to take a day trip to Salem.
Zack will need a car for visiting his clients for the days he is traveling, which is covered by his company, so we discussed keeping it for the weekend (and paying the company back for the extra days). The cost of the rental car (around $100/day) as well as the cost of parking near our hotel ($40 each day) didn’t seem worth the price for a weekend getaway.
After a long search on the MBTA website, I figured out every single cost of what we would be spending on the T within the city for our itinerary and the commuter rail to get us to Salem for a day.
And since we just got back from our weekend trip in Boston, I figured I’d write out my best tips for getting around in Boston!
8 Tips for Getting Around Boston
Navigating Boston can be easy and enjoyable if you know the best ways to get around. With its compact size, excellent public transit system, and pedestrian-friendly streets, you’ll have no problem exploring the city’s historic sites and neighborhoods. Here are some tips to help you get around efficiently.
1. Use Public Transportation (The T)
Boston’s subway system, known as The T, is one of the best ways to get around. It consists of four main lines: Red, Orange, Blue, and Green, which cover most of the city and its neighboring areas. Fares are affordable, and you can purchase a CharlieCard or CharlieTicket for multiple rides.
The MBTA also operates an extensive bus network. Buses are great for reaching neighborhoods not accessible by the subway, but keep in mind that traffic can slow things down during rush hours.
The MBTA Commuter Rail is useful if you’re traveling to suburban areas or nearby cities like Salem.
Tip: Download the MBTA app or check the MBTA website for schedules, maps, and real-time updates.
2. Walk Around
Boston is known as “America’s Walking City,” and many of its attractions are close to each other. Walking is often the fastest way to get around downtown, especially when exploring areas like Beacon Hill, the North End, and Back Bay.
It’s also a great way to take in the city’s historic architecture and cobblestone streets!
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the city’s old streets can be uneven, and distances between attractions can add up.
3. Ride Share and Taxis
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Boston. They are a convenient option for getting around if you prefer not to use public transport or need a ride late at night.
Taxis are available, but they tend to be more expensive than Uber or Lyft. You can hail them on the street or find them at taxi stands in busy areas like South Station and Logan Airport.
4. Bike Rentals and Bike Sharing
Boston’s bike-sharing program, Bluebikes, offers an affordable and eco-friendly way to get around. There are docking stations throughout the city, and you can rent bikes by the hour or get a day pass. Biking is a great way to explore the Charles River Esplanade or travel between neighborhoods.
Tip: Be mindful of traffic, especially during busy hours. Boston has bike lanes, but some streets can still be narrow or congested.
5. Ferries
Boston has several ferry services, which are especially useful for scenic trips or getting to places like Charlestown or the Boston Harbor Islands. Taking a ferry one way costs between $2.40 and $9.75 depending on your destination. Ferries run from Long Wharf and other waterfront locations.
Tip: Ferries are a great way to enjoy a scenic ride while bypassing city traffic, and they operate seasonally to popular tourist destinations.
6. Driving and Parking
Avoid Driving When Possible! Boston’s narrow, winding streets can be confusing to navigate, and traffic is often heavy, especially during rush hour. Parking is also limited and expensive in most parts of the city.
If you do drive, use parking garages like those near Faneuil Hall or the Prudential Center, as street parking is often scarce and restricted to residents in many areas.
Tip: Use a GPS or navigation app to avoid getting lost, and plan for parking costs if you bring a car into the city.
7. Explore with the Trolley Tours
If you want a convenient and guided way to see Boston’s major attractions, consider hopping on one of the trolley tours.
These guided trolleys stop at various landmarks, including the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, and the North End, and allow you to hop on and off as you explore.
8. Traveling from Logan Airport
If you’re flying into Logan Airport, take the Silver Line Bus (SL1) to South Station. It’s free from the airport and connects you to the Red Line and other public transit options.
Once you’re at South Station, you can purchase your CharlieTicket for the rest of your visit. They sell 1-day passes (for $11) or 7-day passes (for $22.50). The 7-day pass will cover you if you headed there for a long weekend.
Taxis and ride shares are also easily available at Logan Airport, but they can be more expensive than public transit, especially during peak travel times. I priced out an Uber from the airport to our hotel and it was around $40.
Final Tips for Getting Around Boston
Avoid traveling during rush hours (7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.) if possible, as the T, buses, and roads can be very crowded.
Download maps or use apps like Google Maps to plan your route ahead of time, especially if you’re switching between public transit options.
By using public transportation, walking, or renting bikes, you’ll be able to navigate Boston’s historic neighborhoods and scenic waterfront efficiently and enjoyably!
Want to experience Boston’s charm? These top tours will guide you through it all.
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Additional Boston Resources
If you’re planning a trip to Boston, then be sure to check out my one day in Boston guide and my 3 days in Boston itinerary. A be sure to pick one of these top boutique hotels in Boston for your stay.
We visited Boston in the fall which was great for the weather! Be sure to check out my packing list for tips on what to wear. You can also find a list of free museums to visit in the city. Or here’s a list of the top five scenic drives for fall foliage!
We rode the commuter rail on a day trip to Salem, which was super easy! We walked around Salem Common and visited almost all of the filming spots from Hocus Pocus. We went in the fall, so here’s a handy guide to visiting Salem in October.
