Getting Around in Boston

Since it’s a relatively compact city, getting around Boston is fairly easy on foot or by using public transport. Driving is often the most convenient option for travel outside Boston proper, but most residents choose not to drive around the downtown area due to the traffic congestion, high parking fees and the city’s confusing street design.

You’ll find that there is a wealth of public transport options available in Boston, which will make getting to grips with the city much more manageable.

Public transport in Boston

Boston has an integrated public transport system run by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). It’s convenient and relatively inexpensive. The MBTA comprises the subway, buses, water shuttles and commuter rail.

The CharlieCard is a contactless smartcard that forms the basis of the MBTA payment system. Since August 2024, you can also tap to pay with contactless credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay or smartwatches on subway and bus services. There are a variety of options that allow you to pick a suitable package for your needs.

Subway

Boston’s subway, or ‘the T’, comprises three heavy rail lines (Red, Orange and Blue), plus the branching Green Line and the Mattapan Trolley. This network covers all the main areas of the city. If you use a CharlieCard for one-way rides, you get free transfers on most subway and local bus routes. The subway service typically starts around 5am. On weekdays, service ends around 1am, while Friday and Saturday nights see extended hours, with final trains departing between 1am and 2.30am, depending on the line.

Bus

You’ll find that while bus travel in Boston may be slower than using the subway, a bus ride will often be cheaper and take you closer to your final destination. There are also express buses in Boston that travel over longer distances. These are pricier than regular buses.

Ferries

The MBTA runs a commuter ferry service with eight terminal lines. There are also non-MBTA ferries and water taxis available at several ports.

Commuter rail

The commuter rail system in Boston is primarily used for travelling to towns outside the city. Since these trains are infrequent, it’s much faster to use the subway when travelling in Boston.

Useful links

• MBTA: Official Website
• MBTA: Schedules and Maps
• MBTA: Fares and Passes
• MBTA: New Charlie Payment System

Taxis in Boston

Boston taxi fares sit in the mid to upper range among US cities. Unless you plan to share a taxi with a group of friends, it makes more sense to use the city’s well-developed public transport system.

Rideshare apps such as Uber and Lyft operate in Boston, and like regular taxis, they allow for more specific routes at a more affordable price. As Uber and Lyft services are charged directly to your bank account, they allow for travel without carrying cash.

Useful links

• Boston Police Department: Taxi Rates
• Uber: Boston
• Lyft: Boston

Walking in Boston

Boston is a relatively small and safe city, and many locals walk around the city centre. Walking allows you to see more of Boston than you would on the subway, although walking is not always easy in the winter months when the snow and wind can pose a significant obstacle to pedestrians.

Weather in Boston

Cycling in Boston

Cycling in Boston has become increasingly popular thanks to the city’s compact size and relatively flat terrain, although winter weather can make it challenging. The city has actively expanded its cycling infrastructure in recent years, with separated bike lanes now available in multiple neighbourhoods. The Bluebikes bike share system now offers over 5,500 bikes at more than 500 stations across the metro area.

Useful links

• Boston Bikes: City of Boston Cycling Resources
• Bluebikes: Boston’s Bike Share System
• Boston: Better Bike Lanes Initiative
• Boston Cyclists Union

Driving in Boston

Navigating the streets of Boston is difficult for newcomers. Unlike other US cities, Boston’s streets do not follow a grid system or centre on a geographical feature like a river or lake. Many locals use public transport or taxis rather than driving, due to the traffic congestion in the city centre and the parking, which is both limited and expensive. If you choose to drive, you’ll need to secure a local driver’s licence and budget for petrol, parking and vehicle maintenance fees.

Driver’s licences

If you plan to drive in Boston, you’ll need a valid licence. Newcomers from other US states can exchange their licence for a Massachusetts one at the Registry of Motor Vehicles. International arrivals may be able to drive on a foreign licence temporarily, but will typically need to obtain a Massachusetts driver’s licence within a set timeframe. Requirements vary depending on your country of origin, so check with the RMV for specific guidance.

Read Transport and Driving in the USA for more on securing a local driver’s licence.

Useful links

• Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
• Boston: Parking Information