Navigating airport transfers in a new country can be daunting. Worry not! Here’s a detailed breakdown of your transportation options from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to downtown Boston/Cambridge:
1. Free “Silver Line” Bus (SL1) – Best for Downtown & Subway Connections
- Route: SL1 (Bus Rapid Transit) stops at all Logan terminals → South Station (downtown transit hub).
- Why it’s great:
- FREE for arrivals from Logan (pay when leaving South Station).
- Connects directly to the Red Line (subway) at South Station for Cambridge (Harvard/MIT) or further downtown stops.
- Luggage-friendly with dedicated bus lanes.
- How: Follow “Silver Line” or “Ground Transportation” signs. Board SL1 (Logan Airport-South Station via Waterfront).
- Tip: Use Google Maps for real-time schedules. Ideal for budget travelers heading to Seaport/Downtown.
2. MBTA Subway (“The T”) – Fast & Affordable
- Blue Line: Take a free shuttle bus (outside terminals) to “Airport” Station.
- Ride the Blue Line toward “Bowdoin” (4 stops to State Street, 6 stops to Government Center).
- Connects to Green/Orange Lines downtown.
- Travel Time: ~15-20 mins to downtown.
- Cost: $2.40 with a CharlieCard (reloadable transit card) or $2.90 with CharlieTicket/cash.
- Tip: Buy a CharlieCard at Airport Station. Avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM).
3. Taxis – Door-to-Door Convenience
- Availability: Designated taxi stands outside every terminal.
- Cost: ~$25-$40 to downtown (fixed-rate $32.50 to Back Bay/Cambridge). Plus tolls/tips (15-20%).
- Travel Time: 15-30 mins (traffic-dependent).
- Tip: Ensure the meter is running. Rides to Cambridge cost extra due to tolls.
4. Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft) – Flexible & App-Based
- Pickup Zones: Designated areas outside each terminal (follow app instructions).
- Cost: ~$20-$35 to downtown (surge pricing during peak times).
- App Tip: Confirm your terminal and pickup spot (e.g., “Terminal B, Rideshare Lane 1”).
5. Shared Shuttles & Private Transfers
- Shared Vans (e.g., GO Boston Shuttle): ~$20/person. Books online; drops at major hotels.
- Private Car Services: Pre-book for ~$50-$70. Meet drivers at baggage claim.
Key Tips for Foreign Travelers:
✅ Payment:
- Buses/subways: Use CharlieCard (from vending machines) or contactless credit card.
- Taxis/rideshares: Credit cards widely accepted.
✅ Wi-Fi: Free airport Wi-Fi to book rides/check maps.
✅ Luggage: Subway/buses have space, but avoid rush hours with large bags.
✅ Downtown Zones: - North End/Waterfront: Silver Line or Blue Line.
- Back Bay/Copley: Silver Line to South Station → Red Line to “Downtown Crossing” → Orange Line to “Back Bay”.
- Cambridge (Harvard/MIT): Silver Line to South Station → Red Line toward “Alewife”.
Map & Tools:
- Download MBTA mTicket (transit schedules) or Google Maps.
- Grab a free airport map at info desks!
Boston’s airport is just 3 miles from downtown—you’ll be exploring in no time! Safe travels! ✈️🇺🇸