Boston, MA, USA to Cambridge, MA, USA from $1: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Boston to Cambridge: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$1 SubwayBest price

4.83 kmDistance

6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Boston to Cambridge with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Boston to Cambridge

The route from Boston to Cambridge presents a fascinating contrast between Boston's historic skyline and Cambridge's vibrant academic atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cambridge

Cambridge features diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and character.

Harvard Square

• Home to Harvard University and historic landmarks.

• Bustling center for shopping and dining options.

Kendall Square

• Hub for innovation and technology companies.

• Scenic waterfront with parks and outdoor activities.

Inman Square

• Eclectic mix of restaurants and local shops.

• Vibrant community with a laid-back vibe.

Best Times To Visit Cambridge's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Cambridge.

Harvard University

Early morning tours offer fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.

MIT Museum

Weekdays in the late afternoon provide a quieter exploration experience.

Cambridge Common

Visiting during weekdays or early evenings grants a serene picnic setting.

Cambridge Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cambridge experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, making spring and fall the best times to visit for comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Understanding the seasonal variations can help you pack appropriately and plan outdoor activities to enhance your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

Consider trying the fresh seafood-centric menu at Legal Sea Foods, renowned for its East Coast fish dishes that highlight local ingredients, offering a taste experience distinct from Boston’s clam chowder focus. The casual atmosphere at one of Cambridge's lively eateries reflects the area's quirky charm, setting the stage for a meal enriched by innovative flavor profiles.

Boston - Cambridge operators

Explore transport companies operating between Boston and Cambridge, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1-617-222-3200

Website

https://www.mbta.com

Bus from Lechmere to Somerville Ave @ Stone Ave

Average Duration

Estimated price

$1-5

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1-617-222-3200

Website

https://www.mbta.com

Train from Park Street to Central

Average Duration

10m

Estimated price

$1-3

Train from North Station to Porter

Average Duration

10m

Estimated price

$2-6

Tram

Contact phone

+1-617-222-3200

Website

https://www.mbta.com

Tram from Government Center to Union Square

Average Duration

14m

Estimated price

$1-3

Taxi

Contact phone

+1 617-266-4800

Taxi from Boston to Cambridge

Average Duration

Estimated price

$14-17

Contact phone

+1 617-782-5500

Website

boston-cab.com

Taxi from Boston to Cambridge

Average Duration

Estimated price

$14-17

Contact phone

+1 617-536-5010

Website

bostoncab.us

Taxi from Boston to Cambridge

Average Duration

Estimated price

$14-17

Boston to Cambridge: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Boston and Cambridge offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚆 Hop on a direct train departing from Park Street in Boston and arriving at Central in Cambridge. This quick and convenient journey only takes about 10 minutes, making it a great option for travel between the two cities. 🎟️ Tickets for the train from Boston to Cambridge with MBTA typically range from $2 to $6, offering an affordable way to explore these neighboring Massachusetts cities. Services run every day, with departures scheduled every 15 minutes, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Departure Point

Park Street station

Arrival Point

Central station

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard Services: When traveling from Boston to Cambridge, check out the Amtrak Northeast Regional service. They offer a café car that provides a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals, including sandwiches and salads. Be sure to explore their offerings, as the café car typically has something for every appetite.

• Seating Options: On this route, Amtrak offers different seating classes: Business Class, Economy Class, and First Class. Business Class provides more spacious seating and complimentary use of power outlets, while Economy Class offers comfortable reclining seats. If you're looking for a quieter experience, opt for Business Class, which also includes complimentary soft drinks and snacks.

• Arrival Station Tip: Arriving at Cambridge via the Alewife station is convenient, and you'll find that the station has restrooms available, though showers are not typically provided. Unfortunately, there is no luggage storage directly at Alewife, so plan accordingly. To get to the city center from Alewife, you can take the MBTA Bus #67 toward Alewife and transfer to the Alewife to D.H. Channing College stop, where you'll be close to major attractions.

🚌 Hop on a direct bus at Lechmere in Boston 🌆 and arrive at Somerville Ave @ Stone Ave in Cambridge in just 6 minutes ⏱️. Buses run every day every 30 minutes 🚌. 🎫 The bus service from Boston to Cambridge is operated by MBTA 🚍. Buy tickets priced between $1 to $5 💵. Depart from Lechmere and arrive at Somerville Ave @ Stone Ave station 🚏.

Departure Point

Lechmere station

Arrival Point

Somerville Ave @ Stone Ave station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Boston to Cambridge.

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The distance between Boston and Cambridge is approximately 4.8 km. The typical travel time between the two cities by train is not provided, but it would likely be a relatively short journey. By bus, it takes around ~15 minutes to reach Cambridge from Boston.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient options for traveling from Boston to Cambridge are the tram and the line 87 bus. The tram is the cheapest option, costing between $1 and $3 and taking approximately 8 minutes to reach Cambridge. However, the line 87 bus is the fastest option, with a travel time of just 6 minutes and a cost between $1 and $5.

The distance between Boston and Cambridge is 4.8 km. The typical travel time by train from Boston to Cambridge is not provided, but the typical travel time by bus is also not provided. The prices for a train ticket from Boston to Cambridge range from $2 to $6, while the prices for a bus ticket range from $1 to $5.

To travel from Boston to Cambridge without a car, the best option is to take the line 87 bus. The bus journey typically takes around 6 minutes and costs between $1 and $5.

Yes, there is a direct link between Boston and Cambridge. You can take a train from North Station in Boston to Union Square in Cambridge, which takes approximately 8 minutes. There is also a direct bus route from Lechmere in Boston to Somerville Ave @ Stone Ave in Cambridge, with a travel time of approximately 6 minutes.

There are plenty of options to stay near Cambridge with over 800 hotels available in the area. Prices for hotels in Cambridge start at $73. Whether you are looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, you can easily find a hotel that suits your preferences and budget. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt, among others.

Yes, you can get from Boston to Cambridge by bicycle. The distance between the two cities is 4.8 km, and it typically takes around 20-30 minutes to bike between them, depending on your speed and route.