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Boston, MA, USA to Portland, ME, USA from $4: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Boston, United States
to
Portland, United States

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$4 by trainBest price
159 kmDistance
1h 53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Boston to Portland 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.

Company
Concord Coach Lines
Bus
Average Duration
2h  10m
Estimated price
$12-45
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  30m
Estimated price
$4-85
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 159 km
Duration: 1h 53m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  30m
Estimated price
$4-85
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  53m
Estimated price
$19-29
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Traveling From Boston to Portland

Traveling from Boston to Portland presents a fascinating contrast, with Boston's rich colonial history and bustling city life contrasting sharply with Portland's laid-back vibe and scenic coastal views.

Best Neighbourhoods in Portland

Portland's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences reflecting the city’s character.

Nob Hill
• Trendy boutiques and chic cafes abound.
• Victorian architecture adds charm and character.
The Pearl District
• Art galleries and upscale dining options thrive.
• A vibrant urban atmosphere with parks and shops.
Alberta Arts District
• Street art and murals create a lively scene.
• A hub for local artists and craft breweries.

Best Times To Visit Portland's Attractions

Visit Portland's attractions at strategic times for a richer experience.

Washington Park
Early mornings on weekdays offer serene exploration before crowds arrive.
Powell's City of Books
Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter book browsing experience.
Portland Japanese Garden
Timing your visit during spring blooms enhances the garden's beauty.

Portland Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Portland experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making late spring to early fall the best times to explore the city. Understanding the weather patterns helps you prepare for outdoor activities and local events, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Portland

Try the Korean BBQ at Revelry, where the vibrant fusion of flavors and the interactive grilling experience differ significantly from Boston's seafood-heavy cuisine. This lively restaurant embraces local ingredients while offering a unique atmosphere, making your dining experience feel both fresh and welcoming.

Boston - Portland operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-639-3317
Website
https://concordcoachlines.com/

Bus from Boston South Buses to Portland, ME

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$25-35
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Boston to Portland

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$4-85
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Other from Boston to Portland Park & Ride

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$12-45

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

Traveling between Boston and Portland 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.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Boston to Portland spanning 172.2 km of scenic New England beauty. Enjoy a leisurely drive that typically takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete. 💰 Explore the varying price ranges to reach Portland from Boston by car, with options typically ranging from $19 to $29. 🌊 Arrive in Portland ready to immerse yourself in its coastal charm, vibrant food scene, and rich maritime history. From visiting lighthouses to indulging in fresh seafood delights, your road trip adventure promises unforgettable memories in this gem of Maine.
Average price
$19 - $29
🌊 Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views during the approximate 2.5-hour train ride from Boston to Portland. 🎫 Ticket prices for the Boston to Portland train route range from $4 to $85, providing budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Portland from the historic streets of Boston.
Departure Point
Boston station
Arrival Point
Portland station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the Amtrak Downeaster service from Boston to Portland, you can enjoy onboard catering services offering snacks and beverages. There is a café car where you can purchase light meals, coffee, and soft drinks. Make sure to check the menu during your journey, as they offer local specialties that can enhance your travel experience.
• When booking your ticket, consider the seating options available on Amtrak Downeaster. You can choose between Business Class, which offers more spacious seating and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, or Coach Class, which is more economical but still comfortable. The Business Class seats provide a quieter atmosphere, making it ideal for work or relaxation.
• For your trip from Boston to Portland, the main train operator is Amtrak Downeaster (amtrak.com), but you can also check out the MBTA for regional connections or local transport options (mbta.com). Upon arrival in Portland, you can leave luggage at the Amtrak station but note that showers are not available. Make sure to use the restrooms at the station before you head out.
🚌 Experience a convenient and efficient journey from Boston to Portland by bus. Departing hourly from Boston South Buses, the bus service operated by Concord Coach Lines takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes to reach Portland. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the Boston to Portland bus range from $12 to $45, providing a budget-friendly transportation choice for those venturing between these charming coastal destinations.
Departure Point
Boston South Buses station
Arrival Point
Portland, ME station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Boston to Portland.

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The distance between Boston and Portland is approximately 159.3 km with a road distance of 172.4 km. If you prefer to travel by train, it typically takes 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach Portland from Boston. Driving by car is the fastest option, with a travel time of 1 hour and 53 minutes from Boston to Portland, while taking a bus takes just 1 hour and 54 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Boston to Portland is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes to drive the 172.4 km distance, and the cost is between $19 and $29. Alternatively, there are other transportation options such as taking a train which takes 2 hours and 30 minutes but may be slightly more expensive.
The prices for a train ticket between Boston and Portland can range from $4 to $85, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time at which you book. Similarly, the prices for a bus ticket between Portland and Boston can range from $12 to $45, with variations based on factors such as the bus company and the time of travel.
To travel from Boston to Portland without using public transportation, you can opt to drive by car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 172.2 km, and it takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete the journey. The cost of the trip by car can range from $19 to $29, depending on factors such as gas prices and toll fees.
If you're looking to travel from Boston to Portland without a car, the best option is to take a bus, which has an average travel time of 1 hour and 54 minutes. The cost for a bus ticket typically ranges from $12 to $45.
Yes, there is a direct link between Boston and Portland. You can travel between the two cities by train, which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. There are five train services running daily. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus, which operates hourly and also takes around 1 hour and 54 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Portland with over 224 hotels available. Prices start at $67 per night, providing a range of choices to suit different budgets.