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

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Portland, United States
to
Boston, United States

How to Get from Portland to Boston: 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
159.33 kmDistance
1h 53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Portland to Boston 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  20m
Estimated price
$11-45
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  32m
Estimated price
$4-85
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 159.33 km
Duration: 1h 53m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  53m
Estimated price
$19-29
Company
Cape Air
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
2h  30m
Estimated price
$85-177
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Portland to Boston

Traveling from Portland to Boston offers a fascinating contrast between Portland's laid-back coastal vibe and Boston's rich history and energetic urban life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Boston

Boston boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and charm.

Back Bay
• Iconic brownstone buildings and tree-lined streets.
• World-class shopping on Newbury Street.
North End
• Renowned for its Italian restaurants and bakeries.
• Rich history as Boston's oldest neighborhood.
Beacon Hill
• Cobblestone streets and historic gas lamps.
• Thriving arts scene and vibrant local shops.

Best Times To Visit Boston's Attractions

Planning your visit to Boston? Timing your trip can enhance your experience at major attractions.

Freedom Trail
Early mornings or weekdays offer fewer crowds on this historic walk.
Boston Common
Visit during weekdays for a peaceful stroll in this bustling park.
Museum of Fine Arts
Late afternoons on Thursdays can provide a quieter atmosphere for art lovers.

Boston Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Boston experiences a humid continental climate, featuring cold winters and warm summers. The best times to visit are during spring and fall, when mild temperatures enhance your travel experience, making outdoor exploration enjoyable.

A Culinary Journey in Boston

For a taste of Boston's rich history, try the clam chowder at Union Oyster House, where the atmosphere resonates with centuries of tradition. This creamy, hearty dish contrasts with Portland's fresh seafood style, showcasing a robust flavor profile rooted in New England culinary heritage.

Portland - Boston operators

Explore transport companies operating between Portland and Boston, 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 Portland, ME to Boston South Buses

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$24-35

Bus from Portland Park & Ride to Boston

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$11-45
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Portland to Boston

Average Duration
2h 32m
Estimated price
$4-85
Plane Show flights
Website
https://capeair.com

Plane from Augusta (AUG) to Boston (BOS)

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$80-170
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Other from Portland Park & Ride to Boston

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$11-45

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

Traveling between Portland and Boston 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.

🚗 The scenic drive from Portland to Boston spans 172.2 km of picturesque New England landscapes, making it a delightful journey for road trippers. 💰 With car rental prices ranging from $19 to $29, driving from Portland to Boston offers a cost-effective way to travel between these two charming East Coast cities. 📍 In just under 2 hours of travel time, you can easily navigate from the waterfront city of Portland to the bustling streets of Boston, experiencing the best of both destinations in one seamless road trip adventure.
Average price
$19 - $29
🌆 Enjoy a comfortable ride as you travel between the two vibrant cities. The train ride takes approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes, allowing you to sit back and relax as you watch the scenic views pass by. 💸 Ticket prices for the Portland to Boston train range from $4 to $85, making it an affordable and convenient transportation option for those looking to explore both cities seamlessly.
Departure Point
Portland station
Arrival Point
Boston station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On board the Amtrak service, you'll find food and beverage options available for purchase in the Café Car, including snacks, sandwiches, beverages, and even local specialties. Make sure to plan your mealtime around the train's schedule to fully enjoy the options without interruptions!
• On Amtrak, you can choose from a few seating options: Business Class offers more spacious seating and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and Wi-Fi, while Economy Class has standard seating with the option to reserve a roomette or bedroom for added comfort. If you're looking for a more premium experience, consider Business Class for extra amenities.
• The operators for your route from Portland to Boston include Amtrak (amtrak.com). This route is primarily serviced by Amtrak's 'Downeaster' service heading south from Portland. For information on local transportation in Boston upon arrival, check out the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority at (mbta.com)
🛫 Flying from Portland to Boston is a convenient and quick way to travel between the two cities. The quickest flight from Augusta Airport to Boston Airport is a direct flight that only takes 1 hour and 17 minutes.
Departure Point
Augusta Airport
Arrival Point
Boston Airport
🚌 Traveling from Portland to Boston by bus is a convenient option with a direct route operated by Concord Coach Lines. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the Portland to Boston bus route range from $11 to $45, making it a cost-effective and hassle-free way to travel between these two vibrant East Coast cities.
Departure Point
Portland, ME station
Arrival Point
Boston South Buses station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at the Portland bus station at least 30 minutes before your departure, as Concord Coach Lines and other operators may have varying boarding times—check their website at concordcoachlines.com for the latest schedule and updates.
• Use your travel time wisely by exploring the scenery of coastal Maine and getting a good view of the Merrimack River during the bus ride; bring a camera to capture the beauty of each stop along the way.
• Upon arriving at Boston South Buses station, grab a coffee at the nearby café while reviewing the MBTA transit map to plan your connection to your final destination; you can find the MBTA map at mbta.com, and it's a great way to navigate the city quickly.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Portland to Boston.

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The distance between Portland and Boston is approximately 159.3 km by road. By train, it takes around 2 hours and 32 minutes to travel from Portland to Boston. If you prefer driving, it takes about 1 hour and 53 minutes to reach Portland from Boston by car. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which typically takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes to travel between the two cities.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Portland to Boston is driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes and costs around $19 to $29 for fuel expenses. Taking a train or a bus are also viable options, with travel times ranging from 2 hours and 32 minutes to 1 hour and 55 minutes, but driving remains the quickest and most convenient choice.
The prices for traveling between Portland and Boston can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Train tickets can range from $4 to $85, while bus tickets can range from $11 to $45.
To travel from Portland to Boston without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 172.2 km. It takes about 1 hour and 53 minutes to drive from Portland to Boston. The cost of driving between the two cities can range from $19 to $29, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from Portland to Boston without a car is by bus. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes and the cost varies between $11 and $45. Another option is to take the train, which takes 2 hours and 32 minutes.
Yes, there is a direct link between Portland and Boston. You can travel between the two cities by train, which takes approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes. Amtrak operates five daily services, making it a convenient option. Alternatively, you can take a bus, operated by Concord Coach Lines, which departs hourly and takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Boston. With over 800 hotels available, travelers have a wide range of choices. Prices start at $73, providing options for various budgets.