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Philadelphia, PA, USA to Boston, MA, USA from $26: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Philadelphia, United States
to
Boston, United States

How to Get from Philadelphia 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.

$26 by busBest price
272 kmDistance
3h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Philadelphia 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  6m
Estimated price
$51-299
Recommended
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
7h  10m
Estimated price
$26-90
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 272 km
Duration: 3h 6m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  1m
Estimated price
$28-101
Company
Amtrak Acela
Train
Average Duration
5h  18m
Estimated price
$40-600
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  29m
Estimated price
$55-80
Company
Amtrak, various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  39m
Estimated price
$68-526
Company
Amtrak, various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  41m
Estimated price
$77-773
Company
Amtrak, various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  35m
Estimated price
$82-784
Company
various, Amtrak
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  48m
Estimated price
$123-829
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Philadelphia to Boston

As you travel from Philadelphia to Boston, you’ll experience a shift from the rich historical charm of the City of Brotherly Love to the vibrant coastal energy and academic flair of New England.

Best Neighbourhoods in Boston

Boston's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences, from historic sites to lively atmospheres.

North End
• Home to famous Italian restaurants and bakeries.
• Rich in history with iconic landmarks like Paul Revere's House.
Back Bay
• Known for its stunning Victorian brownstones.
• Offers high-end shopping along Newbury Street.
South Boston
• Features beautiful waterfront parks and beaches.
• A vibrant local scene with pubs and restaurants.

Best Times To Visit Boston's Attractions

Knowing the right time to visit Boston's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

The Freedom Trail
Visit early morning during weekdays for a quieter stroll along this historic path.
Boston Common
Late afternoon on weekdays offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunset views.
Museum of Fine Arts
Midweek afternoons provide fewer crowds and an opportunity to fully explore.

Boston Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Boston experiences a temperate climate with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall the ideal times to visit for mild weather. Your travel plans may be influenced by seasonal changes, so consider layering for unpredictable shifts in temperature.

Dining Recommendation

When in Boston, experiencing a bowl of clam chowder at Legal Sea Foods delivers a true taste of New England's coast, showcasing fresh local ingredients in a creamy, flavorful broth. This contrasts sharply with Philadelphia's cheesesteak culture, offering an elevated dining atmosphere paired with a distinctly maritime flavor profile.

Philadelphia - Boston operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to Boston (BOS)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$110-430
Website
jetblue.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to Boston (BOS)

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$95-450
Website
united.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to Boston (BOS)

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$95-430
Website
aa.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to Boston (BOS)

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$95-430
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from 30th Street Station to Boston

Average Duration
5h 18m
Estimated price
$65-600
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from 30th Street Station to Boston

Average Duration
5h 18m
Estimated price
$40-230
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Philadelphia to Boston

Average Duration
7h 10m
Estimated price
$30-85
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Philadelphia to Boston

Average Duration
7h 55m
Estimated price
$26-90
Contact phone
+1-877-462-6342
Website
us.megabus.com

Bus from Philadelphia - Market St & 6th St to New York

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$8-35

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

Traveling between Philadelphia 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Philadelphia to Boston, covering a distance of 490.8 km in approximately 5 hours and 29 minutes. 💰 Explore budget-friendly travel options as the prices to drive from Philadelphia to Boston range from $55 to $80.
Average price
$55 - $80
🚆 Traveling by train from Philadelphia to Boston is a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination. The journey on the Amtrak Acela service takes approximately 5 hours and 18 minutes, offering a scenic route through the East Coast. 🚆 Departing from the historic 30th Street Station in Philadelphia, the train service operates hourly, providing travelers with flexibility in their schedule. 🚆 With prices ranging from $40 to $600, the train journey between Philadelphia and Boston offers various options to suit different budgets. Whether you choose the Acela or Northeast Regional service, you can expect a smooth and enjoyable trip that allows you to relax and enjoy the ride.
Departure Point
30th Street Station
Arrival Point
Boston station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Amtrak is the primary operator for this route, providing a catering service via their Amtrak Café. You can purchase snacks, sandwiches, and beverages, including local craft beers and wines. It's a good idea to bring a small cooler or snacks for the journey, as the Café can have limited selections.
• Seating Options: On Amtrak's Acela Express and Northeast Regional trains between Philadelphia and Boston, you can choose from three classes: Business Class, First Class, and Coach Class (Economy). Business Class offers more legroom and complimentary coffee and water. First Class provides more spacious seating and complimentary meals. For travelers on a budget, Coach Class remains a comfortable option, but food and beverage services are at an additional cost.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Boston's South Station, you can conveniently leave your luggage at the secure storage area if you plan to explore the city. The station is equipped with restrooms and has a couple of fast food options. Take note that there are no showers available at the station, so plan accordingly.
• Fastest Way to City Center: From South Station, the fastest way to get to Boston city center is by taking the MBTA Red Line subway. You can catch a train at the South Station transit hub. The inbound trains towards Alewife will take you directly to the downtown area in about 5-10 minutes, with stops at key locations like Downtown Crossing and Park Street.
• Multiple Operators: Besides Amtrak, you’ll also find options from Peter Pan Bus Lines (peterpanbus.com) and Greyhound (greyhound.com), which may offer alternative travel experiences on this route with different schedules.
• Useful Links: For local transport schedules, you can refer to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) website at mbta.com For station maps and services at South Station, check the Amtrak website at amtrak.com
🛫 Flying from Philadelphia to Boston is a convenient and time-efficient travel option, with direct flights taking just 1 hour and 19 minutes. 💸 The cost of flights between Philadelphia and Boston can range from $51 to $299, offering budget-friendly options for different types of travelers.
Departure Point
Philadelphia Airport
Arrival Point
Boston Airport
🚌 Traveling from Philadelphia to Boston by bus is convenient and affordable. With services departing three times a day and taking approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes, you can easily plan your trip. 🛣️ The bus journey covers a distance of around 460-520 kilometers, depending on the route chosen. 💵 Prices for the bus tickets between Philadelphia and Boston range from $26 to $90. Whether you choose a direct route or opt for a transfer, the bus services provided by Greyhound USA and other agencies offer a reliable transportation option for your trip to Boston.
Departure Point
Philadelphia station
Arrival Point
Boston station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Philadelphia to Boston.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Philadelphia and Boston is approximately 437.7 km by air and 490.0 km by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: 3 hours and 15 minutes by plane, 5 hours and 18 minutes by train, 3 hours and 52 minutes by train to Newark and then flying to Boston, 5 hours and 29 minutes by car, and 6 hours and 46 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Philadelphia to Boston is by bus via New York. This option typically costs between $16 and $90 and takes approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way to travel from Philadelphia to Boston is by flying, which takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes and costs between $45 and $290.
The price range for a train ticket from Philadelphia to Boston can vary greatly, ranging from $40 to $600 depending on factors such as departure time, class of service, and ticket availability. On the other hand, the cost of a bus ticket between Boston and Philadelphia can range from $11 to $105, also depending on similar factors.
To travel from Philadelphia to Boston without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 490.8 km, and it takes around 5 hours and 29 minutes to drive from Philadelphia to Boston. The cost of driving can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, with estimates ranging from $55 to $80.
To travel from Philadelphia to Boston without a car, the best option is to take the train. It takes around 5 hours and 18 minutes and the ticket prices range from $40 to $600. Another alternative is to take a bus via New York, which takes approximately 6 hours and 46 minutes and costs between $10 and $110. Flying is also an option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 15 minutes and ticket prices ranging from $45 to $290.
Yes, there are direct transportation options between Philadelphia and Boston. You can take a direct train operated by Amtrak Acela, which departs from Philadelphia and arrives in Boston in approximately 5 hours and 18 minutes. Alternatively, there is also a direct bus operated by Greyhound USA, which departs from Philadelphia Bus Station and arrives at Boston S Station Transportation Center in about 7 hours and 40 minutes.
The flight between Philadelphia and Boston typically takes 1 hour and 18 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can range from $47 to $283 depending on various factors such as the airline and booking time.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Boston with over 808 hotels available. Prices for hotels start at $73 per night, offering a range of choices to fit different preferences and budgets.