There are numerous ways to travel around this city, but the most popular and convenient method is probably on foot. Known as ‘The walking City’ to many, it is almost certainly the best way to get around , especially during rush-hour and at the weekend as streets and highways become extremely crowded. This is also a terrific way to visit the wonderful sights and attractions Boston has to offer. However, from December through to April the weather can be quite cold and windy, so many people tend to opt for public transport.
Public transport in Boston is convenient and inexpensive. Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA or ‘The T’ for short) operates the subway, bus, rail and ferry systems in the area.
People using public transport in Boston can buy a reusable, electronic top-up travel card. Named the Charlie Card, this travel card allows you to add money to your card by cash, credit or debit card and is great for short-term visitors.
For students who are staying for a longer period, you can also purchase a time-period pass (daily, monthly, or weekly). These passes can be put on your Charlie Card and allow unlimited travel on the Boston’s subways and buses.
Charlie Cards can be purchased at major subway stations and convenience stores throughout the city. At smaller subway stations there are kiosks that allow you to either add value to your Charlie Card or purchase a paper version of the Charlie Card, the Charlie Ticket. The Charlie ticket is also accepted throughout the city, but the fares can be slightly higher for the Charlie Ticket.
Just like the London Underground, the major Subway lines are colour coded. The Red and Orange lines run north to south, while the Green and Blue lines travel east to west. You should always refer to the signs on the front and sides of the trains to see their destination. Subway lines run either “Inbound” (towards the city center) or “Outbound” (away from the city center). This can be tricky for many visitors so be sure to take a look at the subway map before you hop on the train. For a more detailed look at the Subway, why not take a check out the MBTA’s Subway Map . Keep in mind that the Subway stops between midnight and 2am. Each line has a different last train time, so make sure you check the MBTA schedule when planning your journey.
Busses run around the town and suburbs rather than through the city centre. There are over 150 routes across the Greater Boston area and bus stops are coloured yellow on maps. There are also several public ferries and water shuttles that operate in the area.
The MBTA Commuter rail service is extremely useful for those wishing to travel to towns and suburbs outside of Boston. Often called the purple line, the commuter rail enters Boston at a couple of stations including Back Bay Station just three blocks from the school.
Like most big cities, Taxis can be expensive, but are a great mode of transportation if you are planning a late night out on the town.
Bostonian drivers have a reputation for being aggressive, as do cyclists. Add this to the many one-way streets, poor signage and high amount of double parked cars in the downtown area and it is no wonder that many Boston travel sites recommend opting for different forms of transportation. If you are brave enough to rent a car while you’re in Boston however, there are many car rental places in the area. Zipcar is a popular choice, as they offer an hourly car rental service. Also keep in mind that Boston has two major highways entering it – I-93 and the Massachusetts Turnpike- and you may be expected to pay a fee when travelling through their toll gates.
