How to get from Boston Logan Airport to Downtown Boston

Landing at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and heading into Downtown Boston is straightforward once you know your options—this guide breaks down each route, what it costs, and how to navigate it with or without luggage.

At A Glance (Boston Logan Airport to Downtown Boston)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚌 Silver Line SL1 Bus (Airport → South Station)	~20–35 minutes (traffic-dependent)	Most travelers, budget-friendly & simple
🏷️ Cost: Free from Logan to South Station; standard subway fare when traveling back or transferring onward.
🚇 Blue Line Subway (Airport Station → Downtown)	~20–30 minutes including shuttle	Travelers staying near Government Center, Aquarium, North End, or North Station
🏷️ Cost: Around US$2–3 per ride on the subway.
🚌 Logan Express Back Bay Bus	~20–35 minutes to Back Bay	Stays in Back Bay / near Copley, connection to Orange Line
🏷️ Cost: Free from Logan to Back Bay, about US$3 when traveling Back Bay → Logan.
🚕 Taxi & Ride Apps (Uber/Lyft)	~15–30 minutes	Late-night arrivals, door-to-door convenience
🏷️ Cost: Roughly US$30–60 to most Downtown areas depending on traffic, time of day, and ride-app surcharges.
🚘 Prebooked Private Transfer	~15–30 minutes door-to-door	Families, groups, lots of luggage, maximum comfort
🏷️ Cost: From ~US$90 per vehicle depending on group size and vehicle class.
⛴️ Harbor Water Taxi	~10–15 minutes on water (+10–20 minutes shuttle/walk)	Scenic arrival, beating traffic, staying near the waterfront
🏷️ Cost: Typically around US$15–25 per person one-way, depending on operator and time.
🚗 Rental Car	~15–30 minutes drive (plus pickup paperwork)	Road trips beyond Boston, multi-day regional travel
🏷️ Cost: From ~US$50+ per day for the car, plus downtown parking (often US$40+ per day).

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / Most Convenient: If budget allows and you want to go door-to-door with minimal thinking, use a taxi or ride app or a prebooked private transfer. These are ideal for red-eye arrivals, traveling with kids, or when you just want to get to your hotel and sleep.
• Cheapest / Most Economical: For most travelers, the Silver Line SL1 bus is unbeatable: it is free from Logan to South Station and includes an easy transfer to the subway. The Blue Line subway is also very inexpensive and especially handy if you’re staying near Government Center, Aquarium, or the North End.
• Best for Back Bay Stays: If your hotel is near Copley Square or Back Bay Station, the Logan Express Back Bay bus takes you close for free from the airport, and you can walk or hop onto the Orange Line to reach the Theater District and Downtown Crossing.
• Most Scenic / Best First Impression: For a dramatic arrival with harbor views, choose the Boston Harbor water taxi. It’s especially nice if you’re staying by the waterfront, in the North End, or near Rowes Wharf.
• Best if You’re Road-Tripping: If your main plan is to explore New England (Cape Cod, Maine, New Hampshire, etc.), pick up a rental car at Logan and drive through downtown on your way out—or come into the city for a night then continue your road trip.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Public transit tickets: For the Silver Line and Blue Line you can pay subway fares with a CharlieCard/CharlieTicket or contactless bank card at stations. The ride from Logan to South Station on the Silver Line is free; you pay normal fares when traveling back to the airport or continuing beyond South Station.
• MBTA planning tools: Check real-time schedules and disruptions using the official MBTA trip planner or app before you leave the terminal, especially late at night or on weekends when frequencies may be lower.
• Prebook private transfers: To lock in a fixed fare and meet‑and‑greet service, compare Boston Logan airport transfer options on GetYourGuide, dedicated airport transfers with Welcome Pickups, or GetTransfer. These work well if you arrive late, have mobility needs, or are traveling in a group.
• Ride apps: Uber and Lyft both operate at Logan; follow airport signs to the ride‑app pickup areas in the parking garages rather than requesting a car at the curb. Shared-ride options can significantly reduce the cost compared with a solo ride.
• Hotels & where to stay: To minimize transfer time, consider staying near South Station, Downtown Crossing, or Back Bay so you can use the Silver Line or Logan Express easily. You can compare hotels in Downtown Boston or browse more options via Trip.com’s Boston city guide.
• Car rentals: If you need a car, compare prices for pickups right at Logan on Booking.com car rental at Logan Airport. Remember that overnight parking in central Boston is expensive; a car is usually not necessary just to reach downtown.
• Two wheels in the city: Confident urban riders who want their own wheels once in Boston can compare motorcycle and scooter rentals using BikesBooking, then connect by public transit or taxi from Logan to the rental location.
• Luggage storage: If your room isn’t ready yet or you have a long layover, drop bags at a partner location near main sights using Radical Storage in East Boston or central spots such as Faneuil Hall or Back Bay, then explore hands‑free before heading to your hotel or back to the airport.
• Booking flights as part of a longer trip: If you are still arranging your flights into or out of Boston, you can search and compare multi‑city or round‑trip options through Booking.com Flights or check deals and packages (including airport transfers) via Trip.com airport transfers and Klook’s airport transfers hub.

🚌 Option #1 — Silver Line SL1 Bus (Most Popular, Free Inbound)

Low cost / free inbound Central drop-off at South Station Can be busy at peaks

• Overview: The Silver Line SL1 is a bus rapid transit route connecting all Logan terminals directly with South Station in Downtown Boston via a dedicated tunnel. From the airport to South Station the ride is free and includes a free transfer to the Red Line subway at South Station.
• Typical duration: Around 20–35 minutes depending on traffic in the Ted Williams Tunnel and around the Seaport District.
• How to pay: From the airport to South Station you do not pay a fare. When going back to the airport, or if you continue on the Red Line, you pay the normal subway fare at the station gates with a CharlieCard, CharlieTicket, or contactless credit/debit card.
• Pros: Free inbound, frequent departures, fully accessible buses with luggage racks, direct connection to major transit hub at South Station (Red Line, commuter rail, intercity trains, and buses).
• Cons: Can be crowded at rush hour or when several flights arrive at once; standing with luggage is common. Traffic delays are rare but possible during peak periods and storms.

Step-by-step: Silver Line SL1 from Logan to Downtown

1. After clearing immigration and baggage claim, follow airport signs for Ground Transportation and Silver Line.
2. Exit to the arrivals-level curb where you will see clearly marked Silver Line SL1 stops outside each terminal (A, B, C, and E).
3. Wait in the marked boarding area; buses typically arrive every 10–15 minutes during the day, less frequently late at night.
4. Board the bus with your luggage and find a spot near the racks. There is no fare collection at the airport—just get on.
5. Stay on the bus until the final stop at South Station. Here you can either exit to the street for the Financial District/Downtown Crossing area, or transfer via escalators/elevators inside the station to the Red Line subway, commuter rail, or Amtrak.
6. For destinations like Cambridge (Harvard, MIT), take the Red Line from South Station; for other parts of downtown, you can walk, transfer to the Orange Line at Downtown Crossing, or use a short taxi/ride‑app hop from South Station.

Getting to the main embarking points (Silver Line SL1)

• At Logan: SL1 stops are located on the arrivals level outside baggage claim at every terminal. Just follow Silver Line / MBTA / Public Transit signs after exiting customs.
• At South Station: The Silver Line platforms are underground beneath the main station. From street level or train platforms, follow signs for Silver Line. Elevators operate between all levels for step‑free access.
• Continuing into downtown: From South Station, many central hotels and offices are a 10–15 minute walk; otherwise, connect to the Red Line, a short walk to Downtown Crossing (Red/Orange), or use a quick ride app or taxi.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚇 Option #2 — Blue Line Subway via Airport Station

Low cost Good for North End & waterfront Requires shuttle + subway transfer

• Overview: The MBTA Blue Line connects Airport Station to downtown stops like Aquarium, State, and Government Center. It’s a solid option if you’re staying in the Financial District, near Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market, or in the North End.
• Typical duration: About 5–10 minutes on the free airport shuttle bus to Airport Station, then roughly 10–15 minutes by train to downtown stops.
• How to pay: Use cash or card at the station to buy a ticket or tap in with contactless payment. Fares are usually around US$2–3 per ride; day or week passes might be worth it if you’ll ride the T multiple times.
• Pros: Very budget-friendly, frequent service, and handy for waterfront hotels and the North End. Easy to connect to the Green Line at Government Center or the Orange Line at State.
• Cons: Slightly more steps than the Silver Line: shuttle bus + subway + possible transfer. Trains can be busy at rush hour, and luggage space is more limited than on the SL1 buses.

Step-by-step: Blue Line from Logan to Downtown

1. After baggage claim, follow signs for Ground Transportation and then for the On-Airport Shuttle / MBTA Blue Line.
2. Board the free Massport shuttle (look for routes serving Airport Station). These shuttles loop between terminals, the Rental Car Center, and Airport Station.
3. Ride the shuttle to Airport Station and follow signs into the subway entrance.
4. Buy a ticket or tap in at the fare gate and board a Blue Line train toward Bowdoin (inbound toward downtown).
5. For the North End and Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market, get off at Aquarium or Government Center. For Financial District connections, use State. For TD Garden/North Station area, transfer to the Orange or Green Line or continue on via connections.
6. When returning to the airport, take an outbound Blue Line train toward Wonderland, get off again at Airport Station, and use the free shuttle back to your terminal.

Getting to the main embarking points (Blue Line)

• At Logan: Follow signs for the Airport Station / MBTA Blue Line shuttle from any terminal. Shuttle stops are on the arrivals level outside each terminal.
• At Airport Station: The shuttle drops you at the station entrance; elevators and escalators connect the street level with the train platforms.
• Downtown stops: Choose Aquarium for the waterfront and most harbor hotels, Government Center for City Hall and the Green Line, and State for the Financial District and Orange Line transfers.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #3 — Logan Express Back Bay Bus

Free inbound to Back Bay Great for Back Bay hotels Not 24/7

• Overview: The Logan Express Back Bay route is a direct bus between all airport terminals and Back Bay (stops at 800 Boylston Street and Back Bay Station). From the airport to Back Bay, the ride is free; from Back Bay back to Logan, there is a small fare.
• Typical duration: Around 20–35 minutes depending on traffic between the airport and Back Bay.
• How to pay: From Back Bay → Logan, you can buy tickets online or via the Massport/Logan Express website or app. The fare is relatively low compared with taxis, and kids with a paying adult often ride free.
• Pros: Direct, comfortable coach buses with luggage space; free inbound ride; convenient if your hotel is in Back Bay or near Copley Square or if you want easy access to the Orange Line at Back Bay Station.
• Cons: Limited hours (typically early morning through late evening, not overnight), and you may need a short subway ride or 10–15 minute walk from Back Bay into the heart of Downtown.

Step-by-step: Logan Express Back Bay

1. From baggage claim, follow signs for Ground Transportation and then Logan Express.
2. Go to the designated Logan Express stop outside your terminal on the arrivals level (look for Back Bay buses on the information boards).
3. Board the Back Bay Logan Express coach; from the airport to Back Bay the ride is free, so you can just get on and stow your luggage underneath or in racks.
4. Ride to Back Bay and get off either at 800 Boylston Street (near Prudential/Copley) or at Back Bay Station.
5. Walk to your hotel or transfer to the Orange Line or commuter rail at Back Bay Station to continue to Downtown Crossing, the Theater District, or other areas.
6. For your return trip, buy your ticket online or at the Back Bay stop and board the bus back to Logan at your chosen time.

Getting to the main embarking points (Logan Express Back Bay)

• At Logan: Logan Express stops are on the arrivals level outside each terminal. Check the terminal signboards for the exact location and wait under the Logan Express Back Bay sign.
• Back Bay stops: The bus stops at 800 Boylston Street (Prudential Center area) and Back Bay Station. Both locations are central and well-signed.
• Connections onward: From Back Bay, many Back Bay hotels are within a short walk; Downtown Crossing and the Financial District are a quick hop on the Orange Line or a 20–25 minute walk.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #4 — Taxi & Ride Apps (Uber/Lyft)

Door-to-door 24/7 availability Higher cost, surcharges apply

• Overview: Taxis and ride apps such as Uber and Lyft operate around the clock at Logan and take you straight to your hotel or apartment anywhere in the downtown area.
• Typical duration: Roughly 15–30 minutes to most central locations depending on traffic and the time of day.
• Expected price: Standard taxi and basic ride‑app cars often cost around US$30–60 to most Downtown neighborhoods, with higher fares during rush hour, bad weather, or major events. Airport-specific fees and tolls may be added on top of the base fare.
• Pros: The most straightforward option: door-to-door, no transfers, great if you’re jet‑lagged, traveling with kids, or carrying heavy luggage.
• Cons: More expensive than public transit; ride‑app surcharges can increase costs substantially at busy times. You also need to find the correct pickup area in the parking garages rather than being picked up curbside at the terminal.

Step-by-step: Using Taxis & Ride Apps at Logan

1. After collecting your bags, follow terminal signage for Taxis or Ride App / Uber / Lyft.
2. For taxis, head to the designated taxi stand outside your terminal, join the line, and tell the dispatcher or driver your destination. Fares are metered plus any airport fees and tolls.
3. For ride apps, open the Uber or Lyft app once you’re in the arrivals hall, confirm your terminal and destination, and then walk to the designated ride‑app pickup area in the parking garage as shown in the app and on airport signage.
4. Check the vehicle’s license plate and driver name carefully before getting in. If you want to save money, look for shared or pooled ride options in the app when available.
5. Pay through the app or by card/cash in taxis (most accept cards), then enjoy a direct ride to your downtown hotel or apartment.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taxis & Ride Apps)

• Taxi stands: Clearly signed taxi queues are located outside the arrivals levels of all terminals. Staff usually direct passengers to available cabs.
• Ride‑app pickup zones: Pickups for Uber and Lyft are in specific areas of the Central Parking and Terminal B garages; follow Ride App / Uber / Lyft signs from your terminal and confirm the exact location in your app before requesting your ride.
• Downtown drop-offs: You can be dropped anywhere curbside that is legal for stopping: hotel entrances, residential addresses, T stations, or major landmarks such as Faneuil Hall or Boston Common.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚘 Option #5 — Prebooked Private Transfer

Fixed price Meet-and-greet Best for groups & heavy luggage

• Overview: Private transfers offer a prearranged driver who meets you in the arrivals hall with a sign, helps with bags, and drives you directly to your hotel. Pricing is usually per vehicle rather than per person.
• Typical duration: Around 15–30 minutes to central neighborhoods such as Downtown, Back Bay, or the Seaport District depending on traffic.
• How to book (with price): Expect to pay from around US$90 per vehicle for a standard sedan, with larger vehicles costing more. You can compare options and reviews on GetYourGuide’s Boston Logan airport transfers, book a dedicated car through Welcome Pickups’ airport-to-city service, or request a vehicle in advance via GetTransfer in Boston.
• Pros: Stress-free arrival, no need to navigate stations or signage, and especially good if you’re arriving with small children, elderly travelers, or lots of luggage. Prices can be very competitive if you share a car among 3–7 people.
• Cons: More expensive than using public transit, and you usually need to specify your arrival time and flight details in advance (fees may apply for long delays or rescheduling).

Step-by-step: Using a Private Transfer

1. Before your trip, book your transfer online, entering your flight number, arrival terminal (if known), party size, and downtown destination.
2. When your flight lands, your driver will usually track your arrival and wait at or just outside the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name, or you’ll be given a meeting point near baggage claim.
3. Meet your driver, confirm your name and destination, and let them help with luggage. Some providers include child seats or extra luggage space if requested in advance.
4. Walk with your driver to the vehicle in the airport parking area and ride directly to your hotel or apartment in downtown Boston.
5. Payment is normally completed online at the time of booking; you’ll often have the option to tip in cash or via the app at the end of the ride.

Getting to the main embarking points (Private Transfer)

• Meeting point inside the terminal: Check your booking for the exact location—common spots include near baggage carousels, information desks, or a specific door number in arrivals.
• Vehicle pickup: Vehicles are usually parked in the nearest authorized parking or pick-up area; simply follow your driver, who will handle navigating Logan’s roadways and garages.
• Downtown drop-off: You’ll be dropped right at your hotel entrance or specific address, which is helpful late at night or in bad weather.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

⛴️ Option #6 — Harbor Water Taxi (Scenic Route)

Scenic harbor views Avoids road traffic Weather & schedule dependent

• Overview: Water taxis run between Logan’s Water Transportation Dock and various downtown piers such as Rowes Wharf and Long Wharf. This is an atmospheric way to arrive in Boston, with skyline views across the harbor.
• Typical duration: About 10–15 minutes on the water, plus 10–20 minutes to reach the dock via airport shuttle and to walk from the downtown pier to your hotel.
• How to book (with price): Operators like Boston Water Taxi allow you to check routes and book tickets online via their website. Expect prices around US$15–25 per person one-way, depending on operator, distance, and time of day.
• Pros: Beautiful views, a fun first impression of the city, and often quicker than driving during peak traffic. Several waterfront hotels are just a short walk from the piers.
• Cons: Not ideal in bad weather or for those with severe motion sensitivity; schedules can be more limited in the evenings and off‑season. You will still need to walk or take a short taxi/ride app from the dock to some hotels.

Step-by-step: Harbor Water Taxi from Logan

1. From baggage claim, follow signs for Water Transportation or the shuttle to the Water Transportation Dock.
2. Board the free on‑airport shuttle (often Route 66) from your terminal to the dock on Harborside Drive.
3. At the dock, locate your chosen operator’s kiosk or meeting point, show your booking (or buy tickets on the spot if allowed), and wait for boarding.
4. Board the water taxi with your luggage; staff can usually help if you have heavier bags. Enjoy the short ride across the harbor with views of the skyline.
5. Disembark at your downtown stop—commonly Rowes Wharf, Long Wharf, or other central piers—and walk or take a short land taxi/ride app to your final destination.

Getting to the main embarking points (Harbor Water Taxi)

• At Logan: The water transportation shuttle stop is signed from each terminal; follow Water Transportation signs to the Route 66 shuttle and ride it to the dock.
• Water Transportation Dock: The dock has clear signage for different operators. Check your booking for pier numbers or specific instructions.
• Downtown piers: Popular arrival points like Rowes Wharf are a few minutes’ walk from many waterfront hotels and the Financial District; Long Wharf is close to Aquarium and the North End.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #7 — Rental Car from Logan

Ideal for road trips Flexible schedule Parking & traffic in downtown

• Overview: Renting a car at Logan is rarely the cheapest or simplest way to reach downtown itself, but it makes sense if you’re immediately continuing to explore New England or plan lots of day trips outside Boston.
• Typical duration: Allow 15–20 minutes to reach the Rental Car Center via shuttle and complete paperwork, then 15–30 minutes to drive into downtown (more at rush hour).
• How to book (with price): Compare offers for pickups at Logan on Booking.com’s Logan Airport car rental page. Compact cars can sometimes be found from around US$50–70 per day outside peak dates, but factor in gas, tolls, and downtown parking (often US$40+ per night).
• Pros: Maximum flexibility for visiting coastal towns, national parks, and rural areas where transit is limited. Good for families who prefer to keep all their luggage in one place.
• Cons: City driving and one-way streets can be stressful; parking downtown is expensive and garages may fill up during events. Not necessary if you plan to stay mostly in Boston proper.

Step-by-step: Renting a Car at Logan

1. From your terminal, follow signs for Rental Cars and board the free shuttle bus to the Rental Car Center.
2. At the Rental Car Center, go to your company’s desk or self-service kiosk, present your license, credit card, and booking confirmation, and complete the rental contract.
3. Pick up your vehicle in the attached garage, check it for any existing damage, and set up GPS or your phone’s navigation app with your downtown destination.
4. Exit the Rental Car Center following signs toward Boston / I-90 and drive through the Ted Williams Tunnel or Sumner/Callahan Tunnels depending on route and traffic.
5. Park at your hotel or a public garage downtown. When returning the car, follow signage back to the Rental Car Center and allow extra time for traffic and rental return formalities.

Getting to the main embarking points (Rental Car)

• Rental Car Center: All major agencies are located in a consolidated facility reached by a free shuttle from every terminal.
• Driving into downtown: Use navigation to avoid complex one‑way systems and consider setting a nearby garage as your destination if your hotel has limited parking.
• Parking: Check with your hotel in advance about parking availability and nightly rates; in some cases, staying near a T station outside the core and using transit may be cheaper.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Boston Logan Airport to Downtown Boston)

What’s the easiest way to get from Boston Logan Airport to Downtown Boston?
For most visitors, taking the free Silver Line SL1 bus from Logan to South Station is the simplest and cheapest. From South Station you can walk, connect to the Red Line, or switch to other lines or a short taxi/ride‑app to reach most central hotels. Travelers staying in Back Bay may prefer the free‑inbound Logan Express Back Bay bus.

How long does each option take?
The Silver Line usually takes around 20–35 minutes to South Station. The Blue Line subway is similar once you include the shuttle to Airport Station. Taxis, ride apps, and private transfers take about 15–30 minutes depending on traffic, while the harbor water taxi takes around 10–15 minutes on the water plus shuttle and walking time.

Is public transportation safe and accessible from Logan?
Yes. The Silver Line buses and Blue Line subway are widely used by locals and visitors and are generally safe, especially during the day and early evening. Stops and vehicles are designed with accessibility in mind, including elevators at major stations and ramps or level boarding on the Silver Line. As in any big city, keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuables.

Can I use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Lyft at Logan Airport?
Yes. Uber and Lyft both serve Logan, but you must go to designated ride‑app pickup areas in the airport garages rather than calling a car to the regular curbside. Expect airport surcharges on top of base fares and be prepared for higher prices during rush hour, bad weather, or major events. If you want predictable pricing, consider a prebooked private transfer instead.

What’s the best option if I arrive late at night?
If you land when public transport is running less frequently or has stopped, the most reliable choices are taxis or ride apps and prebooked private transfers. For very late arrivals, it can be worthwhile to book a hotel either near the airport with a shuttle or close to South Station or Back Bay so your onward transfer is short.

Where can I store my luggage if my hotel check-in time is later?
Many hotels will hold bags for guests before check‑in, but if yours does not, you can use city luggage storage networks. Services like Radical Storage near Faneuil Hall or other central locations let you drop bags securely so you can explore the city hands‑free before heading to your accommodation.

Do I need a car to explore Boston once I’m downtown?
No. Central Boston is compact and walkable, and the MBTA subway, buses, and commuter rail cover most sights visitors want to see. A rental car is best reserved for trips beyond the city—such as Cape Cod, the North Shore, or the White Mountains—rather than for getting from Logan to downtown itself.