Boston Airport to Portland by Public Transport

Question

Hi. Can I please get some advice on the best way to get from Boston Airport to Portland, Maine? We are arriving on Sunday 23 June about 1.30pm from Edinburgh. Could we get a Train from the centre of Boston to Portland? Or would a bus be a better option? As it's a Sunday will this mean not so many options?

After spending time in Portland, we will be going back to Boston for a week to enjoy the 4th of July celebrations (also happens to be my birthday!).Thank you in advance for any advice.

Answer

Traveling from Boston Logan Airport to Portland, Maine is quite straightforward, and you have a couple of good public transport options, including both bus and train. Since you’re arriving on a Sunday afternoon, there are still transportation options available, but it’s always a good idea to check schedules in advance to avoid any surprises. Here’s an overview of your options:

Train (Amtrak Downeaster):
- The Amtrak Downeaster is the most popular and scenic option for getting from Boston to Portland. It departs from Boston's North Station, and the ride takes about 2.5 hours. You can take the Silver Line bus from Logan Airport to South Station (about 10-15 minutes), then transfer to a Red Line subway to reach North Station. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare could take you directly to North Station from the airport (about 15-20 minutes).
- On Sundays, the Amtrak Downeaster typically has departures in the afternoon, so you should be able to catch one after your arrival at 1:30 pm, but it's always best to check the schedule in advance, especially since travel times can vary based on the time of year and demand.
Bus (Concord Coach Lines):
- If you prefer a bus, Concord Coach Lines operates a comfortable and direct bus service from Boston to Portland. The buses depart from the South Station area in Boston, and the journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. You can take the Silver Line bus from Logan Airport to South Station, then board the Concord Coach bus.
- On Sundays, Concord Coach typically has several departures in the afternoon and evening, so you should have no problem finding a bus to Portland. This could be a good option if you want a more direct route without transfers.
Considerations for Sunday Travel: While Sundays might mean fewer options compared to weekdays, there are still reliable services running both by train and bus. It’s best to book in advance if possible, especially for Amtrak or Concord Coach, to guarantee your seat. Both options are comfortable and provide scenic views, with the Amtrak train offering a more relaxed and spacious ride.

For your return journey to Boston, there are plenty of options again, with trains and buses running frequently. Since you're also visiting for the 4th of July celebrations, make sure to book your return travel in advance, as this is a busy time in Boston.

As for your birthday and the 4th of July, Boston will be vibrant with festivities, especially around the waterfront area. The famous Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is a must-see, so make sure to plan ahead for great spots to watch the fireworks!

Enjoy your time in Portland and Boston, and happy early birthday!