Best Ways to Travel Between Burlington and Boston

If you're heading to Boston, you may be wondering the best way to get there from Burlington, Massachusetts. Luckily, there are a few different options to choose from, depending on your schedule and personal preferences. Here are the best routes and estimated times for each.

Driving

The most straightforward way to get from Burlington to Boston is to drive. The distance is about 16 miles, and it should take around 25-30 minutes without traffic. However, during peak hours, traffic can be heavy, and it can take twice as long. It's best to avoid traveling during rush hour if possible. Along the way, there are plenty of gas stations, coffee shops, and fast food restaurants, making it easy to stop if you need a break.

Public Transportation

If you prefer not to drive, there are several options for public transportation. The MBTA commuter rail offers daily service to Boston from North Station, with a stop in Burlington. The trip takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately $7.75 one way. You can also take a bus from Burlington to Alewife Station and then transfer to the subway system. This will take a little over an hour and cost around $6.75 one way.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also an option for those who prefer not to drive. The cost will depend on demand and traffic, but expect to pay around $30-$40 for a one-way trip, which can take anywhere from 25 minutes to over an hour depending on the traffic.

Bike or Walk

For those who enjoy a healthy lifestyle, biking or walking is a scenic way to travel from Burlington to Boston. The Burlington Bike Path connects to the Minuteman Bikeway, which takes you through several cities and towns all the way to Alewife Station in Cambridge. It's about 11 miles each way, taking approximately one hour and 20 minutes by bike and three hours on foot. There are plenty of restaurants, picnic areas, and parks along the way, making it a fun and adventurous trip.

Final Thoughts

There are plenty of great ways to travel from Burlington to Boston, each with its own unique benefits. If you're in a hurry or need to travel during rush hour, driving is likely the best option. However, those who want to avoid traffic or enjoy a healthier lifestyle may prefer public transportation, ride-sharing services, biking, or walking. Whatever your preference, there are plenty of stops along the way to grab some coffee, eat lunch, or explore a new park.