Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston's North End is by taking the free Massport Silver Line (SL1) bus to South Station, then transferring to the Red Line subway for one stop to Downtown Crossing, followed by a 10-minute walk. This takes 35-50 minutes and costs only the standard subway fare ($2.40). For maximum convenience, a taxi or ride-share is the fastest door-to-door option (15-25 minutes), costing $25-$40.
Public Transit: Train & Bus (Best for Budget & Locals)
Boston's Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) offers efficient, budget-friendly connections from Logan Airport to the edge of the North End. There is no single direct train; a combination of bus and subway is required.
Step-by-Step: The Recommended Route (Silver Line + Red Line)
- Find the Free Silver Line: From any terminal baggage claim, follow signs for "Ground Transportation" and then "Silver Line" or "SL1". Board the SL1 to South Station. This is a free bus funded by Massport and takes 15-20 minutes. Buses run every 5-10 minutes.
- Transfer at South Station: Get off at the final stop (South Station). Inside the transportation center, follow signs for the Red Line subway (heading towards Alewife).
- Ride the Red Line: Take the Red Line for just one stop to Downtown Crossing. This ride takes about 2 minutes.
- Walk to the North End: Exit Downtown Crossing station and walk north-east up Summer Street or Washington Street towards Hanover Street, the main artery of the North End. The walk is about 0.5 miles (10-15 minutes).
Total: 35-50 mins | Cost: $2.40 (Red Line fare only, Silver Line is free).
Alternative Route: Blue Line + Walk
For terminals A and B, you can take a free Massport Shuttle (#22, #33, #55, #66) to "Airport Station" on the MBTA Blue Line.
- Take the Blue Line inbound towards Bowdoin.
- Get off at Government Center (3 stops).
- Walk east for about 15-20 minutes to the North End.
Total: 40-55 mins | Cost: $2.40. This route involves a longer walk but may be preferable if you're closer to the Blue Line shuttle.
| Route | Steps | Total Time | Cost (2024) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver/Red Line Combo | Free SL1 Bus → Red Line (1 stop) → Walk | 35-50 min | $2.40 | Most travelers, best overall value |
| Blue Line + Walk | Free Shuttle → Blue Line (3 stops) → Walk | 40-55 min | $2.40 | Terminals A/B, avoiding bus transfer |
Key Insight: According to MBTA fare data, paying with a reusable CharlieCard saves $0.60 per trip compared to a paper ticket. Purchase one at Airport Station.
Private Transfers & Shared Shuttles
For a premium, pre-arranged experience, consider these options. They are ideal for business travel, large groups, or special occasions.
- Pre-Booked Private Car: Companies like Commonwealth Limo or Boston Car Service offer meet-and-greet services. A sedan typically costs $80-$120 one-way. Ideal for corporate travel or avoiding any wait.
- Shared-Ride Vans: Services like Go Boston Shuttle offer shared rides to downtown hotels. Not as efficient for the North End specifically, as drops are hotel-centric. Prices start around $25 per person. You may have to wait for other passengers.
- Luggage Consideration: All private services include ample, guaranteed luggage space—a major advantage over transit.
Cost & Time Comparison: Logan Airport to North End
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (2024) | Key Advantages | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Transit (Silver/Red Line) | 35-50 min | $2.40 (Cheapest) | Extremely cheap, reliable schedule | Solo travelers, couples, budget-conscious |
| Ride-Share (UberX/Lyft) | 15-25 min | $25-$35 | Door-to-door, no transfers, easy with bags | Groups of 2-3, those with luggage, convenience seekers |
| Taxi | 15-25 min | $25-$40 | Immediately available, fixed airport rules | Late-night arrivals, those without smartphone apps |
| Private Car Service | 15-25 min | $80-$120+ | Premium service, meet & greet, guaranteed | Business travel, special occasions, large groups |
Verdict: For most tourists, the Silver/Red Line public transit offers the best value. For families or those with lots of luggage, a ride-share or taxi is worth the extra cost for the hassle saved.
Traveler Tips & Local Insights
Luggage Strategies
- Avoid Rush Hour on Transit: Weekdays 7-9 AM and 4-6:30 PM are extremely crowded. With luggage, it's very difficult.
- Last-Mile Taxi: Consider taking the free Silver Line to South Station and then a short, cheap taxi (approx. $10) to your exact North End address. This splits cost and convenience.
Navigation & Connectivity
- Free Airport Wi-Fi: Use Logan's "LoganWiFi" to book your ride-share or map your transit route immediately upon arrival.
- The North End is Walkable: Once you reach the neighborhood (Hanover St., Salem St.), everything is accessible on foot. The closest subway stations (Haymarket, Aquarium) are a 5-10 minute walk from most points.
Timing Your Arrival
- Late-Night Landings (After 1 AM): Public transit has severely limited service. Taxi is your most reliable bet. Ride-share wait times can be long.
- Weekends & Holidays: Traffic can be heavy around the North End due to tourism. Transit may be faster than a car.
FAQs: Getting from Logan Airport to the North End
What is the cheapest way to get from Logan Airport to the North End?
The cheapest way is to take the MBTA Silver Line bus (SL1) from any airport terminal to South Station (free), then transfer to the Red Line subway towards Alewife for one stop to Downtown Crossing, and finally walk about 10-15 minutes into the North End. Total cost is just the standard MBTA subway fare ($2.40 with a CharlieCard).
What is the fastest way to get from Logan Airport to the North End?
For most situations, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) is the fastest door-to-door option, taking 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. However, during peak traffic hours, the MBTA Blue Line to Bowdoin and a short walk can be more reliable and nearly as fast (30-40 minutes total).
Is there a direct train from Logan Airport to the North End?
No, there is no single direct train. Logan Airport is served by the MBTA Blue Line via a free shuttle bus. The most efficient public transit route involves taking the free Silver Line bus to South Station, then transferring to the Red Line for one stop to Downtown Crossing, followed by a walk.
How much is a taxi from Logan Airport to the North End?
The taxi fare, including tolls and tips, typically ranges from $25 to $40. Massachusetts law sets a metered fare from the airport to downtown Boston. Ride-share apps (UberX, Lyft Standard) usually cost a similar or slightly lower amount, but surge pricing during busy times can increase the cost significantly.
What should I do if I arrive at Logan Airport late at night?
After 1:00 AM, MBTA services are very limited. Your best options are: 1) Taxis, which are available 24/7 at designated stands outside each terminal. 2) Ride-share apps, though wait times may be longer. 3) Pre-booking a private car service. Public transit is not recommended for late-night arrivals.
Is the Logan Airport shuttle (Massport Shuttle) free?
Yes, all Massport-operated shuttle buses within the airport and to the MBTA Blue Line station (Airport Station) are completely free. This includes the #22, #33, #55, and #66 shuttles that connect terminals to the subway.
How do I get from Logan Airport to the North End with a lot of luggage?
With multiple or heavy bags, public transit can be challenging due to stairs and crowds. We recommend: 1) A taxi or ride-share for direct door-to-service. 2) A pre-booked private car/van service. If using transit, take the free Silver Line bus (SL1) as it has dedicated luggage space, then a short taxi from South Station.
Can I use a credit card on the MBTA from the airport?
Yes. You can use a contactless credit/debit card or mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay) to tap and pay at subway fare gates and on buses. You can also purchase a disposable CharlieTicket from machines at Airport Station. For frequent use, consider a reloadable CharlieCard.