If you’ve got a layover in Boston, don’t let it go to waste sitting at BOS. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 50 minutes by MBTA Silver Line & Blue Line. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside BOS
A few things to sort out before you leave BOS:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Boston takes about 50 minutes by MBTA Silver Line & Blue Line. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into Boston from BOS
The most straightforward way into Boston is the MBTA Silver Line & Blue Line, which takes about 50 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the MBTA Silver Line & Blue Line is usually the smarter call.
Bag Storage Near BOS
Luggage storage options at BOS can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Boston for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Boston layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$13 |
| Meal | ~$25 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$48 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
How to Spend Your Time in Boston
Two recommendations for your time in Boston:
Start with Faneuil Hall Marketplace & Quincy Market. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights. Then, if time allows, make your way to Boston Common & Public Garden. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
If you’d rather stay inside BOS — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Delta Sky Club (Terminal A)
- Duty-Free Americas (Terminal E)
Best Bites Near BOS
For food in Boston, local travelers recommend Santarpio’s Pizza. If you have time for a second stop, Neptune Oyster is another popular pick.
Back at BOS, Legal Sea Foods (Terminal B) is the go-to. Potbelly Sandwich Shop (Terminal C) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BOS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Boston or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BOS has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Boston is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Boston.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.