The cheapest and fastest trains from Portland, ME to Boston, MA
Cheapest price
$39
Average price
$39
Fastest journey
2 h 32 m
Average duration
2 h 32 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
159 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Portland, ME to Boston, MA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portland, ME to Boston, MA will cost around $39 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.
Of the 5 trains that leave Portland, ME for Boston, MA on Tue, Nov 18, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Nov 18 the direct trains cover the 159 km distance in an average of 2 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 32 m .
On Tue, Nov 18 the slowest trains will take 2 h 32 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
682 Downeaster
680 Downeaster
684 Downeaster
688 Downeaster
686 Downeaster
682 Downeaster
680 Downeaster
684 Downeaster
688 Downeaster
686 DowneasterTravel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Portland, ME to Boston, MA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Portland, ME to Boston, MA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €15, and a flight costs an average of €130.
Distance: 98 miles (159 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€29 Average price | €28 Average price Cheapest | €427 Average price |
3h 2m Average total duration 2h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 51m Average total duration Fastest 2h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 18m Average total duration 10h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Portland, ME to Boston, MA train times
The table below shows live departures for Portland, ME to Boston, MA trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
680 Downeaster | 10:18 AM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 2h32 | 12:50 PM North Station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
682 Downeaster | 12:18 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 2h32 | 2:50 PM North Station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
684 Downeaster | 4:48 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 2h32 | 7:20 PM North Station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
686 Downeaster | 6:43 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 2h32 | 9:15 PM North Station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
688 Downeaster | 11:33 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 2h32 | 2:05 AM North Station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Portland, ME to Boston, MA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Portland, ME to Boston, MA?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Portland, ME to Boston, MA
Trains from Portland, ME to Boston, MA run on average 21 times per day, taking around 2h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:43, the last at 23:25. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (159 km) distance in 2h 32m.
Distance 98 miles (159 km) |
Average train duration 2h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€24) |
Trains per day 21 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 32m |
First train 04:43 |
Last train 23:25 |
Train companies: Amtrak from Portland, ME to Boston, MA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Portland, ME and Boston, MA from $19 (€15). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Portland, ME to Boston, MA
The train connection between Portland, ME and Boston, MA is a convenient and scenic option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture of New England. Operated by Amtrak, this route offers comfortable seating and beautiful views along the way. With multiple departures daily, you can easily plan your trip to enjoy all that both cities have to offer!
Train Connection: Portland, ME to Boston, MA
Traveling from Portland, ME to Boston, MA takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. There are up to 5 direct connections available each day. Passengers will depart from the Portland Transportation Center in Maine and arrive at North Station in Massachusetts.
Portland, ME to Boston, MA Train Connection
The first daily train departs from Portland at 9:18 AM, providing an early start for travelers heading to Boston. The last journey of the day leaves Boston at 11:33 PM, allowing late-night arrivals back in Portland.
Train Tickets Price for Portland, ME to Boston, MA
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Portland and Boston is $25 (22.5€). The average ticket price tends to be around $32 (28.8€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in New England.
Exploring Boston: A Journey Through History and Culture
Boston Common, established in 1634, is the oldest public park in America and has served as a gathering place for various social movements throughout history. Its significance lies not only in its role as a recreational space but also as a backdrop to pivotal events like protests and celebrations that shaped American democracy. Unique features include the iconic Frog Pond, where you can enjoy ice skating in winter or splash around during summer months, along with beautiful walking paths lined by centuries-old trees.
The Freedom Trail is an extraordinary 2.5-mile path that weaves through Boston's rich revolutionary history, connecting 16 significant sites from America's fight for independence. This trail serves as both an educational journey and a powerful reminder of our nation's struggle for freedom and justice; it invites visitors to walk literally through history while reflecting on the sacrifices made by those who came before us. One unique feature of this experience is the red-brick line guiding your way—making it easy to explore at your own pace while immersing yourself fully into each landmark’s story.
Fenway Park, opened in 1912, stands proudly as one of Major League Baseball's most beloved ballparks and home to the legendary Boston Red Sox. Its significance goes beyond sports; it's steeped in tradition and community spirit—a place where generations have gathered to cheer on their team amidst thrilling moments etched into baseball lore. What sets Fenway apart are its distinctive features like "The Green Monster," an imposing left-field wall that adds character (and challenge) to every game played here—ensuring no visit feels quite complete without experiencing this historic venue firsthand.
FAQs: Trains from Portland, ME to Boston, MA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portland, ME to Boston, MA by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Boston, MA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Portland, ME to Boston, MA
- 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is $5.50 per day and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking for Downeaster passengers is available in the lot across the street from the station.
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- The station serves as a hub for both Amtrak Downeaster trains and intercity buses, with facilities for ticketing and waiting areas.
- Bus: Concord Coach Lines
- Local bus services available
- 5:00 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available nearby with several garages in the vicinity.
- Sorellina
- Atlantic Fish Company
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $0.50
- Copley Square Hotel
- The Westin Copley Place
- Fairmont Copley Plaza
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for Amtrak and MBTA Commuter Rail
- Hall 2: Orange Line subway platforms
- Subway: Orange Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Commuter Rail: Framingham/Worcester Line, Franklin Line, Needham Line, Providence/Stoughton Line
- 5:00 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Nashua Street.
- The Fours
- Tavern in the Square North Station
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps.
- $0.50
- Courtyard Boston Downtown/North Station
- citizenM Boston North Station
- The Boxer Boston
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-10 for trains to New Hampshire, Maine, and regional destinations
- Hall 2: Subway connections
- Subway: Green Line, Orange Line
- Bus: Several lines available
More options for your journey from Portland, ME to Boston, MA
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