- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
One of the largest art museums in the United States, known for its encyclopedic collection spanning ancient to contemporary works.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA
Showing times and prices for Jun 17
Cheapest price
$167
Average price
$229
Fastest journey
5 h 32 m
Average duration
5 h 41 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
374 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA will cost around $229 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $167.
Fast trains
Of the 10 trains that leave Princeton, NJ for Boston, MA on Wed, Jun 17, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 17 the direct trains cover the 374 km distance in an average of 5 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 32 m .
On Wed, Jun 17 the slowest trains will take 5 h 48 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.
174 Northeast Regional1:12 PM5h52Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ7:04 PMSouth Station, Boston, MA$1671One-way0 transfers- 652 Keystone Service · 178 Northeast Regional5:52 PM6h23Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ12:15 AMSouth Station, Boston, MA$2081One-way1 transfer
- 652 Keystone Service · 178 Northeast Regional5:52 PM6h18Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ12:10 AMBack Bay station, Boston, MA$2081One-way1 transfer
- 176 Northeast Regional6:02 PM5h41Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ11:43 PMBack Bay station, Boston, MA$2181One-way0 transfers
- 176 Northeast Regional6:02 PM5h48Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ11:50 PMSouth Station, Boston, MA$2181One-way0 transfers
- 172 Northeast Regional9:48 AM5h32Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ3:20 PMBack Bay station, Boston, MA$2721One-way0 transfers
- 172 Northeast Regional9:48 AM5h40Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ3:28 PMSouth Station, Boston, MA$2721One-way0 transfers
- 176 Northeast Regional6:02 PM5h41Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ11:43 PMBack Bay station, Boston, MA$2181One-way0 transfers
- 174 Northeast Regional1:12 PM5h44Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ6:56 PMBack Bay station, Boston, MA$2721One-way0 transfers
- 176 Northeast Regional6:02 PM5h48Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ11:50 PMSouth Station, Boston, MA$2181One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $42. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 17m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, and a flight costs an average of $59.
Distance: 232 miles (374 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$181 Average price | $62 Average price Cheapest | $182 Average price |
6h 5m Average total duration 5h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 25m Average total duration 5h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration Fastest 1h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA is a bus with an average price of $62 (€51).
This is compared to other travel options from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA:
A bus is $119 (€96) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA costing on average $181 (€147).
A bus is $119 (€97) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA costing on average $182 (€147).
The fastest way to travel from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 17m.
Other travel options to Boston, MA take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 35m.
Bus takes on average 5h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Princeton, NJ and Boston, MA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA among Omio's users.
Live departures
Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA train times
The table below shows live departures for Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA trains for today, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 172 Northeast Regional | 9:48 AM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 5h40 | 3:28 PM South Station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 172 Northeast Regional | 9:48 AM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 5h32 | 3:20 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 174 Northeast Regional | 1:12 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 5h52 | 7:04 PM South Station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 174 Northeast Regional | 1:12 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 5h44 | 6:56 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 650 Keystone Service · 184 Northeast Regional | 2:51 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 6h45 | 9:36 PM South Station, Boston, MA | 1 transfer | |
| 650 Keystone Service · 184 Northeast Regional | 2:51 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 6h38 | 9:29 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA | 1 transfer | |
| 652 Keystone Service · 178 Northeast Regional | 5:52 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 6h18 | 12:10 AM Back Bay station, Boston, MA | 1 transfer | |
| 652 Keystone Service · 178 Northeast Regional | 5:52 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 6h23 | 12:15 AM South Station, Boston, MA | 1 transfer | |
| 176 Northeast Regional | 6:02 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 5h41 | 11:43 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 176 Northeast Regional | 6:02 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 5h48 | 11:50 PM South Station, Boston, MA | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Princeton, NJ 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA
USAUSA
Trains from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $43 (€35) but you can travel from only $42 (€34) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:43, the last at 20:00. The fastest train covers the 232 miles (374 km) distance in 5h 19m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $42 (€34)
Distance 232 miles (374 km) |
Average train duration 5h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€35) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 5h 19m |
First train 5:43 AM |
Last train 8:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $42 (€34)
Train companies: Amtrak, NJ Transit from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA trainsAmtrak, NJ Transit trains will get you between Princeton, NJ and Boston, MA from $42 (€34). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 19m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€35)
Amtrak frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
NJ Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 42m
Cheapest Price
$330 (€267)
NJ Transit frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Boston
Things to do in Boston
Discover the best of Boston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Boston trip today.
- Must visit
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
A distinctive Venetian-style museum with major European, Asian, and American art, famous for its intimate courtyard and historic 1990 art theft.
- Must visit
Museum of Science
A family-friendly science museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and broad appeal for visitors interested in technology and natural science.
- Must visit
Freedom Trail
Boston’s signature walking route linking many of the city’s most important historic sites, ideal for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Boston Common
The oldest public park in the United States, serving as a central green space and gateway to the Freedom Trail.
- Must visit
Public Garden
A picturesque landscaped garden known for its lagoon, bridges, and swan boats, especially photogenic in spring and summer.
New England Clam Chowder
A creamy soup of clams, potatoes, and onions that is one of Boston’s signature comfort foods and a classic of New England cooking.
Lobster Roll
Sweet lobster meat served in a buttered split-top roll, often dressed lightly with mayo or warm butter. It is a beloved Boston-area seafood staple.
- Gluten-free
Boston Baked Beans
Slow-cooked beans traditionally baked with molasses and salt pork, tied to the city’s old nickname, 'Beantown,' and its colonial food history.
Oleana
Highly regarded restaurant in Cambridge near Boston, known for refined Eastern Mediterranean cooking, excellent ingredients, and a warm upscale atmosphere.
Mike's Pastry
Iconic North End bakery best known for cannoli and other Italian pastries, popular with both locals and visitors seeking a classic Boston sweet stop.
Neptune Oyster
Small, celebrated North End seafood spot known for lobster rolls, oysters, and a lively atmosphere. A longtime favorite for classic Boston seafood.
United States Dollar
Boston is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining, though casual food and transit are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for casual or fast food.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
FAQs: Trains from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Princeton, NJ 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.
Train ticket prices from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $43 (€35), while the average price is around $181 (€147).
The train from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA takes 5h 19m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA leaves at 5:43 AM.
The distance by train from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA is 232 miles (374 km).
The last train from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA leaves at 8:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA.
The train station in Princeton, NJ that goes to Boston, MA is Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ, which connects to South Station, Boston, MA.
The cheapest way to get from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA is by bus, with a cost of around $42 (€34).
The train journey from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA offers a mix of urban and suburban landscapes, primarily passing through cities like New York and Providence. While not renowned for dramatic scenery, it includes views of the Northeast Corridor's historical and architectural elements.
A day trip from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA is not feasible as the travel duration is 5h 19m and the distance is 232 miles (374 km). Additionally, the frequency of trips per day for trains is 7.
Explore the historic streets of Beacon Hill and take a scenic walk along the Charles River Esplanade. Visit the Boston Public Library and enjoy a guided tour of the USS Constitution. Discover Quincy Market's vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Common, and the New England Aquarium.
To fully experience Boston, MA, plan for 3 to 4 days to explore its historic sites, museums, and neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA.
Since neither Princeton, NJ nor Boston, MA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Boston, MA include Providence, RI, New London, CT, Kingston, RI, Wells, ME, Old Saybrook, CT.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Boston, MA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and bag theft, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers. It's advisable to use official transportation services, stay alert in busy areas, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA
Princeton
Boston
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
13Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Atlantic Avenue.
Dining
- Legal Sea Foods
- Tavern in the Square
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- InterContinental Boston
- The Langham, Boston
- Boston Harbor Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-5 for Amtrak services
- Hall 2: platforms 6-13 for MBTA Commuter Rail services
- Bus terminal located on the upper level.
Public transit options for South Station
- Subway: Red Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Commuter Rail: Multiple lines
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
5Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available nearby with several garages in the vicinity.
Dining
- Sorellina
- Atlantic Fish Company
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- Copley Square Hotel
- The Westin Copley Place
- Fairmont Copley Plaza
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Enterprise
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for Amtrak and MBTA Commuter Rail
- Hall 2: Orange Line subway platforms
Public transit options for Back Bay Station
- Subway: Orange Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Commuter Rail: Framingham/Worcester Line, Franklin Line, Needham Line, Providence/Stoughton Line
Most popular train connections from Princeton, NJ
More options for your journey from Princeton, NJ to Boston, MA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Boston, MA and Princeton, NJ
Most popular train connections to Boston, MA
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