Knowing how to navigate through the public transportation system of Boston is always the most challenging part of visiting the city, especially for the first time. The Metropolitan Boston Transit Authority’s subway and bus system, or the “T,” as the locals call it, is the most common way of getting around Boston, making it essential to know how it works. Being pretty small, one can explore Boston’s tourist destinations by simply walking around. But by using the T, one can tour the most iconic attractions in the city most conveniently and affordably. Traveling to Boston? Here is a beginner-friendly guide to its public transportation system.

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About The Boston’s Subway System

With a long, incredible history dating back to 1897, Boston's subway and bus system is the oldest in the country. That is why tourists will find it a little shabby compared to newer subway systems in other cities. The Metropolitan Boston Transit Authority (MTBA) is in charge of maintaining the whole system. Regardless, getting around the city using the T is always full of fun. The MBTA comprises water shuttles, buses, commuter rail, and the subway. There are payment options for getting around the city, but CharlieCard, a contactless smartcard, is the common one. The subway consists of five lines, including Green; consisting of four branches, Red; consisting of two branches, Blue, Orange, and Silver. The hours of operation depend on which line and station one is using.

• General hours of operation: 5:00 am – 12:30

Reasons To Use The Boston’s Subway System To Get Around

• It is the easiest way to reach most of the city’s tourist attractions.
• It reduces Travel expenses by hundreds of dollars. Using the subway system helps visitors avoid the hassle and expenses of moving around with a car in the city.
• The subway system is faster than getting around by car.
• From the Logan Airport, the T is the most affordable and fastest way to get to the city.

Passes And Costs

There are two main passes on the subway; CharlieCard and Charlie Ticket. The cost of transport services depends on which pass one is using. CharlieCard offers one-way discounts and is suitable for people planning to use the local bus or train more frequently. CharlieTicket for the local bus cost around $2, and $2.75 for the subway. CharlieTicket is the most convenient for travelers, not just because they are available at any train station, but one can also load them with as much money as they want. These passes don't offer visitors discounts, but they are the safest option and are also valid on Ferry and Commuter Rail.

One can also use the unlimited pass, which works on buses as well as trains. The system offers unlimited monthly passes to travelers extending their stay in the city. There are people allowed to ride on the subway for free; kids under 11 travel with adults. Firefighters, police officers, military personnel, and government officials are also allowed to ride on the subway free of charge. The elderly and students are eligible for reduced cost of transportation on the subway.

• The cost of a 1-day pass: is $12.75
• The cost of a 7-day pass: $22.50
• The cost of a 1-month pass: $90

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Buying Passes For The Subway Trains and Buses

Travelers can buy the MBTA bus and train passes online or at any train station in the city. Where to buy them?

• Fare Vending Machines: All subway and Union Commuter Rail stations in Boston have fare vending machines. Visitors can buy or renew their tickets and passes at these stations using their credit/debit cards or cash. However, most vending machines are marked as not accepting cash.
• Online: One can register for a MyCharlie account online and add passes or a cash value to the existing or newly created account.
• Retail Sales Locations: These are stores where travelers can buy CharlieCards and load them with cash or add to an already existing card or CharlieTicket.

Tips For Getting Around Boston Via The Subway System

• Prepare well for delays, usually in winter. Bad weather can interfere with public transportation. One should prepare well enough to deal with crowds resulting from such delays.
• Use the MBTA Bus app or the MBTA-endorsed Transit App to know when the buses and trains depart and arrive. While Boston's subway system has enhanced its services by providing updates on wait times for buses and trains, it is also important to have these apps, just in case.
• Plan to know which transportation means will be the best option.
• Compare the MBTA passes before buying to save on costs.

While Boston's subway system provides travelers with the cheapest and most convenient way of exploring the city’s sites, they need to ensure they plan to know the essentials before traveling to the city.