Traveling from Boston to Burlington by train offers a scenic and comfortable journey through the heart of New England. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a business trip, Amtrak Boston to Burlington service provides a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to driving or flying.
Amtrak Boston to Burlington Overview
If you’re planning to travel from Boston, MA to Burlington, VT, Amtrak offers a scenic and comfortable option. While there’s no direct train, you can still make the trip with one easy connection.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Amtrak Service | Vermonter (Train 55 – Boston to Burlington / Train 54 – Burlington to Boston) |
| Departure Station | Boston South Station (BOS) or Back Bay Station (BBY) |
| Arrival Station | Essex Junction, VT (ESX) – Nearest Amtrak station to Burlington (~10 miles away) |
| Travel Time | 5 hours 55 minutes (Boston to Essex Junction) |
| Frequency | Daily (Check Amtrak for seasonal adjustments) |
| Boston to Burlington Schedule | Departure (BOS): 8:50 AM → Arrival (ESX): 2:45 PM |
| Burlington to Boston Schedule | Departure (ESX): 12:10 PM → Arrival (BOS): 6:05 PM |
| Key Stops | Worcester (WOR), Springfield (SPG), Brattleboro (BRA), Essex Junction (ESX) |
| Ticket Prices (One Way) | Coach: $30–$60 Business Class: $70–$120 |
| Baggage Policy | 2 carry-ons + 2 checked bags (free) |
| Onboard Amenities | Free Wi-Fi, power outlets, spacious seating, café car |
| Final Connection | From Essex Junction, take a taxi/bus (GMT) to downtown Burlington (15 min) |
| Official Website | https://www.amtrak.com/home.html |
Routes of Amtrak Boston to Burlington
The Amtrak Boston to Burlington journey doesn’t follow a single direct route, but there are two main train options that can get you close to Burlington, Vermont:
| Station Name | Station Code | Arrival Time | Departure Time | Distance from Boston |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston South Station | BOS | — | 8:50 AM | 0 miles (Departure Point) |
| Back Bay Station | BBY | 8:55 AM | 8:57 AM | 2 miles |
| Worcester Union Station | WOR | 10:05 AM | 10:10 AM | 44 miles |
| Springfield Union Station | SPG | 11:35 AM | 11:50 AM | 90 miles |
| Brattleboro Station | BRA | 1:05 PM | 1:07 PM | 140 miles |
| Essex Junction Station | ESX | 2:45 PM | — | 227 miles (Final Stop) |
Amtrak Boston to Burlington Schedule
The Amtrak Boston to Burlington schedule varies slightly by day, but most trains depart Boston in the morning or early afternoon. The journey takes approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on connections and transfer times
| Station | Code | To Burlington | To Boston |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston South Station | BOS | Departs 8:50 AM | Arrives 6:05 PM |
| Back Bay Station | BBY | 8:55 AM | 6:00 PM |
| Worcester | WOR | 10:05 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Springfield | SPG | 11:35 AM | 3:20 PM |
| Brattleboro | BRA | 1:05 PM | 1:50 PM |
| Essex Junction (Burlington) | ESX | Arrives 2:45 PM | Departs 12:10 PM |
Amtrak Boston to Burlington Prices & Tickets
Train tickets from Boston to Burlington typically range from $86 to $137, depending on how early you book and the class you choose.
| Ticket Type | One-Way Price | Round-Trip Price |
|---|---|---|
| Coach/Saver | $30-$60 | $60-$110 |
| Business Class | $70-$120 | $140-$220 |
| Flexible Fare | $50-$90 | $100-$170 |
| Senior (65+) | 10% off | 10% off |
| Student | 15% off | 15% off |
| Child (2-12) | 50% off | 50% off |
Amtrak Comfort: Boston to Burlington
Traveling from Boston to Burlington by Amtrak is a relaxing and scenic experience, designed with passenger comfort in mind. Here’s what makes the journey enjoyable:
Comfortable Seating
Amtrak trains offer spacious, reclining seats with generous legroom—perfect for stretching out or catching a nap. There are no middle seats, so you’ll always have room to breathe.
Onboard Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi to browse, stream, or work
- Power outlets at every seat
- Clean restrooms in each car
- Café car with snacks, drinks, and light meals
Baggage Benefits
You can bring:
- 2 personal items (up to 25 lbs each)
- 2 carry-on bags (up to 50 lbs each) — all included in your fare
Scenic Views
The route winds through New England’s forests, rivers, and charming towns, especially beautiful during fall foliage season. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
Upgrade Options
- Business Class: More legroom, quieter cars, and complimentary beverages
- Roomettes (on connecting long-distance trains): Private space with beds and meals for overnight comfort
Amtrak Boston to Burlington vs. Other Travel Options
Here’s a detailed comparison table of Amtrak vs. other travel options from Boston to Burlington, covering cost, time, comfort, and convenience:
| Feature | Amtrak (Vermonter) | Driving | Bus (Greyhound/Megabus) | Flying |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 6 hours | 3.5-4 hours | 4.5-5.5 hours | 1.5 hours (flight) + 2 hours (airport time) |
| Cost (One Way) | $30-$120 | $50-$80 (gas + tolls) | $20-$50 | $150-$300 |
| Comfort | Spacious seats, Wi-Fi, power outlets, café car | Depends on your car | Cramped seats, limited legroom | Fast but cramped, airport hassle |
| Scenery | Best (New England views) | Good (but focus on driving) | Limited (highway views) | None (clouds) |
| Luggage | 2 free checked + 2 carry-ons | Unlimited (your car) | Limited storage, fees may apply | Baggage fees, strict limits |
| Eco-Friendly | Lowest carbon footprint | High emissions | Moderate emissions | Highest emissions |
| Flexibility | Fixed schedule | Leave anytime | Fixed schedule | Limited flights, airport delays |
| Best For | Relaxing, scenic, no stress | Road trips, multiple stops | Budget travelers | Speed (but expensive) |
Amtrak Boston to Burlington Travel Tips
Here are some helpful travel tips for your Amtrak journey from Boston to Burlington to make your trip smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable:
| Category | Tips & Tricks |
|---|---|
| Booking | Book 2-3 months early for lowest fares Check for discounts (senior/student/military) |
| Packing | Bring layers (train temps vary) Pack snacks/drinks (café car available but limited) |
| Boarding | Arrive 30 mins early at South Station Have ticket ready on Amtrak app |
| Seating | Left side (west) for best scenery Quiet car available for peaceful trip |
| Connections | From Essex Junction: GMT bus #2 to Burlington ($1.75) Taxis/Lyft available (~$25 to downtown) |
| WiFi/Power | Free WiFi (streaming not guaranteed) Power outlets at every seat |
| Schedule | Only 1 daily train each way – don’t miss it! Delays possible – bring entertainment |
| Burlington Arrival | Essex Junction has minimal amenities – plan accordingly Downtown Burlington is 10 miles away |
Check Other Route: Amtrak Burlington to NYC
Conclusion
Traveling from Boston to Burlington by Amtrak is a scenic, comfortable, and eco-friendly way to explore New England. While there’s no direct train, the journey via Essex Junction or Albany offers a relaxing alternative to driving or flying. With spacious seating, onboard amenities like Wi-Fi and a café car, and views of charming towns and countryside, the ride becomes part of the adventure.
FAQs on Amtrak Boston to Burlington
No, there is no direct train. Passengers typically travel from Boston South Station to Essex Junction, VT, which is the nearest Amtrak station to Burlington.
The journey usually takes around 10 to 12.5 hours, depending on the route and transfer time.
Departure (BOS): 8:50 AM
Arrival (ESX): 2:45 PM
Coach: $30–$60 (one way)
Business Class: $70–$120 (one way)
Worcester, MA
Springfield, MA
Brattleboro, VT
Essex Junction, VT (for Burlington)
Yes, return trips are available. The Burlington to Boston Amtrak route follows the same path in reverse, with similar travel times.
You’ll enjoy free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining seats, and access to a café car for snacks and drinks.
You’ll board at Boston South Station or Back Bay Station, depending on your ticket.
Yes! 2 carry-ons + 2 checked bags are free (unlike airlines). Bikes cost $20 (reservation required).
Amtrak: Relaxing, scenic, no parking hassles
Driving: Faster (3.5 hrs) but stressful in winter