Getting to
Provincetown
Provincetown Travel Guide: Ferry, Flights, Driving & Transportation Options
Planning a trip to Provincetown, Massachusetts? Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway, summer vacation, Carnival, Pride, or considering making Provincetown your home, knowing the best ways to get here can make your trip significantly easier.
While it may feel remote, there are several convenient transportation options including ferries, flights, driving routes, buses, and seasonal services that make reaching Provincetown accessible from Boston, New York City, and beyond.
This complete travel guide covers everything you need to know about getting to Provincetown, including ferry schedules, airport access, parking tips, seasonal travel advice, and how to navigate town once you arrive.
Provincetown Ferry
For many travelers, the fastest and most scenic route is the Boston to Provincetown fast ferry.
Why the ferry is so popular:
Approximately 90-minute trip
Avoids Cape Cod traffic
Direct arrival at MacMillan Pier in downtown Provincetown
Walkable access to hotels, restaurants, shops, and beaches
Ideal for day trips or weekend stays
Ferry providers include:
City Cruises by Boston Harbor Cruises
Long Wharf - Boston, MABay State Cruise Company
Seaport District - Boston, MACaptain John Boats Fast Ferry
Plymouth, MA
Travel tips:
Ferry tickets often sell out quickly, particularly during summer weekends and popular events. Booking early is the best way to secure your preferred departure time. Each operator provides several fare options, including round-trip tickets and seasonal packages, giving visitors plenty of flexibility when planning their trip.
Flying to Provincetown
Provincetown Municipal Airport (PVC) offers seasonal regional flights, primarily from Boston. Seasonal Flights from the New York-area with service varying by year.
Benefits:
Quickest arrival option, approximately 25 minutes from Boston
Ideal for shorter vacations
Convenient for higher-end travelers
Rental cars and taxis available nearby
Nearby alternatives:
Boston Logan International Airport
Hyannis Airport
Cape Cod Gateway Airport
Travelers flying into Boston can combine flights with ferry or rental car travel.
Driving to Provincetown
Driving remains a flexible option, particularly for longer stays, families, or property buyers exploring the Outer Cape.
Approximately:
Boston: 2.5-4 hours depending on traffic
Providence: 3-4 hours
New York City: 6-8 hours
Important driving considerations:
Summer traffic can be significant
Saturday turnover days often create delays
Parking in Provincetown can be limited
Consider arriving early or midweek
Pro Tip: Avoid peak Cape traffic by traveling early morning or late evening.
Parking Notes:
Municipal lots, private lots, and hotel parking vary by season
Municipal lots are located at MacMillan Pier, Grace Hall, and Metered Street Parking
Many visitors leave the car parked for their entire stay as the town is walkable
Bus Transportation to Provincetown
Bus service offers an affordable alternative, particularly from Boston and Logan Airport.
Common options:
Plymouth & Brockton
The Queen House Charter Bus
Peter Pan Bus
Seasonal shuttle services
Benefits:
Budget-friendly
No parking concerns
Direct seasonal routes
Approximately 3-4 hours depending on traffic
While slower than ferries, buses are often a practical option for extended visits and offers reliable year-round service connecting Provincetown to major transportation hubs.
Getting Around Provincetown Without a Car
One of Provincetown’s greatest advantages is that you often don’t need a vehicle once you arrive.
Popular local transportation options:
Mopeds and scooter rentals
Why many visitors skip the car:
Commercial Street is highly walkable
Limited parking
Bike-friendly town
Easy beach and trail access
For most visitors staying in town center, walking or biking is often the best choice.
Start Planning Your Provincetown Trip
Getting to Provincetown is easier than many first-time visitors expect, with flexible transportation options for every travel style and budget. Whether you're visiting for a day, a summer week, or exploring real estate opportunities, careful planning can make your arrival seamless.
Thinking About Making Provincetown More Than a Visit?
Provincetown’s unique location is part of what makes it so special and once you arrive, many visitors quickly understand why they return year after year.
Explore:
FAQ: Getting to Provincetown
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High-speed ferries typically operate from mid-May through mid-October. Two companies Boston Harbor City Cruises and the Bay State Cruise Company run seasonal daily service. Schedules vary each year, but most departures occur morning and late afternoon.
Tip: Peak weekend and holiday ferries sell out quickly. Book early during July, August, and holiday weekends.
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Ferry: Approximately 90 minutes (fastest option during summer)
Flight: 25-30 minutes via Cape Air
Bus: 3-4 hours depending on traffic
Car: 2.5-3.5 hours, longer on peak weekends
Tip: If you’re traveling on Fridays or Sundays in July and August, allow extra time for heavier traffic on Route 6.
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Yes, Provincetown Municipal Airport is located within the Cape Cod National Seashore, about 2 miles from the center of town. Local taxis, rideshares, and bike paths provide easy access to accommodations.
Tip: If you're traveling with luggage, a taxi or rideshare is the most convenient option.
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The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) runs the Provincetown/Truro Flex Route and seasonal shuttles. These provide access to beaches, Truro destinations, and connections to Lower Cape routes.
Tip: The Flex Route allows curbside pickup within a certain distance ideal if you're staying outside the main downtown areas.
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Municipal parking lots are located at MacMillan Pier, Grace Hall, and the MPL Lot, along with additional paid lots throughout town. Parking is limited in summer, so expect competition for spaces especially during events and weekends.
Tip: Many visitors park their car once and rely on walking, biking, or shuttles for the rest of their stay. 🔗 Town Parking Information