Salem's historic center is compact and entirely walkable; the Peabody Essex Museum, the witch-trial sites, the maritime historic site, and the House of the Seven Gables are all within a 15-minute walk of each other. The commuter rail station is a 10-minute walk from Essex Street.
The Salem Trolley runs a loop around the main sights during tourist season, useful if your feet give out or for an orientation on arrival. The tour-bus version of the trolley is aimed at first-time visitors. Taxis and rideshares are available but tend to get bogged down in October traffic. A bicycle is a good option outside of the peak season — the city is flat and the waterfront path to the House of the Seven Gables is pleasant on two wheels.