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Houston, TX, USA to Austin, TX, USA from $8: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Houston, United States
to
Austin, United States

How to Get from Houston to Austin: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$8 by busBest price
236.6 kmDistance
2h 45m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Houston to Austin with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
2h  45m
Estimated price
$8-130
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
2h  45m
Estimated price
$8-130
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 236.6 km
Duration: 2h 45m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  51m
Estimated price
$30-45
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
3h  19m
Estimated price
$92-324
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  35m
Estimated price
$111-283

Traveling From Houston to Austin

The journey from Houston to Austin showcases a vibrant contrast, where Houston's bustling urban landscape meets Austin's laid-back, eclectic atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Austin

Austin's neighborhoods each offer a unique flavor and experience.

South Congress (SoCo)
• Trendy shops and iconic food trucks abound.
• Live music fills the air, day and night.
Downtown Austin
• Bustling nightlife with diverse bars and restaurants.
• Close to cultural landmarks and festivals.
East Austin
• Vibrant art scene with colorful murals.
• Offers a mix of hip cafes and local breweries.

Best Times To Visit Austin's Attractions

Timing your visits can enrich your Austin experience significantly.

Zilker Park
Visit early weekday mornings for quiet walks and fewer crowds.
Texas State Capitol
Schedule tours during the late afternoon to avoid midday rush.
Barton Springs Pool
Go on weekdays for a relaxing swim without the weekend hustle.

Austin Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Austin experiences a warm climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it an appealing destination throughout the year; spring and fall are particularly pleasant for outdoor activities. Understanding the weather patterns can help you plan your adventures, ensuring you make the most of each season.

Austin Dining Recommendation

Try the breakfast tacos at Veracruz All Natural for an authentic Austin experience that stands apart from Houston's diverse culinary scene. The combination of fresh local ingredients and a casual, vibrant atmosphere captures the unique essence of Austin, making each bite a delightful exploration of flavor.

Houston - Austin operators

Explore transport companies operating between Houston and Austin, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 844-866-5263
Website
https://vonlane.com

Bus from Hyatt Regency Houston to Austin

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$130-130
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Downtown Houston to Downtown Austin

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$15-60
Contact phone
+1-877-462-6342
Website
https://us.megabus.com

Bus from Houston, TX Pierce St to Austin

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$8-45
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Houston (IAH) to Austin (AUS)

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$150-410
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Houston Hobby Apt to Austin Airport

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$90-320

Houston to Austin: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Houston and Austin offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 The scenic drive from Houston to Austin covers a distance of 267.2 km and takes around 2 hours and 51 minutes, making it a manageable road trip for a day getaway. 💰 Depending on gas prices and vehicle efficiency, the cost of driving from Houston to Austin typically ranges from $30 to $45, offering an affordable transportation option for those looking to explore the Texas capital.
Average price
$30 - $45
🚆 Traveling from Houston to Austin by train is a convenient and scenic journey that takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes, covering a distance of 236.6 km.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Check the catering services offered on the Amtrak Texas Eagle route between Houston and Austin. They provide a café car where you can purchase snacks and beverages, including sandwiches, salads, and coffee. It’s a good idea to bring some cash or a credit card to make your purchases easier.
• When booking your ticket, consider your seating options on the Amtrak Texas Eagle. They offer Coach (Economy) seating, Business Class (which provides more spacious and comfortable seating), and First Class with additional amenities. If you prefer extra privacy and comfort, Business Class is a great choice for this trip.
• The Amtrak Texas Eagle is the primary operator for the Houston to Austin route. You can find more information and book your tickets on their website: amtrak.com Local transport options in Austin include the Capital Metro system; check their schedules at capmetro.org for buses and rail services to navigate the city efficiently.
🛫 Flying from Houston Hobby Apt Airport to Austin Airport is a convenient option with a quick direct flight that only takes 55 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Houston and Austin can range from $111 to $283, offering flexibility for different budgets and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Houston Hobby Apt Airport
Arrival Point
Austin Airport
🚌 Traveling from Houston to Austin by bus is a convenient option with services departing every two hours and taking approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. 💸 Bus fares between Houston and Austin can range from $8 to $130, offering budget-friendly options for those looking to explore these two dynamic cities in Texas.
Departure Point
Hyatt Regency Houston station
Arrival Point
Austin station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Houston to Austin.

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The cheapest way to travel from Houston to Austin is by bus. Bus tickets typically range from $8 to $130, depending on the type of bus and the time of booking. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Houston to Austin is by taking a flight. Airlines such as Southwest, American, and United offer multiple daily flights between the two cities, with a travel time of around 1 hour. Alternatively, you can also consider renting a car and driving, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic conditions. Another option is taking a train, however, this may not be as fast as the other modes of transportation, as the travel time can be around 5-6 hours.
The distance between Houston and Austin is approximately 237 km. If you're traveling by road, the distance is around 267 km. This journey typically takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. It's a straightforward drive on Interstate 10 and then Interstate 610, providing a convenient route for travelers.
The most convenient and cost-effective way to travel from Houston to Austin without a car is by bus. Multiple bus companies offer regular services between the two cities, including Megabus and Greyhound. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Bus tickets can range from $8 to $130, depending on the time of booking and the type of seat or amenities chosen.
The bus journey from Houston to Austin takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. There are regular departures from the Hyatt Regency Houston, with buses leaving every three hours.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Austin. With over 1079 hotels to choose from, you will have no shortage of places to stay. Prices for hotels in Austin start at $40, making it accessible for various budgets. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget motels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, Austin has something for everyone.
Yes, you can definitely drive from Houston to Austin. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 267 km. It takes about 2 hours and 51 minutes to drive from Houston to Austin, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route is typically straightforward and can be easily accessed via major highways such as Interstate 10 and State Highway 71.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Houston and Austin. The bus departs from Hyatt Regency Houston and arrives in Austin. The bus service operates every day with departures every three hours. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
To catch the bus from Houston to Austin you can go to the Hyatt Regency Houston station. This is where the bus services, operated by Vonlane, depart from. It is recommended to arrive at the station a little early to ensure a smooth boarding process. The location of the Hyatt Regency Houston station is easily accessible and well-known, making it convenient for travelers.
The Houston to Austin bus services, operated by Vonlane, arrive at the Austin station.
To get to Austin from the airport in Houston, you can take the line 102 bus. The bus ride typically takes around 46 minutes and costs $2.
Southwest Airlines is the main airline that offers flights between Houston and Austin. They operate flights from Houston Hobby Airport to Austin Airport. Other airlines such as American Airlines and United Airlines may also offer flights on this route, but Southwest Airlines is the most prominent and widely available option. The flight duration is usually around 1 hour, making it a quick and convenient mode of travel between the two cities.
The fastest way to travel from Houston to Austin is by plane. The direct flight from Houston Hobby Apt Airport to Austin Airport takes approximately 50 minutes. Southwest Airlines is one of the airlines that offers flights between these two cities. The flight duration is about 3 hours and 33 minutes. Prices for a flight between Houston and Austin range from $96 to $293.
The flight from Houston to Austin typically takes around 50 minutes. There are various airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities, including Southwest Airlines and United Airlines.
The cost of a flight from Houston to Austin can range from $96 to $293.
The cost of a bus ticket from Houston to Austin can range from $8 to $130, depending on various factors such as the type of bus, the time of booking, and the availability of discounts.
Driving from Houston to Austin typically costs between $30 and $45, depending on factors such as fuel prices, vehicle efficiency, and tolls. The distance between the two cities is approximately 165 miles, and the drive takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.