San Antonio, TX, USA to Houston, TX, USA from $8: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from San Antonio to Houston: 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 trainBest price
315 kmDistance
3h 3m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Antonio to Houston 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.
See more options
Sort by
Traveling From San Antonio to Houston
Taking the route from San Antonio to Houston offers you a chance to witness the vibrant cultural differences between San Antonio's historic charm and Houston's bustling urban scene.
Best Neighbourhoods in Houston
Houston boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct allure and character.
Montrose
• Known for its eclectic art scene.
• Offers a vibrant nightlife and dining options.
The Heights
• Features charming historic architecture.
• Home to unique boutiques and parks.
Downtown Houston
• Central business hub with stunning skyscrapers.
• Offers cultural attractions like theaters and museums.
Best Times To Visit Houston's Attractions
Planning your visits to Houston's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.
Space Center Houston
Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds and more interactive experiences.
Houston Museum District
Early mornings on weekdays are ideal for a quieter exploration.
Buffalo Bayou Park
Aim for early spring or fall for perfect weather and fewer visitors.
Houston Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Houston experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making early spring and fall the best times to visit for comfortable temperatures. Understanding the weather patterns can help you plan your activities, ensuring an enjoyable trip amidst possible rain or heat.
Dining Recommendation in Houston
When in Houston, don’t miss out on trying the rich, smoky barbecue at Hickory Hollow Restaurant, which stands in stark contrast to San Antonio's Tex-Mex fare. The vibrant atmosphere combined with the use of locally sourced ingredients creates a unique dining experience that showcases Houston's diverse culinary scene.
San Antonio - Houston operators
Explore transport companies operating between San Antonio and Houston, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 844-866-5263Website
https://vonlane.com
Bus from San Antonio to Hyatt Regency Galleria Houston
Average Duration
3hEstimated price
$1317-1317Contact phone
+1-877-462-6342Website
https://us.megabus.com
Bus from San Antonio, TX to Houston, TX - 815 Pierce Street
Average Duration
3h 39mEstimated price
$8-1103Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
https://www.greyhound.com/
Bus from San Antonio Bus Station to Houston Bus Station
Average Duration
3h 15mEstimated price
$1104-87Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
https://flixbus.com
Bus from San Antonio Bus Station to Houston Bus Station
Average Duration
4h 10mEstimated price
$18-70Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Train from San Antonio Amtrak Station to Houston
Average Duration
4h 45mEstimated price
$8-110Website
united.com
Plane from San Antonio (SAT) to Houston (IAH)
Average Duration
1h 7mEstimated price
$110-1318Website
southwest.com
Plane from San Antonio (SAT) to Houston Hobby Apt (HOU)
Average Duration
1h 1mEstimated price
$81-82San Antonio to Houston: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between San Antonio and Houston 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.
🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from San Antonio to Houston, covering a distance of 196 miles through picturesque Texas landscapes. The journey offers a mix of urban excitement and countryside charm.
💰 Experience budget-friendly travel options with car rental costs ranging from $35 to $55 for the San Antonio to Houston route. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of exploring at your own pace on this affordable adventure.
⏱️ Allow approximately 3 hours and 3 minutes for a smooth drive from San Antonio to Houston, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride between these vibrant Texan cities.
Average price
$35 - $55
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Antonio to Houston, with services operating three times a week – Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The comfortable Amtrak train ride spans approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, offering a convenient and relaxing travel experience.
🚆 Traverse the 198 miles between San Antonio and Houston aboard the Amtrak train, enjoying the picturesque views along the way. With departures from San Antonio Amtrak Station, passengers can sit back and unwind during the seamless journey to Houston station, where they will arrive in just under 5 hours.
🚆 Ticket prices for the San Antonio to Houston train vary from $8 to $110, providing passengers with flexible options to suit their budget and travel preferences. Whether you're heading to Houston for business or leisure, the train offers a hassle-free and cost-effective transportation choice between these vibrant Texas cities.
Departure Point
San Antonio Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Houston station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Amtrak Texas Eagle include a café car where you can purchase meals, snacks, and beverages. Be sure to check the hours of operation since they can vary during the trip. If you're a First Class passenger, complimentary meals are served in the dining car, providing a selection of regional dishes.
• The Amtrak Texas Eagle offers various seating options. In Economy Class, you'll have spacious seats with ample legroom, while Business Class seats provide extra comfort and priority boarding. For the ultimate experience, First Class features larger seats and enhanced onboard services. Check the Amtrak website for specific pricing and availability for your selected travel date.
• For your trip, Amtrak is the primary operator. You can book your tickets and find more information on their website: Amtrak Texas Eagle. Other transport options to consider in San Antonio and Houston include Greyhound and Megabus for different routes. Useful links for local transport schedules and maps: Houston METRO, San Antonio VIA Metropolitan Transit.
• When you arrive at the Houston Amtrak station, you’ll find it relatively easy to navigate. Note that luggage storage is not available at the station, but the restrooms are open for use. To get to the city center, the fastest option is to take the METRO Light Rail’s Green Line. You can catch the train right outside the station; just board the train towards the Theater District. It’s about a 20-minute ride directly to major downtown destinations.
🛫 Flying from San Antonio to Houston is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 2 minutes on United Airlines.
✈️ The flight distance between the two cities is relatively short, allowing travelers to reach Houston from San Antonio in just 3 hours and 23 minutes by plane.
🎟️ Ticket prices for flights between Houston and San Antonio can range from $98 to $293, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to make the journey by air.
Departure Point
San Antonio Airport
Arrival Point
Houston Airport
🚌 Explore the journey from San Antonio to Houston by bus with a direct route taking approximately 3 hours and 39 minutes. Vonlane operates this service, departing three times a day, every day.
🚌 Covering a distance of 198 miles, the bus journey from San Antonio to Houston offers a convenient transportation option. The route passes through scenic landscapes, providing a comfortable and efficient travel experience with Vonlane services.
🚌 With a travel time of 3 hours and 35 minutes, you can easily reach Houston from San Antonio by bus. Enjoy the convenience of direct service from San Antonio station to the Hyatt Regency Galleria Houston station operated by Vonlane.
Departure Point
San Antonio station
Arrival Point
Hyatt Regency Galleria Houston station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at the San Antonio station at least 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process with Vonlane or Greyhound, as the buses can depart promptly.
• During your 3 hour 39 minute journey, take advantage of the Wi-Fi and power outlets available on the Vonlane bus to catch up on work or entertainment; alternatively, enjoy the scenic views along I-10 and the countryside.
• Upon arriving at the Hyatt Regency Galleria Houston station, note that there are multiple transportation options available including taxis and rideshare services; the Galleria shopping mall is just a short walk away if you're looking to explore or grab a bite to eat.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from San Antonio to Houston.
Or choose the category:
The distance between San Antonio and Houston is approximately 307.4 km by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: It takes around 4 hours and 45 minutes to travel by train, 3 hours and 17 minutes by a combination of flying and tram, 3 hours and 40 minutes by plane, 3 hours and 3 minutes by car, and 3 hours and 15 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Antonio to Houston is by train, with prices ranging from $8 to $110. Although it takes 4h 45m, it provides an affordable and comfortable mode of transportation. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the fastest option, taking approximately 3 hours and costing around $35 to $55 in fuel expenses.
The prices for train tickets from San Antonio to Houston range from $8 to $110, depending on the type of ticket and class of service chosen. Similarly, bus tickets from Houston to San Antonio vary in price from $8 to $70, depending on factors such as the company and the time of travel.
To travel from San Antonio to Houston without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 315.4 km, which takes around 3 hours and 3 minutes. The driving route is a popular option as it allows for flexibility and the freedom to stop at various attractions along the way. The cost of the trip will depend on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency, but it typically ranges from $35 to $55.
To travel from San Antonio to Houston without a car, the best option is to take a bus. It takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes and the ticket prices range from $8 to $70. Another alternative is to take a train, which takes 4 hours and 45 minutes and costs between $8 and $110. Lastly, flying is also an option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 40 minutes and ticket prices ranging from $95 to $290.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Antonio and Houston. You can take a train operated by Amtrak from San Antonio Amtrak Station to Houston, which takes approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service operated by Greyhound USA, which takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes.
The flight between San Antonio and Houston typically takes about 55 minutes. However, flight times can vary depending on factors such as airline, weather conditions, and flight traffic. The cost of a flight between Houston and San Antonio ranges from $98 to $283, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Houston with 979+ hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $57 per night, making it accessible for various budgets.