1map logoGo to main page

College Station, TX, USA to San Marcos, TX, USA from $23: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
College Station, United States of America
to
San Marcos, United States of America

How to Get from College Station to San Marcos: 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.

$23 by busBest price
196 kmDistance
2h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from College Station to San Marcos 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
4h  48m
Estimated price
$68-151
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  29m
Estimated price
$23-96
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 196 km
Duration: 2h 8m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  8m
Estimated price
$22-35
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From College Station to San Marcos

The journey from College Station to San Marcos offers a fascinating transition from a vibrant college town atmosphere to a laid-back, scenic riverside experience.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Marcos

San Marcos boasts diverse neighborhoods that cater to various tastes and interests.

Downtown San Marcos
• Vibrant dining and shopping options are abundant.
• Cultural events and festivals are regularly celebrated.
Wonder World Park Area
• Home to the iconic Wonder Cave and wildlife park.
• Beautiful natural scenery ideal for outdoor activities.
Plain View
• Family-friendly with plenty of parks nearby.
• Close to major attractions and schools.

Best Times To Visit San Marcos's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your San Marcos experience, minimizing crowds and enhancing enjoyment.

San Marcos River
Visit early morning or weekdays for a peaceful, less crowded experience.
Wonder World Cave
Fall and spring mornings are ideal, offering comfortable temperatures and fewer visitors.
Texas State University
Explore during the summer break for a quieter atmosphere and campus vibes.

San Marcos Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Marcos features a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Spring and fall are often ideal times to visit, as comfortable temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation

For a unique culinary experience in San Marcos, try the mouthwatering tacos at Torchy's Tacos, where vibrant flavors and creative combinations set it apart from College Station's dining scene. The casual, colorful atmosphere and emphasis on local ingredients elevate your meal, offering a fresh take on classic Tex-Mex fare.

College Station - San Marcos operators

Explore transport companies operating between College Station and San Marcos, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Brazos Transit District to Waco Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$9-680

Bus from Waco to San Marcos - Mazatlan Restaurant

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$23-681
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Waco Bus Stop to San Marcos

Average Duration
2h 44m
Estimated price
$685-684
Contact phone
+1 888-358-6762
Website
https://www.tornadobus.com/

Bus from Waco to San Marcos - Mazatlan Restaurant

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$23-681
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Bryan to Waco

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$0-0

College Station to San Marcos: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between College Station and San Marcos 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 spanning 122 miles from College Station to San Marcos the journey through the heart of the Lone Star State, experiencing the charm of the countryside along the way. 💰 Discover budget-friendly travel options with car prices ranging from $22 to $35 for the College Station to San Marcos route. Plan ahead to find the best deals and make the most of your journey without breaking the bank. 🏞️ Arrive in San Marcos after approximately 2 hours and 8 minutes of driving, ready to explore the picturesque city nestled along the San Marcos River. Embrace the Texan hospitality and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this enchanting destination.
Average price
$22 - $35
🚆 Starting from College Station you can take a scenic train journey to San Marcos. The trip will take approximately 12 hours and 27 minutes, covering a distance of 225 miles with one transfer along the way. 🚌 The first leg of the journey involves a bus ride towards Fort Worth Downtown, lasting about 1 hour and 35 minutes. This bus, operated by FlixBus, departs from College Station and arrives in Waco before continuing on to the next stop. 🌊 The final part of the trip includes another bus ride towards San Antonio Bus Station, lasting around 2 hours and 40 minutes. The bus departs from Waco and travels through Austin and Dallas before reaching CARTS San Marcos Station, where you'll conclude your train-adventure to San Marcos
🚌 If you're traveling from College Station to San Marcos by bus, be prepared for a journey that includes transfers. The trip, operated by Greyhound USA and Flixbus, takes approximately 5 hours and 29 minutes. 🛣️ Route 1 offers a quicker option, taking about 8 hours and 2 minutes to cover the 326-mile distance with two transfers along the way. You'll pass through cities like Fort Worth, Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and finally arrive at CARTS San Marcos Station. 🕒 For a slightly longer journey, consider Route 2, which takes approximately 12 hours and 27 minutes to reach San Marcos from College Station. This route involves one transfer in San Antonio before arriving at CARTS San Marcos Station. Both routes provide different travel experiences and opportunities to explore various cities along the way.
Departure Point
Brazos Transit District station
Arrival Point
San Marcos station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from College Station to San Marcos.

Or choose the category:
The distance between College Station and San Marcos is approximately 109 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 121.7 miles. If traveling by car, it typically takes around 2 hours and 8 minutes to reach College Station from San Marcos. On the other hand, if traveling by bus, the journey from College Station to San Marcos is expected to take around 4 hours and 43 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from College Station to San Marcos is by car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 109 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 8 minutes to drive. The cost of driving ranges from $22 to $35, which makes it a cheaper option compared to other modes of transportation. Additionally, driving allows for greater flexibility and the ability to explore surrounding areas at your own pace.
The prices for a bus ticket from College Station to San Marcos can range from $68 to $151. The price variation may be due to factors like the time of day, type of bus, or availability of seats. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online booking platforms to compare prices and find the best deal for your travel needs.
To travel from College Station to San Marcos without using public transportation, you can drive your own car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 122 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 8 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of driving can vary, with prices typically ranging from $22 to $35 depending on factors such as fuel consumption and toll fees.
To travel from College Station to San Marcos without a car, the best option is to take a bus via Waco. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 43 minutes and the cost ranges between $65 and $160. This particular route is commonly used by travelers who prefer not to drive or do not have access to a car. The bus service provides a convenient and relatively affordable way to reach San Marcos from College Station.
Yes, there is a indirect link between College Station and San Marcos. There are no direct bus services available between the two cities, but you can take a bus from College Station's Brazos Transit District to Waco Bus Stop, and then transfer to another bus that goes from Waco to San Marcos. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 5 hours and 24 minutes. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and Flixbus USA.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Marcos. With over 248 hotels available, you will have a wide range of choices to suit your budget and preferences. The prices start at $42 per night, making it a affordable option for travelers. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, you will find plenty of options to choose from in San Marcos.

Trips from College Station