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San Marcos, TX, USA to Houston, TX, USA from $10: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Marcos, United States of America
to
Houston, United States of America

How to Get from San Marcos 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.

$10 by trainBest price
267 kmDistance
2h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Marcos 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.

Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
4h  27m
Estimated price
$33-113
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
8h  28m
Estimated price
$10-176
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 267 km
Duration: 2h 41m

See more options

Company
FlixBus 2230
Bus
Average Duration
5h  23m
Estimated price
$14-78
Company
FlixBus US1164
Bus
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$21-93
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  41m
Estimated price
$30-330
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  3m
Estimated price
$106-330
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
4h  56m
Estimated price
$106-330
Company
Various
Bus
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  39m
Estimated price
$331-332
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$333-334
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  15m
Estimated price
$335-145

Traveling From San Marcos to Houston

The journey from San Marcos to Houston offers a fascinating shift from the charming, laid-back vibe of a college town to the vibrant, bustling energy of a major urban center.

Best Neighbourhoods in Houston

Houston's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every type of visitor.

Montrose
• Eclectic art scene with vibrant galleries.
• A hub for LGBTQ+ nightlife and culture.
The Heights
• Charming historic homes and tree-lined streets.
• Trendy shops and local eateries abound.
Downtown Houston
• Major business district with iconic skyscrapers.
• Diverse dining options and entertainment venues.

Best Times To Visit Houston's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Houston experience.

Space Center Houston
Weekdays in late morning or early afternoon are less crowded.
Houston Museum District
Visit on Thursdays for free museum entries and fewer visitors.
Buffalo Bayou Park
Early mornings or weekdays offer peaceful strolls along the trails.

Houston Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Houston experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when temperatures are more comfortable, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city's attractions.

Dining Recommendation

For a truly unforgettable dining experience, try the barbecue at Franklin Barbecue, where tender brisket and rich, smoky flavors create a standout meal that contrasts sharply with the Tex-Mex offerings in San Marcos. The lively atmosphere and emphasis on local, high-quality ingredients elevate the Houston dining scene, providing an exciting culinary adventure.

San Marcos - Houston operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 888 358 6762
Website
tornadobus.com

Bus from San Marcos - Mazatlan Restaurant to Austin

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$1-103

Bus from Austin to Tornado Bus Co - Houston Airline Dr

Average Duration
2h 57m
Estimated price
$1-1764
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Marcos to Austin Eastside Bus Plaza

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$1-109

Bus from Austin Eastside Bus Plaza to Downtown Houston

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$105-107

Bus from San Marcos to Downtown Austin

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$1-109

Bus from San Marcos to San Antonio Bus Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$1-103
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Marcos Amtrak to San Antonio Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 43m
Estimated price
$1138-1139

Train from San Antonio Amtrak Station to Houston

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$108-1130
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Austin (AUS) to Houston (IAH)

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$338-339

Plane from San Antonio (SAT) to Houston (IAH)

Average Duration
1h 7m
Estimated price
$1130-1131

Plane from Victoria (VCT) to Houston (IAH)

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$1132-1133
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Austin (AUS) to Houston Hobby Apt (HOU)

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$1134-1135

Plane from San Antonio (SAT) to Houston Hobby Apt (HOU)

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$1136-1137

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

Traveling between San Marcos 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 Marcos to Houston, spanning a distance of 166 miles. Enjoy a leisurely drive that takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes, passing through charming Texas landscapes along the way. 💸 Plan your budget accordingly for this journey, as the prices for traveling from San Marcos to Houston by car typically range from $30 to $45. Keep in mind factors such as fuel costs and any toll roads you may encounter during your drive.
Average price
$30 - $45
🚆 Traveling from San Marcos to Houston by train involves a scenic route with a transfer in San Antonio Amtrak Station. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 28 minutes, offering a relaxing way to reach your destination. 🚆 The prices for train tickets between San Marcos and Houston range from $10 to $176, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice for those looking to explore the Lone Star State by rail. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey on this scenic train route from San Marcos to Houston.
Departure Point
San Marcos Amtrak station
Arrival Point
Houston station
🛫 Starting from San Marcos travelers can easily catch a direct 59-minute flight from Austin Airport to Houston Airport with United Airlines. The short duration makes it a convenient option for those looking to travel quickly between the two cities.
Departure Point
Austin Airport
Arrival Point
Houston Airport
🚌 Starting in San Marcos travelers will need to take a bus to Austin before transferring to another bus bound for Houston. The total journey time, including transfers, is around 4 hours and 27 minutes. 🌆 The route from San Marcos to Houston covers a distance of 180 miles and involves a transfer in Austin. Passengers can expect to enjoy a scenic ride through Texas on their way to the bustling city of Houston. 💰 Bus ticket prices for this trip can range from $33 to $113, offering an affordable and convenient transportation option for those looking to explore the urban attractions of Houston from San Marcos.
Departure Point
San Marcos station
Arrival Point
Downtown Houston station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before your trip, familiarize yourself with the Capital Area Rural Transportation System (CARTS) bus schedule from San Marcos to Austin to ensure you catch the right bus, as it departs from Mazatlan Restaurant and takes about 1 hour—details can be found at ridecarts.com
• While in Austin, plan your transfer carefully at Eastside Bus Plaza; arrive a bit early as FlixBus typically boards quickly and you don't want to miss your connection to Houston—check their schedule at flixbus.com
• Upon arrival at Downtown Houston, navigate to the nearby public transportation options like the METRORail, or check for rideshare services available right outside the station, as this will make reaching your final destination in the city much smoother.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Marcos to Houston.

Or choose the category:
The distance between San Marcos and Houston is approximately 156 miles by road. If you choose to travel by train, it typically takes around 8 hours and 28 minutes to reach Houston from San Marcos. Another option is to take a bus, which takes approximately 4 hours and 27 minutes. If you prefer driving, it will take about 2 hours and 41 minutes to travel from Houston to San Marcos by car.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Marcos to Houston is to drive. It takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes and costs approximately $30-$45 for the fuel expenses. Driving allows you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and make any necessary stops along the way. Additionally, it eliminates the need to transfer between different modes of transportation, saving you time.
The prices for a train ticket between San Marcos and Houston range from $10 to $176, depending on factors such as the class of ticket and the time of booking. Similarly, the prices for a bus ticket between Houston and San Marcos can vary from $33 to $113. It is advisable to book in advance and compare prices from different providers to find the best deal for your travel.
To get from San Marcos to Houston without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 166 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 41 minutes to reach Houston by car. The cost of fuel and tolls may vary, but prices range from $30 to $45 for the round trip. Driving allows for flexibility and the ability to stop at various points of interest along the way.
To travel from San Marcos to Houston without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey usually takes around 4 hours and 27 minutes and can cost between $30 and $120. There are several bus companies that operate this route, providing convenient and affordable transportation between the two cities.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Marcos and Houston. Although there aren't direct train or bus services, you can take a train from San Marcos to Houston with a transfer in San Antonio, which takes approximately 8 hours and 28 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from San Marcos to Houston with a transfer in Austin, which takes about 4 hours and 27 minutes. Both options provide convenient transportation between the two cities.
The flight from Austin Airport to Houston Hobby Apt Airport typically takes around 55 minutes. However, it is important to note that this is the quickest, direct flight option available. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to get the best deal.
There are many options for accommodations in Houston. With over 979 hotels to choose from, you will have a wide range of choices available. Prices for hotels start at $57 per night, offering options to suit different budgets. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, you will be able to find a suitable place to stay in Houston.

Trips to Houston