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San Marcos, TX, USA to McAllen, TX, USA from $30: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Marcos to McAllen: 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.

$30 by busBest price
456 kmDistance
4h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Marcos to McAllen 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  56m
Estimated price
$28-111
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  46m
Estimated price
$30-100
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 456 km
Duration: 4h 7m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  1m
Estimated price
$28-111
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  7m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  7m
Estimated price
$161-464
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  27m
Estimated price
$226-280
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
6h  33m
Estimated price
$281-282

Traveling From San Marcos to McAllen

Your journey from San Marcos to McAllen promises two contrasting experiences, with San Marcos offering a charming small-town vibe and McAllen showcasing a vibrant blend of culture and commerce.

Best Neighbourhoods in McAllen

McAllen's neighborhoods offer a mix of culture, dining, and entertainment.

North McAllen
• Upscale shopping and dining options available.
• Beautiful parks for outdoor activities.
Downtown McAllen
• Rich in art and cultural venues.
• Bustling nightlife with diverse restaurants.
La Vista
• Family-friendly with great community feel.
• Close proximity to scenic nature trails.

Best Times To Visit McAllen's Attractions

Planning your visit to McAllen can maximize your experience at its top attractions.

McAllen Nature Center
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for a peaceful experience.
Quinta Mazatlán
Afternoons during weekdays provide a less crowded atmosphere.
McAllen Art District
Explore on Thursday evenings for gallery openings and local events.

McAllen Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

McAllen enjoys a warm, semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. The best times to visit are spring and fall when temperatures are more comfortable, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities and local events.

Dining Recommendation

In McAllen, try the brisket tacos at The Patio on Guerra, where the smoky flavor contrasts beautifully with the more traditional dishes you may find in San Marcos. The vibrant atmosphere and use of locally sourced ingredients elevate the dining experience, immersing you in the rich culinary culture of the region.

San Marcos - McAllen operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Marcos to San Antonio Bus Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from San Antonio Bus Station to Mcallen Bus Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from San Marcos to Mcallen Bus Station

Average Duration
7h 46m
Estimated price
$30-100

Bus from San Marcos to Austin Eastside Bus Plaza

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Austin Airport (AUS) to McAllen Airport (MFE)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$287-288

Plane from San Antonio (SAT) to McAllen (MFE)

Average Duration
3h 39m
Estimated price
$289-1110
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Antonio (SAT) to McAllen (MFE)

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
$284-1111
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Austin (AUS) to Harlingen (HRL)

Average Duration
1h 7m
Estimated price
$100-1112
Website
delta.com

Plane from Austin Airport (AUS) to McAllen Airport (MFE)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$286-1115
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 956-601-7794

Taxi from Harlingen to McAllen

Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$100-301

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from San Marcos to McAllen is by bus. There are several bus companies that operate this route, including Greyhound and Tornado Bus, with fares ranging from $30 to $100. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 46 minutes, depending on the specific bus schedule and any stops along the way. Booking your ticket in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can help you find the best deals.
The fastest way to travel from San Marcos to McAllen is by driving. The journey can take approximately 5 hours and 7 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost for fuel and tolls may range between $50 and $75. Taking a direct route via Interstate 35 South and US-281 South can help to minimize travel time. Ensure to check for any road closures or construction before embarking on the journey.
The distance from San Marcos to McAllen is approximately 256 miles. However, the road distance is slightly longer at 283.2 miles. This distance can be covered by car or bus, with an estimated travel time of around 5-6 hours depending on traffic conditions.
The best way to travel from San Marcos to McAllen without a car is by taking a bus via Robstown. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 4 minutes and the cost ranges from $40 to $85. You can find bus services that operate this route and purchase tickets online or at the bus station. It is recommended to check the schedules in advance to ensure availability and plan your trip accordingly.
The travel time from San Marcos to McAllen is approximately 7 hours and 4 minutes, including transfers. This time may vary depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken. It is always advisable to check for any delays or disruptions before starting your journey.
There are numerous accommodation options available in McAllen with over 144 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $62 per night and vary depending on location and amenities. Some popular hotel chains in McAllen include Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability for your stay.
Yes, you can drive from San Marcos to McAllen. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 283 miles. It usually takes about 5 hours and 7 minutes to drive this distance, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Make sure to plan your route in advance and have your driver's license, registration, and insurance documents with you for a smooth journey.
Yes, there is a direct bus between San Marcos and McAllen. The bus departs from San Marcos and arrives at McAllen Bus Station. The bus service operates once daily, seven days a week. The journey on the bus takes approximately 7 hours and 46 minutes.
You can catch the bus from San Marcos to McAllen at the San Marcos station. The bus services, operated by Flixbus USA, depart from this location. Make sure to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station a little early to ensure a smooth journey.
The bus from San Marcos to McAllen arrives at the McAllen Bus Station. The McAllen Bus Station is conveniently located in downtown McAllen, making it easy to access other parts of the city. Upon arrival, passengers can find various services and amenities nearby, such as restaurants, hotels, and public transportation options for further travel within McAllen. The McAllen Bus Station is a central transportation hub, providing a convenient and efficient option for travelers.
American Airlines and United Airlines are the airlines that offer flights between San Marcos and McAllen. Flights are typically operated from Austin Airport to McAllen Airport. It's recommended to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date flight schedules and prices.
The fastest way to travel from San Marcos to McAllen by plane is to fly from Austin Airport to McAllen Airport. However, there are no direct flights available, so you would need to take a flight with a stopover. The quickest flight option takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes. American Airlines and United Airlines are the airlines that offer flights between Austin and McAllen.
The flight from San Marcos to McAllen requires a stopover as there are no direct flights available. The quickest flight with one stopover typically takes about 3 hours and 19 minutes in total. However, please note that the exact duration of the flight can vary depending on the specific airline, route, and layover time. It is advisable to check with the airline for the most up-to-date information on flight schedules and durations.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Marcos to McAllen typically ranges from $41 to $83. However, prices can vary depending on the bus company, the time of day, and the level of service. It is recommended to check with different bus providers to compare prices and find the most affordable option for your trip.
Driving from San Marcos to McAllen can cost you anywhere between $50 to $75, depending on factors such as the type of vehicle, gas prices, and tolls. The distance between the two cities is approximately 320 miles, so it's important to budget for fuel expenses. Additionally, you may also need to consider additional costs such as parking fees at your destination in McAllen.

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