Getting Here
Travel & Transportation to Austin, Texas
Planning your journey to Central Texas? Find everything you need for air travel, interstates, local public transit, and ride-share options once you arrive.
Arriving by Air: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
Austin's primary travel hub is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Located only 7.5 miles from downtown, it’s a quick trip to start your journey. The airport boasts a schedule of more than 200 daily flights and 75+ nonstop destinations. Travelers can relax with free Wi-Fi and exceptional Austin-style customer service, plus enjoy unique offerings like art exhibits, 1,000 live music performances each year, and a fantastic selection of local dining (including brisket and breakfast tacos).
Driving to Austin
Visitors driving into the city primarily use I-35 (the main north-south connection) and US-290 (for east-west connections). Loop 1 (Mopac) serves as a common alternative north-south route within the city. A growing number of public EV charging stations are also available for electric vehicles traveling to and from Austin.
| Major City | Approximate Driving Distance | Estimated Drive Time (Normal Traffic) |
|---|---|---|
| San Antonio | 80 miles | 1 hour 20 minutes |
| Houston | 165 miles | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Dallas | 200 miles | 3 hours 15 minutes |
| Fort Worth | 185 miles | 3 hours 15 minutes |
Regional Bus and Rail
Intercity transportation services offer convenient alternatives for arriving in Austin. The city hosts an active Amtrak station, providing passenger rail service connections for long-distance travelers. Additionally, major intercity bus lines, including Greyhound, service the Austin area, offering affordable and flexible travel options to and from surrounding regions.
Getting Around Austin (Local Transportation)
Navigating Austin is easy. Downtown, South Congress, and surrounding areas are highly walkable and cyclist-friendly, making it easy to enjoy the sights on foot or bike. For longer distances, the Capital Metro (CapMetro) system operates an extensive network of buses and the Red Line commuter rail. We recommend utilizing the CapMetro app for real-time trip planning and purchasing passes. For quick trips, micro-mobility options like rental e-bikes and e-scooters are widely available via third-party apps, complementing the widespread ride-sharing and taxi services.
Maps
To help you orient yourself and plan your itinerary, view a variety of maps to help you get around the city.