Austin

When planning a trip to Austin, you are choosing a journey to the dynamic capital of Texas, located in the southern USA and known globally as the "Live Music Capital of the World." This city harmoniously combines the features of a modern metropolis with a cosy cultural centre, attracting tourists from all over the globe. You can reach Austin in various ways: by a direct flight, by train, on a comfortable bus, or by embarking on an exciting road trip.

The fastest way to reach the city is by air, arriving at the international Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS). This major aviation hub serves over 21 million passengers annually and receives flights from many major cities, ensuring convenient connections to the region.

If direct tickets are unavailable or too expensive, travellers often choose to fly to neighbouring cities, for example, to San Antonio (118 km) or Killeen (95 km). From these airports, it is easy to continue the journey to the Texas capital via ground transport.

You can also reach the city by rail: the route of the famous Texas Eagle train by Amtrak passes through Austin. The station is located near the city centre, welcoming trains travelling the long route between Chicago and Los Angeles.

This is a convenient option for those travelling from major metropolises or neighbouring regional hubs, such as San Antonio. A journey by train allows you to enjoy the scenic views of the American South without the need to drive.

Bus services connect the capital of Texas with many settlements in the region. One of the most popular and fastest routes is the trip from San Antonio: the bus covers the distance of 136 km in approximately 3 hours. The journey from the city of Killeen will take slightly longer — about 4.2 hours.

For those travelling from the city of College Station, the road may be significantly longer due to the specifics of the route network. Buses cover the distance of 414 km in an average of 7.7 hours, which is worth considering when planning your schedule, as the direct route by car is much shorter.

Travelling by car is an excellent choice for those who value independence and speed. A drive from Killeen along the highway will take only about 1.2 hours (108 km), while the road from San Antonio will require approximately 1.4 hours to cover 128 km.

If you are heading to Austin from the city of College Station, expect to spend about 1.9 hours behind the wheel (172 km). Taxis for such distances are also available, but the cost of the trip will be significantly higher than renting a car or a public transport ticket.

Austin is a city with a unique atmosphere and a hot Texan climate, so preparing for the trip requires attention to detail. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible, we have compiled several important recommendations.

1. Clothing and Climate. Texas is famous for its heat, so pack light, "breathable" clothing made from natural fabrics, sunglasses, and a hat. However, for indoor spaces with powerful air conditioning, it is worth bringing a light cardigan.
2. Transport. The best way to move around the region is a rented car, as the city is quite spread out. In the centre, it is convenient to use electric scooters or taxi services (Uber, Lyft).
3. Finances. The currency is the US Dollar (USD). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but keeping some cash for tips or small purchases at the famous food trucks—many of which offer delicious halal options—will be useful.
4. Health. Do not forget to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration under the southern sun. The central districts and tourist zones are safe, but it is worth keeping an eye on personal belongings.
5. Communication. The main language is English, but due to the proximity to the border, many locals also speak Spanish. Knowledge of basic English will be more than sufficient.
6. Etiquette. Texans are very friendly: it is customary here to greet strangers and smile. Leaving a tip (15–20%) in restaurants and cafes is a mandatory norm.
7. What to Avoid. Try not to plan car trips on major highways (especially I-35) during rush hours, as traffic jams can seriously disrupt your plans.
8. Music Capital. Be sure to attend at least one live music performance; here they take place everywhere, from venues on 6th Street to grocery stores.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the rhythm of this amazing city and gain only positive emotions from your journey.