How To Get From Austin Airport to San Marcos

Q: How do I get to San Marcos from Austin without a car?

Travel from Austin Airport to San Marcos takes around 40 minutes by taxi or private transfer. If you choose to take the bus, you’ll need to make at least one transfer. Moreover, your journey will be extended to 1 hour and 20 minutes, with long wait times in between services.

Situated 46 kilometers south of Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), visitors can choose from three main transportation options to reach their San Marcos hotel or destination: an Austin Airport taxi, a combination of local buses, and a private transfer.

The most direct and efficient way to travel from Austin Airport to San Marcos is to take a taxi or a private Austin Airport transfer, which takes around 40 minutes, perfect for overseas visitors coming off a long flight. When you opt for a private transfer, you can also book and pay for your ride in advance to ensure an on-time pickup.

Alternatively, you can use the public bus network, which is a great option for anyone trying to travel more economically. This option requires taking at least two buses and has a travel time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes – just be prepared for long wait times.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Austin at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2 PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€66	40min	24/7
Bus	€13.60	80min	08:55–16:35
Welcome Airport Transfer	€189	40min	24/7

How to get from Austin Airport to San Marcos by taxi

One of the most convenient ways to travel from Austin Airport to San Marcos is to take a taxi. An Austin Airport taxi offers direct and around-the-clock transportation, dropping you at your San Marcos hotel or accommodation in roughly 40 minutes.

Airport-approved taxi companies (ATX Co-Op Taxi, Central City Taxi, and Z-Trip) provide metered fares for up to four passengers in each vehicle, and no booking is required.

How much does a taxi cost from Austin Airport to San Marcos?

A taxi from Austin Airport to San Marcos usually costs around $77 (€66). Fares are calculated using a taximeter based on factors like distance and time. Additional charges may apply, such as road tolls and out-of-city surcharges.

For a competitive fixed rate and peace of mind, consider booking a private transfer in advance instead.

Cost

$77 (€66)

Trip Duration

40 Min.

*Prices may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

Where do I get the taxi from?

From the Baggage Claim area, follow the signs to the Rental Car Facility, then head to the Taxi and Ride App Pick-Up area on Level 1/G.

Convenience

Getting from Austin Airport to San Marcos by taxi is quick and easy, and you won’t need to switch buses or lug heavy luggage around. Since you can grab one on arrival without a booking, taxis are ideal if you like to keep your plans flexible. To ensure an on-time pickup with zero wait time and the smoothest transportation possible, you can pre-book a private transfer with Welcome.

Editor’s Note

The only direct way to travel from Austin Airport to San Marcos is by taxi or private transfer, which can save you more than an hour each way.

Useful Tips

In Austin, taxis generally accept credit card or cash payments, but confirm with the driver before you set off if you plan to pay with a card.

In the US, tipping taxi drivers 15-20% is customary.

Always check the taximeter for the starting fare and correct tariff before your trip, unless you paid online in advance.

How to get from Austin Airport to San Marcos by bus

A cheaper alternative to a taxi is to use the public bus system. However, since there isn’t a direct bus service, this option does require a transfer through the city center, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea. On top of that, there are only a few services each day, with lengthy wait times in between, and no services on weekends.

Nevertheless, if you’re still keen to give the bus a try, you’ll first need to ride the 1518 CARTS interurban Purple Line to the Eastside Bus Plaza Bay, which takes 15 minutes. Once there, switch to the 1510 Yellow Line for a further 55 minutes or so. In total, you can expect the journey to take 1 hour and 20 minutes, give or take, depending on traffic and wait times.

For a smooth and speedy journey, you can book your private transfer in advance and lock in a competitive fixed rate, with zero transfers.

How much is the bus from Austin Airport to San Marcos?

From Austin Airport to Eastside Bus Plaza, the bus ticket costs $4 (€3.40) and from there to San Marcos it’s an additional $4 (€3.40), bringing the total bus fare to $8 (€6.80). You can purchase tickets for each CARTS bus service on the Journey app, or with exact change from the driver.

Cost

$8 (€6.80)

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 20 Min.

There's a waiting time of 2-3 hours for both buses, depending on the time of day.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The 1518 route runs from 08:55 until 16:55 and the 1510 route from 10:10 to 16:35.

Where do I get the bus from?

For the first leg of your journey, you can find the CARTS 1518 bus stop at the designated pick-up area for intercity buses, on the lower level. Upon reaching the Eastside Bus Plaza, you can board the CARTS 1510 bus to San Marcos from Bay A.

Convenience

Catching the bus from Austin Airport to San Marcos is a solid budget-friendly choice, but it has its limitations. You’ll need to transfer downtown, and the service is slow and infrequent, with limited operating hours that can mean long wait times, making the journey considerably longer.

We also recommend checking where the bus drops you off and how far it is from your hotel so you can plan for any additional transportation you may need.

Timetables

Interurban 1518 Purple Route

ABIA Terminal – Eastside Bus Plaza

Interurban 1510 Yellow Route

Eastside Bus Plaza – CARTS San Marcos

Editor’s Note

If your flight arrives after 14:00 or you're traveling on a weekend, your only option may be a taxi or private transfer.

Useful Tips

Although budget-friendly, the bus requires transfers, has infrequent service, and limited operating hours.

You can purchase your ticket on the app, or directly from the driver with the exact change in USD.

Discounts are available for seniors aged 65 and above, persons with disabilities, and children under 12.

Make sure to activate your tickets just before use, as they have a specific duration.

How to get from Austin Airport to San Marcos by private transfer

If you’re after an elevated travel experience, where all the arrangements are made on your behalf before arriving, look no further than a private Austin Airport transfer. Services like those offered by Welcome Pickups include:

Airport meet and greet
Guaranteed on-time pickup
English-speaking driver
Competitive fixed fare prices
24/7 customer service
Flexible cancellation
Flight monitoring

You’ll benefit from zero wait times, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, complete privacy, and ample space for luggage, with the ability to customize your vehicle as needed. As an added personal touch, on the way to your hotel or accommodation in San Marcos, your driver will give you a mini tour of the city and suggest some things to see and do.

How much is a private transfer from Austin Airport to San Marcos?

Unlike a regular taxi, you’ll receive a fixed price for your Austin Airport shuttle to San Marcos, which you’ll pay for in advance. This way, you won’t have to worry about tolls, surcharges, or the cost going up if you get stuck in traffic.

As a guide, these are the prices for each vehicle type:

Sedan (up to 3 people) – $220 (€189)
Minivan (up to 9 people) – $238.60 (€205)
Minivan (up to 9 people) – $458.60 (€394)

Bookings can be made in less than 60 seconds either online or via the Welcome Pickups app. Be sure to have your flight details handy, then simply enter a few personal details and your preferred pickup time to receive a bespoke quote.

Cost

$220 (€189)

Trip Duration

40 Min.

*A driver and vehicle will be waiting for you on arrival.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Private transfers are available from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport 24/7.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

After landing, make your way into the Arrivals Hall of the International or South terminal building, where your driver will be waiting holding a name sign. To ensure you can spot them amongst the crowd, Welcome also sends an email a few days before with an updated photo. Next, you’ll be taken to your preselected private vehicle. If you’re traveling with heavy luggage, your driver will assist you so that you can be on your way as quickly as possible.

Convenience

Due to the cost, a private transfer may not be suitable for everyone’s budget. However, if you’re traveling as a group and can split the cost, it can save time waiting for a vehicle large enough to accommodate everyone. Moreover, families traveling with prams and heavier luggage will find the space and comfort a welcome relief after a long flight.

Editor’s Note

A private transfer is ideal for business travelers where time is of the upmost importance, and all travelers who prefer not to have long waits for public transportation or available cabs.

Useful Tips

We suggest selecting a pickup time at least 40 minutes after your flight’s scheduled arrival time to ensure you have enough time to pass through Immigration and collect any luggage.

Vehicle sizes are based on passengers traveling with one standard-sized suitcase each.

At Welcome Pickups, we provide all our drivers with live updates on any changes to your flight time. This means that if your flight is delayed or arrives early, your driver will always be there to greet you when you land.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Austin. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€189.0

NIGHTTIME

€226.8

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to San Marcos from Austin without a car?

Travel from Austin Airport to San Marcos takes around 40 minutes by taxi or private transfer.

If you choose to take the bus, you’ll need to make at least one transfer. Moreover, your journey will be extended to 1 hour and 20 minutes, with long wait times in between services.

How much is a taxi from Austin to San Marcos?

A taxi from Austin Airport to San Marcos typically costs $77 (€66) and takes roughly 40 minutes. Fares are based on distance and time, not including tips and road tolls.

For peace of mind, you can secure a fixed-rate private transfer with Welcome Pickups in advance, ensuring complete transparency and no hidden fees.

How far is San Marcos from the airport?

The distance from Austin Airport to San Marcos is 46 kilometers, which is a 40-minute drive by car or taxi under normal traffic conditions.

Does Amtrak go to San Marcos, Texas?

No, Amtrak does not have a station in San Marcos, but there is one in Austin.

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How to get from Austin Airport to San Marcos by taxi

How much does a taxi cost from Austin Airport to San Marcos?

$77 (€66)

40 Min.

Taxis are available 24/7 at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

Where do I get the taxi from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Austin Airport to San Marcos by bus

How much is the bus from Austin Airport to San Marcos?

$8 (€6.80)

1 Hr. 20 Min.

The 1518 route runs from 08:55 until 16:55 and the 1510 route from 10:10 to 16:35.

Where do I get the bus from?

Convenience

Timetables

Interurban 1518 Purple Route

ABIA Terminal – Eastside Bus Plaza

Interurban 1510 Yellow Route

Eastside Bus Plaza – CARTS San Marcos

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Austin Airport to San Marcos by private transfer

How much is a private transfer from Austin Airport to San Marcos?

$220 (€189)

40 Min.

Private transfers are available from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport 24/7.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Prices

DAYTIME

NIGHTTIME

Sedan Car

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to San Marcos from Austin without a car?

How much is a taxi from Austin to San Marcos?

How far is San Marcos from the airport?

Does Amtrak go to San Marcos, Texas?

The best way to arrive in Austin

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