- Must visit
LBJ Presidential Library
Large presidential library and museum covering Lyndon B. Johnson’s life, civil rights era, and major moments in U.S. history.
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cary, NC to Austin, TX among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $234 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 9h 2m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $234, while a train costs an average of $728.
Distance: 1160 miles (1868 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$234 Average price Cheapest | $383 Average price | $728 Average price | $268 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
34h 10m Average total duration 33h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 2m Average total duration Fastest 7h 2m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 73h 9m Average total duration 72h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 19h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Cary, NC to Austin, TX:
A bus is $149 (€120) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cary, NC to Austin, TX costing on average $383 (€309).
A bus is $494 (€399) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cary, NC to Austin, TX costing on average $728 (€588).
Other travel options to Austin, TX take longer:
Bus takes on average 33h 40m.
Train takes on average 72h 39m.
Tickets start at around $234 (€189) compared to roughly $268 (€217) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $34 (€27). The journey takes 33h 40m versus 19h 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Buses from Cary, NC to Austin, TX run on average 14 times per day, taking around 33h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $234 (€189) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 1160 miles (1868 km) distance in 33h 40m.
Distance 1160 miles (1868 km) |
Average bus duration 33h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $234 (€189) |
Buses per day 14 |
Fastest bus 33h 40m |
First bus 12:30 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Discover the best of Austin, TX — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Austin, TX trip today.
Large presidential library and museum covering Lyndon B. Johnson’s life, civil rights era, and major moments in U.S. history.
Respected university museum with changing exhibitions spanning ancient art to modern works in a thoughtfully designed setting.
Texas history museum with artifacts, films, and broad exhibits on the state’s people, culture, and defining events.
Scenic reservoir and trail corridor in central Austin, popular for walking, skyline views, kayaking, and outdoor relaxation.
Austin’s famous live music street mixes historic venues, neon signs, nightlife energy, and classic downtown atmosphere.
Beloved swimming hole and green park, perfect for cooling off, picnics, and enjoying one of Austin’s signature outdoor spaces.
Central Texas-style brisket is oak-smoked for hours until tender, with a peppery bark. Austin is one of the country's best cities for this barbecue tradition.
Beef sausage links with coarse-ground meat and smoky seasoning are a Texas barbecue staple, commonly served by the pound with pickles and onions.
Breakfast tacos are flour or corn tortillas filled with eggs, potatoes, beans, bacon, or chorizo. They are an everyday Austin morning ritual.
Legendary casual barbecue spot famed for smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage. Expect lines, picnic tables, and a classic Austin experience.
Refined Japanese-Texas tasting menu restaurant with polished service and a nationally known fine-dining reputation.
Iconic Tex-Mex restaurant known for queso, enchiladas, and strong margaritas in a lively, long-running Austin setting.
Moderate for U.S. city trips: hotels can be pricey in peak times, dining is varied, and transit is limited so rideshares or car hire can add cost.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee if there is table or bar service.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cary, NC to Austin, TX by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Austin, TX, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cary, NC to Austin, TX buses use the Raleigh, Bus Station to Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) station pair, with some services arriving at Austin, South Congress Transit Center. Use this guide to compare Cary, NC and Austin, TX bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) is 4 km from Austin city centre. Public transport options include:
Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza). ATMs are available at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza).
Ticket office support is available at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza).
Available at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza): Ramps available for wheelchair access.
Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd. ATMs are available at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd.
Ticket office support is available at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd.
Available at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd: Bus stop accessible from the road.
Austin, South Congress Transit Center is 5 km from Austin city centre. Public transport options include:
Austin, South Congress Transit Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Austin, South Congress Transit Center. ATMs are available at Austin, South Congress Transit Center.
Ticket office support is available at Austin, South Congress Transit Center.
Available at Austin, South Congress Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Austin, South Congress Transit Center: The station is accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
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