- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$51
Average price
$54
Fastest journey
6 h 55 m
Average duration
8 h 16 m
Buses per day
9
Distance
454 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX will cost around $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.
Fast buses
Of the 9 buses that leave McAllen, TX for Austin, TX on Fri, Jul 31, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct buses cover the 454 km distance in an average of 8 h 16 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 55 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest buses will take 9 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
3:50 PM6h55McAllen, Central Station10:45 PMAustin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX$511One-way0 transfers- +
FlixBus11:00 PM9h00McAllen, Central Station8:00 AMAustin, South Congress Transit Center, TX$521One-way1 transfer 
++FlixBus9:30 AM10h40McAllen, Central Station8:10 PMAustin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX$521One-way2 transfers- +11:00 PM8h25McAllen, Central Station7:25 AMAustin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX$521One-way1 transfer
- +9:30 AM9h15McAllen, Central Station6:45 PMAustin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX$521One-way1 transfer
- 3:50 PM6h55McAllen, Central Station10:45 PMAustin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX$511One-way0 transfers
- +11:20 AM8h25McAllen, Central Station7:45 PMAustin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX$601One-way1 transfer
- +11:00 PM8h25McAllen, Central Station7:25 AMAustin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX$521One-way1 transfer
- 11:10 AM8h35McAllen, Central Station7:45 PMAustin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX$561One-way0 transfers
- +FlixBus11:00 PM9h00McAllen, Central Station8:00 AMAustin, South Congress Transit Center, TX$521One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for McAllen, TX to Austin, TX
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $52. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 34m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, and a flight costs an average of $133.
Distance: 282 miles (454 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$74 Average price Cheapest | $299 Average price | $62 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 22m Average total duration 6h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 34m Average total duration Fastest 4h 34m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX is a bus with an average price of $74.
This is compared to other travel options from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX:
A bus is $225 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX costing on average $299.
The fastest way to travel from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 34m.
Other travel options to Austin, TX take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between McAllen, TX and Austin, TX including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -3h -5m sooner (6h 52m by bus vs 4h 47m by car) and save roughly $-12.35 compared to fuel and tolls ($74 vs $62). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by FlixBus, Omnibus Express.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
McAllen, TX to Austin, TX Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Valley Transit | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Valley Transit | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Valley Transit | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Valley Transit | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Valley Transit | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $109 |
Operator Valley Transit | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator Valley Transit | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Live departures
McAllen, TX to Austin, TX bus times
The table below shows live departures for McAllen, TX to Austin, TX buses for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| + | 9:30 AM McAllen, Central Station | 9h15 | 6:45 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 1 transfer | |
| ++FlixBus | 9:30 AM McAllen, Central Station | 10h20 | 7:50 PM Austin, South Congress Transit Center, TX | 2 transfers | |
| ++FlixBus | 9:30 AM McAllen, Central Station | 10h40 | 8:10 PM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 2 transfers | |
| 11:10 AM McAllen, Central Station | 8h35 | 7:45 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
| + | 11:20 AM McAllen, Central Station | 8h25 | 7:45 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 1 transfer | |
| 3:50 PM McAllen, Central Station | 6h55 | 10:45 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
| + | 11:00 PM McAllen, Central Station | 8h25 | 7:25 AM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 11:00 PM McAllen, Central Station | 9h00 | 8:00 AM Austin, South Congress Transit Center, TX | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 11:00 PM McAllen, Central Station | 9h25 | 8:25 AM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets McAllen, TX to Austin, TX by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
Jul 31
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12
Aug 12
Thu
Aug 13
Aug 13
Why should you book McAllen, TX to Austin, TX buses with Omio?
Valley Transit as well as Greyhound, FlixBus, Omnibus Express and more offer buses services from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Valley Transit tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Valley Transit?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Valley Transit, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound, FlixBus or Omnibus Express to find the best option for your trip from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Valley Transit with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX
USAUSA
Buses from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 52m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $52 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 282 miles (454 km) distance in 6h 55m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 282 miles (454 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $52 |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 6h 55m |
First bus 3:30 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: Valley Transit, Greyhound, FlixBus, Omnibus Express from McAllen, TX to Austin, TXYou can travel by bus between McAllen, TX to Austin, TX with Valley Transit, Greyhound, FlixBus, Omnibus Express for as low as $52. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 30m
Cheapest Price
$101
FlixBus frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 45m
Cheapest Price
$57
Greyhound frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Valley Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 55m
Cheapest Price
$52
Omnibus Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
$91
Omnibus Express frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Austin, TX
Things to do in Austin, TX
Discover the best of Austin, TX — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Austin, TX trip today.
- Must visit
Blanton Museum of Art
Respected university museum with changing exhibitions spanning ancient art to modern works in a thoughtfully designed setting.
- Must visit
Bullock Texas State History Museum
Texas history museum with artifacts, films, and broad exhibits on the state’s people, culture, and defining events.
- Must visit
Lady Bird Lake
Scenic reservoir and trail corridor in central Austin, popular for walking, skyline views, kayaking, and outdoor relaxation.
- Must visit
Sixth Street
Austin’s famous live music street mixes historic venues, neon signs, nightlife energy, and classic downtown atmosphere.
- Must visit
Barton Springs Pool
Beloved swimming hole and green park, perfect for cooling off, picnics, and enjoying one of Austin’s signature outdoor spaces.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Brisket
Central Texas-style brisket is oak-smoked for hours until tender, with a peppery bark. Austin is one of the country's best cities for this barbecue tradition.
- Gluten-free
Texas Sausage
Beef sausage links with coarse-ground meat and smoky seasoning are a Texas barbecue staple, commonly served by the pound with pickles and onions.
Breakfast Tacos
Breakfast tacos are flour or corn tortillas filled with eggs, potatoes, beans, bacon, or chorizo. They are an everyday Austin morning ritual.
Franklin Barbecue
Legendary casual barbecue spot famed for smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage. Expect lines, picnic tables, and a classic Austin experience.
Uchi
Refined Japanese-Texas tasting menu restaurant with polished service and a nationally known fine-dining reputation.
Matt's El Rancho
Iconic Tex-Mex restaurant known for queso, enchiladas, and strong margaritas in a lively, long-running Austin setting.
US Dollar ($)
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.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee if there is table or bar service.
FAQs: Bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from McAllen, TX 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.
Cheap bus tickets from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX can start from as little as $52 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for McAllen, TX to Austin, TX is $74 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX is 6h 55m to travel the 282 miles (454 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX leaves at 3:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX with FlixBus, Omnibus Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX, you can count on Valley Transit, Greyhound, FlixBus, Omnibus Express for the best way to get you to Austin, TX. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between McAllen, TX and Austin, TX and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Austin, TX from McAllen, TX is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between McAllen, TX and Austin, TX including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Austin, TX are:
- Texas State Capitol, a historic building with stunning architecture and informative tours
- Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool offering year-round swimming
- Lady Bird Lake, a scenic reservoir with trails for walking and biking
- Zilker Park, a large urban park hosting events and offering recreational activities
- The Bullock Texas State History Museum, an interactive museum exploring the state's rich history.
The best things to do in Austin, TX include:
- Discover the vibrant music scene on Sixth Street, featuring live performances in numerous bars and venues
- Stroll through the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, a scenic path perfect for outdoor activities and city views
- Experience the Blanton Museum of Art, home to an extensive collection of European, American, and Latin American art
- Enjoy a live performance at the Paramount Theatre, a historic venue hosting concerts, films, and cultural events
- Savor the diverse culinary scene at the Austin Food Truck Park, offering a variety of local and international cuisines.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither McAllen, TX nor Austin, TX are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Austin, TX, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and car break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular nightlife districts. Ride-share scams sometimes occur, so always verify the driver's identity and vehicle details before entering. Avoid unlicensed taxis and be wary of street vendors offering suspicious deals or unauthorized tickets. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings can help prevent common safety issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX
Most McAllen, TX to Austin, TX buses use the McAllen, Central Station to Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) station pair, with some services arriving at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd. Use this guide to compare McAllen, TX and Austin, TX bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in McAllen
Arrival bus stations in Austin
McAllen, Central Station
Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza)
City-centre transport
Getting to Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) from Austin city centre
BusFlixBus 2211, FlixBus 2270 · 10m · $1
4 · 17m · $1 · every ~7 min
4, 485 · 18m · $1 · every ~7 min
2, 4 · 21m · $1 · every ~13 min
Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd
Most popular bus connections from McAllen, TX
More options for your journey from McAllen, TX to Austin, TX
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Austin, TX and McAllen, TX
Most popular bus connections to Austin, TX
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
