- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
One of the largest art museums in the US, with major collections spanning antiquities to contemporary works across multiple buildings in the Museum District.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX
Showing times and prices for Jun 25
Cheapest price
$47
Average price
$88
Fastest journey
5 h 55 m
Average duration
6 h 32 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
249 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX will cost around $88 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $47.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave San Marcos, TX for Houston, TX on Thu, Jun 25, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jun 25 the direct buses cover the 249 km distance in an average of 6 h 32 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 55 m .
On Thu, Jun 25 the slowest buses will take 7 h 15 m 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.
8:45 PM7h15San Marcos, TX4:00 AMHouston, TX$471One-way0 transfers- 7:45 PM7h00San Marcos, TX2:45 AMHouston, TX$611One-way0 transfers
3:35 AM5h55San Marcos, TX9:30 AMHouston, TX$1201One-way0 transfers- 4:59 PM5h56San Marcos, TX10:55 PMHouston, TX$1231One-way0 transfers
- 3:35 AM5h55San Marcos, TX9:30 AMHouston, TX$1201One-way0 transfers
- 4:59 PM5h56San Marcos, TX10:55 PMHouston, TX$1231One-way0 transfers
- 7:45 PM7h00San Marcos, TX2:45 AMHouston, TX$611One-way0 transfers
- 8:45 PM7h15San Marcos, TX4:00 AMHouston, TX$471One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $65. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 43m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $65, and a flight costs an average of $155.
Distance: 154 miles (249 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$92 Average price | $70 Average price Cheapest | $337 Average price | $34 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 48m Average total duration 5h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 54m Average total duration 7h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX is a train with an average price of $70 (€58).
This is compared to other travel options from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX:
A train is $22 (€18) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX costing on average $92 (€76).
A train is $266 (€221) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX costing on average $337 (€279).
The fastest way to travel from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 43m.
Other travel options to Houston, TX take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 18m.
Train takes on average 7h 24m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Marcos, TX and Houston, TX including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:35AM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:35AM | Arrival Time 10:30AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 10:30AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:59AM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 5h56 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:59PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 5h56 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:59PM | Arrival Time 11:55PM | Duration 5h56 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 02:45AM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 04:00AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $90 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 04:30AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Live departures
San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX buses for today, Wednesday, June 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:59 PM San Marcos, TX | 5h56 | 10:55 PM Houston, TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:59 PM San Marcos, TX | 5h56 | 11:55 PM Houston, TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:45 PM San Marcos, TX | 7h40 | 3:25 AM Houston, TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, June 25 | |||||
| 3:35 AM San Marcos, TX | 5h55 | 9:30 AM Houston, TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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.
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
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Wed
Jul 01
Jul 01
Why should you book San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from San Marcos, TX to Houston, 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 Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX
USAUSA
Buses from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 18m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $46 (€38) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:55, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 154 miles (249 km) distance in 5h 0m.
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 154 miles (249 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€38) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 5h 0m |
First bus 1:55 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 4 days |
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: Greyhound, FlixBus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TXYou can travel by bus between San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $46 (€38). 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 0m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€38)
FlixBus frequency
2 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
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
$54 (€45)
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.
Complete guide to Houston
Things to do in Houston
Discover the best of Houston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Houston trip today.
- Must visit
Space Center Houston
The official visitor center for NASA Johnson Space Center, known for spacecraft displays, astronaut history, and tram tours to working NASA facilities.
- Must visit
The Menil Collection
A renowned free art museum with strong surrealist, Byzantine, and modern collections, set in a quiet campus popular with locals.
- Must visit
Buffalo Bayou Park
A major urban park with skyline views, trails, public art, and bayou scenery, widely considered one of Houston's best outdoor spaces.
- Must visit
Discovery Green
A lively downtown park hosting art, events, gardens, and seasonal activities, making it one of the city's most visited public gathering spaces.
- Must visit
Museum District
Houston's leading cultural area, packed with major museums, walkable streets, and one of the best concentrations of attractions in the city.
- Gluten-free
Texas Brisket
Slow-smoked beef brisket with a peppery bark, a cornerstone of Houston barbecue culture shaped by Texas smoking traditions.
Beef Fajitas
Grilled skirt steak served sizzling with tortillas and fixings; Houston helped popularize Tex-Mex fajitas nationwide.
- Vegetarian
Breakfast Tacos
Soft tortillas filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese, or meats, reflecting Houston’s everyday Tex-Mex breakfast culture.
Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
Established upscale steakhouse known for prime beef, polished service, and an extensive wine program.
Truth BBQ
Widely praised Houston barbecue spot known for brisket, ribs, and classic Texas sides in a lively, casual setting.
Hugo's
Well-known restaurant serving refined regional Mexican cuisine in an elegant but welcoming setting.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. big-city standards. Dining and transport are manageable, but hotels and car-related costs can add up.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-6 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis/rideshares 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for coffee only if desired.
FAQs: Bus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Marcos, TX to Houston, 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 Houston, TX, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX can start from as little as $46 (€38) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX is $92 (€76) ; 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 San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX is 5h 0m to travel the 154 miles (249 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 San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX leaves at 1:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX leaves at 11:30 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Houston, TX. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Marcos, TX and Houston, TX and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Houston, TX from San Marcos, TX is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Marcos, TX and Houston, TX including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Houston, TX are:
- Space Center Houston, an educational complex offering exhibits and tours related to NASA's space exploration
- Houston Museum of Natural Science, featuring extensive collections of fossils, gems, and ancient artifacts
- Houston Zoo, home to over 6,000 animals from around the world in a lush, 55-acre park
- Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, showcasing a diverse collection of art from antiquity to the present
- Buffalo Bayou Park, a 160-acre green space with trails, gardens, and views of the downtown skyline.
The best things to do in Houston, TX include:
- Visit the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the largest livestock exhibition and rodeo in the world, featuring concerts and carnival attractions
- Explore the vibrant street art and murals in the Houston Heights neighborhood
- Enjoy a performance at the Houston Symphony, offering a range of classical and contemporary music
- Discover the culinary scene with a food tour in the diverse neighborhoods of Houston
- Attend a game at Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros, for an exciting baseball experience.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Marcos, TX to Houston, 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 San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Marcos, TX to Houston, 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 San Marcos, TX to Houston, 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 San Marcos, TX to Houston, 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 San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither San Marcos, TX nor Houston, 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 San Marcos, TX to Houston, 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 Houston, TX, travelers should be cautious of common urban safety concerns such as petty theft, pickpocketing, and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Scams to watch out for include fake ticket sellers, overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers, and street vendors offering counterfeit goods. Staying in well-lit areas, using authorized transportation, and securing personal belongings can help minimize risks.
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 San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX
Most San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX buses use the San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station) to Houston, Harrisburg Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station) station pair, with some services arriving at Houston, Gray St Parking (Bus Station). Use this guide to compare San Marcos, TX and Houston, TX bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in San Marcos
Arrival bus stations in Houston
San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station)
Houston, Harrisburg Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Houston, Harrisburg Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station) from Houston city centre
Bus020 · 28m · $1 · every ~19 min
020 · 35m · $2 · every ~19 min
Tram800 · 12m · $2 · every ~26 min
800 · 17m · $2 · every ~26 min
800 · 24m · $2 · every ~26 min
Houston, Gray St Parking (Bus Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Houston, Gray St Parking (Bus Station) from Houston city centre
Bus244, 247, 249 · 12m · $1 · every ~14 min
Houston, Southwest Fwy (Chevron)
City-centre transport
Getting to Houston, Southwest Fwy (Chevron) from Houston city centre
Bus151 · 27m · $2 · every ~9 min
151 · 29m · $2 · every ~9 min
Via McAllen · 31m · $7
151 · 31m · $2 · every ~9 min
009 · 36m · $2 · every ~9 min
Most popular bus connections from San Marcos, TX
More options for your journey from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Houston, TX and San Marcos, TX
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