San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX train with Amtrak

Sat, May 02
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2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX

Showing times and prices for May 03

Cheapest price

$55

Average price

$61

Fastest journey

15 h 2 m

Average duration

15 h 20 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

249 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train 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 $61 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave San Marcos, TX for Houston, TX on Sun, May 03, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, May 03 the direct trains cover the 249 km distance in an average of 15 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 15 h 2 m .

On Sun, May 03 the slowest trains will take 15 h 37 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.

  • Amtrak
    1:33 AM15h37
    San Marcos, TX
    5:10 PMHouston, TX
    $551One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    2:08 AM15h02
    San Marcos, TX
    5:10 PMHouston, TX
    $671One-way
    0 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 $54. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 13m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $54, and a flight costs an average of $101.

Distance: 154 miles (249 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight

$68

Average price

Cheapest

$80

Average price

$314

Average price

7h 58m

Average total duration

7h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 58m

Average total duration

5h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 13m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX train times

The table below shows live departures for San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX trains for today, Friday, May 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak7:33 PM San Marcos, TX
15h37
11:10 AM Houston, TX1 transfer
Saturday, May 2
amtrak1:33 AM San Marcos, TX
15h37
5:10 PM Houston, TX0 transfersDirect
amtrak2:08 AM San Marcos, TX
15h02
5:10 PM Houston, TX0 transfersDirect

This is the last train 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.

Sat
May 02
Sun
May 03
Mon
May 04
Tue
May 05
Wed
May 06
Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX

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Icon of train

Trains from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€44) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 19:33, the last at 20:53. The fastest train covers the 154 miles (249 km) distance in 15h 2m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $47 (€38)
Distance
154 miles (249 km)
Average train duration
7h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
$54 (€44)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
15h 2m
First train
7:33 PM
Last train
8:53 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $47 (€38)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Marcos, TX and Houston, TX from $47 (€38). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
15h 2m
Cheapest Price
$54 (€44)
Amtrak frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Houston, TX, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€44), while the average price is around $68 (€54).
The train from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX takes 15h 2m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX leaves at 7:33 PM.
The distance by train from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX is 154 miles (249 km).
The last train from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX leaves at 8:53 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX.
The train station in San Marcos, TX that goes to Houston, TX is San Marcos Station, San Marcos, TX, which connects to Houston Station, Houston, TX.
The cheapest way to get from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€38).
The train journey from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, with views of small towns and countryside landscapes, but it is not typically considered scenic compared to routes with notable natural landmarks.
A day trip from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX is not feasible due to the travel duration of 15h 2m and a distance of 154 miles (249 km). The trip frequency is 2 per day for trains.
In Houston, TX, you can visit the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, explore vibrant street art in the Houston Heights, and enjoy performances at the Houston Symphony. Discover the culinary scene with a food tour, and catch a baseball game at Minute Maid Park. For sights, explore Space Center Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Houston Zoo, and the Museum of Fine Arts. Enjoy outdoor activities at Buffalo Bayou Park with its trails and gardens.
To fully experience Houston, TX, including its cultural attractions, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods, spending three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Houston, TX include Beaumont, TX.
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.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 train stations

Popular train stations from San Marcos, TX to Houston, TX

San Marcos
Houston
The major train station for departures in San Marcos is San Marcos Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Marcos Station for your trip from San Marcos to Houston.
San Marcos StationParkingDiningAccessibilityWC
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC

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