- Must visit
Blanton Museum of Art
Major university art museum with strong European, Latin American, and contemporary collections, plus Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin installation.
Cheapest price
$14
Average price
$17
Fastest journey
54 m
Average duration
54 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
47 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Marcos, 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 San Marcos, TX to Austin, TX will cost around $17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $14.
Of the 2 trains that leave San Marcos, TX for Austin, TX on Sun, Jun 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 47 km distance in an average of 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 54 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 54 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.
22 Texas Eagle
422 Texas Eagle
422 Texas Eagle
22 Texas EagleOmio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Marcos, TX to Austin, TX among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 44m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $11.
Distance: 29 miles (47 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$14 Average price | $13 Average price Cheapest | $7 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 23m Average total duration 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 14m Average total duration Fastest 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from San Marcos, TX to Austin, TX:
A bus is $1 (€1) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Marcos, TX to Austin, TX costing on average $14 (€12).
Other travel options to Austin, TX take longer:
Train takes on average 53m.
Tickets start at around $14 (€12) compared to roughly $7 (€5) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-7.67 (€-6.28). The journey takes 53m versus 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for San Marcos, TX to Austin, TX trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
422 Texas Eagle | 8:22 AM San Marcos Station, San Marcos, TX | 0h54 | 9:16 AM Austin Station, Austin, TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
22 Texas Eagle | 8:22 AM San Marcos Station, San Marcos, TX | 0h54 | 9:16 AM Austin Station, Austin, TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus 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.
Trains from San Marcos, TX to Austin, TX run on average 2 times per day, taking around 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:20, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 29 miles (47 km) distance in 54m.
Distance 29 miles (47 km) |
Average train duration 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 (€9) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 54m |
First train 8:20 AM |
Last train 9:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 6 days |
Discover the best of Austin — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Austin trip today.
Major university art museum with strong European, Latin American, and contemporary collections, plus Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin installation.
Flagship state history museum covering Texas culture, politics, and identity through large-scale exhibits and films.
Downtown contemporary art museum known for rotating exhibitions, modern programming, and a rooftop installation space.
Austin’s most famous stroll, lined with shops, murals, music culture, and classic views toward the Capitol.
Large central park ideal for walking, relaxing, and festivals, with easy access to several of Austin’s top sights.
Popular urban trail with skyline views, bridges, and one of the city’s best everyday walking routes.
Slow-smoked beef brisket with a peppery bark, central to Austin barbecue culture and a must-try local specialty.
A massive smoked beef rib seasoned simply with salt and pepper, iconic at Austin's celebrated barbecue joints.
Soft flour or corn tortillas filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese, bacon, or beans; a defining everyday Austin breakfast.
Acclaimed upscale restaurant blending Japanese technique with local creativity, ideal for a refined dining experience.
Respected barbecue spot serving smoked meats and house-made sides in a relaxed trailer and patio setting.
Famous Austin barbecue institution known for exceptional brisket, long lines, and a classic casual smokehouse atmosphere.
Moderate by U.S. standards. Food and coffee are reasonable, but hotels and nightlife can raise daily costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and delivery drivers.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Marcos, TX to Austin, 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 Austin, TX, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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