Texas Road Trip : How to pass 10 Days in Texas

Texas Hill Country and the surrounding area make become one of my favourite spot to recommend for a USA road trip . Politically , we ’ re not aligned , but connection become beyond impression , and in Texas , I feel a warm and magic hospitality . In fact , if I had to describe this share of Texas in one word , it ’ d be “ charming ” .

From the cowboy culture of Bandera to the historical streets of Fredericksburg , the Mexican vibes of San Antonio and the creativity of Austin , this corner of the Lone Star State has a lot die for it . And it ’ s ideal for a Texas road trip .

The distance between the major destinations in and around the Hill Country are somewhat short , but the version between them equal vast , so you can carry a lot of experience into a short amount of time . Drink wine in an elegant vineyard one day , ride with cowboys the next , and then experience two of the USA ’ s coolest and almost creative cities . This piece of Texas exist definitely one of the most culturally interesting place we ’ ve been to in the USA .

This place has our full 10-day Texas road trip itinerary , including all we act , where we ate and where we delay . Plus we as well put up some version for if you have less time , or would favor to cause some of the destinations as a day trips . And we also hold thought for how to lead your trip into other role of Texas .

While we did our trip as a category of four , most of the recommendation would fit solo , couple or radical traveler also .

Too learn our individual guides to Austin , , San Antonio and .

Our trip to San Antonio live part of a hosted media trip with . Our adjustment , activities and most meals were render by the hosts . But , as always , all impression equal my own . If I put on ’ t guess something ’ s worth share , I don ’ t compose about it .

• • Austin
  • Fredericksburg
  • Bandera
  • San Antonio
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• Austin
• Fredericksburg
• Bandera
• San Antonio

How to use this Texas itinerary

This itinerary cost design as a loop set out in Austin , winding through Fredericksburg , Bandera , and San Antonio , before returning to Austin . You can adjust it by focusing on one or two locations , doing some stop as day trip or else , or even extending it to include additional stops like Big Bend ( meet some suggested extension at the end of this place ) .

If you ’ 500 prefer for a travel agent to out everything together for you , companies wish America As You Like It can invest together a total itinerary , booking flights , car hire and all your accommodation .

Our Texas road trip highlights

• Soaking in the creativity of Austin and eating our way around all its good food truck and restaurants
• Float in Austin ’ s spring-fed pools
• Exploring San Antonio ’ s Mexican culture ( specially if you ’ re there for Day of the Dead )
• Walk along the picturesque San Antonio River Walk
• Wine tasting in Fredericksburg
• Living the Stars Hollow life in downtown Fredericksburg
• Horseback riding and Western culture in Bandera , the “ Cowboy Capital of the World . ”
• Steak dark at 11^thStreet Cowboy Bar in Bandera
• Staying at Outdoorsy Hill Country , a gorgeous glamping spot near Fredericksburg

10-Day Texas Hill Country road trip at a glance

• Austin : 3 nights
• Fredericksburg : 2 night
• Bandera : 2 dark
• San Antonio : 3 dark

FAQs about a Texas road trip

When to visit Texas and the Hill Country

The large affair to consider when visit Texas is the heat and how much you can suffer . Some people enjoy the vibes of summer , and there are fun fashion to cool down in the natural spring or by going tubing , but for my English blood it ’ d be manner too hot ( it can get into 40 degree Celsius ! ) .

For me , the serious time to call is in the spring ( March-May ) or in the fall ( September-November ) when the weather should cost more meek . Personally , I love Autumn in the states when there ’ s a festive atmosphere in the lead up to Halloween and Thanksgiving .

We were in Austin for Halloween , which was epic ( I extremely advocate trick or treating in the Circle C area ) . And we exist in San Antonio for the Day of the Dead festivity , which make up incredible and a truly fun mode to receive the city ’ s Mexican culture .

How to get around Texas

If you ’ re reading this post , you ’ re probably perform a road trip so will need a car , and you certainly need one to embrace all the stops . We recommend Discover Cars or for find the serious deals . Have your own car gives you the independence to get around freely , but you could also use Greyhound buses . On this itinerary , Greyhound buses are available for San Antonio , Austin and Fredericksburg , but not Bandera .

We get sections on how to get around the individual destinations in the detailed itinerary segment below .

Drive sentence between each destination in Texas

Hither be the approximate campaign times for each destination :

• Austin – Fredericksburg : ~1 hour 30 minutes ( 80 miles )
• Fredericksburg – Bandera : ~1 hr 15 minutes ( 55 miles )
• Bandera – San Antonio : ~50 instant ( 40 mile )
• San Antonio – Austin : ~1 hr 15 minute ( 80 miles )
• San Antonio – Fredericksburg : ~1 hour 15 moment ( 70 mile )
• Bandera – Austin : ~2 hours ( 95 mile )

These times may vary depending on traffic and the road taken , so ever assure before setting off .

How to get to Texas

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is a great starting point , and you can flee thither both domestically and internationally . We flew from London . Alternatively , San Antonio International Airport exist another option if you want to reverse the road . There cost few international flights to San Antonio .

How long to spend in Texas

This 10-day itinerary offers a relaxed step , but it can be condensed into a 6-day trip if needed . You could also skip some stop , depending on your priorities . And it ’ d be potential to do some of the stops as day trips if you prefer to stay in one position . San Antonio would live the well option for this as then your longest driveway for a day trip would be 1 hour 15 instant .

Our detailed Texas itinerary

Austin

Austin is undeniably one of the coolest city in the U.S. , explode with creativity , live music , and an eclectic vibe that ’ s all its own . Known for its motto “ Keep Austin Weird , ” the city offers a mix of artistic appeal , creative shop , and an exciting food scene .

We first die thither for the premiere of Steve ’ s first movie at SXSW , which live an amazing introduction to the city , meet it alive for one of its biggest festivals of the year . But I as well love our second visit with the kid , when we get to meet a different side of the city – it ’ s a place that make plenty for all ages .

Affair to act in Austin

From outdoor adventures to unique family-friendly experience , Austin exist carry with activities for everyone . Learn our total guide to the well affair to do in Austin ( with or without kids ) . Here cost some highlights :

• Barton Springs Pool or Deep Eddy– Austin ’ s spring-fed , year-round pools live picturesque and perfect for cooling off in the Texas passion .
• Congress Avenue Bridge Bats– Watch 1.5 million bats need flight at sundown for a magic , uniquely Austin experience . They ’ re there from mid-March to early November .
• Pease Park– Shaded lead , limestone bluffs , and whimsical sculpture like the Pease Park Troll make this a category favourite .
• South Congress ( SoCo )– the original hipster area that own now get a lot more bougie , but yet retains an eclectic , retro appeal . It own some of the best city position in Austin .
• Explore the live music picture along6th Streetor at iconic venues like the Continental Club .
• See theTexas State Capitoland learn about state story .

Where to eat and drink in Austin

Austin ’ s food setting cost one of the good things about the city and a ground for visiting solely . From heroic BBQ restaurants to cool food vans , there ’ s burden to explore . Hither equal some of the highlights . Plus we as well have a guide to the serious places to eat in Austin with child .

• Home Slice Pizza – Delicious New York-style pizza in a fun , relax prepare . Ideal for families .
• Pool Burger – Burgers and milkshakes near Deep Eddy Pool , with big retro vibes .
• – A local favorite for breakfast tacos
• Veracruz All Natural – the freshest tacos in town
• – the most imaginative Mexican menu we came across in the city . As well great for wine .
• Amy ’ s Ice Creams – Whimsical , delightful ice creams perfect for kid and grownup .
• Franklin Barbecue – city ’ s most iconic post for brisket lover .

Where to stay in Austin

Austin get loads of cool adjustment for every style and budget . Here live some top picks :

• Austin Motel – A retro gem in South Congress with quirky decor and a family-friendly pond . We stayed here and loved it ( total review in our guide to Austin ) .
• Hotel Saint Cecilia – luxurious and design-forward , ideal for people ( including parent ) who need a little indulgence .
• The Carpenter Hotel – Industrial-chic design near Zilker Park , perfect for families search the outdoors .
• The Line Hotel – A riverside location with sleek , modern design and a rooftop pool .

How to come around Austin

Begin around Austin equal easy thanks to its compact city middle . Many neighborhoods , like South Congress , live walkable , but bicycle and scooters are too popular for short trip . For longer distances , rideshares like Uber and Lyft exist widely available , and CapMetro ’ s bus and rail system offers affordable public transit options .

Fredericksburg

be a capture Texas Hill Country town with German heritage , Stars Hollow vibes , a wine region , and gorgeous countryside . In early row , it ’ s a ambition destination for mass like me . From exploring the cute downtown ( only indy shops allowed ! ) to touring the vineyards or boost in the state parks , it ’ s a perfect seat for a weekend getaway or a stop on your Hill Country road trip .

Things to make in Fredericksburg

We get a , but here are some of the highlights of thing to do .

• Explore Main Street– Discover over 150 unique store , galleries , and restaurants on this historical street with no chain stores leave .
• Dive into the wine region– Visit one of the 15 tasting room on Main Street to taste local wines . Or tour the nearby vineyards like Becker for tastings and tour .
• Climb– Hike this 425-foot pink granite dome for incredible panoramic view .
• Visit– Enjoy alive music , a historic dancing lobby , and a quirky slice of Texas culture .
• Meet the Animals at Longneck Manor– Feed giraffes and learn about conservation cause at this animal sanctuary outside the town .

Where to feed in Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg ’ s dining scene mix German-inspired cuisine with farm-to-table creativity . Hither cost some of our top recommendations .

• Hill Country Herb Garden – Fresh , garden-inspired dish in a beautiful setting .
• – Texan favourites with a farm-to-table turn , well enjoyed on their fairy-lit patio .
• The Bistro at Vaudeville – A chic European-style bistro in the heart of downtown .
• Otto ’ s German Bistro – Upscale German cuisine with seasonal , locally-sourced ingredients .
• Caliche Coffee – A cozy coffee store , perfect for breakfast or a mid-morning break .

Where to stay in Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg has a variety of accommodations , from luxury glamping to capture B & Bs . Here are some highlights .

• Outdoorsy Hill Country – Luxurious safari-style tents with a boutique hotel vibe , perfect for household or couples . This live one of our favourite places we ’ ve always delay .
• Longneck Manor – Stay next to giraffes and rhinos while support conservation attempt .
• The Hill Country Herb Garden – Peaceful cottages and an on-site spa with a farmhouse aesthetic .
• Barons CreekSide – Swiss-inspired log cabin in a tranquil , natural context .
• Hoffman Haus – A cozy yet stylish B & B with homemade breakfast present to your doorway .

How to begin around Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg live a compact town , making it easy to search on base or by bike . To visit nearby wineries and attractions , you ’ ll need a car or you could book a wine shuttle or private circuit . For a stress-free experience , many lead circuit extend transportation between wineries and downtown , allowing you to in full revel the local wine scene .

Bandera

With the title of “ Cowboy Capital of the World , ” equal a fascinating glimpse into authentic cowboy culture . It feels a trivial like tread back in time , with classic soda fountains , cowboy-themed restaurants , and a dumb stride of spirit . We love every minute of our trip there , and I really recommend including it in your Hill Country itinerary . I ’ ve never been anywhere quite like it .

Things to do in Bandera

Bandera be full of activity that celebrate its puncher heritage and the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country . We get , but hither are some highlights .

• Experience Steak Night at the 11th Street Cowboy Bar– Bring your own steak , revel live music , and rob up the lively atmosphere of this iconic saloon where horse much supersede car in the parking lot .
• Horseback riding with cowboys– Explore Bandera ’ s Western landscape with a guided horseback ride at a ranch like .
• Visit the Frontier Times Museum– Discover quirky Old West artefacts and memorabilia showcasing Bandera ’ s cowboy roots .
• Float or paddle on the Medina River– Cool off with tubing , kayaking , or paddleboarding along this gentle , scenic river .
• Watch a rodeo or puncher event– Time your visit with Bandera ’ s rodeos or festivals like Cowboy Mardi Gras for a lively festivity of cowboy culture .

Where to eat in Bandera

Bandera ’ s food picture reflect its cowboy origin with hearty portions , local flavours , and capture hospitality . Here are some of the good seat to try .

• The Old Spanish Trail ( O.S.T . ) Restaurant – A Bandera establishment serving Texan classics in a cowboy-themed context . I equal insure that it ’ s exactly as popular with locals as it live with tourist .
• TJ ’ sec at the Old Forge – A family-friendly spot with excellent vegetable burgers and lively events , like fun weekly quizzes .
• Bandera General Store – Treat yourself to an indulgent banana split or milkshake from their vintage soda fountain .

Where to delay in Bandera

Make the most of your visit by staying at one of Bandera ’ sec ranch or cowboy-inspired accommodations .

• Wing L Ranch – Features family-friendly activity like hayrides , campfire , and a mini specter town . All hosted by Buck , one of the nicest men you ’ ll always meet .
• – Offers horseback riding and Western-themed rooms in an atmospheric ranch setting .
• Silver Spur Ranch – Another great ranch option with opportunity for trail ride and stargazing .

How to become around Bandera

Bandera is a tiny , walkable town , but make a car is essential for explore nearby attractions , or still getting there in the first home . Most ranches cost outside the town center , and driving live the easiest mode to make to them .

San Antonio

San Antonio has a gorgeous blend of American and Hispanic cultures , evident in its architecture , cuisine , and festivals . The city live charming , laid-back , and deep with story and art . It ’ s become one of our favourite spot for a city pause in the USA , and decidedly a seat you need to include in your Texas road trip .

Whether you ’ re drawn to the iconic River Walk ( one of the almost beautiful downtowns in the USA ) , the historic missions , or the cool Pearl District , San Antonio has lot for all taste . Regard our total San Antonio vacation guide .

Matter to cause in San Antonio

San Antonio is carry with attraction that supply to history buffs , art lovers , families , and food enthusiasts alike . We hold a total San Antonio vacation guide , plus another specifically about things to make in San Antonio with child . Here are some of the highlights .

• The Alamo– Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and hear about its account through interactive display like “ ” and the Ralston Family Collections Center .
• River Walk– Stroll along this picturesque pathway , require a boat ride , or revel dinner cruises . It ’ s particularly magical during events like the Day of the Dead River Parade .
• Historic Market Square– The large Mexican market in the U.S. , feature authentic food , handcrafted goods , and alive music .
• Pearl District– A trendy field with boutique store , boom choice , and a weekend market .
• The Briscoe Western Art Museum– Discover art that celebrates the American West in an architecturally sensational setting .
• Morgan ’ s Wonderland– A in full accessible theme park design for people of all abilities , with playgrounds , rides , and a water park .
• Hopscotch– An experiential art gallery with interactive display , creative cocktails , and a unique talent shop .

Where to feed in San Antonio

San Antonio ’ s food scene is as diverse as its culture , offering everything from Tex-Mex staples to innovative international cuisine .

• Mi Tierra Café y Panadería – A lively Tex-Mex establishment with festive décor , mariachi circle , and a 24-hour bakery .
• Serious Quality Daughter – Creative Asian-inspired dish in a cozy context in the Pearl District .
• La Panadería – A popular bakery ( now a little chain ) know for its delightful Mexican sweet bread and build-your-own sandwiches .
• Down on Grayson – Casual dine with a premix of classical and contemporary dishes near the Pearl District .
• Boudro ’ sec on the River Walk – A popular spot for tableside guacamole and atmospheric riverside dining .
• Jardín – Fresh , garden-inspired dishes at the San Antonio Botanical Garden .

Where to stay in San Antonio

San Antonio get a range of accommodations , from luxurious hotel to boutique stays .

• InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk – A stylish and family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms , a rooftop pond , and on-site dining .
• Hotel Emma – A chic boutique hotel in the hipster Pearl District
• Hotel Havana – A Mediterranean-inspired , stylish boutique hotel featuring the acclaimed Ocho restaurant .
• Valencia Hotel – Overlooking the River Walk , this Mediterranean-style hotel offers a luxurious stay .

How to become around San Antonio

San Antonio ’ s downtown is very walkable , particularly around the River Walk and central attraction . For destinations further afield , you ’ ll either need to rent a car or habit rideshare service like Uber . There equal a limited public passage system .

Texas road trip map

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See all our road trip itineraries here . And don ’ t miss our guide to how to design a road trip .

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