Texas is the second-largest US state by area and population, a land of dramatic contrasts—from Gulf Coast beaches and piney woods to desert mountains and rolling Hill Country. Home to four of America's largest cities, a legendary BBQ culture, deep cowboy heritage, and the world-famous Austin music scene, Texas offers travelers an astonishing range of experiences under its vast open skies.
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Texas is the second-largest US state—larger than most European countries. At 268,596 square miles, driving from El Paso to Beaumont takes over 10 hours. A car is essential for almost all travel outside major city centers. Major cities have airports with numerous direct flights, making air travel efficient for long cross-state journeys.
Airports
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Options: Rental car; Taxi; Uber/Lyft (~$30-40 downtown); MetroExpress bus ($1.25)
George Bush Intercontinental Airport
Options: Rental car; Uber/Lyft (~$45-60 downtown); GO Airport Shuttle; Metropolitan Transit bus
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
Options: DART Orange Line rail ($2.50 to downtown Dallas); Rental car; Uber/Lyft (~$35-50 to Dallas); Super Shuttle
Dallas Love Field
Options: DART light rail (Orange/Blue Line); Rental car; Uber/Lyft (~$20-30 downtown)
San Antonio International Airport
Options: Rental car; Uber/Lyft (~$25-35 downtown); VIA bus
El Paso International Airport
Options: Rental car; Uber/Lyft (~$15-20 downtown); Sun Metro bus
Corpus Christi International Airport
Options: Rental car; Uber/Lyft (~$20-25 downtown)
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Buy multi-day or weekly transit passes if you'll use public transport more than twice a day.
Keep small change handy for buses and shorter trips where contactless may not work.
Avoid rush hour (typically 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) for a more comfortable journey.