San Antonio

Updated 2016

The city’s most well known landmark is Alamo, the site of the famous battle. However, the city is so diverse that you’ll definitely find something to do. The city’s Mexican heritage makes it a unique place to visit. Besides good food, you can also find here: fine arts and amusement parks.

What to do

The Alamo is the biggest attraction in San Antonio. The admission to the battle site is free but you will be tempted to spend money at the gift shop near-by.

King William Historic Area is the site of the most beautiful residential area in the city. The area expends over 25 blocks south of downtown and east of the San Antonio River and includes magnificent mansions dating from the 1800s.

Market Square – El Mercado is the place to check out if you are after something special. Plus it’s the site of many Hispanic festivals and where you’ll find and hear Mariachi music. Do try the food.

San Antonio Missions National Park is home to many cultural sites, including mansions dating from the 17th to 19th centuries.

And when you are done with the historical sites, you can check out the many museums and art centers: Institute of Texan Cultures , Marion Koogler McNay Art Museum (free admission)or Museo Alameda (free admission), to name just a few.

Read: Footsteps from the Alamo:The Menger Hotel.

Getting there

San Antonio International Airport (SAT) serves the city and although it’s not used as hub by any carrier, several important airlines – including Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, Continental Airlines and Delta Airlines – offer plenty of flights into San Antonio. Dallas and Houston are located close by (about 1 hour drive) which means you can also catch a flight into any of those cities and then drive to San Antonio.

If you decide to drive to the airport, you can book and pay for your San Antonio airport parking in advance, saving you both time and money. Or you can choose the San Antonio airport shuttle to quickly take you to the airport and back home.


Read: Understanding the Lone Star State: San Antonio, TX.

Where to stay

Being a big city and filled with attractions and festivals means that there are a lot of places to stay in San Antonio, but it doesn’t mean you’ll have an easy task finding cheap accommodation. There are plenty of hotels in San Antonio and while there aren’t any real hostels here you can find budget hotels located away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.