Flights to Austin

Discovering flights to Austin offers a glimpse into the vibrant heart of Texas. Known for its eclectic music scene, historic landmarks, and outdoor attractions, Austin is a compelling destination. Numerous airlines provide connectivity to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, facilitating convenient access for travellers. The city's rich cultural ambience, showcased through live music performances, artistic artefacts, and diverse culinary flavours, awaits exploration. Whether you're drawn to the serene landscapes or the lively entertainment districts, Austin promises an unforgettable experience. Ensure a smooth journey by organising your travel arrangements and maximising your time to relish the unique charm this Texan city has to offer.

Airports in Austin

Airlines flying to Austin from the UK

• British Airways
• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• United Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic

What is the best time to get cheapest flights to Austin?

Securing the most budget-friendly flights to Austin often depends on the timing of your booking. Consider the following insights:

• Off-Peak Seasons: Travelling during off-peak seasons, typically in the shoulder months between major holidays and events, can yield lower airfares.
• Midweek Travel: Flying on Tuesdays or Wednesdays is often more economical as these days tend to have lower demand.
• Advance Booking: Booking your flight well in advance, ideally several months before your intended travel dates, can help secure lower prices.
• Flexible Dates: Be flexible with your travel dates, as flying on weekdays or adjusting your departure and return dates by a day or two can impact prices.
• Monitoring Prices: Use online tools and apps to monitor fare fluctuations and be ready to book when prices drop.

How long is a direct and indirect flight to Austin from United Kingdom?

The duration of a flight from the United Kingdom to Austin can vary based on whether it is a direct or indirect (connecting) flight.

What is the time difference between the United Kingdom and Austin?

Austin, Texas, is located in the Central Time Zone (CT), while the United Kingdom is in the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or British Summer Time (BST) zone, depending on the time of year.

• Standard Time (GMT): During the standard time in the United Kingdom (GMT), Austin is 6 hours behind. For example, if it's 12:00 PM in the UK, it would be 6:00 AM in Austin.
• Daylight Saving Time (BST): When the United Kingdom is observing Daylight Saving Time (BST), the time difference reduces to 5 hours. If it's 12:00 PM in the UK, it would be 7:00 AM in Austin.

How much is a return flight from United Kingdom to Austin?

The cost of a return flight from the United Kingdom to Austin can vary significantly based on factors such as the airline, class of service, time of booking, and travel dates. Here are approximate average return fares across different classes:

• Economy Class: On average, economy class return fares can range from £500 to £900 or more, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
• Premium Economy Class: Premium economy class fares typically start from £800 and can go up to £1,500 or more, offering enhanced comfort and services compared to economy class.
• Business Class: Business class return fares are higher, usually ranging from £1,500 to £3,000 or more, providing a luxurious and more comfortable travel experience.
• First Class: First-class return fares are the highest, often exceeding £4,000 or more, offering premium services, spacious seats, and additional amenities.

Which United Kingdom Airport can I fly to Austin?

• London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
• London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
• Manchester Airport (MAN)
• Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
• Birmingham Airport (BHX)

Baggage Allowance on flights to Austin from the United Kingdom

Baggage policies can vary among airlines, so it's crucial to check the specific regulations of the airline you choose for your flight from the UK to Austin.

• Economy Class: Typically, in economy class, passengers are allowed to check one or two pieces of luggage with a specific weight limit (e.g., 23 kg or 50 lbs per bag). Carry-on baggage is usually limited to one piece with specific dimensions and weight restrictions.
• Premium Economy Class: Premium economy often comes with a more generous baggage allowance compared to economy class, allowing passengers to check additional luggage or offering a higher weight limit.
• Business Class: Business class passengers generally enjoy an enhanced baggage allowance, often allowing for more checked luggage and heavier weight limits. Priority handling for baggage may be included.
• First Class: First-class passengers usually have the most generous baggage allowances, with the ability to check multiple pieces of luggage with higher weight limits. Additional perks such as priority baggage handling and access to exclusive lounges may be included.

Mini Travel Guide of Austin, United States of America

Best Things to Do in Austin

• Explore South Congress Avenue: Wander along South Congress Avenue, known for its eclectic shops, vibrant street art, and a mix of trendy boutiques and vintage stores.
• Visit the State Capitol: Tour the Texas State Capitol, an iconic landmark with stunning architecture and informative exhibits, providing insight into the state's history.
• Enjoy Live Music on 6th Street: Experience the renowned music scene on 6th Street, where live music venues, bars, and clubs create a lively atmosphere, especially during the evenings.
• Relax in Zilker Park: Unwind in Zilker Park, a vast green space offering recreational activities, botanical gardens, and a natural spring-fed pool called Barton Springs.
• Discover Barton Springs Pool: Take a refreshing dip in Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring pool in Zilker Park, providing relief from the Texas heat.
• Visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum: Explore the Bullock Texas State History Museum for a comprehensive look at the state's history through engaging exhibits and multimedia displays.
• Experience the Congress Avenue Bats: Witness the Congress Avenue Bridge bats, the largest urban bat colony in North America, as they emerge at sunset from March to November.
• Indulge in Tex-Mex Cuisine: Savour Austin's diverse culinary scene, with a particular emphasis on Tex-Mex cuisine. Try local favourites like breakfast tacos and barbecue.
• Hike or Bike the Lady Bird Lake Trail: Enjoy outdoor activities on the Lady Bird Lake Trail, perfect for walking, running, biking, or kayaking with picturesque views of the city skyline.
• Attend Festivals and Events: Check the city's events calendar for festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits Music Festival, offering a taste of Austin's dynamic cultural scene.

Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Austin

• Downtown Austin: The heart of the city, Downtown offers proximity to attractions like the State Capitol, 6th Street entertainment district, and the scenic Lady Bird Lake.
• South Congress (SoCo): Known for its unique shops, trendy boutiques, and vibrant food scene, South Congress provides a bohemian atmosphere and easy access to downtown.
• East Austin: A diverse and artsy neighbourhood, East Austin features street art, hipster cafes, and a lively nightlife. It's a hub for creative culture.
• Zilker: Nestled near Zilker Park, this neighbourhood is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy green spaces, the Barton Springs Pool, and the annual Austin City Limits Music Festival.
• Clarksville: A historic district with tree-lined streets, Clarksville offers a quiet atmosphere while being close to downtown attractions, making it a charming residential area.
• Hyde Park: Known for its historic homes and tree-shaded streets, Hyde Park exudes a laid-back vibe. It's a great neighbourhood for those seeking a more residential feel.
• Mueller: A master-planned community, Mueller combines modern living with green spaces, shopping, and dining. It's family-friendly and has a sustainable design.
• Bouldin Creek: South of Lady Bird Lake, Bouldin Creek boasts a mix of historic and modern homes, along with trendy eateries and coffee shops, creating a dynamic neighbourhood.
• Allandale: A residential area with a suburban feel, Allandale offers parks, schools, and local shops. It's a peaceful retreat while still being relatively close to downtown.
• Barton Hills: Adjacent to Zilker Park, Barton Hills provides a peaceful residential setting with easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking and swimming in Barton Springs Pool.

Best Time to Visit Austin

• Spring (March to May): Ideal time for visiting Austin with pleasant temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Bluebonnets and wildflowers bloom, creating a picturesque landscape. Festivals like SXSW (South by Southwest) showcase Austin's vibrant cultural scene.
• Fall (September to November): Enjoy mild temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C), making outdoor activities comfortable. Austin City Limits Music Festival takes place in October, attracting music enthusiasts.
• Early Summer (June): Early June offers warm temperatures, but it's before the peak of summer heat. Outdoor events and festivals thrive before the hotter months.
• Late Autumn (Late November to December): Mild weather with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Holiday festivities, including Trail of Lights in Zilker Park, create a festive atmosphere.
• Winter (January to February): Mild winter temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C). Lower tourist traffic, providing a quieter experience to explore the city.
• Avoid Peak Summer (July to August): Peak of summer with high temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C) and occasional humidity. Some may find the heat uncomfortable for outdoor activities.

Best Hotels to Stay in Austin

• The Driskill - in the Unbound Collection by Hyatt: A historic luxury hotel located in downtown Austin, known for its iconic architecture and upscale amenities.
• Hotel Ella: A boutique hotel housed in a Greek revival mansion, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern comfort.
• Fairmont Austin: A contemporary high-rise hotel situated in the heart of downtown, providing luxurious rooms and stunning views of the cityscape.
• Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt: Located in the Rainey Street Historic District, this trendy hotel offers a vibrant atmosphere and stylish accommodations.
• Four Seasons Hotel Austin: Overlooking Lady Bird Lake, this five-star hotel combines luxury with lakeside tranquillity and is close to downtown attractions.
• South Congress Hotel: A chic hotel on South Congress Avenue, offering modern design, a rooftop pool, and proximity to trendy shops and eateries.
• JW Marriott Austin: A modern hotel in downtown Austin with spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and convenient access to the Austin Convention Center.
• The LINE Austin: Set in a mid-century building on the shores of Town Lake, this stylish hotel features unique design elements and scenic views.
• Austin Proper Hotel and Residences: A luxury hotel in the Second Street District, known for its contemporary design, rooftop pool, and upscale dining options.
• The Westin Austin Downtown: Centrally located with sleek and comfortable accommodations, this hotel provides easy access to Austin's attractions and nightlife.

Best Restaurants to Eat in Austin

• Franklin Barbecue: Renowned for its mouthwatering brisket, Franklin Barbecue is a must-visit for meat enthusiasts, often cited as one of the best BBQ joints in the country.
• Uchi: A top-rated sushi restaurant offering innovative and beautifully presented dishes, blending traditional Japanese flavours with a modern twist.
• Veracruz All Natural: A food truck turned sensation, Veracruz All Natural serves authentic and delicious Mexican breakfast tacos, earning accolades for their fresh ingredients.
• Fonda San Miguel: Specialising in interior Mexican cuisine, Fonda San Miguel is known for its upscale ambiance and a diverse menu featuring traditional dishes.
• Bufalina Due: A popular pizza spot, Bufalina Due focuses on wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
• Emmer & Rye: Emmer & Rye offers a unique dining experience with a rotating menu of inventive, seasonal dishes served dim sum-style.
• Loro: A collaboration between a James Beard Award-winning chef and a renowned pitmaster, Loro combines Asian and barbecue influences for a distinctive culinary experience.
• Odd Duck: Known for its farm-to-table approach, Odd Duck features an ever-changing menu showcasing locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
• Eberly: Housed in a beautifully restored historic space, Eberly offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu highlighting modern American cuisine.
• Micklethwait Craft Meats: Another standout BBQ joint, Micklethwait Craft Meats is praised for its brisket, sausages, and a variety of flavourful sides served from a food truck.

How to Travel Within Austin

• Public Transportation - Capital Metro: Utilise the Capital Metro bus and commuter rail services for affordable and convenient public transportation options around Austin.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft for convenient and on-demand transportation within the city.
• Bicycles and Scooters: Take advantage of the city's bike-sharing programs and electric scooters, available for short-distance travel, especially in the downtown area.
• Car Rentals: Rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies to explore Austin and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
• Taxis: Hail a taxi from designated taxi stands or use ride-hailing apps to book a traditional taxi for point-to-point travel.
• Electric Trolley - MetroRail Downtown Station: Hop on the MetroRail Downtown Station's electric trolley, providing a free and convenient loop around downtown Austin.
• Car-Sharing Programs: Join car-sharing programs like Zipcar for a flexible and cost-effective option when you need a vehicle for short periods.
• Airport Shuttles: Use airport shuttle services for transportation between Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and various locations in the city.
• Water Transportation - Bat Boat Tours: Experience a unique way to travel by taking Bat Boat Tours on Lady Bird Lake, offering scenic views of the city skyline and the Congress Avenue Bridge bats.

Visa Requirements for Austin, United States of America

UK residents planning to visit Austin, USA, require a valid visa for entry. The most common visa for tourism purposes is the B-2 Tourist Visa. Applicants must complete the DS-160 online form, schedule a visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate, and pay the applicable fee. Supporting documents include a valid passport, passport-sized photos, travel itinerary, and proof of financial capability. It's essential to demonstrate the intent to return to the UK and comply with all visa requirements. Additionally, travellers should stay updated on any changes to visa policies and regulations before planning their trip.