Top reasons to visit San Antonio
- Historic River Walk: Stroll along the iconic River Walk, lined with restaurants, shops, and vibrant culture, perfect for leisurely exploration.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy thrilling theme parks and urban parks that cater to visitors of all ages, ensuring fun for the whole family.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Discover the city's fascinating history through audio tours and visits to historic churches.
- Scenic San Antonio Bay: Experience the natural beauty of the bay, ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious hotels to charming motels, catering to every traveller's needs.
Find great hotels in San Antonio
San Antonio offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to charming motels, catering to various traveller needs. Whether you seek a pet-friendly retreat, a family-friendly experience, or facilities tailored for business travel, you’ll discover the perfect stay. With a mix of star-rated options and unique Portmany hotels, you’re sure to find a comfortable base to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of this historic city.
- Hotel Contessa: Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Antonio, Hotel Contessa is a distinguished 4-star hotel that boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This property offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike. Guests can indulge in a range of onsite activities such as kayaking and mountain biking, or take advantage of nearby bicycle and scooter rentals. For those seeking tranquillity, the hotel features a luxurious spa with treatments including hot stone massages and reflexology. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, ensuring that younger guests feel right at home.
- Riverwalk Plaza: Situated along the picturesque River Walk, Riverwalk Plaza is a charming 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. This property is tailored for families looking to create lasting memories during their stay. With a focus on accessibility for children, Riverwalk Plaza offers engaging games and activities designed to entertain younger visitors. The hotel's central location allows easy access to local attractions, making it a convenient choice for families wanting to explore the city while enjoying a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Medical Ctr NW: A budget-friendly option, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Medical Ctr NW offers a reliable stay with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. Ideally situated in the city centre, this property caters to families and business travellers alike. The hotel provides essential amenities, including complimentary cribs for families travelling with young children. With its convenient location, guests can easily explore the vibrant city while enjoying a comfortable and practical lodging experience.
Where to stay in San Antonio
San Antonio, a vibrant metropolis, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly attractions, historical sites, and romantic escapes. Explore the rich heritage along the iconic River Walk, unwind at welcoming resorts, and savour the local cuisine. Just a short drive away, neighbouring towns provide charming atmospheres perfect for relaxation and leisure. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, San Antonio and its surroundings promise an unforgettable holiday experience.
- Downtown San Antonio: Located at the heart of San Antonio, this vibrant neighbourhood is a hub for tourists seeking a mix of culture, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Downtown San Antonio is known for its year-round appeal, with peak visitor numbers in March and during the summer months of June and July. Explore the historic River Walk, indulge in shopping at the local malls, or catch a live performance at the arena entertainment facilities. With landmarks such as the Alamo and various theme parks nearby, Downtown offers an exciting blend of urban charm and rich Texan history.
- Boerne: Nestled in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, Boerne is a delightful city that attracts visitors year-round, especially during spring and summer. Ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and scenic views, Boerne has an array of parks, recreational areas, and beautiful lakes and rivers. The charming downtown area features quaint shops and eateries, making it perfect for family outings. With its unique blend of nature and community spirit, Boerne promises a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
- Schertz: Located just a short drive from San Antonio, Schertz is a thriving city known for its family-oriented atmosphere and outdoor activities. Visitors flock here in the spring and summer months, particularly in March and June to July. Schertz boasts a variety of recreational areas, including water parks and shopping centres, catering to all ages. Attractions such as the local esplanade and theme parks enhance the experience, making it a popular choice for families seeking fun and relaxation in a welcoming environment.
Things to do in San Antonio
Shopping
For a diverse shopping experience, visit the Shops at La Cantera, featuring upscale retailers and charming boutiques. The Historic Market Square offers a vibrant atmosphere with local artisans and unique souvenirs. Additionally, North Star Mall is known for its wide range of shops and dining options.
Recreation
In San Antonio, indulge in a serene escape at the Mokara Hotel & Spa, where you can enjoy rejuvenating treatments overlooking the River Walk. At the La Cantera Resort & Spa, experience a holistic approach to wellness with golf, spa services, and serene outdoor spaces to unwind.
Adventure
The San Antonio River Walk offers a scenic path lined with shops and restaurants, perfect for leisurely strolls. For thrill-seekers, Six Flags Fiesta Texas features exhilarating rides and live entertainment, while the Natural Bridge Caverns invites exploration of stunning underground formations through guided tours.
Nightlife
In San Antonio, the historic River Walk is alive with vibrant bars and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely evening. The Esquire Tavern offers craft cocktails in a rustic setting, while Jazz, TX provides a lively atmosphere with live music, creating a captivating nightlife experience.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Antonio
San Antonio offers numerous budget-friendly options for tourists. Enjoy free attractions like the River Walk, St. Mary's University, and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. For transport, utilise the affordable bus system or consider walking, as many sites are close together. To save on accommodation, visit during the cheaper months of January, September, and November, and aim for a Tuesday stay. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Antonio are January, September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and July, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Antonio is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in San Antonio is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels at a glance. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservations in San Antonio with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in San Antonio
San Antonio offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities, outdoor experiences, and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore captivating urban parks, thrilling theme parks, and historic churches, catering to those seeking culture and adventure. Additionally, the scenic San Antonio Bay provides an optional highlight for those looking to engage with the area's natural beauty.
- River Walk: Stroll along this picturesque esplanade that winds through the heart of San Antonio. With its vibrant atmosphere, the River Walk is ideal for a romantic evening or a family outing, featuring charming shops, cafés, and lush greenery alongside the tranquil waters.
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Experience the thrill at this lively theme park, where family entertainment reigns supreme. With exhilarating rides, live shows, and themed attractions, it offers a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers.
- Natural Bridge Caverns: Discover the wonders of this impressive cave system, showcasing stunning rock formations and underground landscapes. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the caverns offer guided tours and adventure activities, providing a unique experience of nature's beauty.
Best time to go to San Antonio
The best time to visit San Antonio can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San Antonio falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in San Antonio falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to San Antonio
Arriving in San Antonio is convenient with several airports to choose from. San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is merely 11km from the city centre, with excellent hotels nearby such as the 5-star Thompson San Antonio - Riverwalk and the 4.5-star Mokara Hotel & Spa. If you prefer flying into AUStin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), located 117km away, luxury options like the Austin Proper Hotel and the Fairmont Austin Gold Experience are available, both around 11km from the airport. For those considering Victoria Regional Airport (VCT), situated 166km from San Antonio, options include the Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites, both within 8km of the airport.