Immerse yourself in these vibrant Texan cities for an authentic American Southern experience.
TEXAS HOLIDAYS
Overview
Experience Texas
Texas holidays promise a truly unique experience. The name Texas comes from the native American Caddo word Tejas, which means friends. Thus, the state’s motto is a simple one; ‘Friendship’, which is quite appropriate as the state welcomes countless visitors every year. ‘The Lone Star’ state was once a republic unto itself; people still remark at how Texas feels like its own country, such is the unique nature of its landscapes, culture and people.
Houston, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso and Dallas are its most notable cities. Austin, the state capital, prides itself on being The Live Music Capital of the World with more music venues per capita than any other city in the United States. They say everything is bigger in Texas, so whether it’s the endless landscapes of Big Bend National Park, the space shuttles at Nasa Space Centre, the famous highway that is Route 66, or just a quintessential serving of Texas BBQ ribs, a holiday to Texas is like nothing else.
Tailor Make your Texas Holidays
With flights to Dallas now available and a great range of fly-drive holidays and escorted tours, there has never been a better time to experience something new and book your holiday to Texas. Contact one of our personal travel planners today.
Texas Holiday Offers
Texas Lone Star Trail Fly Drive
Texas Lone Star Trail Fly Drive
13 Nights From €3225 per person
Explore the vast and diverse landscapes of Texas on an unforgettable road trip adventure.
VIEW HOLIDAY DETAILS
Eagle Rider Route 66 Self Guided Motorcycle Tour
Eagle Rider Route 66 Self Guided Motorcycle Tour
14 Nights From €4999 per person
A 15-day journey riding along the world famous “Mother Road” highway from Chicago to Los Angeles by motorcycle.
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What To Do In Texas
Discover Texas
Texas is the second largest state by size and population. It has 3,700 streams, 15 major rivers and over 100 artificial reservoirs. It divides into 10 climatic regions, – some very dramatic! Thunderstorms often hit the north and east – check out Tornado Alley. Texas is home to 65 species of mammals, 213 species of reptiles and amphibians, and a huge diversity of bird life. Houston, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso and Dallas are its most notable cities. Dallas of course reminds those of a certain age of the eponymous TV series with JR, ‘The Poison Dwarf’, digging for oil and cattle ranching. The last two are not fiction! Austin prides itself on being The Live Music Capital of the World. Associated with the Cowboy and Cattle, Texas is also nicknamed the ‘Lone Star,’ referencing its former status as an independent republic, and acts as a reminder of the state’s struggle of independence from Mexico. Another popular expression is ‘everything is bigger in Texas’ and mostly it is!
Dallas, Home of the Cowboys
In terms of events that are worth travelling over to see, Dallas has a great many. The most famous of these is the State Fair of Texas, which has been held in Fair Park every year since 1886. So big is the State Fair, that it is believed to bring in a whopping $350 million to the city’s economy each and every year.
Other exciting Dallas-based events worth checking out include the Mexican-American Cinco de Mayo, which is held on the 5th of May and celebrates Mexican-style culture in a huge, largely street-based party. Halloween is another fantastic time to visit Dallas, as there are all sorts of spooky goings on taking place, including the Downtown Dallas Arts District Zombie Walk and the Cedar Springs Road Halloween Parade.
Dallas also has a pro team for all of the major American sports. The most famous of these is surely the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, but there are plenty of other teams to take a look at including the Texas Rangers (baseball), FC Dallas (soccer), the Stars (ice hockey) and the Mavericks (basketball). So if you every fancy taking in a game, Dallas is the place to go!
Austin Culture
Austin is the capital city of Texas and the fastest growing large city in all of America, with close to one million people calling it their home. It is second only to Phoenix, Arizona in terms of overall size of an American state capital.
While Dallas is seen as Texas’ economic hot spot, Austin is most certainly the beating cultural heart of the state, calling itself “The Live Music Capital of the World”, with more music venues per capita than any other city in the United States. Major annual music festivals include the Austin City Limits Music Festival, the Urban Music Festival and the Fun Fun Fun Music festival, which boasts an eclectic mix of hip-hop, heavy metal and stand-up comedy!
Museums in Houston
With a population of roughly two and a quarter million people, Houston is the largest city in the Southern United States and fourth most populous city in all of America. Nicknamed ‘Space City’, Houston is a renowned bastion of scientific thinking and discovery thanks to learning institutions such as the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Centre and the thriving museum district which attracts upward of 8 million tourists per year.
The Houston Museum of Natural Sciences contains all manner of wonderful displays, including the much loved Morian Hall of Palaeontology which is curated by legendary palaeontologist Robert T. Bakker, who is often credited as being the main instigator of the Dinosaur Renaissance. Among the upward of 60 awesome prehistoric creatures on display are the multi-horned Triceratops, no less than four Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons and Quetzalcoatlus, which is probably the largest animal ever to have mastered powered flight (its wingspan is nearly 40 feet across)! Visitors can take a guided tour of the dinosaur hall and take part in a fully interactive mock dino dig.
Best Times To Travel To Texas
Spring is one of the best times to visit Texas. Temperatures are warm but not extreme, averaging 18°C to 28°C, depending on the region. Wildflowers bloom across the state and outdoor events begin to pick up. Cities like Austin and Dallas are particularly lively during this time, with festivals, al fresco dining and spring markets in full swing.
Summer brings heat, sunshine and long days. Expect high temperatures, often between 30°C and 38°C, especially inland. While it can be hot, it’s also peak season for outdoor events and vibrant nightlife. Austin’s lakes offer great spots for swimming or paddleboarding, and San Antonio’s shaded River Walk stays relatively cool. Just be prepared for the heat and plan any sightseeing for earlier in the day.
Early autumn is ideal for travel, with warm days and cooler evenings. Average temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C in September, dropping to around 15°C to 24°C by November. It’s a great time for road trips, festivals and food events. The State Fair of Texas, one of the country’s biggest and oldest fairs, takes place in Dallas from late September to mid-October, where you can expect rides, live shows, and legendary fried food.
Winters in Texas are mild with average daytime temperatures usually sitting between 10°C and 18°C. Crowds are thinner and cities take on a quieter, more relaxed pace. It’s a great time to explore museums, historic sites and local dining scenes without the heat or the crowds.
Dallas, TX, USA
Location
Texas sits in the southern United States, stretching from the Gulf Coast to the edge of the desert Southwest, and shares a long border with Mexico. It’s the second-largest state in the country, and that is felt everywhere – in the landscapes, the skies, and the personality of its cities. Each city offers something different. Austin is known for its easy-going atmosphere and live music, Dallas and Houston bring a mix of culture, history and modern city life, while San Antonio is known for its heritage and strong Mexican-American influence. Places like El Paso show yet another side of Texas, with wide-open views and a slower pace while Fort Worth, just west of Dallas, is known for its cowboy culture, country music venues and historic saloons. Amarillo is a great place to stop off on the historic Route 66, offering a classic taste of Americana and life on the open road.
Guides
Staff Tips
Texas - While in Austin, the live music capital of the world, head to 6th Street for the best in live music or experience something on a bigger scale at the Austin City Limits Music Festival!
Amanda O'BrienPersonal Travel Planner
Texas - Don’t worry if you forgot your cowboy boots, there are plenty of great local stores to pick up a pair. You’ll need them when you’re out on the ranch feeding the Longhorns and horse riding!
Amanda O'BrienPersonal Travel Planner
Texas - Fort Worth, experience the Old West with the twice daily cattle drive in the Stockyards. Learn to line dance at Billy Bobs, the largest Honky Tonk in Texas, visit the Rodeo and enjoy a bottle of Buffalo Butt Beer.
Amanda O'BrienPersonal Travel Planner
Texas -“Houston, we have a problem” - interesting fact, this is actually a mis-quote, what John Swigert actually said was “Okay Houston, we’ve had a problem here”.
Karen Sheals HoySales Manager
Texas - The Alamo, a World Heritage site can be reached from the River Walk, a shaded pedestrian promenade that winds its way around the city centre, lined with lively cafes and bars to stop off and enjoy fresh Mexican food and a refreshing Margarita.
Amanda O'BrienPersonal Travel Planner
Texas - Want to experience the great outdoors of Texas? Wrap up under the spectacular night sky, telling stories and enjoying s’mores.
Claire SomersPersonal Travel Planner
Texas FAQs
How many days should I spend in Texas to get a good mix of culture, food and scenery?
Ten to fourteen days is ideal if you want to experience a few cities and include a scenic drive or day trip. If you have a week or less, focus on one region to get the most out of your time without feeling rushed.
What should I pack for a trip to Texas, especially if visiting multiple cities or regions?
Pack light, breathable clothing for warmer months, comfortable shoes for walking, and a light jacket or jumper for cooler evenings. Suncream, sunglasses and a reusable water bottle are useful year-round. If travelling in winter or heading west, include a few warmer layers.
What local foods should I try?
Texas is known for its slow-cooked barbecue, especially brisket, as well as Tex-Mex classics like breakfast tacos and enchiladas. Southern comfort food, from chicken-fried steak to pecan pie, is also widely available. Each region has its own specialities, and trying the local favourites is part of the experience.
Do I need to book things like rodeo tickets, food tours or museum passes in advance?
For major events, guided tours and popular attractions, it’s best to book ahead, especially during weekends and holidays. Most museums allow walk-ins, but advance booking can save time and guarantee entry for busy exhibitions or time slots.
How far apart are the major cities, and what is the best way to travel between them?
Texas is large, and its cities are spread out. Driving from Dallas to Austin takes around three hours, while Houston to San Antonio is about three and a half. Fort Worth is just west of Dallas and less than an hour’s drive away. Driving is a popular option and allows for more flexibility, but internal flights are available and useful if covering long distances.
Is Texas suitable for a self-drive holiday or road trip?
Yes. Texas is ideal for a road trip, with well-maintained roads, plenty of signposting and a variety of routes between cities and regions. A car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover small towns, scenic routes and hidden gems along the way.
Is San Antonio’s River Walk and the Alamo worth visiting, and how much time should I allow?
Yes, both are well worth including. The Alamo can be explored in an hour or two, depending on your interest in history. The River Walk is perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening, with shops, cafés and restaurants lining the water’s edge.
Are there national or state parks in Texas worth visiting for day trips or scenic drives?
There are many parks to choose from in Texas. Enchanted Rock near Fredericksburg and Palo Duro Canyon near Amarillo offer excellent walking and driving routes. For something more remote, Big Bend National Park offers dramatic scenery and clear night skies, though it’s better suited to overnight stays.
Are there beach destinations in Texas worth including, such as Galveston or South Padre Island?
Yes. Galveston, close to Houston, has a laid-back seafront and historic charm. South Padre Island, further south, offers long sandy beaches and warm waters. Both are best visited in spring or autumn for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
Are there family-friendly attractions across the major Texas cities?
Yes. From interactive museums and outdoor parks to historic landmarks and cultural festivals, there is plenty to keep children and families entertained. San Antonio is especially popular with families, and Austin, Dallas and Houston also offer a wide range of attractions for all ages.
Is Fort Worth worth visiting and what can I expect to see there?
Yes, Fort Worth is a great place to experience Texas’s Western heritage and cowboy culture. The historic Stockyards District feels like stepping into the Old West, with wooden boardwalks, saloons, and brick-lined streets. There are plenty of shops selling boots and hats, live country music, and museums like the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, which honours legendary figures from the world of ranching, rodeo and Western life.
Don’t miss the twice-daily cattle drive, when Longhorns parade through the historic Stockyards between 11:30am and 4pm, giving visitors a real taste of authentic cowboy tradition.
