For a taste of the Wild West, Texas has it all. Tex-mex feasts, rodeos and a rugged wilderness collide in this staggeringly large state. From glitzy oil cities to small town charm and World Heritage Sites to great national parks, it’s amazingly diverse.

It's never too early to think ahead and plan your next amazing holiday. Guarantee the hotel you want and gain early access to a choice of flights.

Essential information for Texas

  1. Time Zone

    UK - 6hrs

  2. Language

    American English

  3. Currency

    US Dollar $

  4. Flight information

    14h (1 stop) Indirect flight

  1. Flight schedule

    Fly to the US with Virgin Atlantic, and connect on to Texas with our partner airlines.

  2. Do I need a visa?

    To travel to the USA, you will need an ESTA visa. Please make sure that you have this approved at least 3 days before you head off on holiday.

  3. How do I get around?

    Given the distances, travelling by car is all but necessary in Texas, with public transport proving impractical in a state of this size. With such big distances, petrol prices have historically always been lower than the national average.

Where to stay in Texas

Texas travel guide

Texas shopping

Things to do

From exploring museums to artesian fairs, to festivals. There is something for everyone in Texas. Not to mention outlets, malls and markets brimming with top designer names right down to handmade, unique items. A treasure trove for antique lovers at the reknowned Round Top Antique weekend for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Texas food

BBQ Foodies

To say Texas takes BBQs seriously is an understatement. Some Texans debate over their barbecue skills the way others talk politics or the NFL. Texas BBQs are notoriously unrivaled that will be sure to keep your bellies full.

Texas Rodeo

Sports & Saddles

Texas is home to Formula 1, NASCAR racing, NFL football, PGA golf to name a few. Not to mention Texas being the only place you can experience true Texan high energy horseback fun - Rodeo!

Live Music-Austin

Music Festivals

Austin is the place to be for some of the most electric music experiences with rock bars and festivals galore including the Live Music Capital of the World festival. Denton is also a great place to visit, roughly an hours drive from Dallas, which hosts the Art & Jazz festival every Spring.

 

Need more travel tips or holiday help?

Absolutely! Texas is huge (we’re talking second-largest state in the U.S. big), so driving is definitely the best way to explore the Lone Star State. Here’s why:

Freedom to Explore

Driving gives you the ultimate freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. Want to see a ghost town, stop at a quirky diner, or take a detour through a vast desert landscape? When you’re behind the wheel, it’s all up to you.

Scenic Routes

Texas has some of the best scenic drives in the country. Think rolling hills, wildflower fields, and endless stretches of open highway. The Texas Hill Country, the Loneliest Road in America (U.S. Route 50), and the Palo Duro Canyon are just a few of the jaw-dropping landscapes you’ll experience. No other mode of transport can offer that kind of stunning backdrop.

Big, Bold Cities & Remote Spots

From Austin’s buzzing nightlife to the quiet, expansive beauty of Big Bend National Park, Texas is made for road trips. Public transport is minimal in many parts of the state, especially in smaller towns and rural areas, so having your own wheels is a must if you want to explore the full range of experiences.

Flexible Schedules

With driving, there’s no worrying about catching a bus or train on time. You’re in control of your schedule. Stay as long as you want in one place, take as many breaks as you need, and plan your journey around what you love.

Comfort and Convenience

Texas is all about comfort and convenience, and a rental car offers both. You can pack everything you need, from snacks to sunscreen, and even take a nap in the back seat when you’ve had enough of driving. Plus, the highways are generally well-maintained, making the ride smooth and easy.

Public Transport – Not So Much

While cities like Dallas, Houston, and Austin have decent public transit systems, the vast expanses of Texas mean you're often better off with a car. Rural areas and small towns are often lacking in public transport options, so having your own car gives you the flexibility to reach more remote spots.

Texas is BBQ heaven, with each region offering something special. Here are the best spots:

AustinBrisket Heaven

  • Franklin Barbecue: The gold standard of BBQ.

  • Micklethwait Craft Meats: A hidden gem with amazing sausage and brisket.

LockhartBBQ Capital

  • Kreuz Market: Famous for no-frills, big-flavour brisket.

  • Black’s Barbecue: Legendary ribs and sausage.

DallasBig City BBQ

  • Pecan Lodge: Best brisket in town.

  • Lockhart Smokehouse: Solid Texas BBQ with great ribs.

HoustonBBQ Fusion

  • The Brisket House: Epic brisket sandwiches.

  • Rudy’s Bar-B-Q: Reliable, mouth-watering BBQ.

San AntonioTexas with a Kick

  • The Big Bib BBQ: Amazing brisket and BBQ chicken.

  • 2M Smokehouse BBQ: Perfect blend of brisket and spicy sauces.

East TexasSmoky, Tender BBQ

  • The Salt Lick: Wood-fired brisket and ribs.

  • Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-B-Q: Famous pulled pork.

West TexasBBQ with a Desert Twist

  • Big Bend BBQ: Unique BBQ in a stunning location.

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