10-Day Texas Itinerary: San Antonio Base with Austin, San Marcos, New Braunfels & Boerne Explorations

Day 1: San Antonio Arrival

San Antonio, Texas on May 20, 2025

3:00PM

San Antonio River Walk

Stroll this iconic network of walkways along the San Antonio River, surrounded by lively cafes and shops.
USD0, 1h30m

5:00PM

Check-in and Rest at Hotel

Settle into your San Antonio accommodation and relax before dinner.
Varies, 1h

6:30PM

Dinner at Boudro's on the Riverwalk

Enjoy Texas bistro dining featuring delicious mesquite-grilled seafood and steaks with a river view.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: San Antonio History

San Antonio, Texas on May 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Guenther House

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and coffee in a historic riverside setting.
USD15, 1h

9:30AM

The Alamo

Visit this historic site of the 1836 battle for Texas independence, deeply symbolic and informative.
USD0, 1h30m

11:30AM

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

Explore the four other 18th-century Spanish missions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, by tour or bike.
USD0, 2h

2:00PM

Lunch at Rosario’s Mexican Cafe y Cantina

Savor authentic Mexican Tex-Mex dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
USD20, 1h

3:30PM

San Fernando Cathedral

Visit one of the oldest cathedrals in the US and enjoy the evening light show if available.
USD0, 1h

6:30PM

Dinner at Cured at Pearl Brewery

Dine on innovative cured meats and seasonal dishes in a trendy restored brewery setting.
USD45, 1h30m
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Day 3: San Antonio Culture

San Antonio, Texas on May 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Panadería

Try Mexican-inspired baked goods and excellent coffee to start your day.
USD12, 1h

9:30AM

San Antonio Museum of Art

Discover broad collections from ancient to contemporary art in a former brewery building.
USD20, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pearl Farmers Market

Enjoy fresh local and artisanal food from various vendors (open Saturdays mainly, check schedule).
USD15-25, 1h

2:00PM

Brackenridge Park and Japanese Tea Garden

Relax and explore this lush park including the beautiful Japanese Tea Garden.
USD0, 1h30m

6:00PM

Dinner at Smoke Shack

Savor Texas BBQ with sides in a casual spot famous for brisket and ribs.
USD25, 1h
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Day 4: Day Trip New Braunfels & San Marcos

New Braunfels & San Marcos, Texas on May 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel or nearby cafe

Light breakfast in San Antonio before heading out to New Braunfels.
USD10, 30m

9:00AM

Gruene Historic District, New Braunfels

Explore this charming historic district filled with shops, wine tasting, and the famous Gruene Hall dance hall.
USD0, 2h

11:30AM

Lunch at Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar

Dine riverside on Texas comfort food in an iconic setting in Gruene.
USD30, 1h

1:00PM

San Marcos Outlet Shopping

Shop premium brands at the San Marcos Premium Outlets, great for deals.
USD0 (shopping costs extra), 2h

3:30PM

San Marcos River Walk or Tubing (seasonal)

Relax strolling the river trails or enjoy tubing if weather permits.
USD15-30, 1h30m

6:30PM

Dinner at The Root Cellar Cafe, San Marcos

Eat fresh farm-to-table dishes in a cozy downtown cafe.
USD25, 1h

8:00PM

Return to San Antonio

Drive back to your hotel in San Antonio for rest.
USD0, 45m
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Day 5: Relax & Explore San Antonio

San Antonio, Texas on May 24, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at NOLA Brunch & Beignets

Enjoy New Orleans-style beignets and a Southern-inspired brunch.
USD20, 1h

10:30AM

Japanese Tea Garden revisit or shopping at Pearl District

Leisurely revisit or shop local crafts and boutiques at the Pearl District.
USD0, 2h

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cove

Try organic Tex-Mex and vegetarian options in a relaxed spot focused on sustainability.
USD20, 1h

3:00PM

The DoSeum Children’s Museum or Adult Visit for Interactive Fun

Engage with interactive exhibits for families or vibrant installations for adults.
USD15, 2h

6:30PM

Dinner at Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia

Experience traditional Mexican fare and bakery in a colorful, festive atmosphere open 24/7.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 6: Austin Arrival & Exploration

Austin, Texas on May 25, 2025

7:30AM

Early Breakfast at San Antonio - Magnolia Pancake Haus

Fuel up with hearty pancakes and Texas-shaped waffles before heading to Austin.
USD15, 1h

9:00AM

Drive to Austin

Head north on I-35 for about 1.5 hours to arrive in Austin.
USD0, 1h30m

10:30AM

Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail

Explore scenic waterfront trails in Austin's downtown area.
USD0, 1h30m

12:30PM

Lunch at Torchy’s Tacos

Enjoy creative and beloved Austin-style tacos from a local favorite chain.
USD15, 1h

2:00PM

Texas State Capitol Tour

Visit the beautiful and historic Texas Capitol building with free guided tours available.
USD0, 1h

4:00PM

South Congress Avenue Stroll

Shop, people-watch, and enjoy quirky Austin vibes along this eclectic street.
USD0, 2h

7:00PM

Dinner at Uchi

Treat yourself to upscale Japanese cuisine, sushi, and innovative dishes in Austin’s trendiest spot.
USD60, 1h30m
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Day 7: Austin Culture & Music

Austin, Texas on May 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Juan in a Million

Famous for hearty Tex-Mex breakfast tacos and local flair.
USD12, 1h

9:30AM

Blanton Museum of Art

Discover one of the premier university art museums in the country with diverse collections.
USD12, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at Franklin Barbecue

Sample legendary Texas barbecue; arrive early or be prepared to wait for this Austin institution.
USD25, 1h

2:30PM

Zilker Metropolitan Park and Barton Springs Pool

Relax or swim in this natural spring pool; park is perfect for walking and nature enjoyment.
USD5, 2h

6:00PM

Live Music at The Continental Club

Experience authentic Austin live music in this iconic venue open nightly.
USD10-20, 2h

8:30PM

Dinner at Home Slice Pizza

End the night with savory New York-style pizza in a casual setting.
USD20, 1h
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Day 8: Austin Nature & Departure

Austin, Texas on May 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Elizabeth Street Cafe

Enjoy French pastries combined with Vietnamese flavors in a stylish cafe.
USD15, 1h

9:30AM

Mount Bonnell

Hike up for panoramic views over Austin and the Colorado River, a perfect photo opportunity.
USD0, 1h

11:00AM

Drive Back to San Antonio

Travel back to San Antonio to conclude your Austin trip.
USD0, 1h30m

1:00PM

Lunch en route or at San Antonio hotel

Light meal to recharge after the drive.
USD15, 1h
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Day 9: Boerne Day Trip

Boerne, Texas on May 28, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Bakery Lorraine, San Antonio

Start with European-style pastries and coffee in San Antonio before heading out.
USD15, 1h

9:30AM

Drive to Boerne

Travel northwest for about 40 minutes to reach this charming small town.
USD0, 40m

10:15AM

Historic Main Street Boerne

Explore unique boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries along the quaint streets.
USD0, 2h

12:30PM

Lunch at The Leached Lounge

Relax with upscale comfort food and cocktails in a stylish spot right on Main Street.
USD30, 1h

2:00PM

Cibolo Nature Center

Hike the trails and enjoy wildlife in this beautiful nature preserve just outside town.
USD5, 2h

5:00PM

Return to San Antonio

Drive back to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
USD0, 40m

7:00PM

Dinner at Bliss, San Antonio

Experience contemporary American cuisine with an inventive approach to local ingredients.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 10: San Antonio Leisure & Departure

San Antonio, Texas on May 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Magnolia Pancake Haus

Enjoy a comforting breakfast to savor your final Texas day.
USD15, 1h

9:30AM

Japanese Tea Garden or San Antonio Zoo

Pick a relaxing outdoor spot or visit the zoo depending on your interests and time.
USD0 to USD22, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at Schilo’s German Deli

Try classic German-Texan dishes in one of the oldest restaurants in San Antonio.
USD20, 1h

2:00PM

Last-minute Shopping or Relax by River Walk

Spend your afternoon enjoying the shops or a peaceful walk along the River Walk before departure.
USD0, 2h
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