San Antonio is a relaxed Texas city with the Alamo, a mission trail that's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the lively River Walk and some of the best Tex-Mex anywhere. Spring and fall are best; summers are hot.
Good to know
- Visit the River Walk in the morning or after sunset to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Reserve the Alamo timed-entry tickets in advance.
- Mission San Jose, Concepcion, San Juan and Espada are a 4-hour bike ride or short drive.
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Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
The 1836 mission-fortress and shrine of Texas liberty, with a new museum and visitor center.
Miles of landscaped walkways with restaurants, bars and boat rides.
Largest Mexican market in the US with crafts, mariachi and street food.
750-foot tower with an observation deck and restaurant.
Puffy tacos and enchiladas at old family restaurants.
Historic neighborhood of Victorian mansions and cafes beside the river, a pleasant walk after lunch.
Four 18th-century Spanish missions connected by a river trail.
Former brewery turned dining and shopping district with a Saturday farmers market.
Modern art in a Spanish Revival mansion with gardens.
Guided cave tours with impressive formations, 30 minutes north.
German-Texan towns and wineries a short drive away.