Houston Texas, USA Travel Guide
This is Houston's main international airport, is around 23 miles (37 km) north of downtown. IAH is an important hub for United Airlines, handling a high volume of international and domestic flights. It features five terminals (A, B, C, D, E) connected by automated trains. IAH has wide-ranging routes across the U.S., Canada, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Located about 11 miles (18 km) south of downtown, Hobby Airport is closer to the city center. It mainly serves domestic flights and is a major hub for Southwest Airlines. HOU is generally smaller and more convenient to navigate than IAH, making it a preferred choice for many domestic travelers.
Increased costs during Houston’s high tourist season (March-May and September-November) and holidays.
Lower prices generally during summer (June-August) and late winter (January-February).
Both IAH and HOU offer dining, retail, car rental, lounges, free Wi-Fi, and ground transit.
Booking flights well in advance (2-4 months in order to international, 1-3 months for domestic) often results in better fares.
Consider joining a flight deal service like Dollar Flight Club for alerts on discounted fares.
Compare prices across various booking platforms, including Skyscanner, for the best deals.
Houston's Amtrak station (800 Trunck Street) serves the "Sunset Limited" route. This long-distance train connects La to New Orleans, with stops in major Texas cities like San Antonio and El Paso. Service operates a few times a week. It is mainly for scenic, long-distance journeys rather than quick intercity travel within Texas.
For short-term visitors, a valid driver''s driving license from your country of origin is generally accepted. An International Driving Permit is strongly we recommend if your license is not in English. Drivers must be at least 21-25 years old (age varies by the rental agency, surcharges apply for under 25). A major credit card is required for the rental deposit. Houston is notorious for its heavy traffic, especially during rush hours (6-9 AM and 3-7 PM).
Roads in Houston and throughout Texas are generally well-maintained. Safety concerns mainly are connected to aggressive driving, high speeds, and distracted drivers on the freeways. Always drive with caution. Be extra cautious during rain, as heavy rainfall can quickly lead to standing water and increased risk of hydroplaning. Flooding on roads is a serious hazard; never drive through standing water.
While not a main mode of arrival for most tourists, Houston's nearness to the Gulf of Mexico means sea-based modes of transport exist, especially for cruises. The nearest large cruise port is the Port of Galveston, approximately 50 miles (80 km) to the southeast of downtown Houston (approximately one hour drive).
The Port of Galveston is the nearest primary cruise port to Houston, located approximately 50 miles (80 km) to the southeast of downtown. The drive typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic. It serves as a homeport for major cruise lines like Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, and Disney Cruise Line, offering itineraries to the Caribbean and Mexico. Many travelers arriving by air into Houston (IAH or HOU) employ this port as their departure point for cruises.
The Galveston-Bolivar Ferry provides free vehicle and passenger transport between Galveston Island and the Bolivar Peninsula, offering scenic views of the ship channel and sometimes dolphins. This is more of a local transport or sightseeing experience rather than an arrival method into Houston. Houston'the cove ofou system, while extensive, does not feature significant river transportation options for arrival or departure.
Houston has a vast network of freeways, connecting all parts of the city and surrounding areas.
Be prepared for severe traffic, especially during peak commuting hours. Use real-time traffic apps.
Always drive defensively and be cautious during heavy rain due to potential flooding.
The United States does not impose specific exit fees or taxes upon departure for international travelers; any applicable taxes are typically included in the airline ticket price. Both IAH and HOU provide a variety of facilities for departing travelers the moment you go through security, including dining, retail, and airline lounges. Free Wi-Fi is available.
