Known as a university hub and powerhouse of pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, Austin equally captivates music lovers through its thriving music culture. Discover what makes Texas's capital such a compelling destination.

Austin: Exploring a City of Two Faces

Blending authenticity with a festive, musical atmosphere, Austin surprises visitors with far more depth than its skyline of gleaming towers suggests. Nature and culture—these twin pillars define Austin's unique appeal. For outdoor enthusiasts, cycling at Zilker Park or along the Lady Bird Lake shoreline justifies the trip alone. For generations of music devotees, visiting Austin remains a pilgrimage, if only to catch a performance by a blues, rock, or country legend. After exploring the city's legendary music venues, take a self-guided or escorted tour of monuments such as the Texas State Capitol or the Congress Avenue Bridge.

A Glimpse into History

1835 marks Austin's official founding. Mexican settlers initially called it "Waterloo," but when Texas came under American control, the city was renamed Austin to honor Stephen Fuller Austin, regarded as the father of Texas.

Before European colonization, the Tonkawa Indians inhabited the area. When Americans arrived, the Tonkawa were forcibly relocated to Oklahoma. Yet Austin the pioneer managed to forge strong bonds with the tribe—they sided with the Texas Rangers during the Comanche uprising of 1840 and again in 1858.

Mirabeau B. Lamar, Texas's second governor, gave the city its name and championed moving the state capital from Houston to Austin. Edwin Waller designed the urban plan for this new seat of power.

Modern Austin: World Capital of Live Music

Bordered by the Colorado River, Austin sits in central Texas at the base of the dramatic Balcones Escarpment. It ranks as Texas's fourth-largest city and eleventh largest in the United States. With rivers and lakes threading through the city, outdoor recreation opportunities abound: swimming, boating, cycling, and hiking. Austin's urban parks offer families endless exploration. What truly sets the Texas capital apart are its 150 concert venues showcasing live performances nightly. The city birthed the blues and country traditions that would echo through Texas concert halls before conquering the world.

Essential Austin Attractions

Planning a couple's getaway or family trip to Austin but short on time? Use our practical guide to maximize your visit.

Architectural & Urban Heritage

The Texas State Capitol: A Masterpiece

This iconic Texas Capitol houses the chambers of parliament and the governor's offices. Its striking red granite façade crowned by a central dome exemplifies Neo-Renaissance architecture. Admission is free, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. Inside, view portraits of successive Texas leaders. Guided tours run every fifteen minutes.

Congress Avenue Bridge

For an unforgettable sunset, stroll across Congress Avenue Bridge. The Colorado River views are stunning, but there's more: as evening falls, witness the spectacular emergence of millions of Mexican free-tailed bats hunting insects above the river—a sight you won't forget.

Natural Heritage

Mount Bonnell

Overlooking Lake Austin, Mount Bonnell (locally known as Covert Park) offers panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding landscape.

Lady Bird Lake

This artificial reservoir fed by the Colorado River is a beloved retreat near Austin. Swimming is prohibited, but paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, and dragon boat racing all thrive here. Hiking and cycling trails encircle the lake's scenic shoreline.

Lake Travis

Home to diverse fish species, Lake Travis is a premier destination for fishing and scuba diving. Its waters rank among Texas's clearest. Note: nearby parks attract naturist enthusiasts.

McKinney Falls State Park

Located 20 kilometers south of Austin, this 259-hectare mountain park features 80 campsites—a peaceful retreat from the urban buzz.

Parks & Museums

Zilker Park

Adjacent to Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park offers recreational facilities for all ages. Its centerpiece is the warm-water spring-fed Barton Springs Pool.

Bullock Texas State History Museum

The museum's exhibits chronicle Texas history from pre-Columbian times through American annexation. The top floor celebrates Texas achievements in science, sports, and music—a must-see.

Practical Information

When to Visit Austin?

Weather is ideal from September through October and April through May. Smart travelers time their visit for these months. Summer temperatures can reach 35°C (95°F).

To reach Austin, flying remains your best option. Multiple daily flights from Europe and across North America serve Austin-Bergström International Airport. Direct service from Paris is unavailable; expect 14 to 16 hours depending on your carrier.

About fifteen hotels sit within 10 minutes of the airport. We recommend catching a live performance at one of the airport's four restaurants before heading downtown.

Getting Around Austin

Cycling is excellent for exploring the city. From Lady Bird Lake to Zilker Park, from Barton Springs to Congress Avenue, much of Austin welcomes cyclists. For eco-conscious travel, walking works well given the compact distances. Bus fares are affordable at just $1.25 per ride.

You'll Love...

• Taking a guided tour of the Capitol, Austin's most iconic monument

• Stepping back in time at the Bullock Texas State History Museum

• Marveling at the impressive Blanton Museum of Art collection

• Exploring state parks and natural wonders

• Spending an afternoon by Lady Bird Lake

• Enjoying a family picnic in one of Austin's green spaces