How to Spend THREE Days in San Antonio, Texas – The Best 3-Day Itinerary

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Need help planning the perfect San Antonio itinerary? You’re in the right place!

San Antonio is full of history, culture, and unique experiences. Cruising along the River Walk, touring missions, tasting Hill Country wine, or even chasing ghosts. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to fit it all in. That’s why we’ve put together this detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

From downtown highlights and hidden gems to day trips into Texas Hill Country, each day is thoughtfully planned with top-rated tours, great food, and a little flexibility built in. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this itinerary will guide you through the best of San Antonio with ease.

Itinerary Overview

When it comes to getting around San Antonio, we highly recommend renting a car or being ready to spend a little extra on rideshares like Uber. Public transportation is available, but it can be a little inconsistent and won’t take you to most of the places you need to go. It’s certainly possible to use, but just be prepared to spend some extra time waiting at the bus stop.

Regardless, you have a solid three days ahead of you with a wide variety of experiences suitable for all ages. San Antonio is a lively city, and below we will give you a quick overview of what you can look forward to!

Day 1: Start your time in San Antonio and see all of the city’s best sites on a small-group tour, including the Alamo, Tower of the Americas, and a boat tour. After lunch, explore the River Walk’s many attractions like gardens, murals, and even a Western art museum. To top it all off, head to the Magic Saloon for a western-themed magic show or see a production at the Majestic Theatre.

Day 2: On day two, you’ll head out to the Texas Hill Country and have a choice of how to spend your time. Option one has you wine tasting your way through Fredericksburg, while option two will let you explore the history of Texas Hill Country and Lyndon B. Johnson State Park. Regardless of what you choose, you can look forward to a fancy dinner in San Antonio’s upscale Pearl District.

Day 3: On your final day, you’ll start by shopping at the Mexican Historic Market Square. Afterward, you have a choice of either seeing the Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience, going to the Museum of Art, the Japanese Tea Gardens, or the San Antonio Zoo! To end on a high (and spooky) note, you’ll learn all about San Antonio’s haunted past on a bus tour.

Day 1

Morning – See San Antonio’s best sites

Kicking off your San Antonio trip with our top choice sightseeing tour is a no-brainer. This half-day experience covers all the city’s must-see spots without the stress of planning a thing. Plus, it includes pickup from downtown San Antonio hotels, making it extra convenient.

The tour runs from 9:00 am to about 1:00 pm and packs in iconic sights like the Alamo, San Jose Mission, and Tower of the Americas before ending with a relaxing river cruise. Everything is arranged for you, so all you have to do is enjoy!

Our favorite stop was definitely the Alamo. We thought we knew the story, but our guide, Autumn, brought it to life in a way we hadn’t experienced without her. From pointing out where key moments of the battle took place to the massive 16-pounder cannon, it gave us a much deeper appreciation for this iconic site.

At San Jose Mission, we wandered through peaceful courtyards and admired the intricate stonework of the 18th-century church, which was like stepping back in time. Then it was on to the Tower of the Americas, where the views from the top gave us a whole new perspective on the city.

We wrapped up the morning on a peaceful river cruise, gliding past historic buildings, vibrant patios, and charming stone bridges. If you want to experience the best of San Antonio without lifting a finger, this tour is the perfect place to start.

See all the rave reviews and book this tour here!

Lunch – Schilo’s

After the tour drops you off downtown around 1:00 pm, head straight to Schilo’s for a quick and satisfying lunch, you won’t want to miss it, as they close at 2:30 pm! This iconic German-Texan deli has been a local favorite for over a century and is just steps from the River Walk.

Known for its homemade mustard, hearty sandwiches, and old-fashioned root beer floats, Schilo’s is the perfect spot to grab a bite without overdoing it, especially since you’ll be having an early dinner. It’s casual, quick, and full of character. Exactly what you need to recharge before your next adventure.

Afternoon – Explore the River Walk

After lunch, take some time to explore the famous San Antonio River Walk. This scenic 15-mile pedestrian path winds along the river right through the heart of downtown and is a must-visit while you’re in San Antonio. 

This vibrant area is lined with restaurants, shops, public art, and public gardens, making it a great spot to wander at your own pace. Be sure to stop by La Villita Historic Arts Village, a charming area filled with artisan boutiques and galleries. If you’re interested in history and culture, the Briscoe Western Art Museum is also nearby and well worth a visit. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or just enjoying the river views, this is a great way to soak up the atmosphere before the evening begins.

Early Dinner – Boudro’s on the Riverwalk

Before your evening plans, enjoy an early dinner at Boudro’s on the Riverwalk. An upscale Texas bistro located right along the water. This beloved downtown spot is known for its wood-grilled steaks, fresh seafood, and great outdoor seating. 

It’s the kind of place where every dish feels like the right pick, whether you go for the blackened prime rib or fresh-caught salmon. Be sure to allow plenty of time so you can enjoy your meal without feeling rushed before the show. With its riverside setting and refined Texas flavors, Boudro’s is the perfect spot to wind down your day in style.

Evening – Catch a show

The Magic Saloon

For a fun and unexpected night out, check out The Magic Saloon, a magic show that combines sleight-of-hand, storytelling, and Texas-style charm. The show starts at 6:30 pm, making it a perfect follow-up to an early dinner on the River Walk. Held in a cozy, saloon-style setting, this experience feels more like a private performance than a large-scale production. And it’s just an hour long, so it’s an easy addition to your day!

It’s interactive, witty, and full of surprises, and even if you think you’ve seen magic before, this show is definitely different from any other you’ve seen! A great option for couples, friends, or families looking to end the day with something unique that has that Texas charm you came for.

Reserve your tickets here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!

Majestic Theatre

For a more traditional evening out, consider catching a show at the Majestic Theatre, San Antonio’s largest and oldest theater. This stunning venue is known for its grand architecture and classic charm, making it the perfect setting for a night of live entertainment. 

The Majestic regularly hosts Broadway plays, symphony performances, concerts, and comedy shows, so there’s often something exciting on the calendar. If you love the atmosphere of historic theaters and enjoy music or the performing arts, this is a great way to spend your evening. You can check the full schedule here.

Howl at the Moon

Since the magic show will be done by 7:30 pm, you’ll have time to explore more of San Antonio’s unique watering holes. This spot is just a 2-minute walk from the show!

With a name like “Howl at the Moon”, I don’t think I have to preface this by saying that this isn’t where you go for a relaxing nightcap. But if you’re in the mood to throw a couple back with the locals, listen to dueling pianos, and sing at the top of your lungs, this is the watering hole you’ll want to hit up. 

Jokes aside, we found this bar to be a rip-roaring good time if you’re in the mood for a little (or a lot) of fun. Enjoy one of their iconic bucket drinks if you dare, but remember you have a full day tomorrow! You can reserve a table here in advance.

Day 2

On your second day, it’s time to head out of the city and explore the rolling hills and small-town charm of Texas Hill Country. You’ll have two great options depending on your interests: go wine tasting in Fredericksburg or explore historic landmarks and natural beauty at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park. Both tours offer a full-day escape from San Antonio with beautiful scenery, local flavor, and expert guides. We’ll break down each option below so you can choose the adventure that fits you best.

Option 1 – Go wine tasting in Fredericksburg

If you’re looking for a relaxing day filled with scenic views and local flavor, this wine tasting tour through Texas Hill Country is a great choice. The region is home to more than 50 wineries, and this tour takes you to a few standout spots without the hassle of driving yourself.

This tour departs at 10 am and meets in downtown San Antonio, so we grabbed some breakfast on the way to fill our bellies before we hit the vineyards.

We began at Sister Creek Vineyards, a unique winery housed in a former 19th-century cotton gin. The building alone was worth the visit, with creaky wooden floors and the rich scent of aging oak barrels in the air. After a quick look behind the scenes, we tried a variety of reds and whites, highlighted by a bold, Bordeaux-style blend that surprised us with its depth.

At the Texas Wine Collective (the second winery can vary), we sampled a totally different lineup and learned how the dry Texas heat influences the grapes. It was fun to compare tasting notes while gazing out over the surrounding hills.

Before heading back, there was time to explore Fredericksburg, a small town with German roots and a lively main street. We grabbed bratwurst and pretzel bites at a cozy café and wandered into a few shops, soaking in the charm at our own pace.

This was a fantastic tour and a great mix of wine, history, and local culture. Definitely an easygoing way to see a different side of Texas!

Book this popular tour now and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!

Option 2 – Explore Texas Hill Country and Lyndon B. Johnson State Park

For a day focused on history, culture, and small-town charm, this tour through Texas Hill Country offers a well-rounded look at the region beyond San Antonio. Best of all, they picked us up from our hotel, and we were on the road by 9 am for a full day of exploring.

The morning begins with a scenic drive into the rolling hills and a stop at the LBJ Ranch, where you can explore the grounds of Lyndon B. Johnson’s boyhood home and learn about his life and presidency in the place where it all began.

While interior tours of the Texas White House were paused during our visit, there was still plenty to see, including a collection of vintage cars, historic buildings, and LBJ’s JetStar plane nicknamed “Air Force One-Half,” which gave us a good laugh.

After the ranch, there’s time to stroll through Fredericksburg, a charming town with German roots. We had lunch at a casual Biergarten, then popped into a few local shops and wine rooms before heading to our final stop, Luckenbach.

This tiny town is famous for its live country music, and it didn’t disappoint. We grabbed a drink, found a shady seat on the patio, and listened to local musicians play under the trees. It was the perfect low-key ending to a day full of local flavor, history, and hill country views. It felt like a slice of authentic old-school Texas, because it was!

Check out all the 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

Evening/Dinner – Visit the Pearl District

After getting back from your tour, take a quick moment to freshen up, then head out to one of San Antonio’s trendiest neighborhoods, the Pearl District. Located just north of downtown, this beautifully restored area is perfect for an evening stroll, with its mix of historic architecture, boutique shops, and tree-lined walkways. It’s also a hotspot for dining, whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a more refined experience. 

We recommend Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery for elevated comfort food (and some killer beer) or Cured, known for its house-cured meats and creative charcuterie boards. Be sure to save room for something sweet from Bakery Lorraine, one of the best dessert spots in the city! With live music often playing in the plaza, it’s a great area to wrap up the day.

Day 3

Breakfast – La Panadería Bakery Café

Start your final day in San Antonio with breakfast at La Panadería Bakery Café, a popular downtown spot known for its creative take on Mexican-inspired pastries and breakfast dishes. The café opens at 7:00 am daily, making it perfect for an early start. Favorites here include the indulgent croissant waffle and the build-your-own tortas, stacked with fresh ingredients and served on their house-made bread. 

There aren’t any hard-set tour times today, so feel free to take things at your own pace. Wake up early to pack more in, or enjoy a slower start and savor your final morning in the city!

Morning – Explore Historic Market Square (El Mercado)

After breakfast, make your way to Historic Market Square (El Mercado), which is just a 4-minute drive or a 15-minute walk from La Panadería. Open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, this vibrant, three-block plaza is the largest Mexican market in the U.S., packed with over 100 locally owned shops, stalls, and restaurants. 

We loved browsing the colorful handcrafted pottery and embroidered textiles. We think it’s perfect for unique souvenirs that capture the essence of San Antonio. There’s also a great energy here, especially on weekends, with live music, street performers, and the smell of fresh tortillas in the air. Grab a snack or pop into one of the restaurants for a mid-morning treat. This is a great place to soak up San Antonio’s Mexican culture at your own pace.

Lunch – La Margarita Mexican Restaurant and Oyster Bar

When you’re ready for lunch, head to La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar, conveniently located right in Market Square. This longtime local favorite is known for its sizzling fajitas, fresh seafood, and of course, famous margaritas. It is oyur last day in San Antonio after all, so treat yourself!

The open-air patio is a great place to sit back and people-watch while enjoying classic Tex-Mex flavors. We recommend trying the shrimp fajitas or oysters if you’re in the mood for something a little different. It’s a lively, flavorful lunch stop that fits perfectly with your Market Square visit.

Afternoon – Your Choice!

Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience

If you’re in the mood for something creative and fun, head back downtown to Hopscotch, only a  4-minute drive or 15-minute walk from Market Square. This indoor gallery features 14 immersive, interactive art installations designed by local and international artists. From glowing tunnels to mind-bending light displays, every room is weird, fun, and gives you the chance to snap some seriously cool photos. 

It’s a great way to experience art in a more playful, hands-on setting. Hopscotch also has a bar with specialty cocktails and often hosts rotating food trucks, so you can hang out and enjoy the space a little longer. It’s the perfect way to switch things up and add a creative twist to your afternoon.

Check out the 400+ 5-star reviews and secure this experience here!

San Antonio Zoo

For a more classic afternoon activity, take a 10-minute drive from Market Square to the San Antonio Zoo. We recommend getting tickets through Viator so you get free cancellation if you change plans, and can buy now and pay later if you want to.

Home to over 750 species, the zoo offers spacious, well-designed habitats and a mix of both local and exotic animals. It’s especially great if you’re traveling with kids or just want a relaxed, outdoor experience. Highlights include the African Savanna, the giraffe feeding station, and the beautiful butterfly garden. The zoo is walkable and shaded in many areas, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

Book your tickets in advance here to get flexible payment and cancellation options!

Japanese Tea Gardens

If you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic way to spend the afternoon, head to the Japanese Tea Garden, an 8-minute drive from Market Square. Open daily until 5:00 pm with free admission, this beautifully landscaped garden is a quiet escape from the city buzz. You can wander through koi ponds, cross under stone archways, and relax beside its many waterfalls. 

It’s a great spot for a slow-paced walk, taking photos, or simply soaking up the calm. The garden sits on the site of an old rock quarry, giving it a unique, layered landscape that adds to the charm. It’s also right next to the zoo if you want to check it out afterwards.

San Antonio Museum of Art

Art lovers will enjoy an afternoon visit to the San Antonio Museum of Art, located a 6-minute drive from Market Square. Housed in a beautifully restored historic brewery, the museum sits along the scenic Museum Reach section of the River Walk. Tickets are $22 USD per adult, and the collection spans everything from ancient Greek and Roman pieces to contemporary Latin American and Asian art. 

The galleries are expertly curated and easy to navigate, offering a nice break from the hustle and bustle of downtown. If the weather’s nice, be sure to stroll along the river outside since it’s one of the prettiest stretches in the city!

Dinner – Crockett Tavern

For your final dinner in San Antonio, head to Crockett Tavern, a casual downtown spot serving up hearty Texas-style dishes. Located just steps from the Alamo and our final activity for the night, this restaurant is known for comfort food classics with a local twist. We recommend the Bowie Beast Burger if you’re hungry, it’s as big as the name suggests! 

Evening – Learn about the city’s eerie past on a ghost tour

San Antonio has a long and wild history, so we weren’t too surprised to learn that this ghost bus tour dives deep into the city’s most haunted sites. But after taking it, we understood why it has over 700 five-star reviews!

This tour is more than just spooky stories. It’s a fun, fascinating, and slightly eerie ride through the city’s supernatural side. The tour runs at multiple times in the evening, but make sure you allow enough time to enjoy dinner beforehand, since it departs from right near the Alamo.

We started at the Menger Hotel, considered one of the most haunted places in Texas. With flickering lights, creaky hallways, and staff who openly share their own ghost stories, the atmosphere was enough to give us chills. From there, we rode through San Pedro Creek Culture Park, where we passed an old jail-turned-hotel and what used to be San Antonio’s Red Light District, both packed with unsettling tales from the past.

The final stop brought us to one of the city’s oldest cemeteries, where we walked among centuries-old headstones as the guide recounted stories of spirits said to linger long after dark.

This wasn’t your typical gimmicky ghost tour, it blended history and storytelling in a way that was genuinely engaging. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, this is a fun and memorable way to end your time in San Antonio!

Don’t miss out – reserve this ghost tour here, before it sells out!

Related Read: Looking for more activities? Check out the top things to do in San Antonio here, then add them to your schedule!

Where to Stay in San Antonio, Texas

Now that your San Antonio trip is planned, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! With so many options, choosing the right spot can be overwhelming, but staying near the River Walk is always a great choice. If these hotels below are still available, they are my top recommendations for any budget!

Luxury – $$$

For a prime location right on the River Walk, the Hyatt Regency San Antonio is an excellent pick. This upscale hotel offers stylish rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, multiple on-site dining options, and a rooftop pool with amazing city views. Plus, you’ll be steps from the Alamo and some of San Antonio’s best restaurants and attractions!

Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually start around $300 USD per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com. 

Mid-range – $$

The Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk is a fantastic mid-range choice with a prime location right on the River Walk. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, a hot tub, and a complimentary hot breakfast. Plus, perks like free evening drinks and snacks at the on-site restaurants make it an even better value for your stay!

Prices usually start around $140 USD per night and you can book this stay on Booking.com.

Budget – $

The Hampton Inn & Suites San Antonio Downtown is a solid budget-friendly option within walking distance of the River Walk. It features comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. Plus, guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast to start their day before exploring San Antonio!

Rooms can start as low as $100 USD per night. You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!

For more options, see all of the hotels in San Antonio here!

Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

• Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
• Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
• Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

San Antonio was such a unique city to explore! From strolling along the River Walk to seeing the Alamo and tasting our way through Mexican markets, we had the best three days here. If you stick to this itinerary, I know you’ll have a great San Antonio trip!

If you need help planning more of your travels, check out our other USA blogs. We have guides on top things to do, city itineraries, and where to stay for every corner of the country. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next getaway – cheers!

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