Austin’s guided tours cut through the tourist confusion and get straight to the city’s best sights. Small-group driving tours pack the highlights into half-day outings, while bike tours offer an active way to see landmarks at a perfect pace. The evening kayak tours on Lady Bird Lake are a must – you’ll catch the Congress Avenue Bridge bats while avoiding the crowded viewing areas.
We especially love Austin’s food tours through the East Side and South Congress neighborhoods. The local guides know which food trucks and hole-in-the-wall spots serve the most authentic Texas flavors. For history buffs, the walking tours of the Capitol area reveal fascinating stories about the city’s past.
Check out these top-rated Austin tours that consistently earn our highest recommendations:
Good To Know
- Small-group driving tours offer a personalized 2-hour experience showcasing Austin’s landmarks, hidden gems, and vibrant neighborhoods with high traveler recommendation.
- Bike tours, such as the Austin in a Nutshell Bike Tour, provide an engaging 10-mile, 2-hour experience for both visitors and locals to discover iconic locations.
- Small group pub walk tours offer a 100% recommended experience to explore Austin’s bar scene, including visits to unique cocktail bars and speakeasies.
- Guided sunset bat kayak tours on Lady Bird Lake provide a unique opportunity to see the city’s famous bat population at sunset.
- Self-guided driving audio tours and personalized private walking tours offer flexible, alternative options to explore Austin’s history and cuisine at one’s own pace.
Best of Austin Small-Group Driving Tour With Local Guide
The Best of Austin Small-Group Driving Tour with Local Guide offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience that showcases the city’s renowned landmarks, hidden gems, and vibrant neighborhoods.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this 2-hour tour provides an informative commentary on Austin’s history, culture, art, music, food, and parks. Guests can explore the Texas State Capitol, Rainey Street Historic District, 6th Street, and other notable locations.
The tour’s maximum group size of 10 ensures a personalized experience, and inclusions like hotel pickup, parking, and gratuities make it a hassle-free way to discover the best of Austin.
The tour runs rain or shine, and guests with limited mobility can participate with prior arrangements.
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Austin in a Nutshell Bike Tour With a Local Guide
Exploring Austin’s vibrant sights and neighborhoods on two wheels, the Austin in a Nutshell Bike Tour with a Local Guide offers an exhilarating and comprehensive way to discover the city’s highlights.
Covering approximately 10 miles in around 2 hours, the tour takes participants through iconic locations like Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, and the Texas State Capitol.
With a 4.9-star rating from 469 reviews and a 98% recommendation, the tour is led by knowledgeable local guides who provide in-depth insights into Austin’s rich history and culture.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this bike tour promises an active and engaging experience that showcases the best of the city.
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Small Group Pub Walk Tour in Austin With Professional Guide
A small group pub walk tour in Austin with a professional guide offers an engaging and informative exploration of the city’s vibrant bar scene.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour is recommended by 100% of participants and has earned a Badge of Excellence. Visitors can expect to visit four unique bars, including cocktail bars and speakeasies, while learning about the history and hidden gems of Austin.
The tour starts at 6:00 PM and ends back at the meeting point, with food and alcoholic beverages not included, allowing guests to fully explore the menus.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation and welcomes service animals.
With positive reviews praising the engaging and informative guides, this small group pub walk is a great way to discover Austin’s lively bar culture.
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Guided Sunset Bat Kayak Tour in Austin
Embarking on a Guided Sunset Bat Kayak Tour in Austin offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the city’s iconic bat population in their natural habitat.
Rated 4.8 out of 121 reviews, with 94% of travelers recommending the experience, this small-group tour is limited to 12 participants for an intimate encounter. Guests will paddle on Lady Bird Lake while guides provide insights into Austin’s skyline, history, and bat behavior.
The best time to see the bats is at sunset, particularly above the Congress Avenue Bridge. The tour includes all necessary equipment, and most travelers can participate, with accessibility features available.
While some have reported overcrowding and varying bat visibility, the hosts are committed to improving the experience.
Read our full review: Guided Sunset Bat Kayak Tour in Austin Review
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Guided Downtown to Barton Springs Kayak Tour
For those seeking to enjoy the heart of Austin, the Guided Downtown to Barton Springs Kayak Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Capped at a small group of 12, this 5-star rated tour allows participants to explore the city’s landmarks from the unique perspective of the Colorado River. Under the guidance of knowledgeable instructors, paddlers will glide past the iconic Congress Avenue Bridge and Barton Springs, while learning about Austin’s rich history.
With all necessary equipment provided, including kayaks, paddles, and life jackets, this tour is both accessible and enjoyable.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as free cancellation, make this an ideal choice for both adventurous and cautious travelers.
Read our full review: Guided Downtown to Barton Springs Kayak Tour Review
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Austin Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Guide
Offering a comprehensive and immersive way to explore the vibrant city of Austin, the Austin Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Guide empowers visitors to uncover the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks at their own pace.
Featuring engaging storytelling, offline maps, and hands-free audio activation, the tour provides a flexible and personalized experience.
Travelers can tailor their exploration, take breaks, and revisit the tour over multiple days using the convenient app.
With a 4.0-star rating from 17 reviews, this self-guided tour offers excellent value and an alternative to crowded bus tours, allowing visitors to discover Austin’s highlights at their convenience.
Read our full review: Austin Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Guide Review
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Private Guided Food Tour of Austin Neighborhoods
While the self-guided audio tour offers visitors flexibility in exploring Austin, the Private Guided Food Tour of Austin Neighborhoods immerses guests in the city’s vibrant culinary landscape.
This 3-hour tour takes participants on a journey through diverse neighborhoods, sampling BBQ, tacos, specialty pies, and fusion cuisine at over 4 stops.
With enough food to skip dinner, the tour includes soda, snacks, and alcoholic beverages for those of legal drinking age.
Operated by Going Native Expeditions, the tour has received 3 reviews averaging a 4.0 rating.
Notable feedback praises the fun, informative experience and great food, though one review mentions a last-minute cancellation.
Read our full review: Private Guided Food Tour of Austin Neighborhoods Review
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Private Custom Austin Walking Tour With Local Guide
Exploring Austin’s diverse landmarks and neighborhoods becomes a personalized adventure with the Private Custom Austin Walking Tour.
This tour offers the flexibility to curate an itinerary tailored to travelers’ interests, with a local guide providing insider knowledge and assistance in booking desired visits. The tour includes local transportation, and participants can opt for a refreshment break during the excursion.
Wheelchair users and those with service animals can easily participate, as the tour is accessible. With a starting price of $144.78 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, this tour provides a convenient and customizable way to discover the heart of Austin.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Whether you can bring your pet on a guided tour depends on the tour operator’s policy. Some may allow well-behaved pets, while others may prohibit them for safety or logistical reasons. It’s best to check with the tour company before booking.
Do the Tours Accommodate Wheelchair Users?
Most guided tours accommodate wheelchair users, offering accessible routes and transportation. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the specific tour can accommodate a visitor’s mobility needs.
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Many guided tour companies offer customized itineraries, allowing wheelchair users and others to tailor the experience to their needs and interests. Clients can often request modifications to standard tours, ensuring the tour meets their unique requirements.
What Is the Refund Policy for the Tours?
The refund policy varies by tour operator, but many offer flexible options. Some may provide full refunds if you cancel within a certain time frame, while others may offer credit towards future tours. It’s best to check the specific policy before booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Most guided tours allow visitors to bring their own food and drinks, though it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. This can enhance the experience and provide more flexibility during the tour.
The Sum Up
Austin offers a diverse array of guided tours, catering to various interests. From small-group driving tours and bike tours to pub walks and kayak adventures, visitors can explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and natural wonders with the expertise of local guides. Whether you’re interested in food, history, or outdoor activities, Austin’s guided tours provide a comprehensive and immersive experience for all.