Luxury holidays in Austin

When to go

March sees the South by Southwest music festival hit the city, so flock here if you love music, or avoid if you don't like crowds.

Getting there

• Planes

  Fly with United Airlines, American Airlines or British Airways and change at New York, Houston or Dallas for a connecting flight to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport | or ABIA (www.ci.austin.tx.us/austinairport/). An Airport Flyer Bus Service runs from the airport | along with the Capital Metro | which travels between the airport and downtown | Austin Central and the University of Texas. A taxi from the airport to the city centre costs around $25.

• Trains

  Amtrak operates regular rail services to and from Austin station, which is at 250 North Lamar Boulevard (www.amtrak.com).

• Automobiles

  ‘Drive friendly’ is a Texas state motto | and exploring Austin by car is generally a stress-free experience. Most major car rental companies are available at ABIA.

• Taxis

  Cabs can be flagged in the street, although in this health-conscious, outdoorsy city, bicycles and pedestrians are more common sights. If finding a taxi is proving difficult, try American Yellow Cab (+1 512 452 9999) or Austin Cab (+1 512 478 2222).