Austin is a city that truly offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re into sampling fantastic local wines, exploring the city’s colorful murals, or enjoying live music in legendary venues, Austin’s diverse tour options make it easy to get a real feel for what makes this place special.
We love the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle for a laid-back day out among rolling hills and tasting local wines, and the Austin Live Music Crawl for those wanting to experience the city’s legendary sound.
Each experience offers a different window into Austin’s character, so whether you’re here for a quick visit or a longer stay, there’s a tour that fits your style.
In this list, we’ve gathered the best tours and things to do in Austin, including scenic sightseeing, active adventures, and foodie experiences. From intimate wine shuttles and guided city walks to electric bike rides and sunset cruises, these options provide genuine connections to Austin’s food, music, art, and natural beauty. Dive in to find the perfect match for your trip.
- 1. From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle
- 2. Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
- 3. Austin Electric Bike Tour: Let it Ride
- 4. Austin in a Nutshell Bike Tour with a Local Guide
- 5. Austin Live Music Crawl
- 6. Austin Small Group Morning Walk
- 7. Austin Guided Outdoor Climbing Experience
- 8. Austin Good Vibes E-Bike Tours
- 9. Austin and Hill Country Panoramic Sightseeing Tour
- 10. Austin Murder Walk
- 11. Half-Day Hill Country Wine Shuttle From Austin
- 12. Austin and Hill Country Sightseeing Tour
- 13. Austin Mural Selfie Tour by Pedicab
- 14. Austin’s Gem Bike Tour
- 15. Lake Travis Public Sunset Tour, BYOB
- How to Choose Your Perfect Austin Tour
- Final Thoughts
1. From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle
At number 1, this half-day tour combines two of Texas’s best traditions: BBQ and wine. The Salt Lick BBQ and two Hill Country wineries—Fall Creek Vineyards and Duchman Family Winery—are on the itinerary, making it a relaxing escape from city life.
The small-group format (up to 10 people) and onboard air-conditioning ensure comfort even in the summer heat. Your driver knows the best routes in and out of Austin, making for a smooth ride along winding country roads.
The tour does not include food or alcohol, but the Salt Lick BBQ is famous for its tender brisket and sausage, while the wineries serve up award-winning Texas wines.
Tastings at Fall Creek are $20, and at Duchman about $17.50, so budgeting around $35 for BBQ and $37 for tastings makes sense.
Reviews highlight friendly guides like Ike and Jax who make the day feel personalized. The bottom line is that this tour offers a great balance of scenery, food, and wine in a manageable half-day.
2. Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
If you’re a lover of local eats and enjoy exploring on foot, this 3-hour food tour is perfect. You can choose between downtown or South Congress, two of Austin’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Your guide leads you through the streets, stopping at popular spots to taste signature dishes like barbecue brisket, breakfast tacos, and even an Italian cannoli.
The tour includes stories about Austin’s culinary scene, with a secret dish surprise to keep things interesting. Tours cost $99 per person, with options for private bookings.
Reviewers praise guides like Mollie, who bring energy and insights, and mention that you’ll definitely leave with a full belly and a new appreciation for Austin’s food culture. This tour is ideal for those who want a tasty, social way to discover the city’s flavors.
3. Austin Electric Bike Tour: Let it Ride
Number 3 on our list is this 2 to 3-hour electric bike tour, designed for those who want to see Austin’s sights without breaking a sweat. Your guide takes you past murals like “Greetings from Austin,” through city landmarks, and by the University of Texas.
The e-bike makes covering more ground easy, and the small group (up to 13 people) creates an intimate experience. The tour includes a helmet and bike, so no need to worry about logistics.
Highlights include riding along South Congress and enjoying views of the skyline from the Capitol. Reviewers love guides like Peter and Michael, who are enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
The bottom line? This tour offers a fun, eco-friendly way to see Austin’s highlights and learn about its art and history with minimal effort.
4. Austin in a Nutshell Bike Tour with a Local Guide
For those who prefer a more traditional bike ride, this 2-hour tour covers about 10 miles through key neighborhoods. You’ll cycle past Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, and the Texas State Capitol, with a guide pointing out local secrets along the way. It’s suitable for all levels, with bikes and helmets provided.
Reviewers like Peter and Mark mention how fun, informative, and easy-going this tour is, making it perfect for first-timers and casual cyclists.
The tour’s value lies in its ability to combine exercise with sightseeing and local insights in just a couple of hours. The bottom line? It’s a great choice if you want to see a lot without spending the whole day on a bike.
5. Austin Live Music Crawl
Austin is famed for its live music scene, and this 3-hour tour is a fantastic way to see it in action. Led by local performers and music lovers, you’ll hop between three venues—each offering different styles of live music. With entry fees included, you get a true taste of Austin’s sound, from blues and rock to country and indie.
The tour operates in the evening, making it perfect for music fans wanting to soak up the city’s musical vibe after sunset. Reviewers rave about guides like Kendalin Jane, who share stories and insider tips.
The bottom line? It’s a lively, fun way to experience Austin’s live music culture firsthand—ideal for first-time visitors or anyone looking to get a feel for the city’s soulful sound.
6. Austin Small Group Morning Walk
This 1-hour 15-minute tour invites you to start your day with a relaxed stroll through downtown Austin. Led by a noted storyteller, you’ll visit iconic spots like Jo’s Coffee, the Driskill Hotel, and the historic Speakeasy. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about Austin’s hidden secrets, hear about its quirky neighborhoods, and get insider tips on where to eat and drink later.
Reviewers like Tyler and others love how this tour offers a low-key, insightful introduction—perfect for early risers or those who prefer a gentle start.
The bottom line? It’s a delightful way to get a feel for Austin’s vibe and uncover some local secrets before heading out for the day.
7. Austin Guided Outdoor Climbing Experience
Number 7 offers a 5-hour outdoor climbing experience suitable even for beginners. Your guide will teach you how to belay, tie knots, and communicate with your climbing partner at the Austin Greenbelt. The tour is tailored to your experience level, with all equipment included. Reviewers like Russell highlight how welcoming and professional their guides are, making it a highlight of their trip.
If you’ve ever wanted to try rock climbing in a safe, supportive environment, this tour delivers. The bottom line? It’s an excellent choice for active travelers wanting a memorable, outdoor challenge in Austin.
8. Austin Good Vibes E-Bike Tours
For around $68, this 2-hour e-bike tour covers more ground than a walking tour, taking you past over 15 sights. Your guide leads the way through Austin’s neighborhoods, parks, and murals like “I love you so much”.
The tour includes a helmet and a disposable rain poncho, making it a convenient option even if the weather turns. Reviewers praise the guide Rooster for his enthusiasm and knowledge, often mentioning how safe and fun the ride is.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine light exercise with sightseeing in a lively group. The bottom line? It’s a flexible, engaging way to see Austin’s highlights quickly.
9. Austin and Hill Country Panoramic Sightseeing Tour
Number 9 provides a 2.5-hour bus tour covering Austin’s major sights and the surrounding Hill Country. With a luxury Mercedes-Benz van, you’ll see landmarks such as Zilker Park, the Bat Bridge, and Barton Springs, all while enjoying panoramic views and commentary from your guide. The tour is especially popular with first-time visitors wanting a broad overview.
Reviewers mention guides like Doug, who are both informative and funny, making the experience memorable. The bottom line? It’s a practical, comfortable way to get to know Austin’s geography and culture in a short time.
10. Austin Murder Walk
Number 10 is this 1 hour 45-minute evening walk exploring Austin’s darker past. Led by a knowledgeable storyteller, you’ll visit sites connected to the “Midnight Assassin,” the city’s first serial killer, and learn about Austin’s haunted history.
The tour includes stops at the Driskill Hotel and the historic 6th Street district, blending true crime stories with local lore. Reviewers appreciate how engaging and well-researched the tour is, with guides like Tyler weaving the tales seamlessly.
The bottom line? It’s a captivating choice for true crime fans and history buffs alike, offering a different perspective on Austin’s past.
11. Half-Day Hill Country Wine Shuttle From Austin
This 4.5-hour tour visits three top wineries in the Driftwood/Wimberley area, about 45 minutes southwest of Austin. Traveling in a Mercedes Sprinter van, you’ll sample wines at Dutchman Family Winery, Wimberley Valley Winery, and Limestone Terrace Vineyard (tastings not included). The tour is limited to 10 people, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.
Tour guides are friendly, and reviews highlight how scenic the vineyard views are. It’s perfect for wine lovers wanting a relaxed half-day among rolling hills.
Keep in mind that tastings cost extra, roughly $17-$25, so budget accordingly. The bottom line? It’s a rewarding, scenic escape into Texas wine country.
12. Austin and Hill Country Sightseeing Tour
Number 12 offers an approx. 1.5-hour bus tour showcasing Austin’s highlights and nearby scenic spots. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned van, passing places like Congress Avenue Bridge, home to the famous bats, and Lady Bird Lake.
The tour includes stops at Austin City Hall and the Long Center, giving you a quick yet rundown. Reviewers mention how comfortable and informative this tour is, especially for first-timers.
The route can vary, but the focus remains on providing a solid snapshot of Austin. The bottom line? It’s an efficient introduction to the city’s key sights, ideal if you’re short on time.
13. Austin Mural Selfie Tour by Pedicab
Number 13 is a 1.5-hour private pedicab tour of Austin’s most colorful murals. Your driver guides you past street art like “I love you so much,” “Greetings from Austin,” and “Willie for President.” It’s perfect for capturing social media photos and learning about Austin’s art scene. The tour is customizable, making it ideal for groups wanting a personal experience.
Reviewers love how Anna and her dog make the tour fun, and how easy it is to find the murals without hunting around. The bottom line? It’s an engaging, photo-friendly way to experience Austin’s vibrant street art.
14. Austin’s Gem Bike Tour
Number 14 combines half a day of biking and beer tasting. This 3-hour tour visits landmarks like the Texas State Cemetery and Moonlight Towers, with three stops at local breweries.
Bikes, helmets, and beer are included, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a bit of active exploration paired with refreshment. Reviewers say guides like Colt bring fun and knowledge, making the ride lively and informative.
It’s especially suitable for those comfortable biking and eager to combine sightseeing with beer. The bottom line? It’s an excellent option for active travelers who want a taste of Austin’s brewing scene.
15. Lake Travis Public Sunset Tour, BYOB
Finally, this 1.5-hour boat tour offers spectacular sunset views over Lake Travis. You’ll sail past lakeside homes, Starnes Island, and other scenic spots, with commentary from your captain. It’s BYOB, so bring your own drinks and enjoy the unobstructed sunset.
Reviewers mention how romantic and relaxing it is, with some noting the trip missed the actual sunset due to daylight savings, so plan accordingly.
It’s a perfect end to a day in Austin, especially for couples or small groups looking for a memorable water experience. The bottom line? It’s a peaceful, scenic way to cap off your visit.
How to Choose Your Perfect Austin Tour
When deciding which tour to book, consider your interests and how much time you have. If you’re into wine and food, the Hill Country Wine Shuttle or Half-Day Hill Country Wine Shuttle can provide a relaxed, scenic experience.
For active explorers, the Electric Bike Tour or Gem Bike Tour offer a fun way to see multiple sites with minimal effort. If your priority is music, the Live Music Crawl immerses you in Austin’s legendary sound.
For history and intrigue, the Murder Walk offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s darker past.
Practical tips: Book early for popular tours, especially those with limited groups like the wine shuttles or private mural rides.
Check the weather for outdoor activities, and plan around your preferred pace—whether a quick overview or a full day of exploring.
Final Thoughts
Austin’s array of tours offers something for all—from the scenic serenity of sunset boat cruises to the lively energy of live music crawls and active bike rides. Whether you’re craving a relaxed taste of Texas wine country, eager to snap Instagram-worthy murals, or want to experience the city’s musical soul, you’ll find plenty of ways to make your trip memorable.
Two standout options are the From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle for a classic taste of Texas, and the Austin Live Music Crawl for a lively evening with authentic sounds.
To make the most of your visit, consider your interests and schedule—many tours sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these fantastic Austin experiences. Whatever you choose, these tours will deepen your appreciation for this dynamic, exciting city.