St. Augustine is one of the most charming destinations in Florida. Founded in 1565, it is the oldest city in the United States, full of history, cobblestone streets and cultural attractions. In this guide, you will find the best ways to get to St. Augustine, information on costs, transportation and tips to save money.
Best Ways to Get to St. Augustine
St. Augustine is located in northeast Florida, between Jacksonville and Daytona Beach. Since the city does not have a commercial airport, visitors must arrive by land. See the best options below.
From Orlando to St. Augustine
If you are in Orlando and want to visit St. Augustine, there are several forms of transportation.
Car (travel time, best route, tolls)
- Travel time: About 1:45.
- Best route: Take the I-4 East to Daytona Beach and then to I-95 North to St. Augustine.
- Tolls: Just off Orlando on I-4, but there are toll-free alternative routes.
Buses (companies, prices, journey duration)
- Companies: Greyhound and RedCoach offer regular routes.
- Price: On average, US$ 20 to US$ 40 by stretch.
- Duration: Between 2:30 and 3:00, depending on the stops.
Train (availability, advantages and disadvantages)
- There are no direct trains from Orlando to St. Augustine.
- Alternative: take one Amtrak train to Jacksonville and then a bus or car to St. Augustine.
Plane (options for those arriving from other states)
- Nearest airports: Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) (85 km) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) (170 km).
- From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to St. Augustine.
From Miami to St. Augustine
Miami is approximately 480 km from St. Augustine, making the trip longer but still affordable.
Car itinerary
- Travel time: Approximately 5 hours via I-95 North.
- Tips: Interesting stops along the way include Cocoa Beach and Daytona Beach.
- Tolls: Yes, on the Florida Turnpike, but there are free alternative routes.
Other transportation options
- Bus: Greyhound runs the route in 6 to 7 hours, with prices starting at US$ 40.
- Plane: Fly to Jacksonville or Orlando and drive from there.
How much does it cost to travel to St. Augustine?
Travel costs vary depending on transportation, accommodation and food.
Transportation (average prices)
- Car rental: US$ 40 to US$ 80/day.
- Gasoline: About US$ 3.50 per gallon.
- Bus: US$ 20 to US$ 60, depending on the origin.
Accommodation (budget and luxury hotels)
- Economic: Super 8 by Wyndham (~US$ 80/night).
- Intermediaries: St. George Inn (~US$ 150/night).
- Luxury: Casa Monica Resort (~US$ 300/night).
Food and tours
- Budget meals: US$ 10 to US$ 15 per meal.
- Intermediate restaurants: US$ 20 to US$ 35 per person.
- Sightseeing tours: US$ 10 to US$ 25, depending on the attraction.
What to do in St. Augustine?
Main tourist attractions
San Marcos Castle
- O Fort Castillo de San Marcos It is the city’s most iconic attraction. Built by the Spanish in the 17th century, it offers incredible views of the bay and historical tours.
- Prohibited: US$ 15 per adult.
Historic District
- The historic center is perfect for exploring on foot.
- Walk through St. George Street, visit shops, cafes and discover preserved colonial buildings.
Boat tours and trolleys
- Boat trips: They cost between US$ 20 and US$ 40, lasting 1 hour.
- Tourist trolleys: From US$ 30, a great way to see the sights without having to walk too much.
Best cultural experiences
- Lightner Museum: It displays collections of art and objects from the 19th century.
- Flagler College: Former luxury hotel converted into a university, with impressive architecture.
Nightlife and themed bars
- For those looking for nighttime entertainment, options like The Tini Martini Bar it's the Ice Plant Bar are great choices.
Tips for saving money on your trip
Best time to visit for less
- You months from September to November offer lower prices and fewer tourists.
Where to eat well and cheaply
- The Floridian: Affordable and tasty local cuisine.
- Gas Full Service Restaurant: Specializing in burgers and typical Florida dishes.
How to get discounts on attractions
- City Pass and tour packages can guarantee good discounts.
- Some attractions offer free entry on specific days.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to get to St. Augustine, Florida, you can plan your trip with more peace of mind. With beautiful landscapes, historical attractions and options for all budgets, this destination is an excellent choice for those looking for history, culture and leisure in Florida. 🚗✈️🌴