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Our top choices for San Marcos cheap hotels

Motel 6 San Marcos, TX - North

Motel 6 San Marcos, TX - North
2.0 star property
San Marcos
5.6 out of 10, (683 reviews)
"Room has a thousand roaches.. our room wasn't clean I ask for a broom to sweep up the roaches and trash on the floor. The water would be hot one min and cold the next."
United States
Donisha
The price is £43
includes taxes & fees
2 Mar - 3 Mar
Motel 6 San Marcos, TX - North

Hilton Garden Inn San Marcos

Hilton Garden Inn San Marcos
3.0 star property
San Marcos
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,004 reviews)
"Nice clean hotel. Friendly staff."
United States
Jamie
The price is £85
includes taxes & fees
8 Mar - 9 Mar
Hilton Garden Inn San Marcos

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall
3.0 star property
San Marcos
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,472 reviews)
"Friendly staff and very clean rooms. Would stay again. "
United States
Juan Carlos
The price is £78
includes taxes & fees
3 Mar - 4 Mar
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall

Candlewood Suites San Marcos by IHG

Candlewood Suites San Marcos by IHG
2.5 star property
San Marcos
7.8 out of 10, Good, (937 reviews)
"Good TV and channels good ice machine no breakfast good AC"
United States
Kyle
The price is £80
includes taxes & fees
1 Apr - 2 Apr
Candlewood Suites San Marcos by IHG

Econo Lodge San Marcos University Area

Econo Lodge San Marcos University Area
2.0 star property
San Marcos
4.6 out of 10, (633 reviews)
"We loved our stay, it was close enough to the destinations we wanted to visit. "
United States
Rebeca
The price is £47
includes taxes & fees
2 Mar - 3 Mar
Econo Lodge San Marcos University Area

Howard Johnson by Wyndham San Marcos

Howard Johnson by Wyndham San Marcos
2.0 star property
San Marcos
5.6 out of 10, (1,000 reviews)
"Staff n roommates very resoectful"
United States
Adalberto
The price is £43
includes taxes & fees
2 Mar - 3 Mar
Howard Johnson by Wyndham San Marcos

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos
3.0 star property
San Marcos
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Room was clean, staff was friendly & helpful"
United States
Eve Marie
The price is £82
includes taxes & fees
9 Mar - 10 Mar
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos

Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos

Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos
2.0 star property
Rio Vista
6.4 out of 10, (1,002 reviews)
"Staff was courteous and room spotless "
United States
Gregorio
The price is £49
includes taxes & fees
4 Mar - 5 Mar
Days Inn by Wyndham San Marcos

LivAway Suites Austin San Marcos

LivAway Suites Austin San Marcos
2.0 star property
San Marcos
6.4 out of 10, (5 reviews)
"It was very clean… also the staff was amazing and helpful "
United States
Ale
The price is £67
includes taxes & fees
2 Mar - 3 Mar
LivAway Suites Austin San Marcos

Wingate by Wyndham San Marcos

Wingate by Wyndham San Marcos
2.5 star property
San Marcos
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Nice stay"
United States
Alanah
The price is £69
includes taxes & fees
8 Mar - 9 Mar
Wingate by Wyndham San Marcos
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Discover cheap things to do in San Marcos

San Marcos, Texas, offers a range of affordable yet exciting experiences for budget-conscious travellers. Begin your adventure at the San Marcos River, where you can enjoy a leisurely day of tubing or kayaking for just a few dollars, making it a great way to soak up the Texas sun. For those who appreciate nature, the nearby Parque Verde features beautiful hiking trails that are completely free to explore, allowing families to enjoy the great outdoors together. Don't miss the San Marcos Premium Outlets, where savvy shoppers can find fantastic deals from top brands, ensuring a fun day of bargain-hunting without breaking the bank. Food lovers can indulge in the local fare at the many food trucks around town, offering tasty bites at wallet-friendly prices; try the famous tacos from a local vendor for an authentic Texan experience. For accommodation, the downtown area provides a variety of budget hotels with easy access to these attractions, allowing you to unwind after a day of exploration. The vibrant atmosphere of downtown San Marcos, complemented by its charming shops and eateries, makes it an ideal base for families seeking both affordability and convenience.

Find the best cheap hotels in San Marcos

For budget-conscious travellers visiting San Marcos, Texas, a variety of affordable hotels offer great amenities without breaking the bank. Here are some excellent options that ensure comfort and value during your stay.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos is a fantastic option for budget travellers, a solid review rating of 9.0. Offering free breakfast options daily and on weekends, alongside complimentary Wi-Fi, this hotel ensures guests start their day right without any extra cost. The inviting outdoor pool is perfect for unwinding and soaking up the Texas sun.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include free self-parking, 24-hour fitness facilities, and a rooftop garden for a peaceful retreat. Rooms come equipped with premium bedding, microwaves, and refrigerators, enhancing the convenience for longer stays. Guests appreciate the accessibility of the pool and the option for a crib at no charge, making it a great choice for all types of travellers.
  • Nearby attractions: Texas State University - 2.5 km, Bobcat Stadium - 2.9 km, Meadows Center for Water and the Environment - 3 km

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall is an ideal choice for budget travellers seeking comfort and convenience. With an excellent review rating of 9.0, guests appreciate the value-driven amenities such as complimentary breakfast options available daily and on weekends, along with free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. The outdoor pool adds an inviting touch for relaxation after a day of shopping at the nearby outlet mall.
  • Other amenities: This hotel also features free self-parking, daily housekeeping, and accessible facilities, ensuring a straightforward stay. Guests will enjoy the convenience of air conditioning in every room, a snack bar for quick bites, and the option of a sofa bed for extra comfort. The hotel is located near various outlets and convenience stores, enhancing your overall experience in San Marcos.
  • Nearby attractions: San Marcos Premium Outlets - 0.6 km, Aquarena Springs Museum - 6 km, Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park - 8.1 km

Hilton Garden Inn San Marcos

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Hilton Garden Inn San Marcos is an excellent budget-friendly option, featuring a solid review rating of 8.8. Guests will appreciate the complimentary Wi-Fi and self-parking, along with the refreshing outdoor pool, perfect for a relaxing dip after exploring the area. The hotel also provides free toiletries, ensuring comfort during your stay without added costs.
  • Other amenities: This hotel boasts 24-hour fitness facilities and a hydromassage showerhead in some rooms for added relaxation. Guests can enjoy the convenience of a refrigerator and microwave, making it easy to prepare snacks or light meals. The hotel also features a terrace, accessible parking, and a snack bar, enhancing the overall experience for budget-conscious travellers.
  • Nearby attractions: Texas State University - 2.1 km, Bobcat Stadium - 3.1 km, Meadows Center for Water and the Environment - 3.2 km

Hampton Inn & Suites San Marcos

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Hampton Inn & Suites San Marcos offers an exceptional stay for budget travellers, highlighted by a review rating of 8.6. With complimentary breakfast options, including a buffet and continental breakfasts, guests can enjoy a hearty start to their day. Free Wi-Fi and self-parking add to the value, making it a convenient choice for those looking to save on travel expenses.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features an outdoor pool for relaxation, accessible fitness facilities, and daily housekeeping services. Guests will appreciate the convenient air conditioning, along with a child-friendly window design in select rooms. The hotel also provides golf options nearby, ensuring guests can enjoy outdoor activities during their stay. A grocery store on-site enhances convenience for all travellers.
  • Nearby attractions: San Marcos River - 0.7 km, John J. Stokes Sr. San Marcos River Park - 1.1 km, Dunbar Park - 1.5 km

How to get cheap hotels in San Marcos?

 

✅ The length of stay in San Marcos often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in San Marcos's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in San Marcos in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in San Marcos, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in San Marcos on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in San Marcos.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in San Marcos, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in San Marcos. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £43*.

✅  San Marcos offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring San Marcos on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in San Marcos is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top San Marcos Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in San Marcos as a budget traveller?
When travelling on a budget in San Marcos, excellent hotel options include Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall, and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos, with a superb 9.4 rating, offers exceptional value with complimentary WiFi, free grocery shopping service, and a free continental breakfast. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the spacious and pristine rooms.

Another great choice is the 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall, rated 9.0. This hotel provides free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and a delicious buffet breakfast. Reviewers often highlight the comfortable, clean rooms, the excellent and friendly staff, and the convenient location.

Also rated 9.0, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos provides free WiFi and a complimentary full breakfast, including on weekends. Customers consistently mention the excellent and friendly staff, the clean rooms, and the superb beds.
How much does a budget hotel in San Marcos cost?
Budget hotel prices in San Marcos vary, but you can find a great deal from £43 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of San Marcos is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers visiting San Marcos, the area around the Texas State University campus often presents the best options for cheap hotels and guesthouses. This neighbourhood provides excellent value, with many accommodations suiting students and visitors looking for affordability, all while being well-connected to the town's main attractions.

Staying close to the university means you're generally within walking distance or a short bus ride of downtown San Marcos, where you'll find plenty of affordable eateries and local shops. Additionally, many of these budget properties are conveniently located near the San Marcos River, offering easy access to activities like swimming, tubing, or simply relaxing by the water, which are often low-cost or free.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in San Marcos?
For families seeking top-rated yet affordable accommodation in San Marcos, the Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos and Homewood Suites by Hilton San Marcos are excellent choices.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos, with an impressive 9.4 rating, stands out for its spacious and pristine rooms, making it ideal for families. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, ensuring an exceptional service experience. Families will appreciate the convenience of free continental breakfast, complimentary Wi-Fi, and free self-parking. The hotel also offers a free grocery shopping service, a valuable amenity for those travelling with children.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton San Marcos, which boasts an 8.6 rating. This hotel is celebrated for its spacious and clean suites, providing ample room for families to relax. Reviewers frequently highlight the friendly and super nice staff, contributing to a welcoming stay. Families can enjoy a great complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free self-parking.
What cheap hotels in San Marcos offer complimentary breakfast?
For cheap hotels in San Marcos that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent choices, including Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall, and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos, with a remarkable 9.4 rating, provides a complimentary continental breakfast, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the spacious and pristine rooms. Free WiFi and free self-parking also add to the value.

Another solid option is the 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall, rated 9.0. This hotel offers a free buffet breakfast, which customers describe as absolutely delicious. Reviewers consistently highlight the comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the excellent and friendly staff. Its convenient location is also a plus.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos, also with a 9.0 rating, provides a complimentary full breakfast. Guests often praise the excellent and friendly staff, the delicious breakfast, and the clean rooms. Free WiFi and free self-parking are also available.

Hampton Inn & Suites San Marcos, rated 8.6, is another great choice, offering a complimentary buffet breakfast. Reviewers appreciate the friendly and considerate staff, the comfortable and clean rooms, and the great breakfast. Free WiFi and free self-parking are included.

Finally, the 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton San Marcos, with an 8.6 rating, also includes a free buffet breakfast. This hotel is often praised for its spacious and clean rooms, as well as its friendly and super nice staff.
When is the most affordable time to visit San Marcos?
The most affordable time to visit San Marcos is typically during the off-peak seasons, specifically late autumn (November) and late winter (February). During these months, the intense summer crowds have dispersed, and the spring break rush hasn't yet begun, leading to lower prices for accommodation and fewer people at popular attractions.

For solo travellers, visiting in November or February means you'll find better deals on boutique hotels and charming guesthouses, which are often fully booked and more expensive during the spring and summer. The cooler weather is still pleasant enough for exploring the outdoors, such as floating the river (though it might be a bit chilly for a full swim) or hiking the natural areas, without the scorching summer heat. Many of the city's unique shops and eateries also tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.
What are the best cheap hotels in San Marcos with a pool?
When looking for affordable hotels in San Marcos with a pool, several excellent options stand out, including Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall, and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos boasts an impressive 9.4 rating. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the spacious and pristine rooms, and the exceptional service. This hotel offers a free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, making it a great value. Its outdoor pool provides a refreshing escape.

Another fantastic choice is the 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall, with a 9.0 rating. Travellers love the comfortable and clean rooms, the excellent and friendly staff, and the absolutely delicious buffet breakfast. The hotel also features a nice, clean outdoor pool. Free WiFi and free self-parking add to its convenience.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos, also with a 9.0 rating, is highly regarded for its excellent and friendly staff, delicious free breakfast, and clean rooms. Reviewers often highlight the friendly and efficient front desk and the great beds.
Are there any cheap San Marcos hotels near San Marcos River?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly hotels near San Marcos River, including Wingate by Wyndham San Marcos, Candlewood Suites San Marcos by IHG, Quality Inn University near Downtown, and La Quinta Inn by Wyndham San Marcos.

Wingate by Wyndham San Marcos, with an 8.4 rating, offers excellent value with complimentary self-parking, free buffet breakfast, and free WiFi. Customers frequently praise the comfortable and clean rooms, the friendly staff, and the super comfortable beds.

Candlewood Suites San Marcos by IHG, rated 7.8, provides free WiFi, complimentary self-parking, and free wired internet in public areas. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, the convenient amenities, and the great customer service.

Quality Inn University near Downtown, with a 7.4 rating, includes a free full breakfast, free wired internet in public areas, and complimentary self-parking. Reviewers often highlight the comfortable and clean rooms, comfortable beds, and convenient location.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn by Wyndham San Marcos offers complimentary toiletries, free internet access, free breakfast, and free self-parking, including options for RV, bus, and truck parking.
Is San Marcos a budget-friendly destination?
Yes, San Marcos is a budget-friendly destination, especially for those looking for outdoor adventures and a vibrant local scene without breaking the bank.

For couples and solo travellers, accommodation options are varied and generally affordable. Consider staying in the areas around the university for competitively priced hotels and guesthouses, which are often well-connected to the city's main attractions. Many of San Marcos's best experiences are free, such as enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the San Marcos River at places like Rio Vista Park, great for swimming, tubing, or simply relaxing by the water.

Dining can also be very economical. The city boasts numerous casual eateries, food trucks, and local diners offering delicious and inexpensive meals. Exploring the historic downtown square provides opportunities for affordable window shopping and people-watching, with many local businesses offering good value.
What cheap hotels in San Marcos offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in San Marcos offering cooking facilities or kitchenettes, consider Homewood Suites by Hilton San Marcos, Mosaic On The Hill, and Candlewood Suites San Marcos by IHG.

Homewood Suites by Hilton San Marcos is a 3-star hotel with an 8.6 rating. Guests frequently praise its spacious and clean rooms, and it offers full kitchens in its suites, making it ideal for longer stays or self-catering. You'll also benefit from a complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free self-parking.

Mosaic On The Hill, a 3-star property with an impressive 8.8 rating, provides kitchenettes in its accommodations. Guests often praise its beautiful rooms and nice coffee and food options. Free Wi-Fi and free self-parking are also included.

Candlewood Suites San Marcos by IHG, rated 7.8, also features kitchens in its rooms, offering great value for travellers who prefer to prepare their own meals. Reviewers often highlight the comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the great customer service.
Which cheap hotels in San Marcos have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in San Marcos that consistently receive excellent customer service reviews, consider the Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall, and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos, with an impressive 9.4 rating, is frequently praised for its friendly and helpful staff, with many guests highlighting their exceptional service. Guests will also appreciate complimentary amenities such as free WiFi, free continental breakfast, and free self-parking.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall, rated 9.0. Reviews often praise the friendly and excellent staff. This hotel offers great value with free WiFi, free buffet breakfast, and free self-parking.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos, also rated 9.0, is known for its friendly and excellent staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in San Marcos that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in San Marcos offer flexibility for early check-in or late check-out.

The Comfort Inn & Suites San Marcos near Outlet Mall provides free breakfast and free WiFi, and guests often praise its comfortable rooms and attentive staff. They are noted for accommodating early check-ins and late check-outs.

Another excellent option is the 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall, rated 9.0 by our customers. Reviewers frequently highlight the comfortable, clean rooms and the excellent, friendly staff. This hotel also offers free buffet breakfast and free WiFi, and can often arrange for early check-in or late check-out.

The 3-star Courtyard San Marcos, with an 8.8 rating, is another good choice. Guests appreciate the clean, big rooms and the friendly, helpful staff. This hotel provides free WiFi and free parking, and can often accommodate late check-out requests.

Finally, Motel 6 San Marcos, TX is a budget-friendly option where guests consistently mention the clean rooms and friendly staff. They offer free WiFi and free self-parking, and are typically flexible with early check-ins and late check-outs.
How can I save on a budget hotel in San Marcos with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in San Marcos. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in San Marcos?
San Marcos offers a wonderful array of free activities, great for budget-conscious travellers looking to experience the best of the city without spending a fortune.

For families, a top recommendation is exploring the extensive parks along the San Marcos River. Children can splash in the clear, cool waters at popular spots like Rio Vista Park, which features natural rock formations great for wading, or enjoy the expansive green spaces at City Park for a picnic and some play. The San Marcos Springs, the second-largest natural springs in Texas, are also a fantastic free attraction; while the glass-bottom boat tours have a fee, you can still enjoy the stunning views of the springs and the river from the banks and learn about the diverse ecosystem.

Solo travellers and couples will appreciate a stroll through the historic downtown square. This vibrant area is great for window shopping, admiring the historic architecture, and soaking up the local atmosphere. Keep an eye out for public art installations and murals scattered throughout the city, which offer great photo opportunities and a glimpse into San Marcos's creative spirit. Additionally, many local businesses and the university often host free events, from live music in parks to art exhibitions, so it's always worth checking a local events calendar upon arrival.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in San Marcos as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in San Marcos for you.

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