McAllen, TX, known for its vibrant culture and bustling economy, is a gem in the Rio Grande Valley. Just a short drive away lies Harlingen, TX, a city rich in history and charm.
Traveling between these two cities is common for business, leisure, and family visits. The journey offers a glimpse into the heart of South Texas.
Exploring transportation options can make this trip even more enjoyable and convenient.
5 Ways to go from McAllen, TX to Harlingen, TX
1. Shuttle Service
Shuttle Service offers a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel from McAllen, TX to Harlingen, TX. This shared transportation option is ideal for those looking for a cost-effective and reliable way to get from one city to another without the hassle of driving.
- Travel time: The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Factors such as traffic conditions and the frequency of shuttle schedules can affect the duration. Opting for express services can reduce travel time.
- Cost: Prices generally range from $20 to $40 per person. Costs can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and service tiers. Booking in advance or during off-peak times can help you find more budget-friendly options.
- Booking process: You can easily find and book Shuttle Service through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We make the booking process straightforward and user-friendly.
- Pros: Shuttle Service is a cost-effective and reliable option. It eliminates the stress of driving and parking, offers frequent schedules, and provides a comfortable ride. Additionally, it is an eco-friendly choice compared to driving alone.
Shuttle Service is best for budget-conscious travelers, students, and those without access to a car. For a smooth trip, consider booking in advance and checking the shuttle schedule.
Book a transfer with Mozio
Your go-to ground transportation platform - Airport Shuttles, Taxis, Buses, Transfers & Limousines, anytime and everywhere.
Book now →2. Luxury Car Service
Luxury Car Service offers a premium, private transportation option for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. This service provides high-end vehicles and professional drivers, ensuring a smooth and stylish journey from McAllen, TX to Harlingen, TX.
- Travel time: The trip typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Factors such as traffic conditions and time of day can affect the duration. Opting for express routes can slightly reduce travel time.
- Cost: Prices generally range from $100 to $200. Costs can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and the type of vehicle chosen. Booking in advance often secures better rates.
- Booking process: You can easily find and book Luxury Car Service through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. Our platform simplifies the process, ensuring a hassle-free reservation.
- Pros: Luxury Car Service offers unparalleled comfort, privacy, and convenience. With professional drivers and high-end vehicles, you can enjoy a stress-free journey. Additionally, door-to-door service eliminates the need for transfers or waiting times.
This service is ideal for business travelers, special occasions, or anyone seeking a premium travel experience. For the best results, consider booking well in advance and during off-peak hours.
3. Private Driver
Private Driver is a personalized transportation service offering a private, comfortable, and convenient way to travel. It provides a door-to-door service, ensuring a hassle-free journey. This option is typically more luxurious and private compared to shared or budget-friendly alternatives.
- Travel time: The journey from McAllen, TX to Harlingen, TX typically takes around 1 hour. Factors such as traffic conditions and time of day can affect the duration. Opting for a direct route can help minimize travel time.
- Cost: The cost for a Private Driver service ranges from $80 to $150. Pricing can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and the type of vehicle chosen. Booking in advance can sometimes secure lower rates.
- Booking process: You can easily find and book Private Driver services through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We make the booking process straightforward and user-friendly.
- Pros: Choosing a Private Driver offers several benefits, including comfort, privacy, and flexibility. You can enjoy a personalized travel experience without the stress of navigating public transportation or dealing with multiple stops.
Private Driver is ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable and stress-free journey. For the best experience, consider booking in advance and choosing a direct route.
4. Public Transportation
Public transportation between McAllen, TX, and Harlingen, TX, is a budget-friendly option that involves shared rides on buses. It operates on a fixed schedule, making it an accessible choice for many travelers.
- Travel time: The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Factors such as traffic, layovers, and the frequency of the bus schedule can affect the duration. Express routes may offer faster travel times.
- Cost: The cost ranges from $5 to $10. Pricing can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and service tiers. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and frequent travelers.
- Booking process: Travelers can book tickets online, through an app, by phone, or in person at bus stations. While advance reservations are not always required, booking at least a day ahead is recommended to secure a seat.
- Pros and cons: The main benefits include affordability, environmental friendliness, and the convenience of not having to drive. Drawbacks include potential delays due to traffic and the fixed schedule, which may not align with all travel plans.
Public transportation is ideal for budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer not to drive. For a smoother experience, check the schedule in advance and arrive early at the bus station.
5. Uber/Rideshare
Uber and other rideshare services offer a convenient and flexible way to travel from McAllen, TX to Harlingen, TX. These services provide private rides, which can be either budget-friendly or luxurious, depending on the selected tier.
- Travel time: The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Factors such as traffic conditions and time of day can affect the duration. Opting for faster routes or avoiding peak hours can help reduce travel time.
- Cost: The cost ranges from $40 to $70, influenced by factors like peak hours, service tiers, and advance booking. Budget-friendly options like UberX are available, and occasional discounts can further reduce the fare.
- Booking process: Travelers can book rides through the Uber app or website. While advance reservations are not mandatory, booking ahead during busy times is advisable to ensure availability.
- Pros and cons: The main benefits include convenience, door-to-door service, and flexibility in scheduling. However, drawbacks include potential surge pricing during peak hours and the lack of fixed schedules, which might be less predictable than other transportation options.
Uber/Rideshare is ideal for travelers seeking a hassle-free, private ride with flexible timing. For the best experience, consider booking during non-peak hours and checking for available discounts.
Distance between McAllen, TX and Harlingen, TX
The distance between McAllen, TX, and Harlingen, TX, is approximately 40 miles (64 kilometers). Notable landmarks along the route include the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge and the bustling city of Weslaco, offering scenic views and local attractions.

Travel time between McAllen, TX and Harlingen, TX
- Shuttle Service: Typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Travel time can vary due to scheduled stops and potential delays in picking up other passengers.
- Luxury Car Service: Offers a direct route, usually taking about 1 hour. Traffic conditions can significantly impact the travel time, especially during peak hours.
- Private Driver: Generally takes around 1 hour. The travel time is relatively consistent but can be affected by traffic congestion and road conditions.
- Public Transportation: Can take up to 2 hours or more, depending on the number of transfers and wait times. Delays and layovers are common factors that extend travel time.
- Uber/Rideshare: Typically takes about 1 hour. Travel time can fluctuate based on driver availability, traffic, and route efficiency.
Cost of transportation between McAllen, TX and Harlingen, TX
- Shuttle Service: Costs range from $20 to $40 per person. Prices can vary based on the time of day and the number of passengers. Booking in advance can often secure lower rates.
- Luxury Car Service: Expect to pay between $100 and $200. Factors like vehicle type and additional amenities can affect the price. Consider traveling during off-peak hours to save money.
- Private Driver: Typically costs range from $60 to $120. Prices depend on the distance and any additional services requested. Using discount programs can help reduce costs.
- Public Transportation: The most economical option, costing around $5 to $10. Prices are generally fixed, but traveling during non-peak hours can make the journey more comfortable.
- Uber/Rideshare: Prices range from $30 to $60. Costs can fluctuate based on demand, time of day, and traffic conditions. Sharing rides with others can significantly lower the fare.
Why traveling with Mozio is best!
- Cancel for free within 24 hours, giving you the flexibility to change your plans.
- Round-the-clock customer support, a feature not commonly available with other services.
- We work exclusively with licensed partners, ensuring top-notch security and service quality.
- Enjoy instantly guaranteed bookings, making our service both efficient and reliable.
- Flight delayed? No worries, we’ll wait for you, adding an extra layer of convenience.
Tips for traveling between McAllen, TX and Harlingen, TX
- Choosing the best method: Consider your budget and comfort level. Shuttle services are economical, while luxury car services offer more comfort. Mozio can help you compare options.
- Time-saving strategies: Book your transportation in advance, especially during peak travel times. Private drivers and rideshares can be quicker than public transportation.
- Cost-saving tips: Look for discounts or shared rides. Public transportation is the cheapest, but shuttle services also offer good value.
- Packing advice: Pack light if using public transportation or rideshares. Luxury car services and private drivers can accommodate more luggage.
- Best travel times: Avoid rush hours to save time. Early mornings and late evenings are less crowded for all transportation methods.
- Local insights: McAllen and Harlingen are close, but traffic can vary. Check local traffic updates to choose the best route and time.
We support both travel agents and travelers!
For Travelers
Mozio simplifies ground transportation for travelers by offering a seamless booking process. Enter your travel details, compare various transportation options, and make a booking—all in one place. This platform is designed to cater to your needs, whether you're heading to a bustling city or a remote destination.
One of the unique benefits of using Mozio is its extensive network, covering thousands of destinations worldwide. From major travel hubs to off-the-beaten-path locales, Mozio ensures you have reliable transportation options wherever you go. This makes it an invaluable tool for any traveler looking to explore new places with ease and convenience.
For Travel Agent
For travel agents, Mozio offers a streamlined booking process that enhances efficiency and profitability. By registering and creating an account, agents can book a variety of transportation options, including sedans, SUVs, vans, and even water taxis, for their clients. This platform not only simplifies the booking process but also allows agents to earn a 5% discount on rates and set their own commission, making it a valuable tool for any travel professional.
One of the standout features of Mozio for travel agents is its extensive global coverage. With services available in 180 countries and support for over 3500 airports, agents can confidently book transportation for clients heading to both popular and remote destinations. Additionally, Mozio's 24/7 customer support and free online cancellations on 99% of bookings ensure that agents can manage their clients' travel needs with ease and reliability.