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How to Get to Tampa

How to Get to Tampa

Tampa Florida, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving Tampa

Tampa provides several airport options. Each caters to different traveler types and routes.

Airports

  • Tampa International Airport (TPA): Main airport, 6 miles west of downtown, efficient.
  • St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE): Smaller, 17 miles SW of downtown, budget airlines.
  • Orlando International Airport (MCO): Major international hub, 85 miles east, wider international flights.

Airlines & Routes

A variety of carriers serve these airports, offering diverse domestic and international connections.

Connectivity Details

  • TPA: Serviced by all major U.S. Carriers, extensive domestic, Canada, Caribbean, limited European routes.
  • PIE: mainly serves Allegiant Air, with non-stop flights to over 50 smaller U.S. Cities.
  • MCO: Numerous direct flights to Europe, Latin America, Canada, and various U.S. Cities.

Seasonal Flight Pricing

Flight prices peak during high season (Oct-May), lower in low season (Jun-Sep).

Booking Advice

Book several months in advance for best rates. Utilize Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for deals.

Airport Facilities

TPA offers extensive dining, shops, lounges, and free Wi-Fi.

Transfer Options from Airports

From Tampa International Airport TPA

  • Rental Cars: Connected via SkyConnect. Book in advance.
  • Taxis: Readily available outside baggage claim.
  • Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft operate; follow app instructions.
  • Public Transit (HART): Bus service connects to downtown.

Other Airport Transfers

  • Shared Ride Shuttles: Cost-effective for solo travelers.
  • From PIE: Rental cars, taxis, ride-sharing, limited public transit.
  • From MCO (Orlando): Mears Transportation shuttles or rental cars.
  • A 1.5-2 hour drive to Tampa from MCO.

Direct Flight Options

From Europe

Limited direct flights to TPA (e.g., Zurich on Edelweiss Air). Connections often through major U.S. Hubs.

From Canada

Direct flights from major Canadian cities (Toronto, Montreal - seasonal) to TPA.

From Latin America/Caribbean

TPA offers direct flights from several regional cities (e.g., Panama City via Copa Airlines).

Land Transportation

Train & Bus Travel

Land travel to Tampa has scenic and economical choices, especially for domestic journeys.

Routes and Services

  • Amtrak: Tampa Union Station serves Silver Star and Silver Meteor routes, connecting to East Coast cities.
  • Greyhound: Operates from Tampa bus station, connections across Florida and the U.S.
  • RedCoach: Premium bus service connecting major Florida cities.

Self-Driving & Car Rentals

Car rentals offer flexibility.

Requirements & Conditions

  • Valid driver's license (IDP recommended if not in English).
  • Major credit card in renter’s name.
  • Minimum age 21 (under 25 incurs surcharge).

Road Conditions & Tolls

Florida roads generally exhibit good maintenance. Be ready for tolls and potential traffic.

Driving Considerations

  • Roads are well-maintained with clear signage.
  • Many expressways and bridges are toll roads (Veterans Expressway, Selmon Expressway).
  • Rent a car with a "SunPass" or electronic toll program to avoid higher fees.

Traffic & Safety

Traffic can pose challenges during peak hours. Observe safe driving practices.

Driving Safety Tips

  • Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM & 4-6 PM).
  • Be aware of aggressive driving behaviors by some Florida drivers.
  • Watch for construction zones which may cause detours.

Road Safety Reminders

  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Cell phone use for texting while driving is illegal.
  • Florida has a "move over" law for stopped emergency vehicles.
  • Drive defensively and adhere to speed limits.
  • Consider DiscoverCars.com for rental car bookings.
  • No border crossing information applies for domestic travel.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Tampa’s waterways offer unique arrival options, especially for cruise travelers and inter-city ferry journeys.

Sea-Based Arrivals

  • Port Tampa Bay: Major cruise port for Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line.
  • Cruises depart to Caribbean and Mexico destinations.
  • Cross-Bay Ferry: Seasonal service (Oct-May) connecting Downtown Tampa with Downtown St. Petersburg.

River Transportation

The Hillsborough River provides delightful local transportation and sightseeing opportunities.

Local Water Options

  • Pirate Water Taxi: Operates along the Tampa Riverwalk and Hillsborough River.
  • Serves as an entertaining local transport, stopping at attractions.
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Cruises: Many tours depart from Channel District or St. Petersburg/Clearwater.

Immigration Procedures

For international cruise arrivals, immigration procedures mirror airports. Prepare passport, visa/ESTA.

Port Land Connections

Port Tampa Bay is near downtown, with easy access to taxis, ride-sharing, and HART bus routes.

Water Taxi Exploration

The Pirate Water Taxi provides a fun and effective way to explore the waterfront attractions.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

Consider timing for a smooth departure from Tampa International Airport (TPA).

Recommended Arrival Times at TPA

  • Domestic Flights: Arrive approximately 1.5-2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • International Flights: Arrive approximately 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Peak Travel Times: Allow extra time during holidays or Monday mornings/Friday afternoons.

Airport Facilities

TPA offers extensive facilities for departing travelers.

Services for Departures

  • Dining Options: Wide array of restaurants and cafes beyond security.
  • Shopping: Numerous shops for last-minute souvenirs or necessities.
  • Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.

General Departure Notes

Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes are imposed upon departure from the U.S. Beyond those in your ticket price.

Check-in Efficiency

Baggage check-in typically runs efficiently. Automated people movers swiftly transport you to your airside gate.

Other Stations

Tampa Union Station (Amtrak) and bus stations provide basic waiting areas and restrooms.

Pre-Departure Check

Always check your flight status and airline’s recommended arrival times before heading to the airport. Traffic to TPA can be heavy during rush hour.