Embarking on a journey from Tampa to Orlando offers an exciting mix of adventure, relaxation and entertainment. With so many travel options and attractions to explore, you might be wondering how to make the most of your trip.
In this blog post, we provide you with insights on affordable travel options, top attractions, best times to travel, accommodation choices, and tips for a smooth journey. So buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable Florida experience!
Explore affordable travel options from Tampa to Orlando, including budget flights, economical bus services and car/ridesharing.
Discover attractions on the journey like iconic Riverwalk & theme parks plus events & festivals in both cities.
Make your trip smooth with packing essentials, navigating transportation hubs and making the most of your time in Orlando!
Dreaming of an amazing trip from Tampa to Orlando without breaking the bank? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! There are various affordable travel options to choose from, including:
Budget flights
Economical bus services
Car rental
Train travel
Come along with me and explore each of these options to help you find the perfect one for your journey.
Orlando flights can be surprisingly affordable if you know where to look. Websites like KAYAK and Cheapflights.com are your go-to sources for finding the best deals on cheap flights from Tampa to Orlando. By comparing options from multiple airlines, such as United Airlines, Spirit Airlines and Silver Airways, you can snag cheap tickets for your trip.
Morning flights are usually cheaper, with an average of 23% savings compared to evening flights. Additionally, last-minute flights might help you find some good deals as well. As for the airport, we recommend arriving at Orlando International Airport (MCO) also known as Orlando Airport as it is closer to the city center and a popular choice for airline flying. For more options, you can also consider checking nearby airports.
Don’t forget to utilize KAYAK’s Price Alert feature to track flight prices and book flights at the best possible rates.
If you prefer traveling on the ground, bus services like Greyhound USA and FlixBus offer an affordable way to reach Orlando. There is a direct bus service between Tampa and Orlando, leaving from Tampa Bus Station and arriving at Orlando Bus Station four times a day, every day, taking around 2 hours and 5 minutes. To find cheap bus tickets, check out the Rome2Rio or Greyhound USA websites.
Booking your bus tickets from Tampa to Orlando has never been easier. With FlixBus and Busbud you can easily book your bus ticket online, conveniently. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you travel between these two Floridian cities without spending a fortune.
Renting a car or using ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft can also be an affordable way to travel between Tampa and Orlando. When choosing a vehicle, consider factors such as:
the number of passengers
road conditions (traffic congestion)
luggage space
rental cost
availability
insurance coverage
To save money, you can:
Compare prices between different car rental companies
Keep an eye out for discounts and special offers
Consider carpooling with BlaBlaCar to reduce costs and make new friends along the way!
For those who enjoy a more leisurely pace, train travel offers a comfortable and scenic option to reach Orlando. Amtrak provides a daily train service from Tampa to Orlando, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the ride. Tickets for the Amtrak service average around $70 and you can easily book your Tampa to Orlando train tickets online.
Onboard the train, you can expect:
Comfy wide seats
Plug-in power for your devices
Large windows for scenic views
Ample storage space for luggage
With Amtrak’s different fare subclasses, like Saver, Value, Flexible, Business and Premium, you can choose the level of comfort that suits your budget.
From vibrant cityscapes to thrilling theme parks, the journey between Tampa and Orlando offers a wealth of attractions to suit every traveler. In this section, we’ll delve into the top highlights in both cities as well as entertaining stops en route, ensuring you make the most of your trip.
Tampa is a bustling city with plenty of attractions to explore. From the iconic Tampa Riverwalk.
Before you set off for Orlando, be sure to explore the must-see attractions in Tampa. The Tampa Riverwalk is a picturesque promenade that offers stunning views of the downtown skyline, with plenty of eateries, museums and playgrounds to keep you entertained.
For a more immersive experience, head to the Florida Aquarium, where you can explore shoreline ecosystems, dive into the deep ocean, admire the coral garden and even take a thrilling shark dive.
And don’t forget to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a popular theme park that combines thrilling roller coasters with up-close encounters with exotic animals.
As you travel between Tampa and Orlando, there’s plenty of entertainment to be found along the way. Take in the beautiful landscapes of Central Florida on scenic drives, or stop by historic sites like Bok Tower Gardens for a touch of culture and history.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, kayaking, or birdwatching at various parks and nature reserves en route. And for a more laid-back experience, explore charming cities like Winter Haven, home to the scenic Lake Virginia and a vibrant downtown area.
Upon reaching Orlando, you’ll be greeted by a world of excitement and adventure. Home to world-famous theme parks like Disney World, Universal Studios Florida and SeaWorld, there’s no shortage of fun for the whole family.
Beyond the theme parks, Orlando offers a rich cultural scene with museums, art galleries and performing arts venues. Plus, with its beautiful parks, lakes, and gardens, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature.
So whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a culture vulture, or simply looking to relax and unwind, Orlando has something for everyone.
Timing is everything when planning your Tampa to Orlando trip. In this section, we’ll explore the best times and seasons to travel, taking into account weather conditions, special events and cost-saving opportunities. For those looking to save money, the best time to travel is during the off-season.
While Florida is known for its sunny weather, it’s important to plan your trip with the climate in mind. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are generally the best times to travel between Tampa and Orlando, offering pleasant temperatures and less crowded attractions.
Be mindful of the hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November, as it might affect your travel plans. Also, keep an eye on current weather conditions and forecasts to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Both Tampa and Orlando host numerous special events and festivals throughout the year. These events can offer unique experiences and enhance your trip, but they may also impact crowd levels and accommodation prices. Some notable events include the Gasparilla Pirate Festival in Tampa, the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival and Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration.
When planning your trip, consider the following:
Research local events and consider how they might affect your travel plans.
Be prepared to adjust your itinerary if necessary.
Book accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals.
Traveling during off-peak or shoulder seasons can help you save on costs while still enjoying the best of Tampa and Orlando. The months of January and February, as well as March and April, are considered off-peak and shoulder seasons, respectively.
During these periods, you may find better deals on flights, accommodations, and attractions, allowing you to enjoy your trip without breaking the bank. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals and consider traveling during weekdays to avoid peak crowds and prices.
From budget hotels to luxury resorts, Orlando offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. In this section, we’ll explore the different types of accommodations available, along with recommendations and tips for booking the perfect stay.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel or a luxurious resort, there are plenty of options.
Orlando offers several budget-friendly hotels and hostels for those looking to save on accommodations. Some popular options include:
Lake Nona Wave Hotel (starting from $289 per night)
Maingate Lakeside Resort
Champions World Resort
Galleria Palms Hotel
Quality Inn Orlando-Near Universal Blvd.
These accommodations often feature amenities like:
Free Wi-Fi
Swimming pools
Fitness centers
On-site restaurants
With prices starting from around $289 per night, budget hotels and hostels in Orlando provide a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.
For travelers seeking a balance of comfort and affordability, Orlando offers a variety of mid-range hotels. Popular hotel chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt provide comfortable accommodations with a range of amenities to make your stay enjoyable.
If you prefer a more unique experience, consider boutique options like The Alfond Inn, The Grand Bohemian Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton Orlando. These boutique mid-range hotels offer personalized service and distinctive design in prime locations throughout the city.
For a more indulgent stay, consider one of Orlando’s luxury resorts or vacation rentals. These upscale accommodations offer high-end amenities such as private pools, spas and gourmet kitchens, providing a truly memorable experience. Popular options include Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort and The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes.
With prices ranging from $200 to $1000 per night, luxury resorts and vacation rentals in Orlando cater to those looking for an exceptional stay.
A little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip from Tampa to Orlando. In this section, we’ll provide you with tips on packing essentials, navigating transportation hubs and making the most of your time in Orlando.
Packing essentials for a trip to Orlando should include comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.
When packing for your Tampa to Orlando trip, keep in mind the warm Florida weather and bring clothes suitable for the climate, such as:
cotton and linen fabrics
swimsuit
sunglasses
sunscreen
These items will help protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
In addition to clothing, pack your travel documents, a portable phone charger, a waterproof phone case and a collapsible water bottle to stay hydrated during your journey.
Familiarize yourself with transportation hubs in Tampa and Orlando, such as the Tampa International Airport, Orlando International Airport and Amtrak station in Orlando. Be prepared to navigate these hubs efficiently by researching their layouts and following signage to your destination.
Real-time traffic apps like Google Maps and Waze can help you find the quickest routes and avoid congestion when driving or using public transportation. And when it comes to public transportation, research bus routes and schedules ahead of time to ensure a seamless journey.
To make the most of your time in Orlando, here are some tips:
Plan your itinerary in advance and research the attractions you wish to visit.
Purchase tickets ahead of time to save time and money and avoid long lines at popular attractions.
Take advantage of early entry or late-night hours at theme parks to maximize your experience and avoid peak crowds.
Consider staying in a hotel near your desired attractions to save time and make the most of your Orlando adventure.
Lastly, immerse yourself in Orlando’s local culture by exploring its neighborhoods, attending festivals and events and visiting museums and art galleries.
In conclusion, your Tampa to Orlando journey offers a wealth of opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and fun. By carefully considering your travel options, planning your itinerary, and packing the essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable Floridian experience. So go ahead, buckle up, and enjoy the ride!
The average cost of an Uber ride from Tampa to Orlando is between $106-$246.
You can check a real-time estimate using Uber’s price estimator tool.
Yes, there is a shuttle available between Tampa and Orlando. The airport shuttle runs from Tampa International Airport (TPA) to Orlando, taking under 2 hours and costing approximately $65 per person.
The easiest way to get from Tampa to Orlando is by train, which takes 1 hour and 49 minutes and costs an average of $16.
If you’re on a budget, there are cheap tickets from $13.
You can catch Amtrak’s Silver Service train from Tampa to Orlando daily. It departs from Union Station in Downtown Tampa, and the journey takes around 1h 49m.
Alternatively, Greyhound USA also operates buses between the two cities.
Tampa is located about 72 miles away from Walt Disney World, with most of the journey taking place on Interstate 4. It typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes by car to get there, but traffic can make it take longer. You may also be able to find private, paid shuttle options.
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