- Must visit
Tampa Museum of Art
Major art museum on the Riverwalk with Greek and Roman antiquities, modern art, and a strong photography collection.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$127
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$174
Fastest journey on Sep 19
17 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
21 h 3 m
Buses on Sep 19
2
Distance
589 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL will cost around $174 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $127.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL without transferring at least 2 times.
+
FlixBus · FlixBus12:20 PM17h40Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station), SC6:00 AMTampa, Marion Transit Center$1271One-way2 transfers- +FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus12:20 PM24h25Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station), SC12:45 PMTampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL$2211One-way3 transfers
- +FlixBus · FlixBus12:20 PM17h40Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station), SC6:00 AMTampa, Marion Transit Center$1271One-way2 transfers
- +FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus12:20 PM24h25Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station), SC12:45 PMTampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL$2211One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $117 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 11m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $117, while a flight costs an average of $499.
Distance: 365 miles (589 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$117 Average price Cheapest | $136 Average price | $499 Average price | $89 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 13m Average total duration 11h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 45m Average total duration 10h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 11m Average total duration Fastest 3h 11m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.6 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.8 - 3.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL is a bus with an average price of $117.
This is compared to other travel options from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL:
A bus is $19 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL costing on average $136.
A bus is $381 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL costing on average $499.
The fastest way to travel from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 11m.
Other travel options to Tampa, FL take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 15m.
Bus takes on average 11h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Charleston, SC and Tampa, FL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $117 compared to roughly $89 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-28.66. The journey takes 11h 43m versus 6h 58m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 24h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $74 |
Live departures
Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL buses for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus+ | 12:20 PM Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station), SC | 24h25 | 12:45 PM Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL | 3 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus+ | 12:20 PM Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station), SC | 17h40 | 6:00 AM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL
USAUSA
Buses from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 11h 43m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $82 but you can travel from only $67 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 04:56, the last at 22:35. The fastest bus covers the 365 miles (589 km) distance in 9h 10m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $67
Distance 365 miles (589 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $82 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 9h 10m |
First bus 4:56 AM |
Last bus 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $67
Bus providers: FlixBus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FLYou can travel by bus between Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL with FlixBus for as low as $67. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
9h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$82
FlixBus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Complete guide to Tampa, FL
Things to do in Tampa, FL
Discover the best of Tampa, FL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tampa, FL trip today.
- Must visit
Tampa Bay History Center
Engaging family-friendly museum exploring Tampa Bay history through exhibits on pirates, cigars, industry, and local communities.
- Recommended
Henry B. Plant Museum
Fascinating history museum inside the former Tampa Bay Hotel, showcasing Gilded Age rooms, décor, and Florida tourism heritage.
- Must visit
Tampa Riverwalk
Scenic waterfront promenade linking parks, museums, and downtown landmarks; ideal for walking, biking, and skyline views.
- Must visit
Ybor City
Tampa's most historic district, known for brick streets, cigar heritage, nightlife, and a distinctive Cuban and immigrant legacy.
- Must visit
Bayshore Boulevard
Popular bayside path and green space on Davis Islands with sweeping water views, downtown panoramas, and sunset appeal.
Tampa Cuban Sandwich
A Cuban sandwich layered with roast pork, ham, salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on pressed Cuban bread. Tampa's version is a defining local classic.
Deviled Crab
Deviled crab is a Tampa staple: seasoned blue crab mixed with Cuban bread crumbs, shaped into a shell-like croquette, then breaded and fried.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Café Cubano
A chilled espresso drink sweetened and shaken until frothy. Popular in Tampa's Cuban communities, it is a local coffee ritual and social pick-me-up.
Brocato's Sandwich Shop
Beloved Tampa institution known for deviled crab, Cuban sandwiches, and casual old-Tampa counter service.
Rooster & The Till
Upscale modern Spanish restaurant in historic Ybor, known for refined tapas, cocktails, and a polished dining room.
Columbia Restaurant
Historic Ybor City restaurant famed for the original Tampa Cuban sandwich and old-school Spanish-Cuban atmosphere.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. beach cities: hotels can be high in peak season, but dining and local transport are usually manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, 18-22% for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. For cafes, small change or $1 per drink is common but optional.
Transit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- $2.00
- Day pass
- $4.00
To the city center
Tampa International Airport -> Downtown Tampa, Tampa, FL
- Distance
- 9 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- HART buses accept contactless payment and mobile ticketing through the Transit app; exact cash fare is also accepted on board.
- The HART day pass is usually best if you will take 2 or more bus trips in one day.
FAQs: Bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Tampa, FL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL can start from as little as $82 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL is $117 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL is 9h 10m to travel the 365 miles (589 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL leaves at 4:56 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL leaves at 10:35 PM.
When departing from Charleston, SC , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station), SC . When arriving in Tampa, FL , you can end your journey in bus stations like Tampa, Marion Transit Center, Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL, Pinellas Park, Shoppes at Park Place - Shelter - D, Saint Petersburg, Central Avenue N / Dr Martin Luther King St Jr, FL .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station), SC, which is located around 7 miles (12 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Tampa, Marion Transit Center, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Tampa, FL from Charleston, SC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Charleston, SC and Tampa, FL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, the bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Tampa, FL are:
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a renowned theme park offering thrilling rides and animal encounters
- The Florida Aquarium, a popular attraction featuring marine life exhibits and interactive experiences
- Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic waterfront path with parks, museums, and dining options
- Ybor City, a historic district known for its vibrant nightlife and Cuban culture
- Tampa Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary and classical art in a modern architectural setting.
The best things to do in Tampa, FL include:
- Visit the historic Henry B. Plant Museum, housed in a former luxury hotel with exhibits on the Gilded Age
- Explore the vibrant Hyde Park Village, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment
- Attend a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game at Raymond James Stadium for an exciting sports experience
- Take a boat tour of Tampa Bay for stunning views and wildlife sightings
- Enjoy a day at the beautiful Clearwater Beach, just a short drive from Tampa.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL.
No, luggage for the bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL.
Since neither Charleston, SC nor Tampa, FL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Tampa, FL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like Ybor City and downtown. Common scams include overcharging by taxi or rideshare drivers and timeshare presentations that pressure visitors into costly purchases. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help avoid these issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL
Most Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL buses use the Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station) to Tampa, Marion Transit Center station pair, with some services arriving at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant). Use this guide to compare Charleston, SC and Tampa, FL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Charleston
Arrival bus stations in Tampa
Which Charleston, SC station do buses to Tampa, FL leave from?
Buses from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL leave from Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station). The station is 8 miles (13 km) from Charleston, SC city centre at 4565 Gaynor Ave, Charleston, SC 29405, USA.
Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station)4565 Gaynor Ave, Charleston, SC 29405, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station) from Charleston city centre
Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station) is 12 km from Charleston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10 · 32m · every ~4 min
10 · 41m · every ~4 min
Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station) bus station facilities and services
Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available. ATMs are available at Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station): Wheelchair accessible.
Which Tampa, FL station do buses from Charleston, SC arrive at?
Buses from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL most often arrive at Tampa, Marion Transit Center. Some services arrive at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Tampa, FL arrival station.
Tampa, Marion Transit CenterMarion Transit Center, 1211 N Marion St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Tampa, Marion Transit Center from Tampa city centre
Bus1, 5, 19, 30 · 3m · $5 · every ~15 min
Tampa, Marion Transit Center bus station facilities and services
Tampa, Marion Transit Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center. ATMs are available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant)University of South Florida, Central Plant, 13302 USF Chestnut Dr, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) from Tampa city centre
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) is 13 km from Tampa city centre. Public transport options include:
BusFlixBus 2421 · 26m · $1
9, 400 · 1h 3m · $5 · every ~7 min
6 · 1h 9m · $5 · every ~5 min
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) bus station facilities and services
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant). ATMs are available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant): Wheelchair accessible facilities.
Most popular bus connections from Charleston, SC
More options for your journey from Charleston, SC to Tampa, FL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Tampa, FL and Charleston, SC
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