- Must visit
Tampa Museum of Art
Modern and classical art museum on the Riverwalk, known for its contemporary exhibitions and prominent downtown setting.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL
Showing times and prices for Jun 18
Cheapest price
$101
Average price
$101
Fastest journey
17 h 20 m
Average duration
17 h 20 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
687 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Columbia, 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 Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $101.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Columbia, SC for Tampa, FL on Thu, Jun 18, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jun 18 the direct buses cover the 687 km distance in an average of 17 h 20 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 17 h 20 m .
On Thu, Jun 18 the slowest buses will take 17 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
4:40 PM17h20Columbia, SC10:00 AMTampa, FL$1011One-way0 transfers
- 4:40 PM17h20Columbia, SC10:00 AMTampa, FL$1011One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $92. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $92, and a flight costs an average of $263.
Distance: 426 miles (687 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$99 Average price Cheapest | $103 Average price | $385 Average price | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
17h 50m Average total duration 17h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 9m Average total duration 11h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 21m Average total duration Fastest 5h 21m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 23m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL is a bus with an average price of $99 (€81).
This is compared to other travel options from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL:
A bus is $4 (€3) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL costing on average $103 (€84).
A bus is $286 (€234) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL costing on average $385 (€315).
The fastest way to travel from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 21m.
Other travel options to Tampa, FL take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 39m.
Bus takes on average 17h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Columbia, SC and Tampa, FL including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 17h20 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $92 |
Live departures
Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL buses for tomorrow, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:40 PM Columbia, SC | 17h20 | 10:00 AM Tampa, FL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, and bus 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 Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL
USAUSA
Buses from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 17h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $92 (€75) but you can travel from only $53 (€43) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 16:40, the last at 16:40. The fastest bus covers the 426 miles (687 km) distance in 17h 20m.
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
Train from $53 (€43)
Distance 426 miles (687 km) |
Average bus duration 17h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $92 (€75) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 17h 20m |
First bus 4:40 PM |
Last bus 4:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 77 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
Train from $53 (€43)
Complete guide to Tampa
Things to do in Tampa
Discover the best of Tampa — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tampa trip today.
- Must visit
The Dalí Museum
World-famous Salvador Dalí museum across the bay in St. Petersburg, frequently visited from Tampa for its iconic collection and architecture.
- Recommended
Henry B. Plant Museum
Historic museum inside the former Tampa Bay Hotel, showcasing Gilded Age architecture and Tampa history.
- Must visit
Tampa Riverwalk
Signature waterfront promenade linking museums, parks, and public art, and one of the city's most popular walking areas.
- Must visit
Ybor City
Historic neighborhood famous for brick streets, cigar heritage, nightlife, and distinctive cultural character.
- Must visit
Bayshore Boulevard
Scenic waterfront boulevard popular for walking, running, and skyline views along Hillsborough Bay.
Cuban Sandwich
Tampa’s signature sandwich, traditionally layered with Cuban bread, roast pork, ham, salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, then pressed hot. The salami reflects the city’s Italian influence in Y
Deviled Crab
A classic Ybor City snack made with spiced crab meat mixed with breadcrumbs, formed into a shell-like shape, breaded, and fried. It reflects Tampa’s cigar-factory immigrant history and is one of the c
Grouper Sandwich
A Florida Gulf Coast favorite often found in Tampa, featuring fresh local grouper grilled, blackened, or fried on a bun. It is especially popular for showcasing the region’s seafood.
Bern's Steak House
Iconic fine-dining destination famous for dry-aged steaks, an extensive wine collection, and classic Tampa special-occasion dining.
Columbia Restaurant
Historic Ybor City institution known for Spanish-Cuban cuisine, the 1905 Salad, and flamenco performances in a grand old-world setting.
Ulele
Popular riverfront restaurant serving Florida-inspired dishes, charbroiled oysters, and native-inspired flavors in a lively upscale-casual atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate for U.S. travelers. Dining and transport are manageable, while hotels rise in peak season and waterfront areas.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks.
- Coffee
- USD 4-6 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5. Tips are expected for table service.
FAQs: Bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Columbia, 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 Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL can start from as little as $92 (€75) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL is $99 (€81) ; 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 Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL is 17h 20m to travel the 426 miles (687 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 Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL leaves at 4:40 PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL leaves at 4:40 PM.
A trip to Tampa, FL from Columbia, SC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 17h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Columbia, SC and Tampa, FL including taking a train, flight, and bus.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
No, the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL has no accessibility options.
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 Columbia, 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 Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
No, luggage for the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
Since neither Columbia, 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 Columbia, 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 Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL
Most Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL buses use the to Tampa, Marion Transit Center station pair, with some services arriving at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant). Use this guide to compare Columbia, 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 Columbia
Arrival bus stations in Tampa
Tampa, Marion Transit Center
City-centre transport
Getting to Tampa, Marion Transit Center from Tampa city centre
Bus1, 5, 19, 30 · 3m · $5 · every ~15 min
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant)
City-centre transport
Getting to Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) from Tampa city centre
BusFlixBus 2421 · 26m · $1
9, 400 · 1h 3m · $5 · every ~7 min
6 · 1h 9m · $5 · every ~5 min
Most popular bus connections from Columbia, SC
More options for your journey from Columbia, 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 Columbia, SC
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