- 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 Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
kr866
Average ticket price on Sep 20
kr866
Fastest journey on Sep 20
17 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
17 h 20 m
Buses on Sep 20
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 kr866 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr866.
Fast buses
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 buses from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 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 Sun, Sep 20 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, FLkr8661One-way0 transfers
- 4:40 PM17h20Columbia, SC10:00 AMTampa, FLkr8661One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL
Omio recommends booking the bus 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 an average ticket price of kr1310 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 45m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr1310, while a flight costs an average of kr5757.
Distance: 426 miles (687 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
kr1310 Average price Cheapest | kr1340 Average price | kr5757 Average price | kr211 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
15h 7m Average total duration 14h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 22m Average total duration 11h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 45m Average total duration Fastest 3h 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 23m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL is a bus with an average price of kr1310.
This is compared to other travel options from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL:
A bus is kr30 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL costing on average kr1340.
A bus is kr4447 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL costing on average kr5757.
The fastest way to travel from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 45m.
Other travel options to Tampa, FL take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 52m.
Bus takes on average 14h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbia, SC and Tampa, FL including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbia, 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 kr1310 compared to roughly kr211 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about kr-1098.43. The journey takes 14h 37m versus 8h 23m 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.
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 kr866 |
Compare prices and tickets Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL by train or flight
Compare 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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Why should you book Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
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 14h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at kr1056 but you can travel from only kr648 by train.
The fastest bus covers the 426 miles (687 km) distance in 10h 9m.
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 kr648
Distance 426 miles (687 km) |
Average bus duration 14h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price kr1056 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 10h 9m |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 kr648
Bus providers: FlixBus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FLYou can travel by bus between Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL with FlixBus for as low as kr648. 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
10h 9m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
kr1056
FlixBus frequency
4 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 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 kr1056 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL is kr1310 ; 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 10h 9m 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.
There are 4 buses a day from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Tampa, FL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Columbia, SC and Tampa, FL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Tampa, FL from Columbia, SC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 10h 9m 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 2 ways to travel between Columbia, SC and Tampa, FL including taking a train and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL for bus company FlixBus.
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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Columbia, SC to Tampa, FL with the following bus company: FlixBus.
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 bus 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.
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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