- 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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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $144. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 8h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $144, and a train costs an average of $501.
Distance: 446 miles (718 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$188 Average price | $501 Average price | $144 Average price Cheapest |
14h 35m Average total duration 14h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 36h 35m Average total duration 36h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 46m Average total duration Fastest 8h 46m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL is a flight with an average price of $144 (€118).
This is compared to other travel options from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL:
A flight is $44 (€36) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL costing on average $188 (€154).
A flight is $357 (€292) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL costing on average $501 (€410).
The fastest way to travel from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL is by flight with an average journey time of 8h 46m.
Other travel options to Tampa, FL take longer:
Bus takes on average 14h 5m.
Train takes on average 36h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Gainesville, GA and Tampa, FL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL among Omio's users.
Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $188 |
Compare prices and tickets Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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 Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL
USAUSA
Buses from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 14h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $188 (€154) but you can travel from only $144 (€118) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 06:20, the last at 22:35. The fastest bus covers the 446 miles (718 km) distance in 14h 5m.
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 $144 (€118)
Distance 446 miles (718 km) |
Average bus duration 14h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $188 (€154) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 14h 5m |
First bus 6:20 AM |
Last bus 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $144 (€118)
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 Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gainesville, GA 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 Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL can start from as little as $188 (€154) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL is $188 (€154) ; 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 Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL is 14h 5m to travel the 446 miles (718 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 Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL leaves at 6:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL leaves at 10:35 PM.
A trip to Tampa, FL from Gainesville, GA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 14h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Gainesville, GA and Tampa, FL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL.
No, the bus from Gainesville, GA 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 Gainesville, GA 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 Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL.
No, luggage for the bus from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL.
Since neither Gainesville, GA 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 Gainesville, GA 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 Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL
Most Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL buses use the Gainesville, Monroe Dr (Shell) to Tampa, Marion Transit Center station pair, with some services arriving at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant). Use this guide to compare Gainesville, GA 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 Gainesville
Arrival bus stations in Tampa
Gainesville, Monroe Dr (Shell)
City-centre transport
Getting to Gainesville, Monroe Dr (Shell) from Gainesville city centre
BusGroome Transportation · 9h 23m · $412 · every ~1 min
Groome Transportation · 9h 12m · $367 · every ~1 min
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 Gainesville, GA
More options for your journey from Gainesville, GA to Tampa, FL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Tampa, FL and Gainesville, GA
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