- Must visit
The Dalí Museum
Major museum dedicated to Salvador Dalí, across the bay in the Tampa Bay area and widely regarded as a regional cultural highlight.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$16
Average price
$16
Fastest journey
50 m
Average duration
50 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
51 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Lakeland, FL 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 Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL will cost around $16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $16.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Lakeland, FL for Tampa, FL on Sun, May 31, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct buses cover the 51 km distance in an average of 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 50 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest buses will take 50 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.
7:05 PM0h50Lakeland, FL7:55 PMTampa, FL$161One-way0 transfers
- 7:05 PM0h50Lakeland, FL7:55 PMTampa, FL$161One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus for Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 44m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $9, and a bus costs an average of $9.
Distance: 31 miles (51 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$13 Average price Cheapest | $9 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 14m Average total duration Fastest 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL is a bus with an average price of $13 (€11).
The fastest way to travel from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL is by bus with an average journey time of 44m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Lakeland, FL and Tampa, FL.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the quicker way to make this trip, and the time saved usually justifies the slightly higher cost.
You'll arrive about 2m sooner (44m by bus vs 46m by car). Tickets start at around $13 (€11) compared to roughly $9 (€8) in fuel and tolls — a bit more, but you're getting time back, skipping traffic and parking, and you can work or rest on board.
Direct coaches are operated by FlixBus, Greyhound.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel splits across several people), want flexibility on timing, or plan to stop en route.
Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $14 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $14 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $14 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 0h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:05PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $14 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 08:55PM | Duration 0h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 08:55PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 09:55PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $11 |
Live departures
Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL buses for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 5:20 AM Lakeland, US Hwy 98 N / Pyramid Parkway, FL | 0h40 | 6:00 AM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:05 PM Lakeland, US Hwy 98 N / Pyramid Parkway, FL | 0h50 | 3:55 PM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:15 PM Lakeland, US Hwy 98 N / Pyramid Parkway, FL | 0h40 | 4:55 PM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL by bus
Compare 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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May 31
May 31
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Why should you book Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL
USAUSA
Buses from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:20, the last at 22:35. The fastest bus covers the 31 miles (51 km) distance in 40m.
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
Distance 31 miles (51 km) |
Average bus duration 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 40m |
First bus 5:20 AM |
Last bus 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 21 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
Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FLYou can travel by bus between Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $9 (€7). 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 Duration
40m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€11)
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.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
40m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
Greyhound frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
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.
- Recommended
Tampa Museum of Art
Contemporary and classical art museum on the Riverwalk, known for rotating exhibitions and a striking modern building.
- Recommended
Henry B. Plant Museum
Museum inside the former Tampa Bay Hotel, showcasing Gilded Age architecture, furnishings, and local history.
- Must visit
Tampa Riverwalk
The city's signature waterfront promenade linking museums, parks, hotels, and photo spots along downtown's river edge.
- Must visit
Ybor City Historic District
Tampa's best-known historic neighborhood, famous for brick streets, cigar heritage, nightlife, and distinctive architecture.
- Must visit
Bayshore Boulevard
Long waterfront boulevard with popular walking and running paths, skyline views, and social-media-friendly sunrise scenes.
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 and Cuban Ybor
Deviled Crab
A Tampa classic from Ybor City made with seasoned blue crab meat mixed with breadcrumbs and spices, shaped into a shell-like croquette and fried. It reflects the city’s cigar-worker lunch traditions.
Spanish Bean Soup
A beloved old Tampa dish of garbanzo beans, potatoes, chorizo, ham, and Cuban bread on the side. It became famous through local Spanish and Cuban restaurants and remains a comfort-food staple.
Bern's Steak House
Legendary fine-dining destination known for dry-aged steaks, an enormous wine list, and a famous dessert room. One of Tampa’s most established special-occasion restaurants.
Columbia Restaurant
Historic Ybor City institution founded in 1905, famous for Spanish-Cuban cuisine, the 1905 Salad, and classic Tampa dishes in a grand old-world setting.
La Segunda Central Bakery
Long-running Ybor bakery celebrated for authentic Cuban bread, pastries, sandwiches, and strong Cuban coffee. A classic stop for traditional Tampa flavors.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Casual dining and coffee are reasonable, while hotels, nightlife, and waterfront areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60-120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for regular coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% in bars. Tip taxi and rideshare drivers 10-15%. USD 1-2 per bag for bellhops and USD 2-5 per night for housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lakeland, FL 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 Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL can start from as little as $9 (€7) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL is $13 (€11) ; 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 Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL is 40m to travel the 31 miles (51 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 Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL leaves at 5:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL leaves at 10:35 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL with FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to Tampa, FL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Lakeland, FL and Tampa, FL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Tampa, FL from Lakeland, FL is worth doing with a journey time of 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL is March.
Yes, you can take a bus between Lakeland, FL and Tampa, FL.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
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 Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- 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, Greyhound.
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 Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- 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 Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Lakeland, FL 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 Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Lakeland, FL 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 Lakeland, FL 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 Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL
Lakeland
Tampa
The major bus station for departures in Lakeland is Lakeland, US Hwy 98 N / Pyramid Parkway. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lakeland, US Hwy 98 N / Pyramid Parkway for your trip from Lakeland to Tampa.
Lakeland, US Hwy 98 N / Pyramid Parkway
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Tampa is Tampa, Marion Transit Center. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Tampa, Marion Transit Center for your trip to Tampa from Lakeland.
Tampa, Marion Transit Center
information
Most popular bus connections from Lakeland, FL
More options for your journey from Lakeland, FL to Tampa, FL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Tampa, FL and Lakeland, FL
Most popular bus connections to Tampa, FL
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