- 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 San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14
Cheapest price on Sep 14
$231
Average ticket price on Sep 14
$246
Fastest journey on Sep 14
3 d 2 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 14
3 d 3 h 9 m
Buses on Sep 14
8
Distance
3857 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL will cost around $246 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $231.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL without transferring at least 3 times.
· · · 12:40 PM74h30San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 296:10 PMTampa, Marion Transit Center$2311One-way4 transfers
FlixBus+ · +FlixBus1:00 AM75h05San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA7:05 AMTampa, Marion Transit Center$2311One-way3 transfers- FlixBus+ · · 8:55 AM78h15San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA6:10 PMTampa, Marion Transit Center$2321One-way5 transfers
- · · +FlixBus1:10 PM78h15San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2910:25 PMTampa, Marion Transit Center$2381One-way5 transfers
- · · +FlixBus10:30 PM76h30San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 296:00 AMTampa, Marion Transit Center$2461One-way4 transfers
- · · · 12:40 PM74h30San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 296:10 PMTampa, Marion Transit Center$2311One-way4 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 7:10 AM74h35San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA12:45 PMTampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL$2711One-way5 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 7:10 AM75h05San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA1:15 PMTampa, Marion Transit Center$2711One-way5 transfers
- FlixBus+ · +FlixBus1:00 AM75h05San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA7:05 AMTampa, Marion Transit Center$2311One-way3 transfers
- · · +FlixBus10:30 PM76h30San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 296:00 AMTampa, Marion Transit Center$2461One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $277 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 9h 2m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $277, while a flight costs an average of $610.
Distance: 2396 miles (3857 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$277 Average price Cheapest | $610 Average price | $577 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
68h 10m Average total duration 67h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 2m Average total duration Fastest 7h 2m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 41h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL is a bus with an average price of $277.
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL:
A bus is $333 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL costing on average $610.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 2m.
Other travel options to Tampa, FL take longer:
Bus takes on average 67h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Tampa, FL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA 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 $277 compared to roughly $577 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $300. The journey takes 67h 40m versus 41h 42m 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.
San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 07:05AM | Duration 75h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $176 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 84h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $245 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 75h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $232 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 78h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $216 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 74h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $214 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 78h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $178 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 83h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $201 |
Live departures
San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL buses for today, Sunday, September 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · +FlixBus | 1:10 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 78h15 | 10:25 PM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 5 transfers | |
| · · +FlixBus | 10:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 83h15 | 12:45 PM Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL | 4 transfers | |
| · · · | 10:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 76h30 | 6:00 AM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 5 transfers | |
| Monday, September 14 | |||||
| FlixBus+ · +FlixBus | 1:00 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 75h05 | 7:05 AM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 3 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL
USAUSA
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 67h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $195 but you can travel from only $189 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 06:10, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 2396 miles (3857 km) distance in 65h 50m.
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 $189
Distance 2396 miles (3857 km) |
Average bus duration 67h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $195 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 65h 50m |
First bus 6:10 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 $189
Complete guide to Tampa, FL
Things to do in Tampa, FL
Discover the best of Tampa, FL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tampa, FL trip today.
- Must visit
Tampa Bay History Center
Engaging family-friendly museum exploring Tampa Bay history through exhibits on pirates, cigars, industry, and local communities.
- Recommended
Henry B. Plant Museum
Fascinating history museum inside the former Tampa Bay Hotel, showcasing Gilded Age rooms, décor, and Florida tourism heritage.
- Must visit
Tampa Riverwalk
Scenic waterfront promenade linking parks, museums, and downtown landmarks; ideal for walking, biking, and skyline views.
- Must visit
Ybor City
Tampa's most historic district, known for brick streets, cigar heritage, nightlife, and a distinctive Cuban and immigrant legacy.
- Must visit
Bayshore Boulevard
Popular bayside path and green space on Davis Islands with sweeping water views, downtown panoramas, and sunset appeal.
Tampa Cuban Sandwich
A Cuban sandwich layered with roast pork, ham, salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on pressed Cuban bread. Tampa's version is a defining local classic.
Deviled Crab
Deviled crab is a Tampa staple: seasoned blue crab mixed with Cuban bread crumbs, shaped into a shell-like croquette, then breaded and fried.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Café Cubano
A chilled espresso drink sweetened and shaken until frothy. Popular in Tampa's Cuban communities, it is a local coffee ritual and social pick-me-up.
Brocato's Sandwich Shop
Beloved Tampa institution known for deviled crab, Cuban sandwiches, and casual old-Tampa counter service.
Rooster & The Till
Upscale modern Spanish restaurant in historic Ybor, known for refined tapas, cocktails, and a polished dining room.
Columbia Restaurant
Historic Ybor City restaurant famed for the original Tampa Cuban sandwich and old-school Spanish-Cuban atmosphere.
United States dollar ($)
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 San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL can start from as little as $195 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL is $277 ; 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 San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL is 65h 50m to travel the 2396 miles (3857 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 San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL leaves at 6:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL leaves at 11:25 PM.
When departing from San Francisco, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA, Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, Hayward BART Station, Berkeley, Crescent Lawn (UC Berkeley), CA, El Cerrito, El Cerrito del Norte, CA . 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 .Passengers board the bus most frequently from San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, which is located around 1 miles (2 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 San Francisco, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 65h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Tampa, FL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, the bus from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL.
No, luggage for the bus from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL.
Since neither San Francisco, CA 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL
Most San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL buses use the San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 to Tampa, Marion Transit Center station pair, with some services arriving at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant). Use this guide to compare San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco
Arrival bus stations in Tampa
Which San Francisco, CA station do buses to Tampa, FL leave from?
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL leave from San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre at Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA.
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus397 · 8m · $2
14, 14R · 13m · $2 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · $6 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · $2 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 bus station facilities and services
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 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 San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. ATMs are available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29: Wheelchair accessible areas present.
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th StreetSan Francisco Bus Station,401 Townsend St,94107
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street from San Francisco city centre
BusEast, West · 20m · every ~4 min
Nbus, Nowl · 24m · $2 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · $2 · every ~11 min
Which Tampa, FL station do buses from San Francisco, CA arrive at?
Buses from San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Tampa, FL and San Francisco, CA
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