- 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 and prices for Aug 01
Cheapest price
$201
Average price
$312
Fastest journey
3 d 3 h 35 m
Average duration
3 d 4 h 15 m
Buses per day
2
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 $312 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $201.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave San Francisco, CA for Tampa, FL on Sat, Aug 01, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct buses cover the 3857 km distance in an average of 3 d 4 h 15 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 d 3 h 35 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest buses will take 3 d 4 h 55 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.
6:25 AM75h35San Francisco, CA10:00 AMTampa, FL$2011One-way0 transfers- 9:30 PM76h55San Francisco, CA2:25 AMTampa, FL$4231One-way0 transfers
- 6:25 AM75h35San Francisco, CA10:00 AMTampa, FL$2011One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 PM76h55San Francisco, CA2:25 AMTampa, FL$4231One-way0 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 prices starting from $168. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $168, and a train costs an average of $555.
Distance: 2396 miles (3857 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$334 Average price Cheapest | $376 Average price | $1859 Average price | $562 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
77h 56m Average total duration 77h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 8m Average total duration Fastest 5h 8m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 98h 58m Average total duration 98h 28m Onboard + 30m 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 $334 (€274).
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL:
A bus is $42 (€35) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL costing on average $376 (€308).
A bus is $1525 (€1251) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL costing on average $1859 (€1524).
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 8m.
Other travel options to Tampa, FL take longer:
Bus takes on average 77h 26m.
Train takes on average 98h 28m.
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. 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.
San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 75h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $201 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 77h55 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $168 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 76h55 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $382 |
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, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 77h55 | 2:25 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 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 12 times per day, taking around 77h 26m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $168 (€138) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 06:10, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 2396 miles (3857 km) distance in 75h 35m.
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 2396 miles (3857 km) |
Average bus duration 77h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $168 (€138) |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 75h 35m |
First bus 6:10 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
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 $168 (€138) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL is $334 (€274) ; 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 75h 35m 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.
A trip to Tampa, FL from San Francisco, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 75h 35m 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
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
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, 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
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 San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL
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Most popular buses to and from Tampa, FL and San Francisco, CA
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