- Must visit
Tampa Museum of Art
Major art museum on the Riverwalk with Greek and Roman antiquities, modern art, and a strong photography collection.
Flights from Des Moines, IA to Tampa, FL depart on average 41 times per day, taking around 2h 48m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $148 (€121) if you book in advance.
There are 1 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 21:44. The fastest flight covers the 1134 miles (1825 km) distance in 2h 43m. February is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 1134 miles (1825 km) |
Average flight duration 2h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $148 (€121) |
Flights per day 41 |
Direct flights 1 |
Fastest flight 2h 43m |
First flight 5:00 AM |
Last flight 9:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 14 days |
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Tampa, FL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $235. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 48m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $235, and a flight costs an average of $148.
Distance: 1134 miles (1825 km)
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$355 Average price | $278 Average price Cheapest | $270 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 48m Average total duration Fastest 2h 48m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 34h 30m Average total duration 34h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to Tampa, FL:
A bus is $78 (€64) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Tampa, FL costing on average $355 (€292).
Other travel options to Tampa, FL take longer:
Bus takes on average 34h 0m.
Compare 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.
Discover the best of Tampa — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tampa trip today.
Major art museum on the Riverwalk with Greek and Roman antiquities, modern art, and a strong photography collection.
Engaging family-friendly museum exploring Tampa Bay history through exhibits on pirates, cigars, industry, and local communities.
Fascinating history museum inside the former Tampa Bay Hotel, showcasing Gilded Age rooms, décor, and Florida tourism heritage.
Scenic waterfront promenade linking parks, museums, and downtown landmarks; ideal for walking, biking, and skyline views.
Tampa's most historic district, known for brick streets, cigar heritage, nightlife, and a distinctive Cuban and immigrant legacy.
Popular bayside path and green space on Davis Islands with sweeping water views, downtown panoramas, and sunset appeal.
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 is a Tampa staple: seasoned blue crab mixed with Cuban bread crumbs, shaped into a shell-like croquette, then breaded and fried.
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.
Beloved Tampa institution known for deviled crab, Cuban sandwiches, and casual old-Tampa counter service.
Upscale modern Spanish restaurant in historic Ybor, known for refined tapas, cocktails, and a polished dining room.
Historic Ybor City restaurant famed for the original Tampa Cuban sandwich and old-school Spanish-Cuban atmosphere.
Moderate for U.S. beach cities: hotels can be high in peak season, but dining and local transport are usually manageable for most visitors.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Tampa, FL by flight. 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 flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Tampa, FL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Des Moines, IA to Tampa, FL flights use the Des Moines International Airport to Tampa International Airport airport pair, with some services landing at Saint Pete-Clearwater International Airport. Use this guide to compare Des Moines, IA and Tampa, FL airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Tampa International Airport is 5 km from Tampa city centre. Public transport options include:
Tampa International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food options include: Restaurants are located in all terminals, including fast food, cafes, and sit-down options like Columbia Cafe and P.F. Chang's.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout the airport, near gates and baggage claimas.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Tampa International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Tampa International Airport: Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Tampa International Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotels like the Tampa Airport Marriott are located within the airport complex..
Saint Pete-Clearwater International Airport is 2 km from Tampa city centre. Public transport options include:
Saint Pete-Clearwater International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food options include: Restaurants are available, including fast food and sit-down options like Dunkin' and Sam Adams Grille.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in the terminal near the baggage claim area.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Saint Pete-Clearwater International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Saint Pete-Clearwater International Airport: Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Saint Pete-Clearwater International Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need