St Petersburg to Tampa
Route Guide
Planning a trip from St. Petersburg to Tampa? This ultimate travel guide explores the four best ways to make the journey via ferry, bus, self-drive, and taxi, with detailed travel times, costs, pros and cons, and local tips. Whether you’re chasing scenic bay views on the ferry or looking for the most budget-friendly ride, we’ve got you covered. Includes travel comparison table, must-have travel apps, frequently asked flight questions, and must-visit places in both cities. Perfect for weekend travelers, locals, and tourists alike.
Route Overview
Best Travel Options
🚌 Bus
Most Budget-Friendly
Hop on a FlixBus to get from St. Pete to Tampa affordably and comfortably.
💸 ₹194 (~$2.30)
⏱️ Duration: ~1 hr 15 min
🚌 4 daily rides | 🕒 First: 13:35 | Last: 23:45
📍 Free WiFi, power sockets, and a guaranteed seat
✅ Cheapest option
✅ Environment-friendly
❌ Slightly slower due to traffic and stops
Best For: Budget travelers, students, backpackers
🚕 Taxi & Cabs
Fastest but Pricey
Skip the stress — hail a cab or ride-share for door-to-door comfort.
💸 ₹1,600–₹2,000 ($20–$25)
⏱️ Duration: ~29 minutes
✅ No navigation or parking needed
✅ Safe, air-conditioned rides
❌ Not ideal for solo budget travelers
Best For: Couples, business travelers, or when in a hurry
🚗 Self-Drive or Private Vehicle
Flexible and Quick
Drive via I-275 N or Gandy Blvd — fast and efficient if you’re avoiding rush hour.
💸 ₹341–₹492 (~$4–$6 for fuel)
⏱️ Duration: ~29 minutes
🅿️ Parking available in most Tampa attractions
✅ Flexible schedule
✅ Easy access to all Tampa districts
❌ Parking may be tight downtown on weekends
Best For: Families, weekend road trippers
Apps to Download Before Travel
Cross Bay Ferry
The Cross Bay Ferry offers a unique and scenic water commute between downtown St. Petersburg and Tampa. Use the app to view schedules, plan your trip, and get the latest updates on departures and availability.
FlixBus
FlixBus is an affordable and eco-friendly bus service connecting 2,500+ cities across the U.S. and Europe. Book intercity travel with real-time updates, e-tickets, and comfortable seating – all from the app.
Google Maps
Google Maps is an essential travel companion that offers real-time GPS navigation, live traffic conditions, route planning, nearby places, and offline maps for when you're out of network.
Lyft
Lyft is a top-rated ridesharing app that helps you book affordable rides in minutes. Available in over 600 U.S. cities, it's a convenient alternative to taxis, offering upfront pricing, driver ratings, and cashless payment.
ParkMobile App
ParkMobile makes parking easy and stress-free. Use the app to find, reserve, and pay for parking spots in real-time, available in streets, garages, and lots across 500+ cities. Avoid fines, extend time remotely, and enjoy a contactless parking experience.
Uber
Uber provides convenient and secure cab rides across cities. Whether you're commuting, traveling late night, or going to the airport, book rides instantly and track them live.
Local Tips & Travel Advice
Plan Your Ferry Around Sunset
Bus is Budget King, But…
Drive to Explore More
Travel Mode Comparison Table
| Mode | Time | Cost | Comfort | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry | ~50 min | ₹1,034 ($12) | High | Most scenic & peaceful |
| Bus | ~1h 15m | ₹194 ($2.30) | Medium | Cheapest; FlixBus amenities |
| Car | ~29 min | ₹341–₹492 ($4–$6) | High | Best for flexible schedules |
| Taxi | ~29 min | ₹1,600+ ($20+) | Very High | Fastest but expensive |
Why Travel from St. Pete to Tampa?
Tampa Downtown Vibes
From the brand-new Water Street district to Stanley Cup Lightning games, this waterfront area is buzzing.
Culture + Family Fun
Tampa Museum of Art, Straz Center, Florida Aquarium, and Curtis Hixon Park.
St. Pete’s Creative Soul
Before you leave, stroll through the artsy vibe of Central Avenue, hit the new St. Pete Pier, and explore The Dali Museum.
✈️ Flight FAQs (for longer trips)
Q: Can I book a flight for someone else?
Yes. Just enter their ID info while booking.
Q: Is ID proof required for check-in?
Yes, especially passport for international flights.
Q: Can I carry food onboard?
Depends on the airline — check in advance.
Q: What's the baggage allowance?
Varies by airline; confirm before packing.
Q: Economy vs. Business Class?
Business offers lounge access, better meals, spacious seats — but at a premium.
Q: Lost your bag?
File a report with the airline with your ID, ticket, and proof of travel.
Nearby Gems to Explore in Tampa
- Ybor City – Historic Cuban cigar neighborhood
- Busch Gardens – Thrilling roller coasters & safari-style animal experiences
- Florida Aquarium – Kid-friendly and educational
- Sparkman Wharf – Outdoor food, drinks, and games on the waterfront
Frequently Asked Questions
The ferry is the best car-free option. It’s scenic, comfortable, and takes around 50 minutes, offering stunning views across Tampa Bay. Operates Wednesday to Sunday, with extra rides on Tampa Bay Lightning game days.
Taking the bus is the most budget-friendly choice. Tickets start at ₹194 (~$2.30), with FlixBus offering multiple daily departures. Travel time is about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The driving distance is approximately 34.9 km (21.7 miles), which takes around 29 minutes by car under normal traffic conditions.
Yes. FlixBus runs several direct routes daily, offering onboard amenities like free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reserved seats.
Absolutely. Taxis are the fastest and most direct option, covering the distance in about 29 minutes, but they’re also the most expensive, costing between ₹1,600–₹2,000 ($20–$25).
While technically possible, it’s not practical due to the long distance, busy highways, and lack of continuous pedestrian/bike paths across the bay.
Yes, most ferry services (like the Cross Bay Ferry) allow bikes onboard, making it a great eco-friendly travel combo.
No, there are no commercial flights between these two cities due to their close proximity. Ground or water transport is faster and more efficient.
Arrive at least 15–20 minutes early to ensure boarding. The ferry has a fixed schedule and may fill up quickly during weekends or special events.