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Tampa, FL, USA to Gainesville, FL, USA from $18: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Tampa, United States of America
to
Gainesville, United States of America

How to Get from Tampa to Gainesville: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$18 - Train, BusBest price
211 kmDistance
2h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Tampa to Gainesville with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  25m
Estimated price
$20-93
Recommended
Company
Amtrak, FlixBus
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  30m
Estimated price
$18-127
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 211 km
Duration: 2h 12m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$20-93
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  12m
Estimated price
$23-35
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Traveling From Tampa to Gainesville

The journey from Tampa to Gainesville offers a striking contrast between the vibrant city life of Tampa's beaches and nightlife and the serene, laid-back atmosphere of Gainesville's parks and academic vibe.

Best Neighbourhoods in Gainesville

Gainesville offers diverse neighborhoods that cater to various tastes and interests.

Duckpond
• Historic homes and tree-lined streets charm visitors.
• Close proximity to parks and nature trails.
Midtown
• Bustling area filled with shops and restaurants.
• Popular among University of Florida students.
Haile Plantation
• Picturesque community with scenic walking paths.
• Family-friendly with great schools and amenities.

Best Times To Visit Gainesville's Attractions

Timing your visits to Gainesville's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Florida Museum of Natural History
Visit on weekdays early in the morning to avoid weekend crowds.
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Explore in spring for blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
University of Florida Campus
Stroll through the campus on weekends, especially during off-peak hours.

Gainesville Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Gainesville enjoys a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it an inviting destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are in the spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable, and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

Dining Recommendation

For an authentic taste of Gainesville, try the fried green tomatoes at The Top, a local favorite that showcases Southern comfort food with a twist. Unlike Tampa's bustling seafood scene, this restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere and emphasizes farm-to-table freshness, offering a rich, flavor-packed experience that reflects the region's culinary heritage.

Tampa - Gainesville operators

Explore transport companies operating between Tampa and Gainesville, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Tampa Bus Station to Orlando Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$930-202

Bus from Orlando Bus Station to Gainesville

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$931-932

Bus from Tampa Bus Station to Gainesville

Average Duration
5h 25m
Estimated price
$20-93
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Tampa Bus Station to Orlando Bus Station

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$930-933
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Tampa to Kissimmee Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$3-75

Tampa to Gainesville: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Tampa and Gainesville offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your tickets in advance on both Greyhound (greyhound.com) and FlixBus (flixbus.com) to secure the best prices, as fares can vary between $20 and $93 depending on the time and demand.
• During your layover at Orlando Bus Station, consider grabbing a meal; there are several dining options like Panera Bread and Starbucks that cater to different tastes and budgets, perfect for recharging before your next leg to Gainesville.
• Upon arriving at Gainesville Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the local bus routes; for instance, bus routes operated by RTS can take you to major destinations like the University of Florida and downtown Gainesville, making it easy to navigate the area once you arrive.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Tampa to Gainesville.

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The distance between Tampa and Gainesville is approximately 119 miles. The typical travel times can vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train and then bus, it takes about 6 hours and 51 minutes to travel from Tampa to Gainesville. By car, it takes around 2 hours and 12 minutes to drive from Gainesville to Tampa. Lastly, by bus, the travel time is typically 5 hours and 35 minutes from Tampa to Gainesville.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Tampa to Gainesville is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes to cover the distance of 119 miles by car. This is also the quickest way to reach Gainesville from Tampa. Driving allows you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and avoid the hassle of transfers or relying on public transportation schedules.
When traveling from Tampa to Gainesville the prices of a bus ticket can vary from $20 to $90. It is important to check with different bus companies to compare prices and find the best deal. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance the ticket is purchased.
To travel from Tampa to Gainesville without using public transportation, you can drive your own car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 131 miles, and the journey takes about 2 hours and 12 minutes. The cost of traveling by car can vary from $23 to $35, considering factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
The best option for traveling from Tampa to Gainesville without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes and the cost ranges from $20 to $90. Buses provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation between the two cities without the need for a car.
No, there is no direct link between Tampa and Gainesville. However, there are bus services that operate between the two cities with a transfer in Orlando. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and Flixbus USA.
There are numerous hotels available in Gainesville with 175+ options to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at $51 and vary depending on factors such as location, amenities, and star rating. Some popular hotel options in Gainesville include the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center, Hampton Inn & Suites Gainesville Downtown, and Homewood Suites by Hilton Gainesville. It is recommended to check for availability and compare prices to find the best accommodation option for your stay in Gainesville.

Trips to Gainesville