Air-Holiday

Tampa International Airport: Your Gateway to Florida’s Gulf Coast

If you’re planning a trip to Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa Airport should be on your radar. Located just six miles west of downtown Tampa, this modern and traveler-friendly airport serves as a major gateway to top Florida destinations like St. Petersburg, Clearwater Beach, Sarasota, and Orlando.

Top Airlines Flying into Tampa Airport

Tampa Airport is a hub for major airlines such as Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, Delta, and United, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights. Whether you’re heading to a sun-soaked beach getaway or a thrilling theme park adventure, Tampa Airport makes your journey seamless and stress-free.

Distance to Orlando’s Top Attractions

If you’re flying into Tampa but planning to visit the theme parks in Orlando, here’s what to expect:

📍 Walt Disney World – Approx. 70 miles (1 hr 15 min drive)
📍 Universal Studios Orlando – Approx. 85 miles (1 hr 30 min drive)

💡 Why fly into Tampa instead of Orlando? Tampa Airport is often cheaper and easier to navigate compared to Orlando International (MCO), making it a great alternative for travelers heading to Florida’s top attractions.

Renting a car can make the trip easy.

State-of-the-Art Airport Features

Tampa Airport is known for its cutting-edge technology, easy navigation, and top-tier amenities. Following a $1 billion expansion in 2017, the airport now boasts:

✔️ A spacious main terminal with a sleek, modern design.
✔️ Three airside buildings with 59 gates connected by an automated people mover.
✔️ TSA PreCheck and CLEAR security options to speed up screening times.
✔️ A variety of transportation options, including rental cars, taxis, limos, and shuttle services.

Looking for car hire, private transfers, or hotels near the airport?

Convenient Transportation Options

Navigating Tampa Airport is easy, with plenty of transportation choices for all types of travelers. Whether you’re renting a car from Avis, Budget, Hertz, or prefer rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, getting to and from the airport is hassle-free.

💡 Travel Tip: If you’re planning a road trip along Florida’s scenic Gulf Coast, consider renting a car in advance for the best rates.

Dining and Shopping at Tampa Airport

Long layover? No problem! Tampa Airport offers a diverse range of dining and shopping options to enhance your travel experience. Grab a quick coffee at Starbucks, enjoy casual bites at Wendy’s, or indulge in a sit-down meal at Ulele or Cigar City Brewing—a must-visit for craft beer lovers.

Shopping enthusiasts will love browsing through local boutiques, duty-free shops, and travel essentials stores.

Award-Winning Customer Service

What truly sets Tampa Airport apart is its exceptional customer service. In 2020, it was named ‘Best Large Airport’ in the J.D. Power North American Airport Satisfaction Study—an honor it earned for the fourth consecutive year. From friendly staff to streamlined check-in and security processes, Tampa Airport makes traveling smoother than ever.

Did You Know?

✈️ Tampa Airport was the first airport in the world to implement an automated people mover system in 1971, revolutionizing how passengers move between terminals.

🦩 Tampa Airport is also home to one of the most famous public art installations in the U.S. The incredible floor-to-ceiling flamingo sculpture titled “HOME” by artist Matthew Mazzotta is a must-see for travelers. This breathtaking 21-foot pink flamingo installation in the main terminal gives the illusion of standing beneath the water’s surface, looking up at the bird as it dips its head below.

Tampa Airport has long been recognized for integrating vibrant public art throughout the airport, with sculptures, murals, and interactive displays celebrating Florida’s culture and wildlife. If you have time, take a moment to appreciate the creative and immersive art installations while passing through the airport.

✈️ Ready to plan your next trip? Make sure you have all the travel essentials before you go.

📍 Why not see our guide on Tampa?

Details correct at time of posting.