Hotels in Tampa

Tampa: A Vibrant Tapestry of Gardens and Academic Charm

Tampa, Florida, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with coastal charm. Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, it offers stunning waterfront views and lush parks, perfect for leisurely strolls. Key attractions include the lively historic district of Ybor City, renowned for its rich Cuban heritage, and the expansive Busch Gardens, where thrilling rides meet exotic wildlife. Art enthusiasts can explore the Tampa Museum of Art, while the bustling Riverwalk invites visitors to enjoy dining and entertainment by the water. With its warm climate and diverse cultural scene, Tampa is an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those wishing to unwind.

Discover great hotels near Tampa

Tampa offers a range of hotel options from luxury waterfront resorts to cosy boutique stays, all with inviting atmospheres and modern comforts. Whether you’re seeking stylish rooms or impressive dining, you’ll find accommodation in Tampa that suits your style and budget. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers near Tampa:

1. Uptown Suites Extended Stay Tampa FL – Riverviewopens in new window: This 3-star hotel offers a comfortable and refined experience tailored for leisure travellers. Guests enjoy a clean, well-appointed room with a cool atmosphere, complemented by a stylish setting that embraces modern design. The hotel's key amenities resonate with travellers seeking a relaxed, boutique experience, enhanced by its efficient express check-in and curated services. The standout features include an inviting ambience and a focus on delivering high-quality comfort, ensuring a smooth and memorable stay for those who appreciate thoughtfully designed spaces and friendly service.
2. Hilton Garden Inn Tampa/Riverview/Brandonopens in new window: This 3-star hotel shines with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, offering a serene retreat for leisure travellers. The property boasts lushly landscaped grounds and a beautifully decorated lobby with artistic accents that provide a luxurious backdrop for a memorable escape. With an emphasis on refined comfort, the hotel delivers a sophisticated experience complete with express check-in, curated experiences, and a high-end setting that promises an elevated stay. Travellers delight in the exceptional ambiance and the focus on delivering a premium and stylish journey.
3. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tampa Brandon Regency Parkopens in new window: This budget-friendly hotel, with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, provides an inviting sanctuary for leisure travellers. Its ambience is marked by a clean and comfortable setting, tailored to deliver a refreshing and high-quality experience. Guests appreciate the efficient express check-in and the thoughtfully crafted environment that exudes modern elegance. The hotel's focus on offering a relaxed and stylish stay, along with its curated services, ensures that travellers enjoy an experience that is both distinctive and memorable.

Where to stay near Tampa

In Brandon, Riverview, and Seffner, each offers a unique appeal: Brandon charms with its shopping, dining, and scenic river views; Riverview delights with family-friendly dining and relaxing excursions; and Seffner impresses with its gardens and beach access. For first-time visitors, Brandon is best suited for a diverse and engaging stay.

1. Brandonopens in new window: Brandon offers a delightful mix of shopping, dining and family-friendly fun, making it a top pick for travellers looking for a relaxed yet engaging stay. You'll love exploring must-see spots like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, along with the vibrant Florida State Fairgrounds. The area’s emphasis on entertainment and friendly people makes it a welcoming choice for those keen on experiencing a community vibe with a cultural twist.
2. Riverviewopens in new window: Riverview is celebrated for its family-friendly and business-oriented atmosphere, paired with great dining and a relaxed feel. It’s a lovely spot for travellers who enjoy a range of experiences, including excursions to must-see natural escapes like Balm-Boyette Scrub Preserve and Boyette Farms Park. The charming local scene, enriched with seafood delights and jazz influences, makes Riverview a unique blend of comfort and local flair.
3. Seffneropens in new window: Seffner is perfect for travellers seeking a warm, community-oriented place to stay, with its friendly people and inviting dining scene. The area’s garden charm and shopping options provide a cosy retreat, ideal for those who appreciate a relaxed environment. Seffner’s beach proximity and local excursions add a touch of adventure without overwhelming the laid-back vibe, creating a balanced and welcoming destination.

Things to do in Tampa

Tampa offers sunny beaches, verdant parks and university gardens, inviting you to enjoy boating, sea diving and hiking. With vibrant theatre, live music and thrilling sports like football and hockey, this destination promises an engaging blend of nature and urban excitement.

• Ybor City Museum State Parkopens in new window – Start your exploration in Tampa with a visit to this historyMuseum, where the rich heritage of Ybor City is brought to life. Wander through exhibits that showcase the evolution of this vibrant district, and take in the unique blend of gardens and academic influences that define the area.
• Tampa Palms Golf Courseopens in new window – Enjoy a leisurely day out at this golfCourseCountryClub, where you can test your skills on immaculate greens framed by well-maintained gardens. This location offers both a relaxing environment and the perfect setting to appreciate the detailed landscaping and subtle nods to university-style charm.
• Busch Gardens Tampa Bayopens in new window – Experience the thrill of a themePark that combines adrenaline-pumping rides with lush, garden-inspired surroundings. Here, you can enjoy a mix of exciting attractions and the sophistication of natural-themed landscaping elements, all while learning about the park’s historical nods to academic traditions.
• Tampa Riverwalkopens in new window – Take a stroll along this esplanade that offers scenic views and a pleasant walking experience. The Riverwalk is a great spot to enjoy the outdoors, with its well-tended gardens and a subtle connection to local educational landmarks.
• Carrolwood Golf Country Clubopens in new window – Round off your visit with a trip to this golfCourseCountryClub, where you can enjoy a day of golfing amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. The club’s design hints at a refined academic influence, providing a serene backdrop for a delightful day on the course.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Tampa

1. Book for the cheapest times: Visiting Tampa on a budget is a great value for money, especially during the autumn months from September to November, when hotels may drop to lower prices. A stay of at least 2 to 3 days is ideal for exploring the city's array of landmarks, historical sites and cultural attractions, including theatres, live music venues, football events, sports facilities, gardens, hockey games, festivals, entertainment, universities and the zoo.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To Tampa travellers, Hotels.com may offer Dealsopens in new window and Last-Minute Deals featuring discounted hotel rates close to your departure date, so you could find appealing offers. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you're more likely to see flash sales and special promotions. Moreover, the Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you stay informed if rooms become available or if prices drop for your ideal hotel.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may vary based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your dates could help you save on your stay in a Tampa hotel. For those in search of distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels offer a more personalised experience and may sometimes provide better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If it appears to be on the higher side, we may suggest alternative, more affordable dates to help you potentially find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels in close proximity to the city centre usually command higher prices, but thanks to Tampa's excellent public transport links, you might find a more affordable independent hotel further afield that remains well connected. For those wishing to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Tampa

Tampa experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 60.8°F (16.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 83.5°F (28.6°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Tampa, January to March are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, August, and October are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.