Getting around Tampa and to and from airport by tampa_shawn
When coming to Tampa your best off getting a rental car. Public transportation here is seriously lacking and while taxis are available but do not roam the streets looking for fares and will need to be called in advance to arrange a pick up. If your coming for business and staying at a major conference center or those going to the beach who are content to stay at the beach and walk to the local restaurants then you could probably get by without a car if need be.
All of the local airports have car rental agencies. Reservations can be made ahead but the agencies also have booths just steps from baggage claim area.
If you are not renting a car transportation from the airport includes:
1) Hotel Shuttles ? most major hotels offer free shuttles to and from the airport.
2) Taxis ? available outside airport
3) Bay Shuttle ? available at the outside corner of the airport ? seems to be 40 to 75% less than taxi?s depending on distance. Prices range from $14 to $50. While this is cheaper you may have to wait up to 30 minutes for the shuttle van to be full and then ride along while the shuttle drops others off.
(866) 259-9929 or (813) 259-9998
4) Hart Bus line ? I live here and don?t know anyone who has taken this route ? these is a HARTline Rapid Transit is located at the East end of the Red Baggage Claim Curbside by Belt #20. The route map and schedule is located at the bus stop. (813) 254-4278
5) If your going to Sarasota ? there is a Tampa/Sarasota Express
(800) 326-2800 or (941) 355-8400
For more information see: