Florida’s third-largest city, Tampa has long been a favourite with families dreaming of glorious sunshine and stacks of activities. Also one of the most popular cruise terminals in the USA, Tampa — and the wider Tampa Bay area — brims with things to see and do, including an excellent nightclub and bar scene for couples or groups of friends to enjoy. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with big, beautiful hotels and little self-catering spots, well-suited to a whole host of tastes and budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Tampa includes slick waterfront properties, a real foodie favourite and fun resort-style hotels for families.
There’s no shortage of entertainment for little ones in Tampa. Families will adore the Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens, Adventure Island and Lowry Park Zoo. Outdoorsy explorers, on the other hand, can discover myriad trails and leafy parks, visit the Manatee Viewing Centre, or try cycling, sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding. There are ample opportunities to play golf and tennis, too.
If you’re on the hunt for an insight into Tampa’s history, head to Ybor City Museum State Park, the Tampa Bay History Centre and the Henry B Plant Museum. The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts is a real highlight. The city is bursting with fantastic shops and eateries, as well as lively bars and clubs. Look out for live music events, and catch Tampa's famed NFL team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in action if you can!
Lovely and lively, Tampa has become known for its ebullient, youthful feel and the abundance of activities on offer for travellers of all ages. Some of the best places to stay in Tampa offer impressive waterfront views — but you can also book a room in the heart of the city if you’re eager to soak up the culture and the buzzing nightlife.
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Tampa (Florida)
A boutique waterfront Autograph hotel with incredible panoramic views of Tampa Bay. Spacious rooms have picture frame windows, dark wooden floors, and crisp white linen. Sip handcrafted cocktails at the hip rooftop bar and relax by the infinity pool or on the private beach. A grownup stay.
Tampa (Florida)
This renovated former courthouse is now one of Tampa's most grand and imposing hotels. Featuring modern, sleek interiors with marble accents in the bathroom and large windows, the hotel owners have managed to marry traditional architecture to an eye for contemporary design. Pool, gym, restaurant.
Tampa (Florida)
A luxury hotel overlooking the breathtaking Tampa Bay. Spacious modern rooms feature plenty of mod cons and enviable views. Enjoy fresh seafood & craft cocktails at the waterfront Oystercatchers. Adventure seekers can hire bicycles, kayaks, paddleboards and wave runners. Suits families and couples.
Tampa (Florida)
Cool & contemporary boutique hotel situated in Tampa's Latin Ybor City district. Deeply rooted in the area's culture, expect local artwork, heritage touches & locally-sourced cuisine across three eateries. Chic pool terrace & playful rooms feel very now. Neighbourhood hotspot for those in the know.
Tampa (Florida)
A sleek hotel set in hip South Howard, next to the most celebrated restaurant in Tampa - Bern's Steak House. Contemporary rooms are decorated in a chic minimalist design. With two excellent in-house dining options and a bar with an acclaimed wine list - this is a real foodie destination.
Tampa (Florida)
An ultra stylish hotel in the downtown Water Street Tampa neighbourhood. Rooms are decorated in pristine white with cosy throws and warm wood, some with panoramic views. There are high-end restaurants, a glam rooftop bar plus Instagram-ready outdoor pool and floral garden. Pure and simple city chic.
Tampa (Florida)
This boutique lodge marries stately charm with modern flair, in Tampa's historic Hyde Park neighbourhood. Eclectic decor and coastal sophistication create a uniquely welcoming vibe. With bespoke suites, cute kitchenettes, and an intimate lobby bar, it's an urban retreat for discerning guests.
