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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Tampa
Tampa
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Tampa
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Tampa
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Tampa
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Tampa?
Tampa, Florida, is a vibrant city with a mix of attractions, from theme parks to stunning beaches. While ride-sharing and public transportation are available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore all that Tampa and its surrounding areas have to offer.
Explore Beyond the City: With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby attractions like Busch Gardens, Clearwater Beach, and St. Petersburg, without relying on public transport schedules.
Convenience and Comfort: Traveling with family or a lot of luggage? A rental car provides the space and convenience you need to travel comfortably.
Time-Saving: Avoid waiting for buses or ride-sharing services. A rental car allows you to travel directly to your destinations, saving you valuable time.
Flexibility: Create your own itinerary and explore Tampa at your own pace. Stop at local eateries, hidden gems, and scenic spots along the way.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Tampa
Before renting a car in Tampa, it’s essential to understand the terms and conditions. Familiarize yourself with age requirements, licensing, insurance, and other key policies to ensure a smooth rental experience.
Area
Approximately 175.3 square miles
Population
Approximately 400,000 residents
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Ideal for
Sightseeing and day trips
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Tampa require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country license.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance. Additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) are available. A security deposit is usually required, held on the renter’s credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary; some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have mileage restrictions. Fuel policies often require returning the car with the same fuel level as when picked up.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like additional drivers, GPS navigation systems, child seats, and one-way rentals.
Car Rental Prices in Tampa – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £36 / $45 / €42
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31
7 Seater:
from £30 / $38 / €36
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20
SUV:
from £8.5 / $10.75 / €10
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (March to July): Experiences higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (September to December): Often comes with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Tampa?
Booking a car in Tampa involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best rental rates from various car rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, whether it’s an economy car or an SUV.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Booking early can help you secure lower prices and ensure vehicle availability, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any other required documents when you pick up the rental car.
General Information About Tampa
Tampa offers a wide array of attractions and activities. Navigating the city is easiest with a car, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Tampa, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a major business hub with a diverse range of cultural attractions. Renting a car in Tampa can greatly enhance your visit, enabling you to see the city's diverse neighborhoods and nearby coastal attractions, although being aware of local driving conditions and parking is important for a stress-free experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
A popular theme park with thrilling rides and animal encounters.
The Florida Aquarium
Showcasing a diverse collection of marine life.
Ybor City
Tampa's historic Latin Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Numerous garages are available in downtown Tampa and popular tourist areas.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on many streets, but it can be limited during peak hours.
Park & Ride
Consider park-and-ride options for events or downtown visits to avoid traffic congestion.
Gas Stations in Tampa
Major Brands Available
Gas stations from major chains like Shell, Chevron, and Mobil are readily accessible throughout Tampa.
Convenient Locations
Find gas stations along major roads and highways for easy refueling.
Use Navigation Apps
Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to find nearby gas stations and compare prices.
Useful Tips for Visiting Tampa
Plan for Traffic
Expect heavier traffic during rush hours and near popular attractions.
Stay Hydrated
Florida's climate can be hot and humid, so drink plenty of water.
Be Aware of Toll Roads
Some highways in the Tampa area have tolls, so be prepared with cash or an electronic toll pass.
Check for Events
Check local event listings for potential road closures or increased traffic.
Key Transportation Hubs in Tampa
Major Bus Stations
Tampa Bus Station
Serves as a central hub for Greyhound and other bus lines.
Railway Stations
Tampa Union Station
Amtrak station providing rail services to various destinations.
Airports
Tampa International Airport (TPA)
The primary airport serving the Tampa Bay area, located just a few miles from downtown Tampa.
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
An alternative airport located near St. Petersburg and Clearwater, serving budget airlines.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Tampa?
Renting a car in Tampa requires a few essential items to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
A valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, although surcharges may apply for drivers under 25.
A credit or debit card is needed for the security deposit. Some companies may only accept credit cards.
A passport or other government-issued ID may be required for international renters.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Tampa as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Cruising around Tampa was fantastic! So many beautiful sights, easily accessible by car.
David Lee
Reviewed: 17.01.2025
First time in Tampa, and I loved it! Having a car made exploring so easy. Beautiful city!
Jessica Garcia
Reviewed: 11.05.2025
Pretty chill, really.
Chloe Evans
Reviewed: 04.09.2024
Tampa family fun! So much to see.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 28.04.2025
Pretty laid-back, yeah.
Kevin Wilson
Reviewed: 04.04.2025
Tampa was even better than I remembered! So much to see and do, exploring was a breeze with my rental car. Definitely coming back!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 12.07.2025