How to Spend 3 DAYS in Tampa, Florida: 3-Day Itinerary

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Planning a trip to Tampa? Here’s your perfect 3-day plan.

This vibrant Gulf Coast city perfectly balances waterfront relaxation with lively urban charm. From historic districts and world-class aquariums to rooftop bars and scenic cruises, Tampa packs a lot into just a few square miles. When we first visited, we were amazed at how easy it was to explore—everything feels close, connected, and full of local flavor.

To help you make the most of your time, we’ve crafted a 3-day itinerary that combines the city’s top attractions with authentic local experiences. Get ready to stroll the Riverwalk, taste Cuban heritage in Ybor City, and catch a Gulf Coast sunset you’ll never forget. Let’s explore Tampa one day at a time!

Itinerary Overview

Tampa is one of Florida’s most convenient cities to explore, with most major attractions clustered along the scenic Tampa Riverwalk or within a short drive of downtown. The layout is simple, traffic is manageable, and the city’s compact size keeps travel times short. You can easily get around by rideshare or taxi, while the free TECO Line Streetcar is a fun and easy way to hop between downtown and historic Ybor City. 

Many top sights, like the Florida Aquarium, Sparkman Wharf, and the city’s museums and waterfront parks, are within 10 to 15 minutes of each other. With everything so close together, it’s easy to combine sightseeing, dining, and waterfront views into one seamless, stress-free trip.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect from this unforgettable three-day Tampa itinerary:

Day 1: Start your Tampa adventure with breakfast at The Daily Dose before exploring the city on a golf cart tour and spotting dolphins on a Tampa Bay cruise. End the day with a farm-to-table dinner at Naked Farmer and rooftop drinks at M.Bird as the sun sets over the city.

Day 2: Begin with Cuban coffee and pastries at La Segunda Bakery before diving into history and flavor on a Ybor City food tour. Spend the afternoon relaxing with a coffee, then enjoy dinner at Columbia Restaurant, followed by live music and a night stroll through Ybor’s glowing streets.

Day 3: Enjoy breakfast at Samaria Café and a morning walk through Curtis Hixon Park before lunch at Sparkman Wharf and an afternoon at the Florida Aquarium. Wrap up your trip with wine and small plates at Dracula’s Legacy Wine Bar and a haunted history ghost tour to end your Tampa adventure on a thrilling note.

Day 1

Breakfast – The Daily Dose

Kick off your first morning in Tampa at The Daily Dose Coffeehouse and Eatery, a cheerful café that locals love for its cozy atmosphere and stellar coffee. Tucked away in South Tampa, this spot is all about balance—think wholesome breakfast bowls and avocado toast alongside fluffy pancakes and hearty breakfast burritos. It’s open on weekdays from 7:30 am, so it’s perfect for an early start before diving into the day’s adventures.

If you’re visiting on a weekend, Fast Jack’s Breakfast makes a great alternative. It’s a casual, no-frills diner that dishes out all the comforting breakfast classics with friendly service. Either way, you’ll leave fueled up and ready to dive into your first full day exploring Tampa. Plus, the meeting point for your morning tour is just a short walk from both spots.

Morning – Cruise around Tampa in a golf cart

After breakfast, jump straight into exploring with this small-group golf cart tour of Tampa, one of the most efficient (and fun!) ways to see the city. Tampa may be walkable in parts, but the attractions are spread out, and this tour saves time while letting you cover all the highlights without breaking a sweat. 

Go for the 10 am option, which lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, wrapping up right around noon and leaving plenty of time for lunch afterward. Led by a friendly local guide, you’ll cruise through Tampa in a street-legal golf cart that makes sightseeing feel effortless. With cushioned seats, fun lighting, and Bluetooth speakers playing in the background, it’s a relaxed and lively way to explore.

You’ll hit some of Tampa’s most iconic spots, including the colorful Tampa Postcard Mural and the scenic Riverwalk, where the skyline views are hard to beat. The tour also winds through Ybor City, Tampa’s historic Latin district, where the air smells of Cuban cigars and warm bread. It’s a neighborhood full of life, art, and amazing food!

With over a THOUSAND five-star reviews, this tour has earned its reputation as one of Tampa’s best. It’s the perfect mix of sightseeing and local insight, all wrapped up in an easy, breezy ride that shows you a side of the city you might otherwise miss.

Book your golf cart tour in advance here to secure your spot!

Lunch – American Social – Bar & Kitchen

After wrapping up your morning tour, you won’t have to go far for lunch. American Social Bar & Kitchen is right next to the ending point, making it an easy and relaxed stop. This lively waterfront spot hits the sweet spot between casual and upscale, with a menu that’s equal parts comfort and creativity. 

Expect shareable starters, juicy gourmet burgers, and Southern-inspired mains that pair perfectly with one of their craft beverages. Grab a table out on the spacious patio for lunch with a view—the restaurant sits right along the Hillsborough River, offering sweeping views of downtown Tampa and the boats cruising by. 

It’s the ideal place to unwind after a morning of exploring, with good food, great drinks, and that laid-back Florida vibe that makes you want to linger just a little longer. Reserve a table here in advance to make sure you snag a spot on the patio!

Afternoon – Go dolphin spotting

There’s nothing quite like seeing dolphins in the wild, and this Tampa Bay cruise gives you front-row seats to the action. The 2 pm to 3:30 pm time works perfectly, giving you plenty of time to enjoy lunch before making your way to the dock (it’s only about a 3-minute drive or a 15-minute walk from American Social). 

Once you leave the dock, you’ll glide past Tampa’s beautiful waterfront and into the open bay, where the skyline gives way to calm, sparkling water. The captain knows all the best dolphin hangouts, and before long, you’ll spot a pod of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins surfacing and playing just feet from the boat—sometimes even racing alongside it!

Between dolphin sightings, the views are just as impressive. You’ll pass elegant waterfront homes, lush mangroves, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a manatee or seabirds soaring overhead. The crew keeps things lively with fun facts and local stories that make the area’s marine life and history come alive.

What makes this tour stand out is how effortlessly it blends relaxation with adventure—you’re not just cruising around hoping to spot dolphins, you’re guided by locals who know exactly where to find them. It’s an easygoing, family-friendly adventure that combines nature, scenery, and just the right touch of excitement!

Secure your spot on this Tampa Bay Dolphin Cruise here!

Late Afternoon – Stroll the Riverwalk or visit the Tampa Bay History Center

After your dolphin cruise wraps up around 3:30 pm, take it easy with a relaxing stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk. Stretching for about 2.6 miles (4.2 kilometers), this scenic path hugs the waterfront and connects many of the city’s highlights, making it the perfect way to wind down your afternoon. You’ll pass peaceful parks, shaded benches, and plenty of photo-worthy views of the Hillsborough River and downtown skyline. It’s also dotted with cafés and public art, so you can take your time and just enjoy the atmosphere.

If you’d rather escape the heat for a bit, head over to the Tampa Bay History Center, just a few minutes away. This Smithsonian Affiliate museum offers fascinating exhibits on everything from Tampa’s early Indigenous communities and Spanish explorers to its Cuban cigar heritage and swashbuckling pirate tales. You can easily spend about an hour wandering through the displays before it closes at 5 pm. Entry is around $19 USD per person, and it’s well worth it for a deeper look into the city’s colorful past.

Whether you choose to explore the Riverwalk or step inside for a little history, this is a great way to ease into the evening before dinner.

Dinner – Naked Farmer

After a full afternoon exploring, head downtown for dinner at Naked Farmer, a vibrant farm-to-table restaurant that proves simple food can still be full of flavor. Located right in the heart of the city, this spot focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients—everything on your plate comes straight from nearby Florida farms. 

Expect colorful salads, roasted veggies, and hearty bowls that let the fresh produce shine. With a menu that changes seasonally, there’s always something new to try. Inside, the space feels bright and modern, with a relaxed, friendly energy that makes it perfect for a casual dinner. Since it’s counter-service, you can keep things quick and easy before moving on to your evening plans. 

Evening – Rooftop views and live music

Cap off your first day in Tampa with a relaxed night out at M.Bird Rooftop, the stylish rooftop bar perched above Armature Works. This chic spot strikes the perfect balance between lively and laid-back—just enough buzz to feel exciting without being overwhelming. Order one of their colorful craft beverages and settle in as the sun sets over the city, painting the skyline in warm evening hues.

From up here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of downtown Tampa and the shimmering Hillsborough River, easily one of the best sunset vantage points in town. As night falls, the atmosphere shifts into something effortlessly cool, with soft lighting, live music on select nights, and a friendly local crowd. Plan to visit between sunset and 9 pm, when the city lights begin to sparkle. It’s the perfect place to toast to a great first day in Tampa!

Day 2

Breakfast – La Segunda Bakery and Cafe

Start your second day in Tampa with a taste of local tradition at La Segunda Bakery and Café, a true city institution that’s been around since 1915. This beloved spot is famous for its freshly baked Cuban bread, flaky pastries, and warm neighborhood feel. Grab a café con leche and one of their signature guava and cheese turnovers—a sweet-and-creamy combo that locals swear by. Opening bright and early at 6:30 am, it’s the perfect stop before heading out to explore Ybor City.

Morning – Explore Historic Ybor City

Once you’ve fueled up, make your way to Ybor City, Tampa’s most historic and culturally rich neighborhood. Centered around 7th Avenue, this vibrant strip is lined with colorful storefronts, classic cigar shops, and charming brick buildings that tell the story of Tampa’s immigrant past. Spend the morning strolling at your own pace—everything here is compact and walkable.

If you want to dig deeper, stop by the Ybor City Museum State Park, set inside a restored 1920s bakery. Plan to spend about 30–45 minutes exploring its fascinating exhibits on the neighborhood’s cigar-making roots and the immigrant communities that built it. You can also step inside a working cigar factory—like J.C. Newman or Tabanero Cigars—to watch skilled rollers handcraft cigars just as they did a century ago.

This laid-back morning in Ybor offers a perfect balance of history, culture, and character—setting the scene nicely before you dive into the day’s food tour.

Lunch/Early afternoon – Taste your way around Ybor City

After soaking up Ybor’s history, it’s time to taste it! This city food tour kicks off at 12:30 pm and wraps up around 3:30 pm—just in time for a relaxed afternoon break. It’s the best way to experience this neighborhood’s culinary heritage without guessing which spots are worth your appetite.

Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll stroll through Ybor’s lively streets, learning about its cigar-fueled past while sampling the dishes that define it today. The tour begins at the statue of Vincente Martinez-Ybor, the man who started the city’s cigar empire, before diving into an unforgettable lineup of local flavors, from warm Cuban bread fresh from the oven to golden devil crabs that are every bit as indulgent as they sound.

When we did this tour, we tried flaky empanadas stuffed with rich, savory fillings and, of course, the city’s legendary Cuban sandwich—crispy, melty, and perfectly pressed. One of the most surprising stops is Jose Marti Park, a small but symbolic patch of land that’s technically owned by Cuba, so you’ll get to step on Cuban soil without ever leaving the country!

Between the incredible food, fascinating stories, and the guide’s easygoing style, this tour captures the true spirit of Ybor. Don’t just take our word for it—check out over 1,500 glowing five-star reviews here and see why foodies call this one of Tampa’s must-do experiences. 

Book your spot here and eat your way through Ybor City!

Afternoon – Ybor at your own pace

After your food tour wraps up, slow things down and enjoy Ybor at a more relaxed pace. You’ve earned a break! Grab a seat at Blind Tiger Coffee Roasters, a cozy local favorite known for its smooth espresso drinks and laid-back atmosphere—perfect for recapping your favorite bites from the tour. Or, if you’re in the mood for a little shopping, wander through the nearby boutiques and vintage stores along 7th Avenue to pick up a few Tampa-made souvenirs.

If you’d rather just unwind, head over to Hotel Haya, where even non-guests can often grab a drink or light snack by the pool in the late afternoon. The shaded courtyard is a peaceful hideaway from the busy streets and a great spot to recharge before the evening ahead. Once you’re ready, take a stroll as the lights flicker on across 7th Avenue—Ybor transforms after sunset, with live music spilling from the bars and an easygoing buzz that sets the tone for dinner.

Dinner – Columbia Restaurant

Round out your day in Ybor with dinner at Columbia Restaurant, a Tampa icon and Florida’s oldest restaurant, founded in 1905 right here on 7th Avenue. Stepping inside feels like entering a piece of living history—colorful tilework, stained-glass windows, and soft Spanish guitar music set the mood for an unforgettable evening. The Spanish-Cuban menu is a delicious tribute to the city’s roots, blending rich flavors and family traditions passed down for generations.

Start with their legendary 1905 Salad, tossed tableside with garlic dressing and crisp iceberg lettuce—it’s a must-order. Follow it up with the flavorful paella a la Valenciana and a pitcher of sangria, freshly mixed right at your table. Every dish feels like a nod to Tampa’s heritage, making this the perfect finale to your day in Ybor. It’s a popular spot, so be sure to reserve a table here in advance, especially on weekends.

Evening – Night stroll and live music in Ybor City

After dinner, take a leisurely walk along 7th Avenue, where Ybor’s old-world charm shines brightest after dark. The vintage streetlights cast a warm glow over the brick streets, and the hum of live music spills out from bars and cigar lounges. For a relaxed nightcap, stop by Hotel Haya’s Flor Fina, known for its creative drinks and lively Latin-inspired music on weekends.

If you’re in the mood for something quieter, head just across the street to Casa Santo Stefano’s rooftop bar, where you can enjoy dessert or a final drink with panoramic views of Ybor twinkling below. When it’s time to call it a night, you’ll find it easy to get back downtown—taxis and the TECO Streetcar both run late, making the ride home effortless after another perfect day in Tampa.

Day 3

Breakfast – Samaria Cafe

Start your final morning in Tampa with a hearty breakfast at Samaria Café, a long-loved local favorite just a short walk from Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Opening bright and early at 7 am, it’s the perfect place to fuel up before one last day of exploring downtown. The atmosphere is welcoming, unpretentious, and exactly what you want from a classic breakfast spot that locals actually frequent.

The menu leans into comfort-food favorites done right: think fluffy omelets, thick-cut French toast, golden pancakes, and stacked breakfast sandwiches that don’t skimp on portions. Pair it all with a hot cup of coffee, and you’ll be more than ready to take on the day. Whether you grab a booth inside or sit near the window to watch the city wake up, Samaria Café offers that perfect mix of good food and friendly energy to kick off your final morning in Tampa.

Morning – Explore downtown Tampa

After breakfast, take a stroll through Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, one of Tampa’s most scenic green spaces and a local favorite for morning walks. The park stretches along the Hillsborough River, offering peaceful views and a breezy, open feel right in the heart of downtown. From here, you’ll have a perfect vantage point of the University of Tampa’s striking Moorish-style minarets across the water. Don’t forget your camera, they make for some of the best photos in the city!

If you’re in the mood for a bit of art and culture, step into the Tampa Museum of Art, located right next to the park. The museum’s calm, compact layout makes it easy to explore in about an hour, with exhibits ranging from ancient Greek and Roman pieces to sleek modern installations. 

Prefer to keep things laid-back? Grab a mid-morning coffee from Buddy Brew Coffee, a local favorite just nearby, or simply relax on one of the Riverwalk benches and enjoy the sunshine before your afternoon adventure begins.

Lunch – Sparkman Wharf

Around midday, make your way to Sparkman Wharf, just a quick 10-minute drive or taxi ride from downtown. This lively waterfront spot is one of Tampa’s best places for a laid-back lunch, with colorful shipping container kitchens serving everything from fresh poke bowls and tacos to wood-fired pizza. The open-air setup gives it a fun, local vibe—perfect for grabbing whatever catches your eye and settling in under the shaded seating areas.

Take your time here, soaking up the harbor views and the relaxed buzz of people enjoying the waterfront. Grab an iced drink or craft lemonade, find a spot overlooking the water, and let yourself unwind before heading to your next stop. Sparkman Wharf keeps things casual, flexible, and full of flavor. It’s a perfect midday pause before an afternoon of exploring.

Afternoon – The Florida Aquarium

After lunch, take a short 4-minute walk from Sparkman Wharf to explore the Florida Aquarium, one of Tampa’s top attractions and a true standout among aquariums. Tickets can be booked on the hour, so a 1 or 2 pm slot is ideal—it gives you plenty of time to explore at a relaxed pace. Plan to spend about 2–3 hours here, wrapping up by 4 or 5 pm, depending on how long you linger at the exhibits (and trust us, you’ll want to).

Unlike the typical lineup of tanks you might expect, the Florida Aquarium feels like a full sensory adventure. You’ll wander through lush wetlands, spotting playful otters and watching gators glide through the water before stepping into Stingray Beach, where you can gently touch the smooth, gliding rays and maybe even see a bamboo shark up close.

Don’t miss the Coral Reef Gallery, a massive 500,000-gallon habitat alive with sea turtles, Goliath groupers, and sleek sharks weaving through the coral. Watching it all in motion feels like diving into the ocean itself. You’ll also find the Waves of Wonder exhibit mesmerizing, with jellyfish drifting like glowing lanterns and a clever Pacific octopus stealing the show.

Beyond being an incredible experience, the Florida Aquarium is also a nonprofit dedicated to conservation, so your visit helps fund coral restoration and animal rescue efforts. It’s a meaningful way to spend the afternoon, combining hands-on discovery with a deeper appreciation for Florida’s marine life.

Secure your visit here and dive into a marine adventure you’ll never forget!

Dinner – Dracula’s Legacy Wine Bar

For your final dinner in Tampa, make your way back downtown to Dracula’s Legacy Wine Bar, a hidden gem that feels worlds away from the bustle outside. This moody yet elegant European-style spot is tucked right in the heart of downtown, and its atmosphere is pure charm—exposed brick walls, candlelit tables, and shelves lined with wine bottles create the feel of a cozy, old-world cellar. 

It’s the perfect place to unwind before your evening ghost tour, which is less than a 10-minute walk away. The menu focuses on fine wines, charcuterie boards, and small plates, all crafted to pair beautifully with their curated wine selection. Try a truffle pasta, a plate of imported cheeses, or their classic bruschetta, and let the staff guide you toward the perfect glass to match. 

It’s an intimate, relaxed experience that feels personal from start to finish—light enough to keep you comfortable but indulgent enough to make your final dinner in Tampa feel special. Since seating is limited, it’s best to make a reservation here in advance, so you aren’t late for your evening ghost tour. 

Evening – Discover Tampa’s spooky side on a ghost tour

End your Tampa adventure with something a little different—this haunted history ghost tour through downtown. Tours start at 8 or 9 pm and last about an hour, making it the perfect way to wrap up your final night. This isn’t your typical history lesson! It’s part eerie storytelling, part real local lore, and entirely unforgettable.

Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore the city’s most haunted landmarks and uncover the darker side of Tampa’s past. The evening begins at the Tampa Theatre, a stunning Mediterranean Revival building said to be home to more than just vintage films. 

As you move through the quiet streets, you’ll hear tales of mysterious figures, mafia ties, and restless spirits said to linger in places like the Floridan Palace Hotel and the former site of the Old Florida House Hotel, where a Yellow Fever outbreak once brought tragedy to the area.

Your guide’s storytelling brings every stop to life (and sends a few chills down your spine), blending fascinating history with spine-tingling legends that make you see downtown Tampa in a whole new way.

And if you’re not quite ready to call it a night, end your trip with a nightcap at CW’s Gin Joint, just a few blocks from where the tour wraps up. This elegant speakeasy is the perfect spot for one last toast to your Tampa getaway—ghost stories included.

Reserve this haunted history tour here and get flexible payment options!

Related Read: Find yourself with extra time? See all of our favorite activities in Tampa and add a few more to this itinerary!

Where to Stay in Tampa, Florida

Now that you’ve got your Tampa itinerary sorted with plenty of things to do, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re after sleek luxury, something comfortable and central, or a more affordable option that still has the essentials, there’s a great hotel waiting for you. 

To help you choose, we’ve pulled together top picks for every budget, so you can relax and enjoy everything this coastal gem has to offer!

Luxury – $$$

Set in the heart of Tampa’s vibrant Water Street district, The Tampa EDITION is a sleek 5-star urban resort that redefines contemporary luxury. This design-forward hotel features elegant, light-filled suites, a rooftop infinity pool, a world-class spa, and multiple destination restaurants—plus it’s just steps from Amalie Arena and downtown attractions. With lush garden terraces, exceptional service, and chic Mediterranean dining, it’s a serene escape wrapped in city energy.

Rates typically range from $600–$2,000+ USD per night, depending on your suite and season. Explore more and book your luxury stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

The Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk is a great mid-range pick in downtown Tampa, just steps from the scenic Riverwalk and the Straz Center. Rooms are spacious and come with flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, and mini-fridges—plus some offer lovely city views. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, a well-equipped 24-hour fitness center, and a convenient free shuttle service within 2 miles. There’s also an on-site restaurant open all day. 

Rates typically range from $160–$300 USD per night. Check availability and prices on Booking.com.

Budget – $

For a budget-friendly stay in Tampa, Hotel South Tampa & Suites is a perfect choice! Just 6 miles from the airport and minutes from downtown, this hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with handy extras like a microwave, fridge, and coffee maker. Guests love the heated outdoor pool, 24-hour gym, and free breakfast with hot options. The friendly staff and easy parking make it a convenient pick for travelers who want comfort without splurging.

Rooms start at around $115 USD per night. Head over to Booking.com to reserve your spot!

For more options, see all of Tampa’s hotels listed here!

Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

• Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
• Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
• Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Three days is the perfect amount of time to dive into Tampa’s culture! You’ll love the historic streets, Cuban-inspired food and culture, the wildlife, and all the hidden gems that are woven into the city. Whether you follow this itinerary exactly or pick out your favorite activities, I know it will show you the best of Tampa.

Before you take off, check out our other USA blogs. We have more city itineraries, where to stay guides, and lists of top things to do to help you plan an epic trip. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next travel destination – cheers!

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