Tampa's Cigar City Bus Tour

Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s famed cigar heritage, all within a lively, 3-hour journey through some of Ybor City’s most iconic spots. Priced at $64.99 per person, this guided tour is ideal for those eager to learn about Tampa’s cigar culture while enjoying a mix of history, flavor, and local vibe. Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience includes visits to both historic factories and vibrant lounge venues, all in an air-conditioned minibus that seats up to 12 travelers.

Two things we particularly like about this tour: first, the way it combines insider access—such as inside visits to historic cigar factories and watching cigars being rolled— with socially engaging lounges featuring live music and great drinks. Second, the personalized, small-group setting makes it easy to ask questions and connect with your guide, Jamal, who scores high praise for his friendliness and deep knowledge.

One thing to consider: some stops, like the Cigars International Superstore and Ybor Cigars Plus, are available only on weekend tours, so if you’re visiting midweek, you’ll want to confirm what’s open or plan your visit accordingly.

This tour suits cigar aficionados, history buffs, or anyone interested in a relaxed, culturally rich experience of Tampa’s famous cigar scene. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic taste of local flavor without the hassle of navigating alone.

Key Points

Authentic Access: Inside visits to historic cigar factories and watching cigar rollers craft cigars provide a true behind-the-scenes look.
Variety of Venues: From grand cathedral lounges to rooftop cigar bars, the tour offers diverse atmospheres suited to different moods.
Knowledgeable Guides: Travelers consistently praise guides like Jamal for their friendliness and deep understanding.
Flexible & Convenient: The tour includes bottled water, parking fees, and a comfortable air-conditioned minibus, making logistics easier.
Weekend Highlights: Certain stops, including the cigar factory and Ybor cigars, are exclusive to weekend tours, adding a special touch.
Affordable Value: At just under $65, the experience packs in multiple stops, expert commentary, and cultural insights, making it a smart choice for cigar lovers or curious travelers.

Exploring Tampa’s Cigar Scene: An In-Depth Review

If you’re visiting Tampa, known widely as the Cigar Capital of the World, there’s no better way to dive into its smoky, storied past than with Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour. Whether you’re a seasoned cigar enthusiast or just curious about this local craft, this experience offers a well-rounded, hands-on look at Tampa’s rich cigar heritage combined with lively social venues.

Starting from the historic J.C. Newman Cigar Company, this tour begins at the oldest operating cigar factory in Ybor City. On weekdays, you’ll even get a peek inside the factory itself—a rare opportunity to see the craftsmanship firsthand. The guided walk-through is both informative and nostalgic, touching on Tampa’s pivotal role in cigar manufacturing and how the industry shaped the neighborhood.

What makes this tour special is the variety of stops it offers. You’ll visit Grand Cathedral Cigars, a venue that’s part cigar lounge, part bar, and part concert hall—all under the roof of a beautifully converted cathedral. This site embodies Tampa’s seamless blend of cultural history and modern entertainment. Many reviewers note Jamal, the guide, adding a personal, approachable touch that enhances the experience—”He was very patient and knowledgeable,” one guest remarked.

Next, you’ll explore the Cigars International Superstore, a sprawling 6,000-square-foot shop with over 1,300 cigar brands. This is a haven for cigar lovers, offering a full bar and multiple spaces to relax and sample. The opportunity to browse such an extensive selection and enjoy a drink makes it stand out as a true cigar retail oasis.

On weekends, the tour includes visits to Ybor Cigars Plus and the Sterling Cigar Lounge & Bar—an upscale rooftop lounge with live music on select nights. These stops provide a more intimate, upscale flavor of Ybor City’s vibrant cigar scene. Visitors can watch cigar rollers at work, learn about different cigar styles, and savor a well-made mojito or Cafe Con Leche—a favorite among previous guests.

The final stop at La Faraona Cigars offers a family-owned experience. Here, you can enjoy handcrafted cigars rolled by the owner’s family, providing a personal touch that truly connects you with Tampa’s cigar craftsmanship. Many reviewers mention how relaxing and enjoyable this last stop is—”You can sit comfortably, enjoy a fine cigar, and sip on a cafe con leche,” one guest shared.

Throughout the tour, small-group size (max 12 travelers) and air-conditioned transportation make for a comfortable, engaging journey. The guided commentary is both educational and friendly, often infused with humor and local anecdotes—”Jamal had a great relationship with the businesses and shared stories that made each stop special,” noted a traveler.

From value perspective, the $64.99 price point is quite reasonable given the number of stops, insider access, and the personalized experience. Plus, the tour includes bottled water and parking fees, removing some logistical worries. The fact that it is booked on average 15 days in advance indicates its popularity, and it’s wise to reserve early if you’re set on joining.

A recurring theme in reviews is how much people loved the knowledgeable guides and the authentic ambiance of each lounge. One guest summed it up: “Jamal is an amazing person and guide—very knowledgeable about Tampa and cigars.” The mixture of historical perspective, social venues, and cigar craftsmanship attracts a wide range of travelers, from casual enthusiasts to seasoned aficionados.

However, remember that some stops are weekend-only, especially the cigar factory and Ybor Cigars Plus, so plan your schedule accordingly. Also, since the tour is about 3 hours, it’s perfect for those wanting a taste of Ybor City without a full day commitment, but not ideal if you’re looking for a very deep dive into every aspect of cigar manufacturing.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best for cigar lovers or those interested in Tampa’s cultural identity. It’s equally suited for history buffs eager to hear about Tampa’s industrial past, as well as anyone who appreciates a good social scene—live music, great drinks, and vibrant lounges. The small-group setting offers personalized attention and makes it easier to ask questions and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

It’s especially worthwhile if you want insider access to cigar factories, enjoy sampling cigars paired with local spirits, or simply want a fun, sociable way to explore Tampa’s historic neighborhood. The tour’s emphasis on authentic, local venues makes it a more meaningful alternative to generic city tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-smokers?
The tour involves visiting cigar lounges and factories, so if you’re sensitive to smoke, you might find some areas less comfortable. However, the tour is more about learning and tasting than smoking, and non-smokers are welcome to enjoy the ambiance and drinks.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, which allows enough time to visit each stop, learn about the cigar industry, and relax at the lounges.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized, engaging experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

Are reservations necessary?
Yes, the tour is usually booked about 15 days in advance, and early booking is recommended given its popularity.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers guided transportation in an air-conditioned minibus, bottled water, parking fees, and the guide’s commentary. Entry to the factories and lounges is free of charge.

Are there any restrictions for children?
Most travelers can participate, but since the tour involves cigar lounges and factories, it’s best suited for adults. Service animals are allowed.

Is this tour available on weekdays or only weekends?
Some stops, like Cigars International Superstore and Ybor Cigars Plus, are weekend-only, so check the schedule when booking to ensure the stops you’re most interested in are included.

To sum it up, Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, and social fun wrapped into a well-paced, affordable experience. It’s an authentic way to see Ybor City’s cigar legacy firsthand, enjoy lively lounges, and meet a passionate guide who loves sharing Tampa’s stories. Whether you’re a cigar connoisseur or just curious about the city’s past, this tour promises a memorable, flavorful slice of Tampa life.