Tampa is a city that offers a surprising mix of history, culture, and lively neighborhoods. Unlike many urban areas, Tampa’s tours get you close to authentic local flavor—whether you’re wandering through the lively streets of Ybor City or exploring Tampa’s scenic waterfront. We especially love experiences like the Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour for its rich storytelling and laid-back pace, perfect for foodies craving Cuban sandwiches and cigars. And if you’re after a fun, eco-friendly way to see the city, the Tampa: Guided City Tour in Deluxe Street Golf Cart offers a lively, fast-paced ride through Tampa’s most scenic neighborhoods. These tours show off Tampa’s unique personality better than any brochure.
Tampa’s city tours cover a lot of ground—from historic districts and art-filled neighborhoods to ghostly tales and brewery hopping. Whether you want a deep dive into Tampa’s Cuban roots, a scenic ride in an electric golf cart, or a spooky night exploring haunted spots, there’s something here for every interest and level of activity. The city’s compact size makes it easy to see many highlights in a short time, and the variety of tours ensures you can pick what suits your style—whether it’s walking, driving, or even karaoke-ing your way through Tampa.
Quick Overview
Our list features walking tours, like the Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour, golf cart explorations, such as the Tampa: Guided City Tour in Deluxe Street Golf Cart, and bus and minibus tours that cover large areas efficiently. For those interested in food and drink, Tampa’s Ybor City Food Tours are a highlight, sampling Cuban sandwiches, coffee, and more. Ghost enthusiasts can try the spooky Ybor City Ghost Tour or the Haunted Tampa Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour, combining history with a haunted twist. For a more personalized experience, private golf cart tours are available (Private Tampa City Tour), perfect for couples or small groups wanting a tailored sightseeing day.
1. Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour
Ybor City’s reputation as Florida’s only Historic Landmark District makes it a must-visit neighborhood. This small-group walking tour takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, led by an award-winning guide who shares stories about the cigar industry, Cuban culture, and the neighborhood’s colorful past. The tour includes a visit to the Cuban Club, where you get a visa-free peek into Cuba’s influence on Tampa, and plenty of stops at iconic restaurants. It’s an especially good choice for foodies eager to sample local Cuban cuisine and learn about the area’s colorful characters. Reviewers love the knowledgeable hosts and the relaxed pace, with comments like “Charlie was an excellent guide who brought the past to life.”
Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers who want an authentic, manageable walk with tasty bites along the way.
2. Tampa: Guided City Tour in Deluxe Street Golf Cart
For around $49, this electric golf cart tour offers a lively way to see Tampa’s most famous spots in just 2 hours. The tour covers neighborhoods like Tampa Heights and Bayshore Boulevard, showcasing million-dollar homes, yachts, and Tampa’s mural art scene. The guide shares insights into Tampa’s culture, history, and arts, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a fun, eco-friendly ride over walking. It’s especially suitable if you want to cover more ground quickly and see the city’s diverse architecture and waterfront in a relaxed setting. Reviewers highlight the energy and knowledge of the guide and how the route gives a comprehensive look at Tampa’s different neighborhoods.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a quick, lively overview of Tampa’s best areas with minimal walking.
3. Small Group Tampa Sightseeing City Bus Tour
This small-group bus tour offers a comfortable, air-conditioned ride for about 1.5 to 2 hours, with a maximum of 12 participants. It’s a fantastic way to learn about Tampa’s art scene, the African American community in The Scrub, and historic Ybor City. The tour includes stops at Sparkman Wharf, where you can grab a meal or a drink, and the iconic Bayshore Boulevard for photo ops of Tampa’s skyline. Tour guide Jamal is praised for his enthusiasm and deep knowledge, making it a lively and informative experience. The flexible itinerary covers Tampa’s highlights without the fatigue of walking.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting an engaging, comfortable overview with flexibility to explore on their own afterward.
4. Private Tampa City Tour by Custom Golf Cart
If you’re after a personalized experience, this private tour offers up to 5 people a 1.5-hour ride in a custom golf cart. It covers spots like Armature Works, a historic food hall, and the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, plus Ulele Park and the Channel District. The guide helps you discover Tampa’s hidden corners and offers personalized recommendations on food and drink. The flexible itinerary means you can focus more on spots that interest you, perfect for couples or small groups. Reviewers note how James made the tour engaging and fun, praising his knowledge and friendly attitude.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a private, tailored tour with insider tips on Tampa’s best eateries and sights.
5. Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays
For lovers of local cuisine and history, this 3-hour walking food tour visits 4-6 eateries, sampling Cuban sandwiches, cafe con leche, and more. The tour begins at Jose Marti Park, exploring the neighborhood’s cultural roots, and continues with tastings and stories about Ybor’s cigar industry. It’s ideal for foodies who want a full meal and an immersive cultural experience. Reviewers note that the food was delicious and the guide was both informative and friendly. It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it inclusive for most travelers.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in a deep dive into Ybor’s food and history in a relaxed setting.
6. Haunted Tampa Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour – Ybor City
This 2.5-hour walking tour combines ghost stories with visits to four historic pubs. It’s a great mix of history, spirits, and nightlife, with tales of spectral sightings in Ybor. The tour includes alcoholic drinks at your own expense, making it a fun way to enjoy Tampa’s haunted side while socializing. Reviews highlight the entertaining guide and the interesting ghost stories. If you’re into spooky tales and lively atmospheres, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom line: A spirited evening for those curious about Tampa’s ghostly legends and lively bar scene.
7. The Official Ybor City Ghost Tour
This 1 hour 30-minute tour takes you to some of the most haunted spots in Ybor with ghost-hunting equipment like EMF meters and dousing rods. It’s an interactive experience, with access to places most travelers never see, including Jose Marti Park and the Cuban Club. Guides share tragic and spooky stories that bring the city’s spectral legends to life. Reviewers praise the knowledge, enthusiasm, and unique access to haunted locations. It’s especially suited for adventurous travelers interested in supernatural stories.
Bottom line: Ideal for ghost enthusiasts eager for a hands-on, spooky tour of Tampa’s haunted history.
8. Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour
This 3-hour bus tour focuses on Tampa’s Cigar Capital heritage, visiting J.C. Newman Cigar Company and the Grand Cathedral Cigars lounge. You learn about Tampa’s cigar industry from experts, watch cigar rollers, and sample premium cigars. It’s a comprehensive experience for cigar lovers or those curious about Tampa’s tobacco history. The tour offers a good balance of educational content and tasting opportunities. Reviewers find it informative and enjoyable, especially with the chance to smoke and relax in cigar lounges.
Bottom line: Great for cigar aficionados wanting an immersive, hands-on experience.
9. Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart
This 2.5-hour private tour takes up to five friends to five breweries around Ybor City. It includes transportation, with options to customize stops, and offers a chance to taste Tampa’s craft beers in a relaxed setting. The personalized approach makes it perfect for beer lovers wanting insider access and flexibility. Reviewers mention how the driver was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the tour fun. Best suited for small groups or couples who want a tailored, behind-the-scenes look at Tampa’s brewing scene.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting a custom, intimate craft beer journey.
10. Karaoke Golf Cart City Tour – Tampa!
If you’re after fun and music, this karaoke golf cart tour lets each passenger sing into a mic while exploring Tampa neighborhoods. With disco lights and exciting photo stops, it’s a party on wheels. The tour lasts 2.5 hours and is perfect for groups or celebrations. Reviewers love the interactive format and the unique experience of singing and sightseeing simultaneously. It’s a lively, lighthearted way to see Tampa’s neighborhoods and make memories.
Bottom line: Best for groups seeking a fun, lively experience with a musical twist.
11. Outdoor Escape Room in Tampa – Ybor City
This 2-hour outdoor escape game combines scavenger hunting with puzzle solving in Ybor City. Using an app, you follow clues, crack codes, and uncover secrets across the neighborhood. It’s a hands-on adventure that’s perfect for small groups who want an active, interactive experience. The outdoor setting shows Tampa’s streets in a new light, making it ideal for travelers who love puzzles and urban exploration. Reviewers note how engaging and fun it is, with plenty of opportunities to discover hidden corners.
Bottom line: A creative and interactive way to explore Tampa’s streets for puzzle lovers.
12. Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour
This 3-hour guided food tour visits up to six different eateries, sampling classic Cuban sandwiches, desserts, and local specialties. The tour starts at the Vincente Martinez-Ybor statue, exploring Ybor’s historic streets on foot. It’s perfect for foodies eager to combine culinary delights with cultural stories. Reviewers love the delicious food and engaging stories, and many mention how it’s a great way to get a feel for Tampa’s Cuban influence. It’s wheelchair accessible and ideal for families or groups.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting to combine history and cuisine in a relaxed, social setting.
$89.00 per person
13. Tampa: Cigar City Tour with Lounge Visits on Minibus
This tour offers a 3-hour guided minibus experience focused on Tampa’s cigar industry. Visiting 4-5 cigar lounges and the first cigar factory, it blends history, culture, and tasting. You’ll learn about Tampa’s cigar-making heritage while relaxing in some of the city’s most iconic lounges. It’s suitable for those interested in tobacco history and wanting an easy, relaxed day.
Bottom line: Ideal for cigar enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, comfortable way to explore Tampa’s cigar scene.
$55 per person
14. Departure Private Transfer: Tampa City to Tampa Airport TPA in Business Car
This private transfer offers a luxurious, stress-free way to get to the airport. Chauffeurs disinfect the vehicle and provide hand sanitizer, ensuring safety. It’s a practical option for early flights or late arrivals who want comfort and reliability.
Bottom line: Best for travelers prioritizing ease and comfort when departing Tampa.
$79.35 per person
15. Arrival Private Transfer: Tampa Airport TPA to Tampa City in Luxury SUV
Similarly, this private transfer from the airport to your hotel provides personalized service and peace of mind. It’s ideal for arriving travelers who want a seamless start to their Tampa visit.
Bottom line: Practical for stress-free airport arrivals with a touch of luxury.
$90.87 per person
16. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Tampa by Operation City Quest
This interactive scavenger hunt uses an app to explore Tampa’s streets via challenges and photo tasks. It’s a cost-effective way to see the city while having fun with friends or family. The self-guided format allows flexibility, and a remote host is available for support. It’s perfect for competitive travelers or those who want to add a playful element to sightseeing.
Bottom line: An inexpensive, engaging way to discover Tampa with a sense of adventure.
$10.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tampa Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and activity level. For a deep dive into Ybor City’s history and food, the Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour offers a flavorful, cultural experience. If you prefer a quick overview in a fun, eco-friendly vehicle, the Guided City Golf Cart makes sense. For small groups or private experiences, the Private Golf Cart Tour or brewery tours (Ybor City Private Brewery Tour) provide tailored options.
Budget, time, and your personal interests should guide your choice. For instance, ghost stories like the Ybor City Ghost Tour are perfect for a spooky night out, while historic and cultural lovers will appreciate walking tours with rich narratives. Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Tampa offers a wide variety of tours that showcase its history, culture, and lively neighborhoods. For a laid-back, informative introduction, the Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour is a standout. Those seeking a more personalized experience will find the Private Golf Cart Tour or brewery adventures perfect. And if haunted tales intrigue you, the Ybor City Ghost Tour adds a spooky twist to your Tampa visit.
Ultimately, the best tour depends on what excites you most—whether it’s history, cuisine, craft beers, or ghost stories. With so many options, book early to ensure your preferred experience fits into your Tampa itinerary and start your adventure with confidence.