13 Stunning & Affordable Places to Fly from Tampa Right Now

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I used to think flying out of Tampa meant emptying my bank account. But guys, I’ve cracked the code on finding seriously amazing flight deals from TPA! After months of obsessively tracking prices (yes, I’m that person), I’ve discovered some of the best places in Tampa to snag affordable flights that’ll blow your mind.

Want to wander the colorful streets of Mexico City for less than your monthly coffee budget? Or maybe kick back on a Costa Rican beach without selling your kidney? I’ve got you covered. I just scored a roundtrip to Mexico City for $250 (still can’t believe it), and that’s just the beginning. Get ready for 13 destinations that prove you don’t need to be rich to travel like a boss.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Tampa

Looking for cheap places to fly from Tampa? Before jumping into all the coolest cities and airports to fly into, I want to share a quick tip to save money on airfare.

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. TPA) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 2024 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $255 roundtrip fare from Tampa to London. On average, I save about $300 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 1-2 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Best Cheap Getaways from Tampa

Looking for cheap getaways from Tampa? Visit Asheville for scenic mountain views and a thriving arts scene, Birmingham for rich history and Southern charm, Atlanta for iconic landmarks and a vibrant nightlife, and Charlotte for sports, museums, and great dining. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, these destinations offer budget-friendly escapes from Tampa.

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Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!

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1. Tampa to Asheville ($79–$135 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Allegiant, American, Delta (multiple weekly direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for perfect mountain weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Nature lovers 🏔️, craft beer enthusiasts 🍺, arts scene explorers 🎨

Asheville is that perfect mountain escape where Florida’s flatness becomes a distant memory. This Blue Ridge paradise combines hipster vibes with Appalachian charm, delivering insane mountain views, a killer brewery scene, and an arts community that transformed abandoned factories into creative wonderlands.

The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through mountains with lookout points where those iconic misty layers stretch to the horizon. When you need refreshment, South Slope packs over a dozen breweries into walkable blocks where bartenders actually explain what you’re drinking. For culture fix, River Arts District delivers galleries in converted industrial spaces where you can watch artists at work and score unique pieces.

When it comes to flights, Allegiant consistently offers the cheapest fares with direct flights from PIE (St. Pete-Clearwater) sometimes dropping below $80 roundtrip when booked 6-8 weeks ahead. Time your visit in spring or fall, which are ideal for hiking, brewery patios, and exploring downtown without summer’s tourist crowds. 

• Read Next: Stunning & Affordable Asheville Cabins

2. Tampa to Birmingham ($64–$112 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, Delta, American (multiple weekly direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food enthusiasts 🍽️, civil rights history buffs 🏛️, outdoor explorers 🌳

Birmingham is that surprisingly cool Southern city that’s completely transformed its industrial past. This Alabama gem delivers seriously good food that puts most fancy Tampa spots to shame, civil rights history that actually moves you, and outdoor adventures in the foothills of the Appalachians that feel worlds away from Florida’s pancake-flat terrain.

Five Points South brings restaurant row vibes where award-winning chefs serve elevated Southern cuisine that’ll have you questioning why Birmingham isn’t on every foodie’s radar. For meaningful history, the Civil Rights District includes powerful sites like the 16th Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park where interactive sculptures bring the movement to life in ways textbooks never could.

Frontier consistently offers the cheapest fares with deals sometimes dropping below $70 roundtrip when booked during flash sales. Visit in April when the city explodes with spring blooms and perfect temperatures for exploring both urban and outdoor attractions. 

• Read Next: Best Alabama Lake House Rentals

3. Tampa to Atlanta ($55–$98 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, Spirit, Delta (15+ daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for comfortable weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, food scene enthusiasts 🍽️, culture seekers 🎭

Atlanta is that perfect weekend escape where big city energy meets Southern hospitality. The city delivers neighborhood vibes that change completely within a few blocks, food that spans from classic soul to global fusion, and cultural spots where you can actually learn something without being bored to tears.

The BeltLine transformed 22 miles of former railway into the coolest urban trail system, connecting diverse neighborhoods with street art, food halls, and skyline views that make for perfect walks or bike rides. For food that’ll blow your mind, Ponce City Market occupies a massive historic Sears building where chef-driven food stalls serve everything from authentic dumplings to Nashville hot chicken that puts your basic Tampa brunch spots to shame.

Frontier and Spirit battle for the cheapest fares with deals sometimes dropping below $60 roundtrip when booked 4-6 weeks ahead. April brings perfect exploring weather with dogwoods and azaleas in bloom throughout the city’s many parks. 

• Read Next: Affordable Flights from Atlanta

4. Tampa to Charlotte ($81–$128 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, American, Frontier (multiple daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to October 🍂 for ideal weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, brewery enthusiasts 🍺, outdoor adventurers 🌳

Charlotte is that perfect-sized city that’s blowing up right now but somehow still flies under most people’s radar. This banking hub turned cultural hotspot serves neighborhoods with totally different vibes, a craft brewery scene that’s exploding with new spots every month, and enough outdoor activities to make you forget you’re in a major urban center.

NoDa (North Davidson) packs art galleries, live music venues, and killer breweries into a former textile mill district where colorful murals and converted industrial spaces create the perfect backdrop for your social feed. For outdoor vibes without leaving the city, the U.S. National Whitewater Center offers manufactured rapids where Olympic athletes train, plus miles of mountain biking trails and the world’s largest artificial climbing wall all within a quick drive from downtown.

Spirit and Frontier frequently drop fares below $90 roundtrip when booked during their sales. May is prime time with perfect temperatures, flowering trees throughout the city, and outdoor festivals every weekend. 

• Read Next: Budget-Friendly Flights from Charlotte

5. Tampa to Nashville ($97–$140 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, Southwest, Spirit (multiple daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to October 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Music lovers 🎸, food enthusiasts 🍗, nightlife seekers 🍻

Nashville is that perfect weekend escape where the party never stops but somehow still feels authentic. Music City delivers live performances on literally every corner, Southern food that’ll make your diet cry, and a creative energy that makes Tampa’s Ybor City look like amateur hour.

Spots like The Gulch deliver perfect mix of upscale and accessible with murals made for Instagram (hello, angel wings), boutique shops in converted warehouses, and restaurants where chefs experiment with southern ingredients in unexpected ways. For music beyond the mainstream country scene, East Nashville hosts intimate venues where you might catch Grammy winners testing new material in rooms holding fewer than 100 people.

For flights, Southwest offers the best overall value despite slightly higher base fares. Their free checked bags and no change fees can save you $60+ roundtrip compared to budget carriers’ add-ons. Visit during October when the summer crowds vanish but patio weather remains perfect for Nashville’s outdoor dining scene.

• Read Next: Affordable Flights from Nashville

6. Tampa to New Orleans ($88–$129 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, Frontier (multiple daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February to May 🎭 and October to December 🎷 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food adventurers 🍽️, music lovers 🎺, culture seekers 🎭

New Orleans is that city that actually lives up to the hype. This place brings legit food that’ll make you question why you eat anywhere else, live music that spills onto the streets at all hours, and a vibe so unique you’ll feel it the moment you land.

Jackson Square is the beating heart where you’ll find the iconic St. Louis Cathedral making the perfect backdrop for your socials, surrounded by street performers and artists hustling their work. The Garden District brings seriously impressive mansions and those famous above-ground cemeteries where elaborate tombs create actual “cities of the dead” that are both creepy and fascinating at the same time. Between these two neighborhoods alone, you’ll capture the essence of what makes New Orleans unlike anywhere else in America.

Spirit drops fares below $90 roundtrip during their sales, though their extra fees can add up fast if you’re not careful. November is prime time to visit when the weather’s perfect but the crowds from festivals and Mardi Gras are nowhere to be seen. 

7. Tampa to Dallas ($113–$155 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, American, Southwest (multiple daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, sports fans 🏈, food enthusiasts 🍖

Dallas is that Texas-sized city where everything from the buildings to the personalities comes supersized. This sprawling metropolis serves up a skyline that actually lives up to the hype, neighborhoods with completely different vibes within minutes of each other, and a sports culture so intense it borders on religious devotion.

Klyde Warren Park is this genius urban green space built over a freeway where food trucks line up daily and free activities from yoga to concerts bring together locals from all walks of life. Just a few blocks away, the Dallas Arts District packs more culture into a few blocks than most entire cities, with world-class museums that are actually interesting and often free on certain days. From the infamous Dealey Plaza where history changed forever to the massive AT&T Stadium where the Cowboys play, Dallas delivers iconic spots that feel familiar even on your first visit.

Flight-wise, Spirit consistently offers the cheapest fares with deals sometimes dropping below $115 roundtrip, though Southwest includes two free checked bags which might save you more overall. April brings perfect temperatures and blooming flowers throughout the city without summer’s brutal heat or winter’s surprising cold snaps. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Flights from Dallas

8. Tampa to Pittsburgh ($136–$175 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, American (multiple daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September 🌞 for outdoor activities, October 🍂 for fall colors
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, sports fanatics ⚾, architecture buffs 🏛️

Pittsburgh is that underdog city that hits you with serious wow-factor the second you emerge from the Fort Pitt Tunnel. This former steel town completely reinvented itself with a skyline that pops against three intersecting rivers, neighborhoods stacked on impossibly steep hills, and a local pride so intense you’ll see the black and gold city colors literally everywhere you look.

Mount Washington delivers those iconic views you’ve seen on Instagram where the entire city spreads out below with its rivers, bridges, and skyscrapers perfectly arranged for photos that will have your Florida friends questioning why you went north. The Strip District brings weekend market vibes with local food producers, and authentic old-school spots like Primanti Bros where they put fries directly on your sandwich because why not. Between catching a Steelers game at Heinz Field or exploring the mind-bending installations at the Mattress Factory contemporary art museum, the city offers experiences that feel distinctly Pittsburgh.

Spirit usually has the cheapest base fares starting around $140 roundtrip, but watch for Southwest sales that include free bags. Late September is perfect timing when summer temperatures linger but fall colors start popping on the hills surrounding the city. 

9. Tampa to Houston ($125–$168 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, United (multiple daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February to April 🌸 and October to November 🍂 for comfortable temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Space enthusiasts 🚀, food scene explorers 🍲, museum lovers 🏛️

Houston is that massively underrated Texas city where diversity creates an explosion of culture unlike anywhere else in the South. This sprawling metropolis serves up the most international food scene in America, a museum district that rivals major coastal cities, and just enough space history to fulfill your childhood astronaut dreams.

Space Center Houston lets you geek out over actual spacecraft, touch real moon rocks, and tour the mission control room where they managed the Apollo missions. The Museum District packs 19 different institutions into a walkable area where you can experience world-class collections without the crowds or prices of similar spots in NYC. For food that proves Houston’s legendary diversity, hit Bellaire Boulevard in Chinatown or explore the Montrose neighborhood where the South’s most vibrant LGBTQ+ scene thrives alongside killer brunch spots.

Spirit consistently offers the cheapest base fares starting around $130 roundtrip, though Southwest’s free checked bags might save you more overall. March brings wildflowers and ideal temperatures before summer’s brutal humidity kicks in. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Flights from Houston

10. Tampa to Philadelphia ($102–$149 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, Spirit, American (multiple daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to October 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, food enthusiasts 🍽️, art lovers 🎨

Philadelphia is that perfect historic city that somehow maintains its edge despite all the Revolutionary War sites. This no-nonsense destination brings American history to life without the tourist trap vibe, a food scene that goes way beyond cheesesteaks, and neighborhoods with distinct personalities all connected by a surprisingly walkable downtown.

Old City packs more American history into a few blocks than your entire high school textbook, with the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall surrounded by cobblestone streets and colonial buildings that transport you back to the nation’s beginnings. When you need a break from history, the Philadelphia Museum of Art delivers not just impressive collections but those iconic “Rocky” steps that you’re legally required to run up while humming the theme song. Between exploring the murals covering buildings throughout the city and sampling the vendors at Reading Terminal Market, Philly offers authentic experiences that feel distinctly local.

Frontier routinely drops fares below $110 roundtrip when booked during their frequent sales. May hits that perfect balance of warm days without summer humidity, while the city’s parks burst with color. 

• Read Next: Cheap Flights from Philadelphia

11. Tampa to Raleigh-Durham ($117–$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, Spirit, Delta (multiple daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food scene explorers 🍽️, outdoor enthusiasts 🌳, college town vibes 🎓

Raleigh-Durham is that perfect mid-sized destination where Southern charm meets tech-forward innovation. This Research Triangle region delivers three distinct city vibes for the price of one, a food scene that’s exploding with creative talent, and enough outdoor activities to fill a week without hitting the same trail twice.

Downtown Durham transformed from tobacco warehouses to a vibrant district where historic buildings now house innovative restaurants, craft breweries, and the legendary Durham Bulls baseball stadium made famous by the movie Bull Durham. Just minutes away, Chapel Hill brings classic college town energy with leafy streets, intellectual vibes from UNC, and the iconic Franklin Street where locals gather for everything from casual bites to victory celebrations. Between exploring the free North Carolina Museum of Art with its massive outdoor sculpture park and hiking the trails around Umstead State Park, the area offers experiences that blend urban culture with natural beauty.

Frontier consistently delivers the lowest base fares on this route, sometimes dropping below $120 roundtrip during their sales. October delivers that perfect fall experience with comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage throughout the region’s many parks. 

12. Tampa to Washington D.C. ($105–$150 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, Spirit, Southwest (multiple daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for ideal weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, museum lovers 🏺, political junkies 🏛️

Washington D.C. is that rare capital city that actually lives up to the hype while being surprisingly budget-friendly. This power center delivers world-class museums that are mostly free, monuments that look even better in person than in photos, and neighborhoods with completely different personalities just a short Metro ride apart.

The National Mall isn’t just another tourist spot. This massive green space is lined with Smithsonian museums where you could spend days exploring everything from space shuttles to the Hope Diamond without spending a dime on admission. Beyond the obvious attractions, neighborhoods like U Street showcase D.C.’s vibrant local culture with historic jazz clubs, local murals, and trendy restaurants in an area once known as “Black Broadway.” Between catching the cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin in spring and exploring the historic houses of Georgetown, the city offers experiences that blend American history with modern urban culture.

Frontier and Spirit battle for the cheapest fares with deals often dropping below $110 roundtrip when booked 6-8 weeks ahead. April brings the famous cherry blossoms, while October offers perfect temperatures and smaller crowds. 

• Read Next: Affordable Flights from DC

13. Tampa to Baltimore ($127–$170 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, American (multiple daily direct flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to October 🍂 for comfortable temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Harbor explorers ⚓, seafood lovers 🦀, history enthusiasts 🏛️

Baltimore is that gritty-but-charming city with a personality as bold as the spice on its famous crabs. This waterfront gem offers harbor views that inspired the national anthem, neighborhoods with distinct characters ranging from historic to hipster, and a cultural scene that constantly surprises visitors expecting just another East Coast stopover.

Spots like Inner Harbor delivers that picture-perfect waterfront experience with historic ships you can actually board, the stunning National Aquarium with its multi-story tropical rainforest, and water taxi services that let you hop between attractions while enjoying skyline views. Between catching an Orioles game at the iconic Camden Yards (the ballpark that revolutionized stadium design) and exploring the quirky American Visionary Art Museum filled with works by self-taught artists, Baltimore offers experiences you won’t find in more polished tourist destinations.

Spirit consistently offers the cheapest base fares starting around $130 roundtrip, though Southwest includes two free checked bags which might save you more overall if you’re bringing luggage. May hits that perfect sweet spot with harbor festivals gearing up and comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring on foot. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Tampa

Looking for more cheapest places to fly from Tampa? Here are some popular questions and answers that will help you save money on airfare:

What are the cheapest places to fly from Tampa?

The answer can vary based on seasonal promotions and airline deals, but cities like Baltimore, Atlanta, and Dallas are often on the affordable list. Keep an eye out for updated flight deals to get the most current info!

How can I find cheap flights from TPA?

Utilizing flight comparison websites, setting up fare alerts, and being flexible with your travel dates can lead you to great deals. Remember to book well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Is it cheaper to fly from Tampa International Airport (TPA) or Tampa Executive Airport (TPF)?

TPA generally has a broader range of flight options and deals due to its size and the number of carriers. However, if you’re looking at private or chartered flights, TPF might be worth checking out.

Which airlines offer the cheapest flights from Tampa to anywhere?

Budget carriers like Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier often have competitive rates. But don’t neglect the deals major carriers might offer, especially during seat sales!

When is the best time to book to get the cheapest flights from Tampa?

Mid-week bookings, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to offer the best prices. Additionally, consider flying during off-peak seasons for your destination.

Where is it cheap to fly from Tampa?

Flying from Tampa International Airport (TPA) can offer a variety of affordable destinations. This is especially true to cities within the United States and nearby international locations. Here are some general destinations that might offer affordable flights from Tampa:

Domestic Destinations:

1. Orlando, Florida: Being in the same state, flights to Orlando might be relatively inexpensive.
2. Atlanta, Georgia: As a major hub in the Southeast, Atlanta often has competitive fares.
3. Miami, Florida: Another in-state option that might offer affordable flights.
4. Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Often served by low-cost carriers, providing budget-friendly options.
5. Charlotte, North Carolina: A significant hub for connecting flights in the region.

Nearby International Destinations:

1. Cancún, Mexico: A popular tourist destination that might have seasonal deals.
2. Havana, Cuba: Depending on regulations and availability, flights to Havana might be affordable.
3. Nassau, Bahamas: Seasonal promotions might make this Caribbean destination accessible.

Are international flights from Tampa also affordable?

Absolutely! While domestic destinations are often cheaper, there are plenty of cheap destinations from Tampa that are international. Look out for deals to Central America, the Caribbean, and certain European cities.

What’s a hidden gem destination that’s cheap to fly to from Tampa?

Apart from the popular destinations, cities like Asheville, NC, or Birmingham, AL can be affordable choices and offer unique cultural experiences.

Do last-minute flights from Tampa tend to be cheaper?

While there’s a myth that last-minute bookings can save you a fortune, it’s usually riskier and often more expensive. However, there are occasional last-minute deals, so if you’re flexible, it might be worth a gamble.

Which travel websites are best for finding the cheapest flights from TPA?

Sites like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights are popular for comparing fares and finding the best deals from Tampa.

Is it cheaper to book a round trip or two one-way flights from Tampa?

Historically, round trips were usually more affordable. However, with the rise of budget airlines and dynamic pricing, it’s always a good idea to check both options before booking.

Remember, the key to snagging the best deals is flexibility, research, and acting quickly when you spot a good fare! Safe travels!