Cheap One Way Car Rental from Orlando to Tampa – Explore Florida Your Way
Looking for the best cheap one way car rental from Orlando to Tampa? Florida is one of the best destinations in the United States for road trips, and traveling between Orlando and Tampa by rental car gives you total freedom to explore beaches, attractions, hidden gems, and entertainment at your own pace.
At carrentaloneway.com, travelers can compare thousands of affordable rental car deals from major international and local companies in seconds. Whether you want a cheap economy car, a luxury SUV, a family minivan, or a stylish convertible for the Florida sunshine, comparing prices online helps you save time and money.
The route between Orlando and Tampa is one of the most popular one-way rental routes in Florida because it connects world-famous theme parks, beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, entertainment districts, shopping areas, sports venues, and incredible road trip experiences.
Why Rent a Car from Orlando to Tampa?
Driving from Orlando to Tampa is much more than simply moving between two cities. It is one of the best Florida mini road trips, offering travelers the opportunity to enjoy beaches, lakes, local restaurants, theme parks, shopping centers, nature parks, and entertainment attractions along the way.
Choosing a one-way rental car allows you to:
- Avoid returning to the original pickup location
- Travel at your own pace
- Visit attractions outside tourist zones
- Save money compared to flights for families
- Carry more luggage comfortably
- Explore Florida more freely
- Stop whenever and wherever you want
Orlando to Tampa Road Trip Route Guide
The drive from Orlando to Tampa usually takes between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes depending on traffic and stops. The route mainly follows Interstate 4 (I-4), one of Florida’s most important highways connecting Central Florida with the Gulf Coast.
Although many travelers drive directly to Tampa, others prefer turning the route into a full Florida adventure.
Best Places to Visit Between Orlando and Tampa
1. Lakeland
Lakeland is one of the most popular stops between Orlando and Tampa. Known for its beautiful lakes, relaxed atmosphere, and historic downtown, it is perfect for a break during your trip.
Things to do in Lakeland:
- Walk around Lake Mirror
- Visit Hollis Garden
- Explore local restaurants and cafés
- Visit the Polk Museum of Art
2. Winter Haven
Winter Haven is famous for LEGOLAND Florida Resort and its chain of scenic lakes.
- LEGOLAND Florida
- Boat tours
- Family attractions
- Relaxed Florida atmosphere
3. Bok Tower Gardens
Nature lovers can stop at Bok Tower Gardens for one of the most peaceful and scenic experiences in Central Florida.
- Beautiful gardens
- Nature photography
- Historic architecture
- Relaxing landscapes
4. Plant City
Plant City is famous for strawberries and local Florida culture.
- Local markets
- Southern restaurants
- Historic downtown
- Florida countryside scenery
What to Visit in Tampa
Tampa is one of Florida’s fastest-growing tourism destinations and offers an incredible combination of beaches, nightlife, sports, family attractions, and waterfront entertainment.
Top Attractions in Tampa
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
- Tampa Riverwalk
- Ybor City
- The Florida Aquarium
- Adventure Island
- Amalie Arena
- Clearwater Beach
- St. Pete Beach
- ZooTampa
- Sparkman Wharf
Things to Do in Orlando Before Starting Your Trip
Orlando is much more than theme parks. Travelers often spend several days exploring the city before heading to Tampa.
- Walt Disney World
- Universal Orlando Resort
- SeaWorld Orlando
- Disney Springs
- ICON Park
- International Drive
- Premium Outlet Shopping
- Universal CityWalk
- Volcano Bay
- Golf Resorts
Best Rental Cars for Orlando to Tampa Trips
| Vehicle Type | Ideal For | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Cars | Budget Travelers | Affordable fuel costs |
| SUVs | Families | Extra comfort and luggage space |
| Luxury Cars | Premium Travel | Luxury driving experience |
| Convertibles | Florida Vacations | Enjoy the sunshine and coastal roads |
| Minivans | Large Groups | Maximum passenger capacity |
Best Pickup and Drop-Off Locations
Orlando Pickup Locations
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- Downtown Orlando
- Disney Area
- International Drive
- Kissimmee
- Universal Studios Area
Tampa Drop-Off Locations
- Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Downtown Tampa
- Tampa Cruise Port
- Clearwater
- St. Petersburg
- Ybor City
How to Find the Cheapest Orlando to Tampa Rental Car
- Book several weeks in advance
- Compare prices from multiple providers
- Travel during weekdays
- Choose economy or compact vehicles
- Avoid airport rush periods
- Use online comparison tools
- Select unlimited mileage options
- Avoid unnecessary add-ons
- Compare airport and city pickup locations
- Use platforms like carrentaloneway.com
Useful Florida Travel Tips
- Florida weather changes quickly during summer
- Keep water and sunglasses inside the vehicle
- Use toll passes for easier highway travel
- Avoid peak Orlando traffic hours
- Book hotels early during holiday periods
- Use navigation apps for live traffic updates
- Plan beach stops for a better experience
- Travel early morning for smoother traffic
Popular Florida One Way Rental Routes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a car in Orlando and drop it off in Tampa?
Yes. Most rental companies allow one-way rentals between Orlando and Tampa.
How much does an Orlando to Tampa rental car cost?
Prices vary depending on season, vehicle category, and booking dates.
What is the best vehicle for this route?
Economy cars and SUVs are among the most popular choices for Florida road trips.
Can tourists rent cars in Florida?
Yes. International visitors can rent vehicles using valid driver’s licenses and passports.
Is driving from Orlando to Tampa easy?
Yes. The route is straightforward and tourist-friendly.
Why use carrentaloneway.com?
Because it allows travelers to compare thousands of deals in one place and find the best prices quickly.
Start Your Florida Adventure Today
Whether you are heading to Tampa beaches, visiting Busch Gardens, exploring Florida attractions, or planning the perfect Gulf Coast getaway, a one-way rental car gives you the flexibility and comfort to travel your way.
Compare prices instantly, save money, and discover the best affordable rental deals with carrentaloneway.com.