The journey from Houston, TX to Tampa, FL combines urban and coastal experiences. The distance between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston and Tampa International Airport (TPA) is approximately 790 miles. There are many top airlines that this route is serviced by for different schedules and budgets. In this comprehensive guide, we will look at flight details such as direct flights, fastest options, and cheapest flights among other things but also suggest some hotels that can be found in both cities.
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About George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is one of the busiest airports in Texas serving as a major air hub for domestic and international flights. IAH located about 23 miles north of downtown Houston provides a range of facilities including restaurants, shops, and lounges among others making it quite convenient for you to start your journey to Tampa.
About Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is just six miles west of downtown Tampa positions itself within easy reach of major attractions in the city. TPA boasts an efficient layout with passenger-friendly features which include dining options, shopping opportunities, and convenient transportation access.
Flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Tampa International Airport (TPA)
United Airlines
United Airlines offers multiple daily flights from IAH to TPA – here are some options;
Direct Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 8:00 AM | TPA | 11:30 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
| 2 | IAH | 3:00 PM | TPA | 6:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $160 |
| 3 | IAH | 7:00 PM | TPA | 10:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $170 |
Fastest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 7:00 PM | TPA | 10:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $170 |
| 2 | IAH | 8:00 AM | TPA | 11:30 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
| 3 | IAH | 3:00 PM | TPA | 6:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $160 |
Cheapest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 8:00 AM | TPA | 11:30 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
| 2 | IAH | 3:00 PM | TPA | 6:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $160 |
| 3 | IAH | 7:00 PM | TPA | 10:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $170 |
United Airlines Recommendations and Pro Tips:
- Book Early: Always aim to book your tickets early in advance for the best rates.
- Frequent Flyer Programs: Use United Airlines’ MileagePlus program to get more benefits.
- Check-In: For a seamless check-in process, try arriving at least two hours earlier than your flight’s scheduled time.
JetBlue
JetBlue offers several flights from IAH to TPA known for its onboard entertainment and customer service.
Direct Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 9:00 AM | TPA | 12:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $140 |
| 2 | IAH | 2:00 PM | TPA | 5:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
| 3 | IAH | 6:00 PM | TPA | 9:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $160 |
Fastest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 6:00 PM | TPA | 9:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $160 |
| 2 | IAH | 9:00 AM | TPA | 12:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $140 |
| 3 | IAH | 2:00 PM | TPA | 5:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
Cheapest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 9:00 AM | TPA | 12:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $140 |
| 2 | IAH | 2:00 PM | TPA | 5:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
| 3 | IAH | 6:00 PM | TPA | 9:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $160 |
JetBlue Recommendations and Pro Tips:
- In-Flight Wi-Fi: Make use of JetBlue’s free high-speed Wi-Fi connection available on board for relaxation and work purposes.
- Extra Legroom: Consider moving up to seats with the Even More Space option for more comfort while flying.
- Snacks and Drinks: Savor-free snacks and non-alcoholic beverages during the flight.
American Airlines
American Airlines operates many flights from IAH to TPA known for their large route network as well as dependable service delivery.
Direct Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 7:30 AM | TPA | 11:00 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $130 |
| 2 | IAH | 1:00 PM | TPA | 4:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $140 |
| 3 | IAH | 5:30 PM | TPA | 9:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
Fastest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 5:30 PM | TPA | 9:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
| 2 | IAH | 7:30 AM | TPA | 11:00 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $130 |
| 3 | IAH | 1:00 PM | TPA | 4:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $140 |
Cheapest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 7:30 AM | TPA | 11:00 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $130 |
| 2 | IAH | 1:00 PM | TPA | 4:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $140 |
| 3 | IAH | 5:30 PM | TPA | 9:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
American Airlines Recommendations and Pro Tips:
- Advantage Program: Join the Advantage program by American Airlines so that you can earn miles as well as some exclusive benefits.
- Mobile App: For easy check-in, and real-time flight updates, use American Airlines’ mobile app.
- Upgrade Options: Affordably upgrade to Main Cabin Extra where there is extra legroom available.
Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines has excellent customer service with many flights from IAH to TPA.
Direct Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 8:30 AM | TPA | 12:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $135 |
| 2 | IAH | 2:30 PM | TPA | 6:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $145 |
| 3 | IAH | 6:30 PM | TPA | 10:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $155 |
Fastest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 6:30 PM | TPA | 10:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $155 |
| 2 | IAH | 8:30 AM | TPA | 12:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $135 |
| 3 | IAH | 2:30 PM | TPA | 6:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $145 |
Cheapest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 8:30 AM | TPA | 12:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $135 |
| 2 | IAH | 2:30 PM | TPA | 6:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $145 |
| 3 | IAH | 6:30 PM | TPA | 10:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $155 |
Recommendations and Pro Tips for Delta Airlines:
- SkyMiles Program: Enroll in Delta’s SkyMiles program for rewards and benefits.
- SkyPriority: Think about SkyPriority services so that you can receive a faster check-in and priority boarding.
- Entertainment: Have fun with the extensive line-up of in-flight entertainment at Delta Studio.
Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines is popular among budget travelers due to its ultra-low-cost flights.
Direct Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 7:00 AM | TPA | 10:30 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $80 |
| 2 | IAH | 1:00 PM | TPA | 4:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $85 |
| 3 | IAH | 6:00 PM | TPA | 9:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $90 |
Fastest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 7:00 AM | TPA | 10:30 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $80 |
| 2 | IAH | 1:00 PM | TPA | 4:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $85 |
| 3 | IAH | 6:00 PM | TPA | 9:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $90 |
Cheapest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 7:00 AM | TPA | 10:30 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $80 |
| 2 | IAH | 1:00 PM | TPA | 4:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $85 |
| 3 | IAH | 6:00 PM | TPA | 9:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $90 |
Recommendations and Pro Tips for Spirit Airlines:
- Travel Light: Since Spirit charges both checked bags and carry-ons, it is best to pack light to save some money.
- Online Check-In: Checking in online will help avoid any extra charges.
- Seat Selection: If you want a more comfortable flight, consider paying for a preferred seat.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines offers comfortable and reliable flight options from IAH to TPA.
Direct Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 8:00 AM | TPA | 11:30 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
| 2 | IAH | 3:00 PM | TPA | 6:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $160 |
| 3 | IAH | 7:00 PM | TPA | 10:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $170 |
Fastest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 7:00 PM | TPA | 10:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $170 |
| 2 | IAH | 8:00 AM | TPA | 11:30 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
| 3 | IAH | 3:00 PM | TPA | 6:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $160 |
Cheapest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 8:00 AM | TPA | 11:30 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $150 |
| 2 | IAH | 3:00 PM | TPA | 6:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $160 |
| 3 | IAH | 7:00 PM | TPA | 10:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $170 |
Recommendations and Pro Tips for Alaska Airlines:
- Mileage Plan: Mileage Plan: Join Alaska’s Mileage Plan today and start earning miles, thus enjoying benefits.
- Free Snacks: Be treated with complimentary snacks and drinks on your next flight.
- Mobile App: Get the Alaska Airline app now for quick access to flight information as well as boarding passes.
Amtrak Airlines
Amtrak Airlines has competitive flights from IAH to TPA despite being primarily known for trains.
Direct Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 7:30 AM | TPA | 11:00 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $125 |
| 2 | IAH | 1:00 PM | TPA | 4:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $135 |
| 3 | IAH | 5:30 PM | TPA | 9:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $145 |
Fastest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 5:30 PM | TPA | 9:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $145 |
| 2 | IAH | 7:30 AM | TPA | 11:00 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $125 |
| 3 | IAH | 1:00 PM | TPA | 4:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $135 |
Cheapest Flights
| Sl. No. | Boarding Airport | Departure Time | Landing Airport | Arrival Time | Duration of Flight | Stops | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IAH | 7:30 AM | TPA | 11:00 AM | 2h 30m | 0 | $125 |
| 2 | IAH | 1:00 PM | TPA | 4:30 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $135 |
| 3 | IAH | 5:30 PM | TPA | 9:00 PM | 2h 30m | 0 | $145 |
Recommendations and Pro Tips for Amtrak Airlines:
- Combo Deals: Look for joint train and flight offers to save more.
- Comfort: Experience comfortable Amtrak seats and in-flight services.
- Rewards: Get enrolled in Amtrak Guest Rewards for additional privileges.
Places to Visit in Houston
Space Center Houston
Recommendation: It is a destination that should not be missed especially for space enthusiasts since it offers interactive displays and a NASA Johnson Space Center tram tour.
Pro Tip: Early morning hours are recommended since there are fewer crowds.
Timing: Opens daily from 9 AM until 6 PM.
Best Route: Take the I-45 South Freeway from downtown Houston.
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Recommendation: Great for families with exhibits on dinosaurs, gemstones, and space.
Pro Tip: Buy tickets online to avoid standing in line.
Timing: Open daily from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m.
Best Route: Hermann Park, METRORail Red Line stop.
The Galleria
Recommendation: Houston’s leading shopping destination has many high-end and mid-range stores.
Pro Tip: The mall is less crowded on weekdays than it is on weekends.
Timing: The mall opens from Monday to Saturday from 10 AM – 9 PM; Sunday from 11 AM-7 PM.
Best Route: Westheimer Road or Loop 610.
Places to Visit in Tampa
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Recommendation An adventurous park located within a zoo with thrilling rides.
Pro Tip: Purchase Fast Passes to bypass waiting queues.
Timing: It is open every day starting at about ten o’clock am until six in the evening.
Best Route: Busch Boulevard via I-275.
The Florida Aquarium
Recommendation: Marine life exhibits and interactive experiences make it ideal for families.
Pro Tip: Visit the children’s water play area located outside.
Timing: It operates every day from 9:30 am to 5 pm.
Best Route: Found in the Channel District and accessible through Channelside Drive.
Tampa Riverwalk
Recommendation: It is a beautiful waterfront promenade to walk, cycle, or dine on and enjoy the scenery.
Pro Tip: Rent a bicycle or scooter to explore with fun.
Timing: Open 24/7.
Best Route: Always open. Best Route: Running along Hillsborough River and easy access from downtown Tampa.
Hotels to Stay in Houston
The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston
Recommendation: Luxurious accommodations with first-class amenities.
Pro Tip: Reserve a suite that has Houston skyline views.
Best Price: Prices start at $450 per night.
Hotel ZaZa Museum District
Recommendation: A trendy boutique hotel situated near major art museums in this city.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of the swimming pool and bar located on the rooftop of this hotel.
Best Price: Prices start at $300 per night.
The Lancaster Hotel
Recommendation: Historical hotel in downtown Houston Texas.
Pro Tip: Free breakfast is included in your stay here!
Best Price: Prices start at $250 per night.
Hotels to Stay in Tampa
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
Recommendation: Stylish Bayfront luxury hotel that overlooks Old Tampa Bay in the USA.
Pro Tip: Explore its nature preserve onsite.
Best Price: Starts at $350 per night.
Epicurean Hotel, Autograph Collection
Recommendation: A boutique hotel that prides itself on its culinary offerings.
Pro Tip: Take a culinary class at Epicurean Theatre.
Best Price: Starts from $300 per night.
The Westin Tampa Waterside
Recommendation: The Waterfront Hotel offers modern features inside the rooms.
Pro Tip: Choose a room with a balcony.
Best Price: From $250 per night.
Plan your trip with cheaptravelfirst.com.
By making the right choice of airline and considering these travel tips, your travel from Houston to Tampa will be smooth and enjoyable. Both cities boast a variety of attractions and accommodations for business or pleasure as expected. Have fun!