If you’re cruising from Tampa, arriving a day early is a smart move.
This gives you extra time to explore the city’s vibrant Riverwalk, visit historic Ybor City, and soak up the Florida sunshine—all while avoiding last-minute travel stress.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel, a mid-range stay with shuttle service, or a luxury waterfront escape, we’ve got the best options near Tampa Cruise Port for you!
Best Budget-Friendly Hotels Near Tampa Cruise Port
A comfortable pre-cruise stay doesn’t have to break the bank.
These affordable options offer great value, often include free breakfast, and provide easy access to Tampa’s main attractions and cruise terminals.
Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa/Ybor City/Downtown
📍 1301 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $120–$180 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~1.3 miles (~5-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Complimentary shuttle within 3 miles, including the cruise port (check availability)
- Perks: Free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, fitness center
- Why Stay Here? Located in Tampa’s historic Ybor City, this hotel offers a unique cultural vibe within a short ride of the cruise port.
Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk
📍 111 W Fortune St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $110–$170 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~1.3 miles (~6-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Limited-area shuttle; inquire about cruise port drop-off
- Perks: On-site restaurant, outdoor pool, riverfront views
- Why Stay Here? Enjoy a scenic stay on Tampa’s Riverwalk, close to downtown attractions like the Straz Center and Tampa Museum of Art.
The Floridan Palace Hotel
📍 905 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $100–$160 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~1 mile (~5-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Not provided, but short taxi/Uber ride
- Perks: Historic landmark, vintage décor, on-site lounge
- Why Stay Here? Step back in time at this 1920s-era hotel that’s been beautifully restored for a unique pre-cruise stay.
Quality Inn & Suites Near Fairgrounds Ybor City
📍 4955 E 18th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $80–$130 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~3.5 miles (~10-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: No direct shuttle to port (ride-share or taxi recommended)
- Perks: Free breakfast, outdoor pool, ample parking
- Why Stay Here? Simple, clean, and wallet-friendly, with easy highway access for quick trips to the port and downtown.
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Tampa Ybor City
📍 2520 N 50th St, Tampa, FL 33619, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $70–$120 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~3 miles (~10-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Not available
- Perks: Free Wi-Fi, outdoor pool, complimentary parking
- Why Stay Here? Ideal for cruisers on a tighter budget looking for straightforward accommodations close to the port.
Extended Stay America – Tampa – Airport – N. West Shore Blvd.
📍 1805 N Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $70–$130 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~5.5 miles (~15-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: No, but near public transportation/taxis
- Perks: Full kitchen, pet-friendly, free grab-and-go breakfast
- Why Stay Here? Great for travelers who want to prepare their own meals and stay under budget.
Staybridge Suites Tampa East-Brandon
📍 11740 Tampa Gateway Blvd, Seffner, FL 33584, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $110–$160 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~9 miles (~15-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: No port shuttle (rental car or ride-share advised)
- Perks: Spacious suites, full kitchens, free breakfast, weekday social receptions
- Why Stay Here? An excellent choice for families or groups needing extra space and a home-like atmosphere.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Tampa Fairgrounds/Casino
📍 6720 Lakeview Center Dr, Tampa, FL 33619, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $100–$150 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~6 miles (~12-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Free shuttle to casino (port shuttle not provided)
- Perks: Free breakfast, outdoor pool, convenient to I-4
- Why Stay Here? If you plan to hit the Hard Rock Casino before or after your cruise, this hotel’s location is unbeatable.
Mid-Range Hotels with Convenient Access or Shuttle Service
These mid-range options offer extra comfort, great amenities, and many provide shuttles or easy transportation to Port Tampa Bay, making for a seamless pre-cruise experience.
Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Ybor Historic District
📍 1700 E 9th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $150–$220 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~1.5 miles (~5–7 minutes by car)
- Shuttle Service: Yes, limited local shuttle (confirm with hotel)
- Perks: On-site restaurant, outdoor pool, fitness center
- Why Stay Here? Immerse yourself in Ybor City’s nightlife, Cuban cuisine, and unique history before cruising.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown Channel District
📍 1155 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $160–$230 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~0.6 miles (~3-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: May offer a port shuttle; call to confirm
- Perks: Suites with kitchenettes, rooftop pool, free breakfast
- Why Stay Here? Modern suites designed for extended comfort, just minutes from the cruise terminal in the growing Channel District.
Residence Inn by Marriott Tampa Downtown
📍 101 E Tyler St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $150–$220 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~1.2 miles (~5-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: No dedicated shuttle, but close to trolley and public transport
- Perks: Full kitchens, free breakfast, outdoor pool
- Why Stay Here? Enjoy apartment-style living in the heart of downtown, perfect for families or travelers who love extra space.
Courtyard by Marriott Tampa Downtown
📍 102 E Cass St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $140–$210 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~1.2 miles (~5-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Limited downtown shuttle; ask about port transportation
- Perks: On-site bistro, modern fitness center, outdoor courtyard
- Why Stay Here? Steps from museums, performing arts centers, and the Riverwalk, this is a convenient location with Marriott comfort.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa East – Ybor City
📍 2520 N 50th St, Tampa, FL 33619, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $120–$200 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~3 miles (~10-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Not typically offered; confirm with hotel
- Perks: Free breakfast, outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness center
- Why Stay Here? Easy access to I-4 and Ybor City sights before heading to the port.
Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel
📍 200 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $150–$240 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~1 mile (~5-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Limited-area shuttle, check for availability
- Perks: Waterfront pool, on-site restaurant, riverfront walking path
- Why Stay Here? Enjoy a stroll on the Riverwalk or take a short ride to the cruise port from this classic Sheraton property.
Aloft Tampa Downtown
📍 100 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $160–$230 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~1 mile (~5-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: No, but easy access to streetcar and rideshare
- Perks: Chic design, pool deck overlooking the Hillsborough River, bar with live music
- Why Stay Here? A modern, vibrant option perfect for younger travelers or those seeking a stylish stay downtown.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown Convention Center
📍 513 S Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $180–$260 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~0.7 miles (~3-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Some packages include port shuttle (check directly)
- Perks: Spacious two-room suites, free made-to-order breakfast, evening reception
- Why Stay Here? Popular with cruisers for its central location near the Convention Center, Amalie Arena, and the cruise terminals.
Luxury Hotels Near Tampa Cruise Port for a Pre-Cruise Treat
If you want to start your cruise vacation in style, these upscale hotels near Tampa’s cruise terminals offer top-tier amenities, water views, and fine dining options.
JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
📍 510 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $300–$500 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~0.8 miles (~4-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Not typically offered; private car or taxi recommended
- Perks: Rooftop pool, upscale dining, spa
- Why Stay Here? This stunning new property in the Water Street district exudes modern luxury and is a stone’s throw from the cruise port.
Tampa Marriott Water Street
📍 505 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $250–$400 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~0.8 miles (~4-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: No, but extremely close to the port
- Perks: Rooftop pool with bay views, on-site spa, multiple dining options
- Why Stay Here? A favorite among cruisers seeking luxury and proximity, with panoramic views of Tampa Bay and the Riverwalk.
The Westin Tampa Waterside
📍 725 S Harbour Island Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $220–$350 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~1 mile (~5-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: None, but very short ride to port
- Perks: Waterfront location, on-site restaurant, Westin’s signature bedding
- Why Stay Here? Peaceful Harbour Island setting just minutes from the terminal and downtown Tampa’s buzz.
Epicurean Hotel, Autograph Collection
📍 1207 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $250–$400 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~2.5 miles (~10-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: No, but quick taxi/Uber ride
- Perks: Wine shop, culinary classroom, rooftop bar
- Why Stay Here? A foodie’s dream hotel in trendy SoHo, offering gourmet dining and a unique boutique experience before you set sail.
Le Méridien Tampa
📍 601 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $200–$350 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~1 mile (~5-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: Not provided
- Perks: Historic building, outdoor pool, French-inspired restaurant
- Why Stay Here? Soak in the grandeur of this converted federal courthouse, blending modern luxury with historic charm.
The Tampa EDITION
📍 500 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
💰 Estimated Price: $350–$550 per night
🚗 Distance to Cruise Port: ~0.5 miles (~2-minute drive)
- Shuttle Service: No official shuttle; extremely close to Port Tampa Bay
- Perks: Rooftop terrace and pool, multiple high-end dining concepts, trendy design
- Why Stay Here? The city’s hottest new luxury address, bringing a chic, cosmopolitan vibe to Tampa’s Channel District.
Best Areas to Stay Near Tampa Cruise Port
Downtown Tampa & Water Street District
- Distance to Cruise Port: ~0.5–1 mile
- Recommended Hotels:
- JW Marriott Tampa Water Street (Luxury)
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown (Mid-Range)
- Aloft Tampa Downtown (Mid-Range)
Why Stay Here? You’ll be steps away from the Tampa Riverwalk, Amalie Arena, and top restaurants, plus a quick drive to the cruise terminals.
Ybor City
- Distance to Cruise Port: ~1–2 miles
- Recommended Hotels:
- Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa/Ybor City (Budget)
- Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Ybor Historic District (Mid-Range)
Why Stay Here? Historic Cuban flair, vibrant nightlife, and trendy eateries make Ybor City an unforgettable start to your cruise vacation.
Harbour Island & Channelside
- Distance to Cruise Port: ~0.5–1.5 miles
- Recommended Hotels:
- The Westin Tampa Waterside (Luxury)
- The Tampa EDITION (Luxury)
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown Channel District (Mid-Range)
Why Stay Here? Enjoy waterfront views, close proximity to the Florida Aquarium and Sparkman Wharf, plus walkable access to the cruise terminals.
Final Tips for Tampa Cruisers
- Book Early: Cruise season and Tampa’s busy events (like Gasparilla) can fill hotels quickly. Reserve your room well in advance.
- Check Shuttle Options: Some hotels offer complimentary or low-cost shuttles to the port—always call ahead to confirm.
- Explore Before You Cruise: Tampa’s Riverwalk, Ybor City, and Channelside District are packed with restaurants, bars, and attractions worth an extra day or two.
- Consider Parking Packages: If you’re driving to Tampa, some hotels offer “Stay & Cruise” parking deals—compare with the cost of parking at the port.
No matter your budget or travel style, these top hotels near Tampa Cruise Port will make your pre-cruise stay memorable and convenient.
Enjoy the sunshine, sights, and flavors of the Gulf Coast before setting sail on your dream cruise! Bon voyage!
