The 11 best hotels in Tampa

Staying at the 4-star Epicurean Hotel is all about indulging your senses, beginning with your tastebuds. The self-proclaimed ‘foodie’s paradise’ takes after its namesake, the ancient Greek philosopher, Epicurus, putting sensual pleasure forward as the greatest good. Rooms are decorated with food-related artwork and cooking classes are offered free of charge. But it isn’t just about the food. The Epicurean features an outdoor pool, rooftop lounge, and lies in a convenient location for visiting Tampa’s many attractions.

Time Out tip: With so much to see and do in the SoHo district, it's worth hopping on one of the complimentary bikes and heading out. The first stop we'd recommend has to be Bayshore Boulevard.

Located in a historic courthouse, dating back to the turn of the 20th century, Le Méridien Tampa offers an extraordinary stay for the history buff and luxury traveler alike. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and still has many of the same features from its past, including original windows and wood paneling. Rooms are old judges’ chambers, giving each a unique and personal appeal. The surprisingly casual restaurant, Bizou Brasserie, serves up a French-Creole-inspired menu in an elegant setting.

Time Out tip: For our cultural enthusiasts, we recommend an intimate tour like the Taste of Downtown Tampa Culinary Walking Tour.

Just a minute’s walk from the Tampa Convention Center, the 4-star Tampa Marriott Water Street offers a convenient downtown location for those who want waterfront and downtown access. Rooms are simple and functional, with optional balconies and separate living areas. The waterfront location is ideal for Tampa’s many events around the bay and Hillsborough River. Guests can get a meal at the laidback grille restaurant on site, and take a dip in the outdoor pool, which has a view of the bay.

Time Out tip: Perhaps the real highlight of a stay here is the 27th floor bar, offering panoramic views of Tampa's wonderful city and bay. 

The Floridan Palace is an iconic downtown high-rise, dating back to 1926, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s seen its share of ups and downs over the years, but the 3.5-star hotel currently provides an opulent experience for its guests, with bold decor and elegant interior details in every room. Glistening chandeliers hang from the ceilings of the Crystal Dining Room, which serves a menu focused on Mediterranean cuisine.

Time Out tip: While the hotel doesn't have connecting rooms, they are more than willing to accommodate guests who would like neighboring rooms. Just reach out in advance. 

Located on Tampa’s Rocky Point Island, the 4-star Westin Tampa Bay offers colorful accommodation inspired by the islands. Among the attractions of this waterfront hotel are its private beach, seafood-themed restaurant, and relative seclusion in relation to Tampa. You’ll be just over the bridge and within reach of all of the Tampa Bay Area, but feel like you’re a thousand miles away.

Time Out tip: Are you a creature of comforts? We totally get it. Complete mornings with a coffee run at the on-site Starbucks in your PJs by all means (okay, maybe don't).

Offering both quality and convenience, the 4-star Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel is located right next to the airport (don’t worry, guests praise its soundproof construction). Rooms are clean, comfortable, and unpretentiously furnished, while the entire hotel boasts modern, classy decor. Pelagia Trattoria serves classic Italian from an open-air kitchen. There’s nothing extravagant here to write home about – but that’s what makes the Renaissance such a pleasure to stay at.

Time Out tip: Then again, if extravagant is right t up your street, you love the vibrant blend of Spanish-Cuban dishes at the Columbia Restaurant, Florida's oldest restaurant.

This colorful hotel is one for visitors looking for a low-key, alternative place to stay, offering cozy, hostel-style rooms inspired by the late founder’s trip to the Netherlands. A small Jacuzzi and quaint patio give guests a chance to enjoy Tampa’s regular sunshine in a homier atmosphere than you’d find at your typical hotel. Bikes and access to a kitchen are included.

Time Out tip: Bikes and access to a kitchen are included, so why not organize a bring-and-share on the Patio after enjoying a cycle to Palmetto Beach? 

This 4-star, glass-covered palace brings a touch of luxury to the corner of a busy intersection in Tampa’s West Shore. With meeting rooms and an impressive atrium, it’s great for a business vacation – and the pool and large gym offer the chance to shake out those limbs once your working day is done. Rooms are neutral in decor but shot through with bright splashes of color, while the blue running throughout the building, from the lobby to the courtyard and the pool, gives the whole space a calming atmosphere.

Time Out tip: For dinner, grab a bit at a Shula’s Steak House.

The 4-star Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa offers upscale accommodation that conveniently keeps guests close to the gaming tables and entertainment. Relaxing modern rooms with pieces from the Hard Rock’s music artwork collection are equipped with large windows and amenities, and upgrades include living rooms and Bose speakers. At over 190,000 square feet, the casino is one of the largest in the US. 

Time Out tip: Catch the Guitar Light Show which features choreographed music and takes place daily at 9 pm. 

Moments away from Downtown Tampa, Hotel Haya provides a characterful backdrop in the heart of Ybor City - a vibrant neighborhood, with heaps of historicism and a buzzy nightlife. Here, you can soak in the good vibes in one of these playfully decorated guest rooms that overlook the pool and feature decor from local artists and artisans. Pretty cool, huh? Aside from chilling out in your room, you can unwind at the 24-hour fitness center, tuck into Latin American and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at the on-site restaurant lounge, Flor Fina, and of course, head to the pool. 

Time Out tip: Check out Wine Down Wednesdays at the on-site restaurant lounge Flor Fina.

Set in the Water Street Tampa area, The Tampa Edition offers guests a luxury hideaway with all the trimmings you could ever want. The pool bar, market, arts club, spa, and fitness center are just a few of the many exciting amenities on offer here. Even more impressive is the ultra-chic, and calming decor. We don't know how they did it, but the blend of industrial, Art Deco, and lush botanicals is a stroke of genius.

Time Out tip: Enjoy going on long walks as you take in the views of the waterfront.