Petersburg City Guide: Best Places to Visit, Stay, and Explore Petersburg Travel Guide: History, Attractions, and Hidden Gems
Flying into St. Petersburg, Florida can be a great way to experience the Sunshine City. But with two airports in the area, choosing the right one can be a bit confusing. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide where to fly into for your next trip to St. Petersburg.
Editor’s Note: This article was published on March 8, 2023 and is updated regularly. We’ll keep you posted on any new developments or changes to the St. Petersburg airport scene.
After doing some analysis and digging through a lot of information, we’ve put together this guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences
| Tampa International Airport (TPA) | St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | 12 miles from downtown St. Petersburg | 3 miles from downtown St. Petersburg |
| Size | One of the largest airports in Florida | A smaller, regional airport |
| Airlines | Serves over 50 airlines | Serves over 10 airlines |
| Cost | Generally more expensive than PIE | Generally less expensive than TPA |
Main Article Topics
- Wikipedia: St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport
- YouTube: Flying into St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport
- Comparison: TPA vs. PIE
Where to Fly into for St. Petersburg, FL
Flying into St. Petersburg, Florida can be a great way to experience the Sunshine City. But with two airports in the area, choosing the right one can be a bit confusing. Here are 11 key aspects to consider when making your decision:
- Location: TPA is located 12 miles from downtown St. Petersburg, while PIE is located just 3 miles away.
- Size: TPA is one of the largest airports in Florida, while PIE is a smaller, regional airport.
- Airlines: TPA serves over 50 airlines, while PIE serves over 10 airlines.
- Cost: Generally, flights into TPA are more expensive than flights into PIE.
- Convenience: PIE is more convenient for those staying in downtown St. Petersburg, while TPA is more convenient for those staying in the suburbs or on the Gulf Coast.
- Amenities: TPA has a wider variety of amenities than PIE, including more restaurants, shops, and services.
- Parking: Parking is more expensive at TPA than at PIE.
- Transportation: There are more transportation options available from TPA than from PIE, including taxis, buses, and rental cars.
- Security: Both TPA and PIE have TSA security checkpoints.
- Flight frequency: TPA has more frequent flights than PIE.
- Flight destinations: TPA has more direct flights to a wider variety of destinations than PIE.
Ultimately, the best airport for you to fly into depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable option, PIE is a good choice. If you’re looking for a wider variety of amenities and flight options, TPA is a better choice.
Location
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, the location of the airport is an important factor to consider. Tampa International Airport (TPA) is located 12 miles from downtown St. Petersburg, while St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) is located just 3 miles away. This difference in location can have a significant impact on your travel time and cost.
- Travel time: It takes approximately 30 minutes to drive from TPA to downtown St. Petersburg, while it takes approximately 10 minutes to drive from PIE to downtown St. Petersburg.
- Cost: The cost of a taxi from TPA to downtown St. Petersburg is approximately $30, while the cost of a taxi from PIE to downtown St. Petersburg is approximately $10.
If you are staying in downtown St. Petersburg, PIE is the more convenient and affordable option. However, if you are staying in the suburbs or on the Gulf Coast, TPA may be a better option.
Size
The size of an airport can have a significant impact on your travel experience. Larger airports typically have more amenities and flight options, but they can also be more crowded and expensive. Smaller airports, on the other hand, may have fewer amenities and flight options, but they are often less crowded and more affordable.
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, it is important to consider the size of the airport. If you are looking for a wide variety of amenities and flight options, TPA is a good choice. However, if you are looking for a less crowded and more affordable option, PIE is a better choice.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between TPA and PIE:
| TPA | PIE | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | One of the largest airports in Florida | A smaller, regional airport |
| Amenities | More amenities, including more restaurants, shops, and services | Fewer amenities |
| Flight options | More flight options, including more direct flights to a wider variety of destinations | Fewer flight options, including fewer direct flights to a smaller variety of destinations |
| Cost | Generally more expensive | Generally less expensive |
| Convenience | Less convenient for those staying in downtown St. Petersburg | More convenient for those staying in downtown St. Petersburg |
Ultimately, the best airport for you to fly into depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a wide variety of amenities and flight options, TPA is a good choice. If you are looking for a less crowded and more affordable option, PIE is a better choice.
Airlines
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, the number of airlines that serve each airport is an important factor to consider. Tampa International Airport (TPA) serves over 50 airlines, while St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) serves over 10 airlines. This difference in the number of airlines can have a significant impact on your travel experience.
- Variety of destinations: The number of airlines that serve an airport is directly related to the variety of destinations that you can fly to. TPA offers flights to over 100 destinations, while PIE offers flights to over 20 destinations. This means that if you are looking to fly to a specific destination, you are more likely to find a flight that meets your needs at TPA.
- Flight frequency: The number of airlines that serve an airport also affects the frequency of flights. TPA has more frequent flights than PIE, which means that you are more likely to be able to find a flight that fits your schedule.
- Cost: The number of airlines that serve an airport can also affect the cost of flights. TPA is generally more expensive than PIE, but this is not always the case. It is important to compare the prices of flights from both airports before making a decision.
Ultimately, the best airport for you to fly into depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a wide variety of destinations, frequent flights, and affordable prices, TPA is a good choice. If you are looking for a smaller airport with a more convenient location, PIE is a good choice.
Cost
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, the cost of flights is an important factor to consider. Generally, flights into Tampa International Airport (TPA) are more expensive than flights into St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE).
- Reason 1: TPA is a larger airport than PIE, with more amenities and flight options. This increased demand for flights into TPA drives up the cost of tickets.
- Reason 2: TPA is located further from downtown St. Petersburg than PIE. This means that airlines can charge more for flights into TPA, as passengers are willing to pay a premium for the convenience of being closer to their destination.
- Reason 3: TPA is a hub for several major airlines, including Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines. This means that there is more competition for flights into TPA, which can also drive up the cost of tickets.
However, it is important to note that the cost of flights can vary depending on a number of factors, including the time of year, the day of the week, and the airline. It is always a good idea to compare the prices of flights from both TPA and PIE before making a decision.
Convenience
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, the convenience of the airport is an important factor to consider. PIE is located just 3 miles from downtown St. Petersburg, while TPA is located 12 miles away. This difference in location can have a significant impact on your travel time and cost.
- Travel time: It takes approximately 30 minutes to drive from TPA to downtown St. Petersburg, while it takes approximately 10 minutes to drive from PIE to downtown St. Petersburg.
- Cost: The cost of a taxi from TPA to downtown St. Petersburg is approximately $30, while the cost of a taxi from PIE to downtown St. Petersburg is approximately $10.
- Amenities: PIE is a smaller airport than TPA, but it still offers a variety of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and free Wi-Fi. TPA has a wider variety of amenities, including more restaurants, shops, and services.
- Parking: Parking is more expensive at TPA than at PIE. The daily parking rate at TPA is $20, while the daily parking rate at PIE is $10.
Ultimately, the best airport for you to fly into depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are staying in downtown St. Petersburg, PIE is the more convenient and affordable option. If you are staying in the suburbs or on the Gulf Coast, TPA may be a better option.
Amenities
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, the amenities available at the airport can be an important factor. Tampa International Airport (TPA) has a wider variety of amenities than St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), including more restaurants, shops, and services.
This difference in amenities can have a significant impact on your travel experience. If you are looking for a wide variety of dining options, shopping options, or other services, TPA is the better choice. For example, TPA has over 50 restaurants, while PIE has only 10. TPA also has a wider variety of shops, including both high-end and budget-friendly options. Additionally, TPA offers a variety of services, such as currency exchange, luggage storage, and valet parking.
Of course, the availability of amenities is just one factor to consider when choosing an airport. Other factors, such as location, cost, and flight options, may also be important. However, if you are looking for an airport with a wide variety of amenities, TPA is the better choice.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between TPA and PIE in terms of amenities:
| TPA | PIE | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of restaurants | 50+ | 10 |
| Number of shops | 100+ | 20 |
| Services | Currency exchange, luggage storage, valet parking | Limited services |
Parking
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, the cost of parking is an important factor to consider. Parking is more expensive at Tampa International Airport (TPA) than at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE). This difference in cost can have a significant impact on your travel budget.
- Cost: The daily parking rate at TPA is $20, while the daily parking rate at PIE is $10. This means that if you are parking your car for a week, you will pay $140 at TPA and $70 at PIE.
- Convenience: TPA is located further from downtown St. Petersburg than PIE. This means that if you are parking your car at the airport and then taking a taxi or Uber to your hotel, you will pay more for the taxi or Uber ride from TPA than you would from PIE.
- Alternatives: If you are on a tight budget, there are a few alternatives to parking at the airport. You can park at a nearby hotel or motel and take a shuttle to the airport. You can also park at a long-term parking lot and take a shuttle to the airport. These options are typically cheaper than parking at the airport, but they may be less convenient.
Ultimately, the best way to decide where to park your car when flying into St. Petersburg, FL is to compare the cost and convenience of the different options. If you are on a tight budget, PIE is the more affordable option. If you are looking for the most convenient option, TPA is the better choice.
Transportation
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, the availability of transportation options from the airport is an important factor to consider. Tampa International Airport (TPA) has more transportation options than St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), including taxis, buses, and rental cars.
- Convenience: Having more transportation options available from the airport makes it more convenient for travelers to get to their destination. For example, if you are staying in downtown St. Petersburg, you can take a taxi or bus from TPA directly to your hotel. From PIE, you would need to take a taxi or Uber to a nearby train station or bus stop, and then take another train or bus to your hotel.
- Cost: The cost of transportation from the airport can vary depending on the mode of transportation and the distance to your destination. In general, taxis are the most expensive option, followed by Uber and Lyft. Buses are the most affordable option, but they may take longer to reach your destination.
- Time: The time it takes to get from the airport to your destination can also vary depending on the mode of transportation and the distance to your destination. Taxis and Uber/Lyft are typically the fastest options, followed by buses. However, buses may be slower if they make multiple stops along the way.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which airport to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for the most convenient and affordable option, PIE is a good choice. If you are looking for the most transportation options and the fastest travel time, TPA is a better choice.
Security
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, the security measures in place at the airport are an important factor to consider. Both Tampa International Airport (TPA) and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) have TSA security checkpoints.
- Screening procedures: The TSA security checkpoints at both airports use the same screening procedures. This means that you can expect to go through the same security screening process at either airport.
- Security staff: The TSA security staff at both airports are highly trained and experienced. They are committed to keeping the airports safe and secure.
- Wait times: The wait times at the TSA security checkpoints can vary depending on the time of day and the day of the week. However, both airports have implemented measures to reduce wait times, such as using automated screening lanes and increasing the number of TSA staff.
Overall, the security measures in place at both TPA and PIE are comparable. You can expect to go through the same security screening process at either airport and you can be confident that you and your belongings will be safe.
Flight frequency
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, the frequency of flights is an important factor to consider. Tampa International Airport (TPA) has more frequent flights than St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE). This means that you are more likely to be able to find a flight that fits your schedule when flying into TPA.
There are several reasons why TPA has more frequent flights than PIE. First, TPA is a larger airport than PIE. This means that more airlines operate out of TPA, and they offer more flights to a wider variety of destinations. Second, TPA is a hub for several major airlines, including Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines. This means that these airlines offer more flights to and from TPA than they do to and from PIE.
The increased flight frequency at TPA can be a significant benefit for travelers. It means that you are more likely to be able to find a flight that fits your schedule, and you are less likely to have to make a connection. This can save you time and money.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between TPA and PIE in terms of flight frequency:
| Airport | Number of flights per day |
|---|---|
| TPA | 500+ |
| PIE | 100+ |
As you can see, TPA has significantly more flights per day than PIE. This makes TPA a better choice if you are looking for a flight that fits your schedule.
Flight destinations
When considering where to fly into for St. Petersburg, FL, the number of direct flights to your destination is an important factor to consider. Tampa International Airport (TPA) has more direct flights to a wider variety of destinations than St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE). This means that you are more likely to be able to find a direct flight to your destination when flying into TPA.
There are several reasons why TPA has more direct flights than PIE. First, TPA is a larger airport than PIE. This means that more airlines operate out of TPA, and they offer more flights to a wider variety of destinations. Second, TPA is a hub for several major airlines, including Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines. This means that these airlines offer more direct flights to and from TPA than they do to and from PIE.
The increased number of direct flights at TPA can be a significant benefit for travelers. It means that you are more likely to be able to find a direct flight to your destination, and you are less likely to have to make a connection. This can save you time and money.
For example, if you are flying from St. Petersburg to New York City, you can find several direct flights from TPA. However, you may only be able to find one or two direct flights from PIE. This means that you would have to make a connection if you flew into PIE. This could add several hours to your travel time.
Overall, the number of direct flights to your destination is an important factor to consider when choosing an airport. If you are looking for a direct flight to your destination, TPA is a better choice than PIE.
| Airport | Number of direct flights to New York City |
|---|---|
| TPA | 5 |
| PIE | 1 |
FAQs about Where to Fly into for St. Petersburg, FL
When planning a trip to St. Petersburg, Florida, choosing the right airport to fly into is an important decision. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed choice:
Question 1: Which airport is closer to downtown St. Petersburg?
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) is located just 3 miles from downtown St. Petersburg, making it the more convenient option for travelers staying in the city center.
Question 2: Which airport has more flight options?
Tampa International Airport (TPA) is a larger airport with more airlines and flight options, including more direct flights to a wider variety of destinations.
Question 3: Which airport is more affordable?
Generally, PIE is more affordable than TPA, with lower parking rates and a wider range of budget-friendly transportation options.
Question 4: Which airport has better amenities?
TPA has a wider variety of amenities, including more restaurants, shops, and services, as well as more comfortable seating and charging stations.
Question 5: Which airport is easier to navigate?
Both TPA and PIE are relatively easy to navigate, with clear signage and helpful staff. However, PIE is a smaller airport, which may make it easier for some travelers to find their way around.
Question 6: Which airport is better for international travelers?
TPA is the better choice for international travelers, as it offers more direct flights to international destinations and has a wider range of amenities and services for international travelers.
Ultimately, the best airport for you to fly into depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as location, flight options, cost, amenities, and ease of navigation to make the right decision for your trip.
Transition to the next article section:
For more information on planning your trip to St. Petersburg, check out our comprehensive guide to the city’s top attractions, dining options, and accommodations.
Tips for Choosing the Right Airport for St. Petersburg, FL
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience, consider the following tips when choosing the right airport for your trip to St. Petersburg, Florida:
Tip 1: Consider your destination within St. Petersburg. If you’re primarily staying in downtown St. Petersburg, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) is the more convenient option due to its proximity.
Tip 2: Research flight options and destinations. Tampa International Airport (TPA) offers a wider range of domestic and international flights, including more direct routes to major cities.
Tip 3: Compare costs and amenities. PIE typically offers lower parking rates and more budget-friendly transportation options, while TPA boasts a wider selection of shops, restaurants, and passenger amenities.
Tip 4: Evaluate the airport’s size and layout. TPA is a larger airport with more gates and terminals, which may require additional time for navigation. PIE, being smaller, provides a more streamlined and efficient experience.
Tip 5: Consider your travel preferences. If you value convenience and a quick commute to downtown St. Petersburg, PIE is the better choice. However, if you prioritize flight options, amenities, and international connections, TPA is the preferred option.
Tip 6: Check for any ongoing airport renovations or closures. Plan accordingly to avoid potential disruptions or delays during your travel dates.
Tip 7: Explore alternative transportation options. Consider using ride-sharing services, taxis, or rental cars for convenient transportation to and from the airports.
Tip 8: Utilize airport resources. Both TPA and PIE provide detailed websites and mobile apps with real-time flight information, maps, and amenities guides for a hassle-free travel experience.
By following these tips, you can make an informed decision and choose the airport that best suits your travel needs and preferences for your trip to St. Petersburg, Florida.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Remember to consider the factors discussed above, research your options thoroughly, and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable airport experience.
Conclusion
Selecting the optimal airport for your to St. Petersburg, Florida, requires careful consideration of several key factors. Proximity to your destination, flight availability, amenities, and personal preferences all play a significant role in making an informed decision.
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) excels in convenience, with its close proximity to downtown St. Petersburg. Tampa International Airport (TPA), on the other hand, offers a wider array of flight options and amenities, making it the preferred choice for travelers prioritizing variety and international connections. Ultimately, the choice between PIE and TPA depends on your specific travel needs and preferences.
