Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour

If you’re a fan of cigars or just curious about Tampa’s famed cigar scene, this Cigar City Bus Tour might just be a perfect fit. While I haven’t personally taken it (yet!), I’ve gone through the details, reviews, and itinerary to give you a no-nonsense look at what you can expect from this three-hour journey through Tampa’s cigar hotspots.

What immediately caught my eye is how highly rated this experience is—a perfect 5.0 from all 16 reviews—and, more notably, its high recommendation rate of 100%. That’s rare! Two things I love about this tour? First, its small-group setting with a max of 12 people, which promises a more personalized experience. Second, the variety of places visited, from giant cigar lounges to intimate family-run shops, offers a real taste of Tampa’s cigar culture.

One thing to keep in mind is that some stops are only available on weekends or weekdays, so if you’re traveling midweek, you’ll want to plan accordingly. Also, at $64.99 per person, it’s a solid value considering the variety of stops, the guide, and included bottled water. If you’re into cigars or history, enjoy lively local spots, or simply want a relaxed, social experience in Tampa, this tour has a lot to offer.

Who should consider this tour? It’s ideal for adult travelers who appreciate good cigars, enjoy learning about local culture, and like small, relaxed groups. It’s not specifically designed for kids, but if you’re a grown-up who loves a leisurely, culturally rich outing, this will hit the spot.

Key Points

• Highly rated small-group experience with personalized attention
• Variety of cigar lounges, from large venues to intimate shops
• Learn about Tampa’s cigar history and culture with a knowledgeable guide
• Includes visits to working cigar factories and lounges, with some stops on weekends only
• Beautiful views and lively atmospheres, especially at rooftop lounges
• Great value for the price, considering the stops, guide, and included water

What is the Tampa Cigar City Bus Tour?

This tour is a curated journey into Tampa’s famous cigar scene, led by Tampa Minibus Tours. It’s a roughly three-hour ride around Tampa’s historic Ybor City, often called the Cigar Capital of the World. The tour takes place in a cozy 12-passenger minibus, which makes for a more intimate experience compared to big tour buses.

The tour is designed for adults interested in cigars, Tampa’s history, or simply enjoying a leisurely social outing. While not explicitly labeled as family-friendly, it’s mostly suitable for mature travelers who appreciate a relaxed, educational environment.

The cost is $64.99 per person, which covers the guide, bottled water, parking fees, and the ride itself. You’ll get to explore iconic cigar lounges, watch cigar rollers in action, and learn about the local history from a guide who knows the ins and outs of Tampa’s cigar industry.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Start: J.C. Newman Cigar Company
Your journey begins here, the oldest family-operated cigar factory in Tampa. On weekdays, you have the chance to walk through the factory itself—an authentic, working cigar production site. It’s a great way to see craftsmanship firsthand. The tour here is free and lasts about 25 minutes, providing a solid introduction to Tampa’s cigar legacy.

Grand Cathedral Cigars
Next, you’ll visit Tampa’s largest cigar lounge—a converted cathedral, which sets an impressive scene. The space is more than just a cigar lounge; it’s a full-bar with live music, creating a vibrant, lively atmosphere. It’s a must-see for its unique architecture and ambiance. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, soaking in the sights and sounds.

Cigars International Superstore
On weekends, you get access to a 6,000 sq ft shop with over 1,300 cigar brands—almost a retail paradise for cigar lovers. The lounge features a full-service bar, multiple spaces to relax, and food trucks that stop by regularly. Think of this as a cigar shopping experience combined with a social lounge.

Ybor Cigars Plus
Here, you’ll experience a more intimate setting. Known for handmade cigars and some of Ybor’s best Mojitos, this spot gives you a chance to watch cigar rollers in action. It’s a tactile experience—seeing cigars being rolled from start to finish is pretty special. This stop is also on weekends only and lasts about 30 minutes.

Sterling Cigar Lounge & Bar
For an elevated vibe, this rooftop lounge offers a stunning view over Ybor City. It’s stylish and perfect for unwinding, especially if you catch a live band on the rooftop. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, taking in the cityscape and enjoying a fine cigar.

La Faraona Cigars
Your last stop is a family-run cigar lounge, where you can enjoy a hand-rolled cigar made by the owner’s family. It’s a cozy, personal spot to sit back with a cigar and sip on café con leche. It’s a fitting end to your tour, lasting around 15 minutes.

Authentic Experiences and What You’ll Love

From the reviews, it’s clear that Jamal, the guide, is a big hit. Multiple reviewers mention his knowledgeable, friendly, and personable approach, making the tour feel less like a staged visit and more like hanging out with a knowledgeable friend. He’s able to tailor his explanations to your level of cigar familiarity, whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned smoker.

Guests loved the variety of venues—from large, lively lounges to intimate family-run shops—and appreciated that they got to see cigar rolling firsthand. One reviewer raved about the Afro-Cuban music and the overall relaxed, fun vibe, making it more than just a stroll through shops but a genuine cultural experience.

The value for the price is another highlight. With stops that include free tastings, the chance to watch cigar rollers, and a guided overview of Tampa’s cigar history, many find this tour well worth the $64. The inclusion of bottled water and parking fees adds convenience, and the small group size makes it more personal.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour boasts many strengths, some considerations are worth noting. The weekend-only stops mean that if you’re visiting midweek, your options might be limited. Also, the duration—about 3 hours—is just enough to get a taste without feeling rushed, but cigar buffs wanting an in-depth experience might find it somewhat brief.

Another point is that, since some venues are only open on weekends, you might miss out on certain sights if your schedule is limited. Plus, as with any guided tour, your experience largely depends on the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge—though reviews suggest Jamal hits that mark.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re an adult traveler with an interest in cigar culture, Tampa’s history, or lively lounge atmospheres, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small groups, personalized attention, and a relaxed, social environment.

It’s not geared toward families with children or those seeking a high-adrenaline adventure, but it’s perfect for grown-ups wanting a blend of education, entertainment, and local flavor. If you’re curious about Tampa’s cigar history or want to experience the city’s vibrant Ybor City scene, this tour offers a fun, accessible way to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for adults, given the focus on cigars and the bar environment. It’s not specifically family-friendly, but if you’re traveling with older teens who are interested in cigars or local culture, it might still work.

How long does the tour last?
It takes approximately 3 hours, including all stops and travel time. It starts at 3:30 pm, making it a perfect late afternoon activity.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers the guide, bottled water, parking fees, and transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus. You also get to visit multiple cigar lounges and shops.

Are the stops on weekends only?
Yes, some visits, like Cigars International Superstore and Ybor Cigars Plus, are only available on weekends. Check ahead if your visit falls midweek.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
The tour operates with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience. The details don’t specify a minimum, but with the current max, it’s pretty flexible.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is usually booked about 15 days ahead. Given its popularity, especially for cigar enthusiasts, booking early is recommended.

What’s the best way to get there?
The tour starts at J.C. Newman Cigar Company, which is near public transportation options in Tampa. Free parking is included, so driving is also a good option.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. That makes planning a little less stressful.

Final Thoughts

The Tampa Cigar City Bus Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience for adults interested in cigars, Tampa’s culture, and lively lounges. It combines historical insights, personal interactions at family-run cigar shops, and vibrant atmosphere at larger venues, all in a small-group setting that fosters conversation and discovery.

If you’re after a relaxed, fun taste of Tampa’s cigar scene with knowledgeable guides and authentic stops, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for those who appreciate the social aspect of cigar lounging, are curious about local traditions, or simply want a unique way to experience Tampa’s vibrant Ybor City.

For the budget-conscious, it offers good value considering the variety of venues and the insider access you get. Just remember to plan ahead for weekends if you want to visit all the stops, and be prepared for a laid-back, culturally rich outing that’s as much about the stories and atmosphere as the cigars themselves.