Miami Travel

Discover Miami's Wonders

Miami is a dynamic city offering rich cultural diversity, beautiful beaches, and a lively arts scene. Known for its unique blend of Latin American influence, visitors can explore Little Havana, enjoy nightlife in South Beach, or discover the thriving art districts. Miami’s mix of urban excitement, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences make it one of Florida’s top destinations for travelers.

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Description

Immigration has played a major role in Miami's explosive growth over the last 80 years, and this has naturally had a great influence on the shape of Miami today. Its people make the city pulsate with a large and vibrant multicultural art scene, while its location at the sea and in the sun has attracted life-indulging pleasure-seekers from all over the world: the lazy beach culture by day gives way to infectious musical rhythms by night. Miami – in this guide also referring to Miami Beach, which is built on a sandbar across Biscayne Bay – is a city of contrasts: across the street from one of the country's most exclusive nightclubs, visitors in the know can catch a gritty open mic night, and salsa clubs and musical theater of the highest caliber exist here side by side. Little Havana and Little Haiti are the centers of Caribbean life in the city, while the Art Deco architecture near South Beach showcases Miami's heyday in the roaring 20s, mixed with today's latest fashion in dining, wining, living, and clubbing. Miami Beach exudes a celebrity lifestyle, while Miami itself has fast become an international cultural hot spot as a center of Latin and North American art and gastronomy with inspiration taken from all corners of the world. Miami has picturesque beaches, exceptional nightlife, plentiful shopping opportunities, and delicious dining options. Although there is an abundance of things to do in the city and on the beach, visitors should not pass up the chance of taking one-day excursions to see some of the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Useful information

Population:

The city: 460,289 (2024) Metro area: 6.3 million (2024)

Currency:

US Dollar (USD)

Emergency Info:

Emergency Number: 911
Miami Police Department: +1 305 579 6111

Opening Hours:

Do & See

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

This impressive arts center hosts an opera house, a concert hall, a theatre, and an outdoor plaza that combined present a constant flow of world-class shows and performances. While top Broadway musicals, concerts, and ballets already promise the best art performances, complimentary tours of the center also offer great experiences.

Ancient Spanish Monastery

Originally constructed in Spain, this historic structure endured significant hardship during the First Carlist War. It was seized and repurposed as a granary until 1925 when it was purchased, disassembled, packed into boxes, and shipped to the United States. Despite facing additional struggles during transport, the medieval monastery can now be appreciated in North Miami Beach, where it offers Sunday masses, events, and tours.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

A popular destination for both tourists and locals, this stunning state park located on Key Biscayne is renowned for its pristine beaches, which have been recognized as among America's Top 10. The park's historic lighthouse, the oldest structure in South Florida, is also a major attraction. Visitors can explore the park's scenic trails, which offer breathtaking views of downtown Miami's skyline, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Fishing and picnicking are also popular pastimes, providing a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Everglades National Park

Situated on the southern tip of Florida, the Everglades is a vast wetland preserve spanning 1.5 million acres. It is the only subtropical wetland in North America and the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles live side by side. This expansive ecosystem is home to many endangered species, including the leatherback turtle, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee. As there is no public transportation to the park, renting a car or joining an organized boat or bus tour is the best way to get to this wildlife experience.

Jungle Island

Nestled between Downtown Miami and South Beach on Watson Island, Jungle Island is an iconic eco-adventure park that immerses visitors in lush tropical landscapes and close-up encounters with exotic animals. The park is home to over 300 vibrant bird species, including parrots and macaws, and offers engaging wildlife exhibits featuring primates, big cats, reptiles, and more. Beyond the wildlife, the park boasts botanical wonders like the African sausage tree and a diverse collection of rare cycads. Recent renovations have introduced thrilling attractions such as zip lines, an outdoor wind tunnel flight experience, and the Jungle Splash Waterpark.

Kaseya Center

Located in the heart of Downtown Miami and overlooking the stunning Biscayne Bay waterfront, Kaseya Center is a versatile international venue that hosts a variety of sophisticated and world-class events. From A-list concerts and family shows to national conferences and sporting events, the arena hosts more than 80 non-basketball events every year.

Key West

Key West, the southernmost point in the continental U.S., is famous for its lively nightlife, pristine beaches, historic charm, and signature conch-style pastel homes. Located 130 miles south of Miami and just 90 miles from Cuba, this quirky island feels like its own little world. The drive along the Overseas Highway to Key West is a bucket-list experience, offering jaw-dropping views of turquoise waters and scenic islands. Once there, don’t miss the Ernest Hemingway House, where you can tour the author’s former home and meet the resident six-toed cats.

Little Havana

Little Havana is Miami’s beating heart of Cuban-American culture, where vibrant murals, the aroma of Cuban coffee, and the rhythms of salsa music fill the air. This iconic neighborhood offers a sensory overload—colorful streets, authentic eateries, cigar shops, and even free-roaming roosters bring its character to life. On the last Friday of every month, the neighborhood turns up the energy for Viernes Culturales (Cultural Fridays), a street party with live music, dancing, food, and art. For an even bigger celebration, don’t miss the legendary Calle Ocho Music Festival in March, one of the largest Latino festivals in the U.S.

Dining

Andiamo! Brick Oven Pizza

Popular pizzeria serving a variety of brick-oven thin-crust pies along with salads, panini sandwiches, and pasta, as well as a comprehensive beer and wine list in a converted industrial space, which used to be a tire shop.

Carpaccio Restaurant

Located among the Bal Harbour shops, this popular Italian restaurant serves – as the name already implies – different varieties of carpaccio, made of veal, venison, salmon, or tuna. By also serving other traditional dishes such as calamari, sea bass, pizza, and pasta, every expectation of authentic Italian food will be met and every taste bud will be happily served.

Cvi.Che 105

Cvi.Che 105 is an award-winning Peruvian restaurant with several locations in Miami known for its wide selection of inventive and fresh ceviches as well as other traditional dishes. From the food to the atmosphere and especially the service, Cvi.Che 105 is an absolute winner.

Joe's Stone Crab

From October to May, Joe's Stone Crab draws crowds who come for its delicious seafood dishes, succulent crab, and heavenly Key lime pie, among others. However, getting a table on a busy night can take some time, but it's definitely worth the wait.

Mandolin Aegean Bistro

Housed in a converted 1930s bungalow, Mandolin Aegean Bistro is a charming restaurant full of character and history that specializes in Greek and Turkish cuisine from the Aegean coast. It offers an array of delicious dishes such as freshly grilled fish, ali nazik, köfte, and manti.

Matador Room

Matador Room is a quintessential Miami restaurant, as the fusion of Spanish, the Caribbean, and Latin American cuisine combined with a wide and diverse wine selection will blow your mind. Set right on the beach, with a luxurious and elegantly designed interior, this restaurant will always stay in your mind. Enjoy their indoor dining, terrace, or bar area.

Michael's Genuine

With a heavy emphasis on local and organic ingredients, this restaurant offers sophisticated New American gastronomy. Dishes are labeled as small, medium, and large, allowing diners to mix and match different tastes so that you can really explore quite a lot of what the restaurant has to offer.

NIU Kitchen

NIU Kitchen is a hip eatery that focuses on Catalan cuisine, with creative, sometimes unexpected, but always delicious results. As Catalan dishes also depend on wine, their in-house selection will complement this unforgettable dining experience quite perfectly.

Cafés

Imperial Moto Café

Moto-inspired coffee shop serving handcrafted specialty coffee, tea, freshly baked pastries, and lunch in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. But Imperial Moto Café is more than just a coffee shop. Here you will also find a vintage motorcycle gallery, branded apparel and gear, as well as a barbershop.

Lemoni Cafe

In the vibrant Buena Vista neighborhood, two best friends from Argentina and France have come together to create a unique café that blends South American and Moroccan influences. Their motto, "Eat Good, Feel Good," perfectly encapsulates their concept. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet or savory, this charming European-style café offers a diverse range of treats, including paninis, wraps, and salads. And on weekends, don't miss out on their mouth-watering brunch.

Nikki Beach Miami

While its restaurant is open all week long, Sunday's brunch at the beach is a weekly highlight and, within Miami, probably still unrivaled. With its all-you-can-eat brunches, including every treat from sushi over omelets to desserts galore, this is St. Tropez with an American twist.

Rosetta Bakery

Indulging in the delectable offerings of an Italian bakery is a heavenly experience for anyone with a sweet tooth. This one in Miami Beach showcases the admirable art of Italian baking, delighting both connoisseurs and casual food lovers alike. Their menu boasts a wide selection of sweet treats and savory delicacies to satisfy every craving. The bright and inviting interior is styled with a Scandinavian flair and serves coffee to accompany their mouth-watering selection of Italian breads and pastries.

Suite Habana Cafe

Suite Habana is a quaint Cuban café serving hot and iced coffees along with some pastries in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Vice City Bean

Vice City Bean is a neighborhood coffee shop offering a great coffee selection as well as a variety of pastries and baked goods – doughnuts, croissants, and empanadas – to perfectly pair with your drink of choice. Its interior is bright and relaxing, its Wi-Fi fast, and its staff very accommodating.

Bars & Nightlife

Ball & Chain

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Havana, Ball & Chain is an iconic nightclub that has been a fixture since the 1930s-1950s. Originally established as a jazz club, it has since evolved into a live music venue that features salsa dancing and Latin music. In addition to its music offerings, Ball & Chain also serves up delicious Cuban-style food and drinks.

Bar Collins

This bar, located in the lobby of the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, serves fresh cocktails and locally brewed beer that can be enjoyed on a fancy outdoor terrace with great views of Miami's Wynwood Art District. For the hungry crowd, this venue also serves small bites and snacks indoors.

Broken Shaker

This award-winning bar at The Freehand Hotel offers an ever-evolving selection of cocktails that are all refined with the freshest garden herbs, spices, and other exotic ingredients from all around the world. The outdoor courtyard, with a fountain and a pool area, makes this venue the perfect place to enjoy and relax out in the open during the day and night.

Do Not Sit On The Furniture

Do Not Sit On The Furniture is Miami's premier underground music nightclub specializing in house music and featuring the best DJs from around the world in a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere.

Liv

The current king of clubs in Miami is Liv, hosting an ultra-exclusive lounge and a high-energy nightclub for all those who want to dance the night away. In this home to celebrities, VIPs, and Miami's local party crowd, DJs spin everything from rock and hip hop to house and electro, making it onto Reuter's "Worlds' Top 10 Nightclubs" list.

Living Room

Living Room is a modern bar situated in the W Hotel in South Beach, where you can toast with your friends or mingle with strangers. The classy environment, with velvet and faux fur furniture, invites you to have a cocktail while living on the motto of seeing and being seen.

Mango's Tropical Cafe

Mango's Tropical Cafe is a popular restaurant and nightclub in South Beach offering drinks and bites as well as dance shows, live bands, salsa lessons, and lots of entertainment until the wee hours of the morning.

MO Bar & Lounge

Located within the Mandarin Oriental, MO Bar & Lounge exudes sophistication and boasts stunning vistas of the city's skyline and waterfront, making it the perfect place to enjoy a delectable cocktail while soaking in the scenery. Additionally, the lounge has a bar that serves dim sum, caviar, and sushi for those who are feeling peckish.

Shopping

Aventura Mall

Aventura Mall is a central establishment in the gorgeous city of Aventura, right between Miami and Fort Lauderdale and only a few minutes away from the beautiful beaches. While offering over 300 fine retailers, this is the home to some of the most popular fashion brands, and also for a variety of culinary delights that you should not miss out on.

Bal Harbour Village

In this area, well-known American and European designer shops offer exclusive shopping experiences with great designs and high quality. Do take a break and enjoy some refreshments at the tropical garden, after admiring some artwork at the Bal Harbour Gallery, and before getting pampered at a beauty salon.

Bayside Marketplace

For over 30 years, Bayside Marketplace has been a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. This two-story open-air shopping center features around 70 shops and 30 restaurants and serves as the embarkation point for several boat tours. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the presence of street performers and live music.

Books & Books

This beloved independent shop offers a carefully curated selection of books across all genres, from bestsellers to hard-to-find gems. But the real magic happens beyond the shelves—its charming outdoor patio café is the perfect spot to sip a coffee while diving into your latest read. The store also hosts frequent author events, book signings, and community discussions, making it a cultural hub for Miami’s book lovers.

CocoWalk

Lively CocoWalk hosts more than 40 shops alongside restaurants, outdoor cafés, and a movie theatre. As the European-styled open-air mall does not only perfect shopping opportunities but also bar nights, you can stay here nearly all day (and night) long.

Dolphin Mall

Dolphin Mall is a shopping paradise for all the shopaholics out there who crave a massive selection of top-brand outlets. The best part is that you can easily reach this outlet from both the airport and downtown, making it a great starting point for your vacation or a last-minute treat.

Downtown Miami

Downtown Miami is a dynamic shopping destination where high-end jewelry, urban retail, and cultural attractions come together. The Miami Jewelry District is a major draw, offering a dazzling array of diamonds, gold, and luxury timepieces. Beyond jewelry, visitors can explore Bayside Marketplace, an open-air shopping and dining hub along Biscayne Bay, or browse trendy boutiques and flagship stores.

Lincoln Road

Nestled in the heart of South Beach, Lincoln Road is a pedestrian-only thoroughfare that spans eight blocks and offers a plethora of shops and restaurants. In addition to its wide array of dining and shopping options, Lincoln Road is also home to a stunning art gallery that showcases the work of talented local artists. And with its mall featuring a mix of high-end and budget-friendly stores, there's something to cater to every taste and budget.

Tourist Information

Passport/Visa

Citizens of Schengen Area countries, along with Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Ireland, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom, can visit the United States for up to 90 days without needing a visa, provided they obtain an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before their trip. All other travelers must secure a visa before visiting the U.S. In addition, international travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. For the most current information and any updates on entry requirements, it is advisable to consult the U.S. Department of State website or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport (FLL)

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is located about 55 kilometers from Downtown Miami, a drive that typically takes 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Travelers can easily reach Miami via several transportation options, including ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, available directly from the airport. For a more affordable choice, the Tri-Rail commuter train connects FLL to Miami with a transfer shuttle to the station, offering a journey time of around 30 to 40 minutes. Taxis are also available at designated stands. Additionally, visitors can opt for private shuttle services such as GO Airport Shuttle or SuperShuttle, or rent a car from one of the many rental agencies at the airport.

Miami International Airport (MIA)

Miami International Airport (MIA) is located approximately 11 kilometers from Downtown Miami, making it a short 10 to 15-minute drive, depending on traffic. Travelers can easily access the city center through various transportation options, including taxis and ride-sharing services, which are readily available at the airport’s arrivals level. For those looking for more affordable or public transport options, the MIA Mover is a free automated people mover that connects the airport to Miami Central Station, where passengers can transfer to the Metrorail, Metrobus, and Tri-Rail services.

Public Transport

Miami’s public transportation system is primarily made up of buses, the Metrorail, and the Metromover. The Metrorail is an elevated train system that connects areas like Downtown Miami, Coconut Grove, and South Miami, while the Metromover is a free, automated rail system that operates within Downtown and Brickell, making it a convenient option for short trips. Buses cover the entire city and the surrounding areas, providing extensive routes for visitors looking to explore Miami on a budget. The Easy Card is the go-to fare card for the Metrorail and Metrobus, offering convenient payment options and discounted fares for multiple rides. For information on fares, routes, and timetables, visit Miami-Dade Transit's official website.

Taxi

Taxis are widely available in Miami, particularly at airports, hotels, and popular tourist areas like South Beach and Downtown, but they are not as commonly hailed on the street as in cities like New York. Most travelers, however, prefer using ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, which operate throughout the city and offer a more convenient and often cheaper alternative.

Electricity

US standard voltage is 110-115V and the standard frequency is 60Hz. The sockets and the power plugs are of type A and B. Type A plugs have two flat parallel pins, while Type B plugs have two flat parallel pins plus a grounding pin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Miami (FAQs)

- What is the best time to visit Miami? As Miami has a long and beautiful season of summer all year long, deciding on when to visit Miami mainly depends on what you are looking for and what you expect: while spring is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and venues, the summer gets quite hot and somewhat deserted – keep in mind that these seasons have the highest threat of hurricanes. During the fall, Miami comes to life again with its many events, such as the Miami Art Week, while the winter attracts most visitors with its ever-lasting sunshine and many events and adventures that are yet to come. - Is Miami safe? Overall, Miami is a safe city for tourists. However, like most U.S. large cities, Miami does have a few safety issues, especially regarding drugs, gangs, and crime. But visitors shouldn’t worry about that since the most dangerous areas, such as Overtown, Model City, Downtown, Little Haiti, and Allapattah are not ordinarily on tourists’ itineraries. In Miami, pickpocketing can be an issue, so do not look too vulnerable and always use common sense when exploring the city. - Is Miami worth a visit? Yes, definitely. Miami is worth a visit not only for its year-round pleasantly warm weather, pristine beaches, and energetic nightlife but also for its astonishingly rich cultural life. - Does Miami get hurricanes? Yes. Southeast Florida, where Miami is situated along with West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, is very susceptible to hurricanes. Hurricane season in Florida usually occurs between August through late October.

Pharmacy

In Miami, major pharmacy chains include CVS Pharmacy, Walgreens, and Walmart Pharmacy, each offering multiple locations throughout the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Miami?

The best time to visit Miami is from December to May when the weather is warm and dry. This period avoids the hurricane season and offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.

What are the top attractions to see in Miami?

Top attractions in Miami include South Beach, the Art Deco Historic District, Wynwood Walls, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, and the Miami Seaquarium. Each offers a unique glimpse into the city's culture and history.

How can I get around Miami without a car?

Miami offers several public transportation options, including the Metrorail, Metromover, and Metrobus. Rideshare services and bike rentals are also popular for getting around the city conveniently.

What local dishes should I try while in Miami?

Miami's cuisine is influenced by its diverse culture, so be sure to try Cuban sandwiches, stone crabs, ceviche, and key lime pie. These dishes reflect the city's vibrant culinary scene.

Which neighborhoods are best to stay in Miami?

Popular neighborhoods for visitors include South Beach for its nightlife and beaches, Brickell for its upscale vibe, and Coconut Grove for a more laid-back atmosphere. Each offers a different experience of the city.

How many days should I plan to spend in Miami?

A 3 to 5-day trip is ideal to explore Miami's main attractions, enjoy the beaches, and experience the local culture. This allows time for day trips and leisure activities without feeling rushed.

Are there any worthwhile day trips from Miami?

Yes, consider day trips to the Everglades National Park for wildlife viewing, Key Largo for snorkeling, or Fort Lauderdale for its canals and beaches. Each offers a unique experience outside the city.

Trips

South Florida Self Drive Explorer

Miami Pre or Post Cruise

South Florida Self Drive Explorer

Miami Pre or Post Cruise

South Florida Self Drive Explorer

Miami Pre or Post Cruise

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