Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Miami

Mel_Medd

Gratuity may already be included in restaurant bills. If not, it's appropriate to tip 10% - 20%.

Chris O

DO expect many more people to speak fluent Spanish than in most parts of American. DON'T assume they're foreigners just because they do!

lisajlb

The hop-on, hop-off bus is a great cost-effective way to see the city on different routes over a couple of days.

In the words of those who've been there before...

waxlady

Miami is a vibrant multicultural contemporary art scene. It's filled with incredible museums, restaurants and beaches. I love the fact that Miami has so many new and upcoming areas that are hidden from the beaten path of the everyday tourist.

lisajlb

Miami is a great location for couples that want to keep themselves occupied with ease. It is easy to get around with a number of options, great food and drink options, lots of great sports teams to watch, oh, and great beaches to get married on!

Marc L

A fun weekend for groups or couples getting away to the Magic City. Aimed for the crowd in their late 20s or 30s.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

Miami International Airport (MIA) is a major hub with more than 150 daily domestic and international flights.

Train:

Amtrak has two train lines between Miami and New York City, the Silver Star and Silver Meteor. Both stop in several cities along the East Coast.

Bus:

You can take a Greyhound or Megabus from many U.S. cities to Miami.

Do I need a visa?

If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you may need a visa to visit Miami, unless your country is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The program allows citizens of certain countries to visit the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

While Miami Beach boasts sunny weather year-round, springtime brings low humidity and high-octane events such as Ultra Music Festival and Miami Beach Gay Pride. You can expect average daily temperatures this time of year to have highs of 26°C and lows of 20°C.

In December, art aficionados willing to brave peak-season prices can rub shoulders with celebrities at South Beach’s annual Art Basel. Average daily temperatures this time of year are highs of 24°C with lows of 17°C.

Trains

There are no trains that operate in Miami Beach. But the Metrorail elevated rail system connects the airport to Downtown Miami and South Miami. You will need an Easy Card in advance.

For fares, schedules and schedules, visit the Metrorail's website.

Additionally, Brightline high-speed trains make three stops in Downtown Miami (and Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach).

For Brightline fares, routes and schedules, visit their website.

Buses

Metrobus has nearly 100 routes, and is the only public transit that serves Miami Beach. The Miami Beach Bus Route 150 runs express every half hour to the airport with five stops.

For info on routes, fares and schedules, see here.

Metromover

This free service offers three loops between Downtown Miami and Brickell and connects Metrorail and Metrobus.

Miami Beach Trolley

This free trolley has four routes and operates daily. For routes and schedules, visit their website.

Bikes

Biking is a great way to get around Miami Beach, and Citi Bike has several stations in the area.

You can also rent a bike or Segway from Bike and Roll Miami or take one of their tours.

Taxis

Taxis are plentiful, but be sure the word “taxi” or “cab” is on the vehicle to avoid an illegal unlicensed cab.

For info on taxi companies available in Miami Beach, see here

Rideshares

Both Uber and Lyft operate in Miami Beach and are available using their apps on your smartphone.