Miami is synonymous with eternal summer, vacations, good life, fun, excess. This sunny city literally “born” on the beach divinely mixes the Hispanic tradition of the many inhabitants of Cuban origin with the typical American vivacity. Between the sparkle of the sea and that of the skyscrapers, there is much to discover in the largest urban area of Florida. Colonized by Europeans first in the 16th century and then in 1743 … Miami owes its name to a tribal word of the Native Americans meaning “fresh water”. In fact, it is on a network of rivers and canals that the city arises. Let’s find out more.
When to go?
Miami has no seasons … its climate is divided into two periods, as happens in tropical countries. The windy and rainy season is the winter, while between April and November – although characterized by great heat – you can play it safe: it almost never rains. If you book your vacation for the fall season, however, try to aim for November and avoid the “hurricane” months (September and October).
Travel documents
When you enter the United States from abroad you shall show at your arrival a valid passport and a mandatory electronic tourist visa, which will allow you to stay for a short period. You can fill in and obtain this online. Do not forget to add a good travel medical insurance which is highly recommended, especially for the USA.
What to pack for your trip to Miami
When you go to the United States, the electrical adapter should be the first thing you pack. No one likes to fight with the weird American plugs! Also bring plenty of spare clothes, summer clothes, light and short-sleeved, plus a jacket or sweater for some particularly cool evenings. Don’t forget: hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimsuits, comfortable shoes. Also pack some medicines and a first aid kit and… of course… cameras and their chargers.
How to get to Miami
Miami is a city very well served by all means of transportation. But what we strongly recommend, above all, is the airplane. Alternatively, use interstate buses or rent a car and reach it by land. You can also decide to have the best vacation ever and hire a private transfer, such as our Transfeero service.
Miami is served by three urban airports.
Miami International Airport (MIA) stands as a key gateway between the United States and Latin America, and it’s one of the busiest airports in the world for international passengers. Nestled in the heart of Miami-Dade County with four runways and three large terminals, this bustling hub not only serves as a primary airport for most of South Florida but also captivates travelers with its wide array of amenities and services. Spanning over 3,300 acres and boasting four runways that accommodate the traffic of numerous airlines, this airport connects to more than 160 destinations around the globe. Miami-Fort Lauderdale Airport is located in the central part of the Miami metropolitan area, 33 km from the city center. It helps MIA dealing with the enormous load of international air traffic. Two large runways, 4 terminals and dozens of services and connections make it a very efficient airport. It serves the entire Miami area, but with particular attention to the intermediate neighbourhoods, between downtown and Palm Beach. Located 70 km from downtown Miami, the Miami Palm Beach Airport (PBI) is the third – in terms of traffic and importance – of the Miami metropolitan area. It has been in operation since the 1930s and, with its three runways and over 5 million passengers a year, it helps Miami’s main airports handling international traffic. It also handles domestic flights to the North Miami area.
How to move through Miami
In order to move around the urban area of Miami, you just need to rent a car (or another vehicle) and drive it on wide and well-organized streets, where even a foreigner feels at ease. If you prefer public transport, there is a wide choice: the elevated external subway (Metrorail), the city buses, the small tourist trams (trolleys) or the boats that act as “water taxis” to move without problems on the lagoon.
What to see?
Miami is a vibrant city famous for its beautiful beaches, colorful neighborhoods, and lively atmosphere. One of the best places to visit is South Beach, where you can relax on the sand, swim in the warm ocean, and admire the famous Art Deco buildings along Ocean Drive.
Another must-see area is Little Havana, the heart of Miami’s Cuban community. Here, you can walk along Calle Ocho, listen to Latin music, try traditional Cuban food, and enjoy a strong Cuban coffee. For nature lovers, a trip to Biscayne National Park is a great choice. The park is known for its clear blue waters, coral reefs, and marine life, making it perfect for snorkeling, boating, and sightseeing.
Downtown Miami and Brickell offer a modern contrast, with impressive skyscrapers, restaurants, shops, and waterfront views. Visitors can also explore Wynwood Walls, an outdoor art area famous for its colorful murals and street art. Finally, don’t miss the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables, a beautiful historic swimming pool surrounded by Mediterranean-style architecture. With its beaches, culture, art, and nightlife, Miami offers something for every type of traveler and is an exciting destination to explore.
Beaches of Miami
Miami’s beaches are famous for their soft white sand, warm turquoise water, and lively atmosphere. South Beach is one of the most popular, attracting visitors with its beautiful shoreline, colorful lifeguard towers, and nearby restaurants and shops. People come to swim, sunbathe, play volleyball, or simply relax while enjoying the ocean breeze.
Miami Beach also offers stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the sky fills with vibrant colors. For a quieter experience, visitors can explore beaches farther from the busy city center. The tropical climate makes Miami a great beach destination throughout much of the year. Also enjoy swimming at North Beach, Surfside, Haulover Park, Sunny Isles… . Whether you enjoy water sports, relaxing by the sea, or exploring coastal neighborhoods, Miami’s beaches offer something enjoyable for everyone.
What to do and NOT to do in Miami
You can do anything you want, in Miami. Enjoying the beach is the best choice, and so is also practice sports and live thoroughly the exciting “nightlife”. When in Miami, AVOID: sunbathing in topless, eating the city’s exaggerated street-food, stare at people you don’t know, protest to policemen when they stop you in the street. Do not walk alone in places such as Overtown, Liberty City e Little Haiti.
