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Insider's Guide to Miami: Top Tips for Exploring the Magic City

Writer's picture: Shelly MaffiaShelly Maffia
the front of a vintage car driving down Ocean drive in Miami with palm trees and luxury hotel
Ocean Drive

Miami is known for the year-round sunshine, luxury accommodations, and art and food scene, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want to relax and be entertained. If you’re looking for a romantic weekend, a trip with friends, or a solo retreat, Miami delivers.


Read on for a glimpse of the best of Miami. For a perfect trip to Miami that suits your style and budget, reach out. We will design the best custom trip for you and your crew.


Insider’s Guide to Miami: Getting Around the Magic City

Fly into Miami International Airport
Miami International Airport

Airports: The Miami International Airport (MIA) is the primary entry point for visitors, though Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport (FLL), 30 minutes north, offers a practical alternative.


Getting Around: Walk, bike, or hop on a scooter to explore Miami’s colorful neighborhoods; use the free trolleys and Metromover to explore downtown, and rideshares when necessary.


Best Time to Visit: December through May combine pleasant weather with numerous exciting events, including Art Basel in December. Summer and early fall are warm, but with sticky days and the risk of storms.


Insider’s Guide to Miami’s Must-Visit Neighborhoods

chill out at South Beach
South Beach

Miami’s beauty is in its diversity. Explore:


  • Little Havana: Explore Cuban culture with salsa music, cigar shops, and local food.

  • Wynwood: A colorful & artsy neighborhood filled with amazing street murals; unique galleries, and great breweries.

  • South Beach: Known for its Art Deco architecture, nightlife, and designer shopping.

  • Brickell & Downtown: Modern Miami with contemporary hotels, rooftop bars, and high-end dining.


Top Luxury Hotels in Miami with Exclusive Perks

Image of 1 Hotel South Beach with eco-chic design and ocean views.
Image Courtesy of 1 Hotel South Beach

Below are some of our favorite luxury hotels with top-notch service and special perks:


  • 1 Hotel South Beach: An eco-chic boutique hotel with ocean views and farm-to-table dining. VBS Travel's Virtuoso perks include daily breakfast, a $100 hotel credit, and an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible to sweeten the deal.


  • Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club — Expect Four Season's standard elegance and modern amenities at this restored 1930's hotel in Surfside. Reach out for details on the exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities you will receive when you book with VBS Travel.


  • The Faena Hotel Miami Beach: Design-lover dream; award-winning spa and nightly entertainment that’s over the top. When you book with VBS Travel, you will enjoy Virtuoso perks, including a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.


  • The Miami Beach EDITION: A modern luxury hotel with a few quirky features like an indoor ice rink and rooftop pool. VBS Travel's Marriot STARS perks include $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.


  • Hotel Greystone — Adults Only: Trendy South Beach gem with a rooftop pool and locally inspired cuisine. You'll get perks like room upgrades, early check-in/late check-out, and perks that are unique to you when you book with VBS Travel.


Unforgettable Experiences in Miami

image of cocktail on bar
Cuban Culture in Miami
  • Art & Culture: The Wynwood Walls (iconic street art museum), Perez Art Museum, Vizcaya Museum, and Gardens.


  • Food: Savor favorite local dishes such as stone crabs, Cuban sandwiches, and tropical cocktails. For fine dining, try COTE Miami or Carbone.


  • Shopping: Browse the high-end boutiques in the Design District or the luxe Bal Harbour Shops.


  • Nightlife: Dance until dawn and spot celebrities at LIV Fontainebleau or enjoy craft cocktails at Broken Shaker.


  • Nature: Do a day trip to Everglades National Park for airboat rides and alligator sightings, or unwind at a quiet beach south of Fifth.


Best Day Trips from Miami

ocean wave crashing into a coconut on beach
Take a Day Trip to the Florida Keys

Extend your journey with the Insider's Guide to Miami’s best nearby destinations. Here are some top day trips to make your Miami vacation even more memorable:


  • Florida Keys: Luminous waters and chill island vibes are a few hours south.


  • Palm Beach: Elegant and luxurious with palm-fringed beaches and pinnacle hotels such as The Breakers (2 hours by car).


  • The Bahamas: A short hop by ferry (2 hours) or flight (45-min), and you’re in paradise.


Miami is not just a destination; it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re lounging by the pool at a stylish boutique hotel, indulging in international cuisine, or dancing under the stars, your Miami getaway will be nothing less than spectacular.


Contact us today to unlock exclusive perks and tailor your Miami itinerary for an unforgettable getaway.🌴

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