Miami on a Budget: Beaches, Culture, and Food

Experience the sunshine state without breaking the bank in Miami.

21 June 2023

For those traveling to Miami on a budget, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options in neighborhoods such as Little Havana or South Beach. Visitors can spend the day lounging on the beach, exploring historic neighborhoods or checking out the local art scene. Foodies can indulge in budget-friendly Latin American cuisine and fresh seafood dishes from local marketplaces.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Beach Day

  • Staying at the Freehand Miami, a chic hostel with pool and courtyard, head to Miami Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world!
  • Walk the boardwalk: Take a stroll on the boardwalk, enjoying the ocean view and the bikinis.
  • Sunbathe and people-watch: Find a spot on the sand to soak up the sun, and enjoy the colorful characters around you.
  • Take a dip: Go for a swim in the warm, turquoise water of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Grab lunch at a beach shack: Try some authentic Cuban food at La Ventanita, or some fresh seafood at Lolo's Surf Cantina.
  • Catch the sunset: End the day with a stunning sunset over the beach, and head back to the hostel for some drinks by the pool.
Day 2

Culture and Food

  • Explore Miami's cultural and culinary scene, starting with a hearty breakfast.
  • Breakfast at Enriqueta's Sandwich Shop: Try the famous Cuban bread, eggs, and coffee to fuel up for the day.
  • Visit Little Havana: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Cuban culture, with its colorful streets, music, and cafecitos.
  • Art Deco Historic District: Take a walking tour of the historic district, and admire the colorful, vintage architecture.
  • Lunch at Versailles: Dine at the famous Versailles Restaurant, and sample classic Cuban dishes like ropa vieja and lechon asado.
  • Pérez Art Museum: Discover contemporary art from around the world at the Pérez Art Museum Miami.
  • Drinks at the Broken Shaker: End the day at the hip and trendy Broken Shaker bar, with creative cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • With its mix of sun, culture, and food, a 2-day stay in Miami will leave you wanting more.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Miami by plane is to fly into Miami International Airport, which is serviced by numerous airlines from all over the world.

Car

If you are driving to Miami, the best way to get there will depend on where you are coming from. Interstate 95 runs along the east coast of the United States and can take you straight to Miami.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Miami. However, you can take an Amtrak train to the nearby cities of Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach and then transfer to a bus or taxi to get to Miami.

Boat

Miami is a popular cruise port, so if you prefer to travel by boat, you can take a cruise to the city. Some of the major cruise lines that call at the Port of Miami include Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Bus

One of the best ways to get to Miami by bus is to take a Greyhound bus, as they offer numerous daily trips to the city from cities across the United States.

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