Miami in 5 Days: Beaches, Art, Shopping & More
Experience the heat and energy of Miami, where the sun, sand, and nightlife never disappoint.
03 May 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Miami is a vibrant city located in southern Florida, renowned for its beautiful beaches, exciting nightlife, and rich culture. A trip to Miami as a tourist would involve soaking up the sun and enjoying the clear waters of South Beach, exploring the colorful neighborhoods of Little Havana and Wynwood, and indulging in delicious Cuban food and Latin-inspired cocktails. With world-class museums, shopping, and entertainment options, Miami offers an unforgettable vacation experience for travelers of all ages and interests.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the trendy Kimpton Surfcomber hotel on Collins Ave, right on the beach
- Head to South Beach and catch some rays at Lummus Park Beach, known for its beautiful sand and crystal clear waters
- Grab a delicious seafood lunch at Joe's Stone Crab, a Miami institution since 1913
- Rent a bike and ride along the Miami Beach Boardwalk, taking in the stunning ocean views
- End the day with a sunset cocktail at the stylish, rooftop bar Juvia, with panoramic city views
- Start the day with Cuban coffee and pastries at the famous Versailles Bakery in Little Havana
- Visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a stunning Italian-style villa filled with priceless antiques and beautiful gardens
- Head to the Wynwood Art District and explore the colorful murals and galleries
- Enjoy a gourmet lunch at Kush, a local favorite for their craft beer and burgers
- Catch a performance at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, home to world-class ballet, opera, and theater productions
- Spend the morning shopping at the Lincoln Road Mall, a pedestrian street filled with luxury shops and trendy boutiques
- Have lunch at the iconic Bodega Taqueria y Tequila, known for their mouth-watering tacos and inventive cocktails
- Catch a Miami Heat basketball game at the American Airlines Arena
- Admire the skyline views from the top of the Brickell City Centre, a mixed-use development with high-end shops and dining
- End the night at the Basement Miami, a nightclub and bowling alley rolled into one.
- Take a Nature Walk through the Everglades National Park, one of the most unique and biodiverse ecosystems in the world.
- Have lunch at Robert is Here, a tropical fruit stand offering amazing Fruit smoothies and picnic baskets.
- Take a sunset paddleboard tour off the coast of Key Biscayne as the sun sets over the ocean
- Watch the street performers of Lincoln Road during dinner at Yardbird Southern Table and Bar, famous for its comfort Southern-American cuisine.
- Catch a movie at the historic Art Deco tower, Tower Theatre on little Havana.
- Visit the historical Deering Estate, a former millionaire's estate that offers tours of its beautiful gardens and architectural wonders.
- Enjoy a day on the water with a boat tour of Biscayne Bay, including stops at Stiltsville, a collection of houses on stilts in the water.
- Have lunch at the Rusty Pelican Restaurant, with superb views of the Miami skyline.
- End the day at the Standard Spa, Miami Beach, for some well-deserved relaxation with a refreshing spa service.
- Dinner at the Matador Room, cuisine by star chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Latin-American inspired cocktails.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.
