Miami. A city geographically located in the south of Florida, within close proximity to Cuba. It’s a cultural hotspot attracting travelers from all over the world, seeking the best in fashion, nightlife, cuisine, and, of course, sunshine.
So, you’re all set. Bikinis, speedos, sunglasses, and maybe an ill-advised Scarface-inspired shirt are packed. You’re ready to join the throngs of people landing at Miami International Airport (MIA), eager to get the keys to your car hire and explore the city.
But how do you plan the perfect week in Miami without missing out on anything? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide to the 305.
Day 1 – Embrace the Miami Beach Vibe
The first thing you’ll want to do is get some sun on those pasty limbs so that you can blend in with the tanned, toned, and taut bodies that are a trademark of Miami.
Head to South Beach, the most recognisable neighborhood in Miami, often referred to as “The Sun and Fun Capital of the World.” It boasts white sand beaches like South Pointe and Lummus Park, considered some of the best in Miami Beach. While there, explore the plethora of eateries and bars to satisfy your appetite.
The allure of Miami’s beaches doesn’t end with summer; they remain warm and popular throughout the year. And before you leave South Beach, don’t miss the opportunity to take a selfie with the iconic colorful lifeguard stations scattered along the coastline.
Day 2 – Experience Little Havana
On day two, after a perfect beach day, it’s time to explore the city further. Stock up on water bottles and snacks, hop in your car hire, and transport yourself to Little Havana, an area that encapsulates the essence of Latin American culture.
Little Havana offers a vibrant scene with Latin American art galleries, bustling restaurants, independent cafes serving strong Cuban coffee, and even cigar smokers. Be sure to drive through Bayside Marketplace, renowned for its shops and restaurants, and visit the Wynwood Walls, Miami’s original street-art museum.
Wynwood has earned the nickname “Silicon Valley of the South,” and you might just encounter musicians filming on the streets or stumble upon the headquarters of big-name tech companies.
A must-visit spot in Little Havana is Maximo Gomez Park, fondly called Domino Park by locals. Here, people from all walks of life come together to discuss politics and play dominos.
Day 3 – Dive into Miami’s Cultural Offerings
Set aside a day to immerse yourself in Miami’s cultural centers. Depending on your interests, consider visiting Zoo Miami, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, or the Coral Castle Museum.
- Zoo Miami – open 7 days a week, 10am-5pm
- Vizcaya Museum and Gardens – open Wednesday-Monday, 9:30am-4:30pm
- Coral Castle Museum – open Thursday-Sunday, 9am-6pm (last tour 5pm)
Once you’ve had your fill of organised sightseeing, take some time for spontaneous ambling. Walk the streets and discover a myriad of cafes, restaurants, and more. For a more guided experience, head towards the famous Villa Casa Casuarina, formerly known as the Versace Mansion, where you can indulge in a set lunch menu for a reasonable price.
Day 4 – Explore Ocean Drive
Ocean Drive is the heart of Miami Beach, boasting a wide array of architecturally impressive hotels, restaurants, and bars. As you stroll through this historic district, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time due to the numerous art deco buildings dating back to the Great Depression and the early 1940s.
A highlight of Ocean Drive is the iconic 1939 Colony Hotel, one of the most photographed art deco buildings in the world.
When it’s time to eat, consider these options:
- The Ocean Grill (at The Setai) – renowned for celebrity clientele including Jennifer Lopez and the Kardashians
- Queen Miami Beach – designed to capture a bygone feel of decadence, glamour, and power
- Limonada Bar + Brunch – for the more budget-friendly, this all-day sports bar and restaurant is a great place to enjoy the scene
Day 5 – Venture Beyond Miami: Key West Day Trip
As much as you’ve enjoyed Miami, sometimes the joy is in leaving the city, especially with its proximity to unmissable destinations. Take advantage of the ease of hiring a car and embark on a memorable day trip to Key West.
Key West is just 160 miles away, roughly a 3 and a half hours’ drive, but it’s absolutely worth the journey. It offers a quieter and more luxurious atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after the excitement of Miami. Rent a boat, relax under the pink skies, and indulge in the charming establishments with waterfront views.
For those with limited time, consider a short drive to the Everglades, which are only about 20 minutes away. Here, you can explore Florida’s famous swamps and maybe even catch a glimpse of an alligator or two.
Day 6 – Explore Millionaire’s Row and Experience Miami’s Nightlife
On day six, refreshed from Key West’s luxurious tranquility, you’re ready to embrace Miami’s ultimate excesses, starting with Millionaire’s Row.
Book a bespoke tour for premium views of some of Miami’s most opulent homes and sights, including those belonging to celebrities like JLo and P Diddy.
After the tour, you might feel inspired to party like a celebrity. Miami’s nightlife scene offers several popular clubs, such as Club Space, Do Not Sit On The Furniture, Wall Miami, and E11even Rooftop.
Popular Clubs in Miami:
Day 7 – Unwind and Relax on Miami’s Beaches
As your week in Miami comes to an end, take some time to unwind on the beautiful beaches. Wash away the week’s activities in the crystal-clear waters, participate in a free yoga class on the beach, pick up some final souvenirs, or simply bask in the golden rays of the Sunshine State.
Miami has offered you a perfect week of exploration, culture, and relaxation, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this vibrant city.
