For a first trip to Miami, plan three to four days, stay near Metrorail, Metromover or the free City of Miami trolleys, and consider visiting from December to April, when MIA normal rainfall is 1.83–3.36 inches a month. Metrorail and Metrobus cost $2.25, Metromover is free, and hotel stays in the City of Miami carry 6% in county lodging taxes plus Florida sales tax. June to October brings 7.36–10.51 inches of rain a month.
Quick plan (our recommendation)
This is an editorial plan from official sources, not a trip we took. See the weekend itinerary for a two-day version.
- Day 1 — South Beach: the beach and Art Deco buildings.
- Day 2 — Wynwood and the Design District: street murals, galleries and dining.
- Day 3 — Little Havana and Downtown/Brickell: Calle Ocho, then Metromover (free).
- Day 4 — Coconut Grove or Coral Gables.
What it costs (verified figures only)
| Item | Figure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Metrorail / Metrobus | $2.25 | Fare capping at $5.65 per day. Source: Miami-Dade County. |
| Metromover | Free | Source: Miami-Dade County. |
| City of Miami trolleys | Free | Serve 13 neighborhoods. Source: Greater Miami CVB. |
| County lodging taxes (City of Miami) | 6%: 3% Convention Development + 2% Tourist Development + 1% sports facilities | Florida sales tax also applies; see the hotel calculator. |
| Miami Beach lodging taxes | 4% resort tax + 3% Convention Development Tax | Florida sales tax also applies. Source: Miami Beach; Miami-Dade County. |
Getting here and around
See transportation for Metrorail, Metromover and trolleys, and flights for Miami International Airport.
When to go
NOAA's 1991–2020 MIA normals show highs of 76.2°F in January and 78.2°F in February, against 90.6–90.7°F in July and August. September is the wettest month (10.22 inches) and June is close (10.51 inches). The Life Time Miami Marathon and Half is Sunday, January 31, 2027. See the best-time guide.
Safety and practical tips
Plan outdoor time for mornings in summer and follow National Weather Service heat guidance. This guide publishes no crime statistics or neighborhood safety ratings.
What this guide does not cover
We do not rate hotels or restaurants and do not claim first-hand visits; see the editorial policy.