Traveling to Miami is a dream for many, but understanding the best ways to get around can make all the difference in your experience. The city offers a variety of options, from affordable public transportation to car rentals and services like Uber and Lyft. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find all the information you need to get around with ease and save time and money.
🚆 Public Transportation in Miami
Miami has an efficient public transport system, ideal for those who want to avoid spending money on car rental and parking.
Metrorail – How to Use and Main Routes
O Metrorail is an elevated train that runs through Miami and some neighboring areas. It has two main lines:
- ✅ Green Line – Connects downtown Miami to areas like Kendall and Palmetto.
- ✅ Orange Line – Connects Miami International Airport (MIA) to downtown.
💰 Rate: US$ 2.25 per trip. For payment, use EASY Card or EASY Ticket, available at the stations.
🕒 Opening Hours: Every day, from 5am to midnight.
💡 Tip: If you want to avoid traffic and get to the center quickly, the Metrorail is a great choice.
Metromover – Free Alternative in Downtown Miami
O Metromover is a free, automatic train system that runs through downtown Miami and Brickell.
🚇 Main routes:
- Inner Loop: Travel through Downtown Miami.
- Omni Loop: It leads to cultural and commercial areas.
- Brickell Loop: Connects to the financial district and shopping malls.
💡 Tip: If you're staying downtown or in Brickell, the Metromover is a great way to explore the area without spending a dime.
Bus (Metrobus) – Essential Lines and Timetables
O Metrobus covers areas not served by Metrorail, including Miami Beach, Key Biscayne and Coral Gables.
🚌 Important lines:
- Line 150 (Airport Express) – Takes you from Miami Airport to Miami Beach.
- Line S – Connects Downtown Miami to South Beach.
- Line 120 (Beach MAX) – Quick alternative to get to the beaches.
💰 Rate: US$ 2.25 per trip, paid via EASY Card.
💡 Tip: Download the “Miami-Dade Transit Tracker” app to track schedules in real time.
Taxis and Transportation Apps – Which is the Best Option?
Miami has traditional taxis, but Uber and Lyft are the most popular choices among tourists.
🚖 Traditional taxi:
- Initial rate: US$ 2.95 + US$ 2.70 per mile.
- Available at strategic points, such as airports and hotels.
📲 Uber and Lyft:
- Cheaper than traditional taxis.
- Shared car option to save even more.
💡 Tip: Use Uber Pool or Lyft Shared to split rides and reduce costs.
🚗 Car Rental in Miami
If you plan to explore Florida beyond Miami, renting a car might be a good idea.
Is It Worth Renting a Car? Costs and Parking
💰 Average costs:
- Daily rental rate: From US$ 30.
- Mandatory insurance: Between US$ 10 to US$ 20 per day.
- Parking: In US$ 2 to US$ 10 per hour, depending on the location.
🚗 Where to park cheaply?
- Public parking lots (garages) cost about US$ 1/hour.
- Some hotels charge daily parking fees between US$ 20 and US$ 50.
💡 Tip: Choose a hotel with free parking to avoid extra expenses.
Tolls and SunPass – What You Need to Know
Many roads in Miami have automatic toll booths. To avoid extra charges, use the SunPass, which debits the amount directly from your account.
💡 Tip: If you are renting a car, check to see if the rental company offers SunPass at no additional cost.
US Traffic Rules That May Surprise You
🚦 What you need to know:
- Right turn on red light is permitted unless otherwise stated.
- Using a cell phone while driving is prohibited without hands-free system.
- The speed limit on highways ranges from 55 to 70 mph (88 to 112 km/h).
💡 Tip: Have an updated GPS or use Google Maps to avoid fines.
🚲 Other Forms of Transportation
Trolleys – How to Ride for Free
You Miami Trolleys are small free buses that cover various tourist areas.
🚌 Main routes:
- Coral Gables Trolley – It passes through the historic neighborhood.
- Wynwood Trolley – Perfect for visiting art galleries.
💡 Tip: They don't operate at night, so check the schedule before you head out.
Electric Bicycles and Scooters – Sustainable Alternatives
🚴 Citi Bike: Allows hourly or daily bike rentals.
🛴 Electric scooters: Available in applications such as Bird and Lime.
💰 Average prices:
- Citi Bike: US$ 4.95 for 30 minutes.
- Scooter: US$ 1 to unlock + US$ 0.30 per minute.
💡 Tip: Wear a helmet and avoid busy roads for greater safety.
Boats and Water Taxi – Water Transportation in Miami
🚤 The Water Taxi connects Miami Beach to areas such as Bayside and Key Biscayne.
💰 Average price: US$ 15 to US$ 25 each way.
🕒 Time: It works from 10am to 7pm, with departures every 30 minutes.
💡 Tip: Great option to avoid traffic and enjoy an incredible view.
🛫 How to Leave Miami Airport?
Arriving at Miami International Airport (MIA), you have several transportation options:
✈️ Available options:
- Metrorail: Orange Line takes you to the center by US$ 2.25.
- Airport Express Bus (Line 150): Go straight to Miami Beach by US$ 2.25.
- Taxi: It costs about US$ 35 to US$ 50 to Miami Beach.
- Uber/Lyft: Values vary between US$ 25 to US$ 40, depending on the time.
💡 Tip: If you have a lot of luggage, Uber or taxi are the best options.
Conclusion
Miami offers a variety of transportation options for all types of travelers. If you want to save money, public transportation may be the best option. For those who want to explore beyond the city, renting a car may be worth it. Now that you know everything about transportation in Miami, choose the best option and enjoy your trip! 🚀