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Only have three days in Miami? Here’s how to make them count!
Having explored just about every corner of Miami, we’ve put together the ultimate three-day itinerary to help you experience the city’s best, from its glittering coastline and vibrant street art to Cuban drinks and local eats. Miami is packed with energy, flavor, and culture, but it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. That’s where we come in!
We’ve done the legwork to make sure your time in the Magic City is fun, full, and totally stress-free. Whether you want to unwind on the beach, cruise the bay, or salsa the night away, this itinerary has you covered. Let’s get your Miami adventure started!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Miami was this Everglades airboat tour. We had so much fun zipping through the wetlands, spotting gators in the wild, and learning about the ecosystem from our local guide!
Check out the 1,900+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Where to Stay in Miami
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Day 1
Breakfast – News Cafe
Kick off your first day in Miami with breakfast at News Cafe, a laid-back Ocean Drive staple that’s been around since the ’80s. The shaded patio is great for people-watching, and the menu has everything from flaky croissants and fresh fruit to hearty egg dishes and strong coffee—perfect fuel for a day of exploring.
There are plenty of spots along the beachfront, but News Cafe has that old-school charm that’s hard to beat. Best of all, it’s just a four-minute walk to the start of your first activity, so you can take your time and still stay on schedule.
Morning – Step back in time on a walking tour of the Art Deco District
After breakfast, we headed just a few blocks inland for this walking tour through Miami’s iconic Art Deco District, and it ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. This neighborhood boasts the highest concentration of Art Deco buildings in the U.S., and strolling past the pastel facades felt like stepping into a 1930s postcard.
The tour starts at 10:30 am and wraps up by 12:30 pm, giving you the rest of the day to explore. Our guide, Julie, was full of fascinating stories and pointed out some of the most significant landmarks, including the former home of Gianni Versace.
We loved that our tour fees helped support local preservation efforts, and the bonus free entry to the Art Deco Museum made it feel like great value. Julie also gave us some insider bar and restaurant recommendations, which came in handy when we decided to come back to the neighborhood another day.
Without the tour, we probably wouldn’t have discovered some of these gems, so it felt like time and money well spent. If you’re only in Miami for a few days, this is one experience that absolutely belongs on your list—just check out HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here!
Book this walking tour here and see why everyone’s raving about it!
Lunch – Sola Miami Beach
After a morning wandering through the pastel streets of the Art Deco District, we took a short stroll to Sola Miami Beach for a laid-back, midday break. Just off Collins Avenue, this chic Mediterranean bistro offers a calm, breezy vibe that feels like a hidden escape from the buzz of South Beach.
The menu leans into fresh, shareable plates like grilled octopus and tuna tartare, both packed with flavor and beautifully presented. There are also plenty of lighter vegetarian options, including citrusy salads and veggie flatbreads. The atmosphere strikes a nice balance of stylish yet relaxed, and the shaded patio made it a perfect spot to recharge before heading back out for the afternoon.
Afternoon – Spend your afternoon your way
After lunch, you’ve got time to slow the pace and soak in Miami’s sun-drenched charm. Whether that means relaxing on the sand, stretching your legs along the waterfront, or ducking into a cool, contemporary gallery, this part of the day is all about enjoying the city on your terms. Everything is nearby and easygoing—ideal for easing into the Miami rhythm without feeling rushed.
Soak up the sun at South Beach
Sometimes the best plan is the simplest, and South Beach proves why. From Sola, it’s just a short walk back to the shoreline, where you can rent a beach chair and umbrella or just spread a towel and dip your toes in the Atlantic.
The wide, sandy beach has lifeguards and public facilities, and you’ll find a livelier scene near 5th and Ocean. For a bit more peace, we liked the stretch around 2nd or 3rd Street, where the crowds thin out and the vibe is more relaxed. Spend as long as you like—there’s no rush.
Stroll through South Pointe Park
Prefer a walk to a sunbath? Head down to South Pointe Park, just a 15–20 minute stroll from Sola. This palm-lined park hugs the water’s edge and offers shady paths, public art, and panoramic views over Government Cut.
We grabbed a bench and watched massive cruise ships glide by. It’s the kind of place where time slips away easily. The park also connects directly to the beach if you feel like dipping back into the ocean or just taking in more coastal scenery.
Explore the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
If the heat’s a bit much or you’re craving some culture, head to the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). This bayside museum focuses on modern and contemporary works, with exhibits that are just as bold and vibrant as the city itself. The building alone is worth visiting—airy, full of greenery, and perched right on the water.
You could easily spend two hours here, and at $18 USD per adult, it’s well worth it. Plus, the museum’s café has outdoor seating with gorgeous views—ideal for a late coffee. PAMM is also super close to the evening cruise departure point, so it’s a smart pick if that’s on your agenda.
Dinner/Evening – Choose your perfect night
After a full day of exploring Miami’s culture and coastal charm, the evening is yours to enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood to unwind on the water with a drink in hand or let loose with live music and dancing, Miami has you covered. Here are two totally different, but equally memorable, ways to end your first day:
Option 1: Soak up the city lights on an evening cruise
After a jam-packed day of walking, touring, and exploring, the last thing we wanted was a loud party scene, but we also weren’t ready to call it a night. That’s why this sunset and city lights cruise was exactly what we needed. It gave us two hours to relax, sip drinks, and enjoy the incredible skyline views—all without lifting more than a glass of prosecco.
The cruise departs at 7 pm, just as the sky starts to glow with sunset colors. You’ll drift past Miami landmarks like Star Island, Jungle Island, and the Port of Miami, all while sipping unlimited drinks and listening to a mellow, well-curated music playlist.
Our host was super friendly and kept the vibe relaxed, and the drinks, especially the frozen ones, exceeded our expectations. Cruising past the mega yachts, celebrity mansions, and Miami’s glowing skyline was a total treat. Just keep in mind that this isn’t a rowdy party cruise, but rather a laid-back lounge on the water, perfect for unwinding with good music and even better views.
We recommend grabbing an early dinner first (we liked Margaritaville, just a 4-minute walk from the departure point) so you can fully relax during the cruise without a growling stomach.
Seats are limited, so don’t wait—secure your spot in advance and treat yourself to one of the most relaxing, scenic ways to end a day in Miami!
Read the hundreds of great reviews and book your sunset cruise here!
Option 2: Have a blast learning to salsa dance
A night out in Miami is a must, but a night that includes salsa lessons, live music, cabaret performances, and mojitos? That’s where the magic really happens! We were looking for a fun and interactive way to experience the South Beach party scene, and this salsa lesson gave us a night we’ll never forget!
The evening starts with two beginner-friendly dance classes in salsa and bachata, and trust us—no experience is needed. The vibe is welcoming, the mojitos are flowing, and it’s impossible not to have fun.
After the lessons, the energy shifts as the pros hit the stage. Between the dance performances, samba shows, and cabaret acts, we were completely captivated all night long. We danced, laughed, and may have even picked up a few decent moves by the end of it all!
The class kicks off at 7:30 pm, and there are plenty of great restaurants nearby to fuel up beforehand. We had dinner at Havana Vieja, a cozy Cuban spot that helped set the mood, but go easy on the portions if you plan to dance!
This experience was such a fun, high-energy way to dive into Miami’s Latin culture, and we loved every second of it. It’s a night out that feels totally unique to Miami, and one you definitely don’t want to miss!
Secure this popular salsa night here before it sells out!
Day 2
Morning – Enjoy a guided airboat tour through Everglades National Park
After a full first day in the city, we were ready for a change of pace, and this Everglades airboat day tour was the perfect way to switch things up.
Miami’s vibrant energy is hard to beat, but sometimes you just need to escape the concrete and immerse yourself in nature. The Everglades are only about 45 minutes away, but they feel like a completely different world, full of winding waterways, wild landscapes, and of course… alligators.
We boarded our airboat in the morning and spent nearly an hour skimming across the wetlands, which is a good 15–20 minutes longer than most tours we looked at. Our guide, Antoine, was both knowledgeable and fun—he knew the land inside out and had an amazing eye for spotting wildlife. Thanks to him, we saw six alligators, along with all kinds of wetland birds, fish, and even a few snakes!
After the boat ride, we explored the onsite wildlife center, where we learned about nuisance alligators and saw a live gator demonstration. There were also turtles, peacocks, and other native animals to check out.
It was such a cool and memorable morning, especially for nature lovers, and a great family-friendly option if you’re traveling with kids. Morning pick-up time varies from 7:20 to 10:00 am, but the tour should finish by early afternoon, usually no later than 3 pm, which leaves plenty of time for more adventures in the city.
Experience a different side of South Florida and book this day trip here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Afternoon – Relax and unwind after your morning tour
After an adventurous morning out in the Everglades, you’ve earned a little downtime. Between the airboat ride, wildlife encounters, and the drive back into the city, it’s the perfect moment to slow things down and recharge before diving into the evening.
Whether that means kicking back by your hotel pool, sinking your toes into the sand at South Beach, or popping into a few boutiques for a bit of retail therapy, this is your time to unwind. Grab a coffee, take a nap, or treat yourself to a scoop of gelato—whatever helps you reset and get ready for another fun night ahead.
Dinner – CRAFT Bayside
Before diving into your evening plans, take a moment to enjoy a relaxed but elevated dinner at CRAFT Bayside, one of the standout spots in Bayside Marketplace. This waterfront restaurant strikes a sweet balance between comfort food and creative flair, making it ideal for winding down after a full day.
The menu covers everything from flatbreads and fresh-grilled fish to gourmet burgers with just the right amount of indulgence. We loved the laid-back atmosphere—stylish without being stuffy, and the outdoor seating was a great touch as the sun started to set over the marina. Add in the breeze off the water and a drink or two, and you’ve got the perfect setup for a scenic, satisfying meal.
Evening – Catch a show or live music at The Arsht Center
After dinner, take a short 9-minute walk from Bayside to the elegant Adrienne Arsht Center, one of Miami’s premier cultural venues. Whether you’re into Broadway musicals, jazz ensembles, ballet, or Latin music, the Arsht Center hosts an impressive mix of performances in a beautifully designed space.
Most shows start around 8 pm, giving you plenty of time to stroll over, grab a drink, and settle in. We loved how polished the whole experience felt—it’s a refined yet approachable way to end the evening, and a nice change of pace from the beach and bar scene. Be sure to check the event calendar here in advance to see what’s playing during your visit.
Day 3
Morning – Cruise the coast on a private sightseeing boat tour
For your final day in Miami, it’s time to treat yourself, and there’s no better way than with this private boat tour that makes you feel like a total VIP. We were looking for a relaxing way to enjoy the city without baking in the midday heat, and this cruise delivered just that. Gliding past Miami’s skyline from the water with a drink in hand was easily one of our favorite moments of the whole trip.
There’s a cooler onboard, so we brought along a couple of drinks and settled in for a smooth ride through the bay. Our captain, Andre, was fantastic—super friendly and happy to customize the route based on what we wanted to see. He took us past East Star Island Drive (celebrity mansion central) and along the downtown waterfront, where the views were unreal.
We recommend choosing the 9 am or 11:30 am time slots, depending on how early you want to start—just make sure to book ahead, as this tour fills up fast. No matter which time you choose, you’ll be back on land by 1 pm at the latest, with the rest of the day still ahead of you.
This was hands-down one of the most memorable parts of our trip, and truly an experience you don’t want to miss. Still on the fence? Just check out the five-star reviews here and see why everyone raves about it.
Reserve your boat here and get flexible payment options!
Lunch – Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza
After a morning on the water, we were more than ready to refuel, and Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza hit the spot. This place is a Miami favorite for a reason: their pizzas are seriously next level. The crust is light, crisp, and just the right amount of chewy, even if you go all-in on toppings (which we absolutely recommend).
The menu is full of inventive options, but even a classic drink here tastes elevated. It’s casual, quick, and satisfying without feeling heavy—perfect fuel for a relaxed afternoon. Just a heads up: you’ll want to save a little room for the bites coming up on our evening food tour!
Afternoon – Wander through Wynwood’s vibrant murals
After lunch, head over to Wynwood, Miami’s boldest and most creative neighborhood. This place is like an open-air gallery, where every wall bursts with color and expression. You can start with the curated exhibits at Wynwood Walls, or simply stroll the nearby streets to find unexpected masterpieces around every corner—murals here change often, so there’s always something new to see.
We grabbed an iced coffee at Panther Coffee, a local favorite with strong brews and a chill outdoor patio, before ducking into a few nearby boutiques. Shops like Wynwood Soul and Wynwood Tribe are great for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and locally made finds.
Whether you’re snapping photos, shopping, or just people-watching, this neighborhood is all about soaking in the vibe. It’s Miami’s creativity turned all the way up, and the ideal way to spend a relaxed afternoon.
Late afternoon – Savor the culture (and snacks) on a Little Havana food tour
There’s no better way to end your Miami adventure than by diving into the flavors, stories, and soul of Little Havana, and this food and culture tour was hands-down one of our favorite experiences of the entire trip.
Miami can be a pricey place to eat, but this tour packs in huge portions, delicious drinks, and rich cultural insights for a price that feels like a steal.
We recommend choosing the 5 pm tour, which sets you up perfectly for a fun, flavorful evening. You’ll explore family-run eateries tucked throughout the neighborhood, sampling everything from warm empanadas and crispy croquetas to pastelitos filled with guava and creamy flan ice cream (yes, even the flan skeptics loved it).
You’ll also sip on three Cuban drinks, including a refreshing guarapo, and visit key cultural spots like Calle Ocho, a local cigar factory, and a domino park that’s buzzing with character.
Our guide, Bianca, was warm, welcoming, and full of knowledge. She brought the neighborhood’s history to life and made everyone in the group feel right at home. Plus, all the restaurants we visited were longtime, family-owned staples, which made every bite feel that much more meaningful.
This tour brought so much heart, flavor, and authenticity to our final night in Miami. If you only book one experience while you’re here, it should definitely be this one!
Book this tour with over 7,500 five-star reviews here!
Evening – Toast to your trip at Sala’o Cuban Restaurant & Bar
After your flavorful food tour, cap off your Miami adventure just a short stroll away at Sala’o Cuban Restaurant & Bar, inspired by the spirit of Ernest Hemingway. The atmosphere here is full of energy—live music, a glowing bar, and a crowd that’s clearly loving every minute.
You don’t need to commit to a full meal, especially after everything you just sampled in Little Havana. Just grab a seat, order a drink, and soak up the lively scene while the house band brings the night to life with smooth Cuban rhythms. It’s the kind of place that invites you to linger, reflect, and raise a glass to a trip well spent!
Related Read: Staying longer than three days? Check out our full guide to the absolute best things to do in Miami here for even more ways to enjoy the Magic City!
Where to Stay in Miami
Now that you’ve got your Miami itinerary all sorted, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! Whether you’re after beachside luxury, vibrant nightlife, or a stylish stay that won’t break the bank, Miami has plenty of great hotel options. To make things easier, I’ve picked out the top-rated spots in the best area for every budget below:
Luxury – $$$
East Miami is a luxury stay, located right in downtown Miami. The rooms are upscale and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows, balconies, and all the comforts of a luxury hotel. There are also four onsite pools, a spa, a rooftop bar, and top-choice restaurants. It’s only a 15-minute drive from the lively South Beach area, and its location in downtown Miami puts you right in the action.
Rooms start at $400 USD a night and can be booked on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Albion Hotel is located a block from Miami Beach, so you’re very close to all the action! I love the style of this Art Deco hotel; it’s eclectic but makes for a comfortable stay. Best of all, you can enjoy this location and style at a moderate price point with rooms averaging around $150 USD per night.
Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Esme Miami Beach is a stylish yet affordable boutique hotel tucked along charming Española Way. Just steps from the beach and buzzing nightlife, it offers a rooftop pool, chic design, and peaceful courtyards, making it a hidden gem for budget-conscious travelers who still want a bit of flair.
Prices start around $100 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
For even more options, check out all the hotels in Miami here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
From lazy beach mornings to buzzing nightlife, colorful art walks to wild Everglades airboat rides, Miami is the kind of city that keeps you on your toes—in the best way possible. Whether you’re here for the sunshine, the flavors, or just a good time, this 3-day itinerary packs in the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Still mapping out your Florida trip? Check out our other USA blogs for more tips and itineraries—or dive into a few of our favorites below!
10 Best Things to do in Naples, Florida
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Key West, Florida: 3-Day Itinerary