Miami Getting Around

Getting Around Miami - An efficient metropolitan transport system
A sprawling city covering a wide area, Miami has comprehensive public transport network that is both user friendly and efficient. However visitors tend to use taxis or hire cars for extra convenience and freedom for getting around Miami. There is a modern Metrobus service which covers the entire city from early morning until late night and offers a standard fare for all single direct journeys. This is complimented by a light rail system which connects North and South districts with rail stations at roughly one mile intervals. For day trips and excursions outside the city, express buses operate from downtown to popular destinations such as Fort Lauderdale, the Everglades and the Florida Keys. Several private companies also offer hotel pickups from South Beach and tailor made tour itineraries.

Getting Around Miami - Ride the modern monorail
Getting around Miami can also be a very pleasurable experience when taking the ultra modern Metromover monorail system. It provides wonderful views of downtown and the coastline of Biscayne Bay; however the network is limited to these areas. Taxis remain the mode of choice for visiting tourists for convenience and fares are low for the United States. Miami taxi drivers are chatty and keen to point out the city's colourful history and hidden attractions. Car hire is easily available in Miami from major hotels, the airport and central offices. It offers good value for longer stays in Miami. The road network is good with surprisingly little traffic congestion.

On arrival at Miami airport there are a number of travel options for visitors. These include express bus services, light rail, chartered limousines and metered taxis. Many major hotels will also offer complimentary transfers for guests. The international airport is just 15 kilometres west of downtown. Exploring the whole city on foot is not really an option as the city is so spread out and the heat is likely to be a factor. However short breaks in Miami concentrating on South Beach are more rewarding when strolling around on foot. Restaurants, bars, beachfront facilities and the famous eye catching architecture are all located in a compact area which benefits from cooling sea breezes. Getting around Miami by bicycle is also a rewarding possibility here or get into the true Miami spirit and try rollerblading along the vibrant beachfront boardwalks.