How to organize your own vacation in Miami

Sunny Miami beaches attract tourists from all over the world every single day. Of course, you could simply get a visa and book a tour — but that option is often expensive and limits your freedom to explore. That’s why organizing a trip to Miami on your own is the best choice for those who value flexibility and independence.

Dreaming of visiting Miami but worried it might be too complicated or costly? In reality — it’s absolutely doable. You can plan your trip yourself without any travel agencies or intermediaries. And with these tips from American Butler, the process becomes even easier. Need support at any stage? We’re just a message away!

What makes Miami special

Miami's tourism industry is booming. Every year, the city welcomes over 38 million visitors — and that's with a local population of just over 400,000. Even including all the surrounding suburbs, the area barely reaches two million residents.

• Visiting Miami means diving into the rhythm of a never-ending celebration. The weather is always great — no wonder pirates once chose these shores as their hideouts, burying treasures on nearby islands.
• Miami boasts over 800 parks and an uncountable number of beaches. Pristine shorelines and the Atlantic Ocean waters attract visitors all year round.
• The city is nestled between two iconic natural zones — Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park. Not far from Miami, you'll also find one of the world's first underwater parks, home to a submerged statue of Christ in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
• Thanks to its mild climate, Miami is home to many exotic animals. One vivid example is the “Parrot Jungle” park, where hundreds of tropical birds live in natural conditions.
• A boat ride is a must — rent a yacht or hop on a water taxi. Cruising the ocean with dolphin, shark, or sea lion shows guarantees unforgettable memories.
• Shopping and strolling — a delight of their own. Head to Lincoln Road Mall, explore the iconic Art Deco District, and finish your day with a sunrise on Ocean Drive.

Why does everyone go to Miami?

The best part is — traveling in the USA doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of ways to make your trip both affordable and unforgettable. Miami is one of those cities that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.

It’s not just about the famous beaches and endless sunshine — Miami hosts vibrant international festivals, culinary celebrations, street parties, and cultural events of global scale. Here you’ll find luxury car presentations like Mercedes showcases, glamorous fashion shows, and cutting-edge art installations during Art Basel Miami Beach. Add to that food festivals, open-air concerts, and beach parties that last till sunrise.

Visiting the U.S. without seeing the Miami coast is like going to Italy and skipping Rome. This city is a resort, a metropolis, a cultural hub, and a scenic paradise all at once — and it might just change the way you see travel and inspire your next adventure.

Pros and cons of independent vacation

Planning a trip to Miami without the help of travel agencies might not be the easiest task — but it’s absolutely doable. We’re here to share practical recommendations that will help you organize your vacation wisely and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Traveling without a package tour means freedom — but also responsibility. Here are the main pros:

• Freedom of choice — you decide where to stay, what to visit, and when to relax.
• Cost-saving — choose budget accommodation, avoid tourist traps, and use public transport instead of expensive transfers.
• Real adventure — your trip turns into a personal quest full of flexibility and surprises.
• Authentic local experience — being outside of organized groups gives you a chance to feel the true spirit and culture of the city.

There are a few downsides too:

1. 01. More time is needed to plan logistics, routes, and accommodation;
2. 02. You’ll need to handle visa application and paperwork on your own;
3. 03. Transfers from the airport usually cost extra — taxis or rental cars may be more expensive than group shuttles;
4. 04. There may be a language barrier, especially in case of unexpected situations.

Independent travel doesn’t provide the same level of comfort or guarantees as an organized tour. Tour operators handle everything — from lost luggage to delayed flights. So if you choose freedom, make sure you’re prepared. Or get support from someone who knows Miami inside and out — like us.

How to prepare for a trip

Planning a trip to the Florida coast involves several key steps:

• Obtaining a visa
  To visit Miami, you’ll need a B1/B2 tourist visa. Apply through the U.S. embassy or consulate by completing the DS-160 form, paying the $160 consular fee, and attending an interview. Processing time varies from 1 to 10 business days depending on the consulate’s schedule.
• Purchasing airline tickets
  It’s best to buy your tickets at least 1–2 months in advance. This gives you more flexibility with flight times and can save up to 30% on the cost. Round-trip fares in economy class typically range from $400 to $700, depending on season and airline.
• Booking accommodation
  Miami offers plenty of options — from hotels and apartments to private vacation rentals. You can book through international platforms or directly on hotel websites. Budget options like hostels start from $50–75 per night, while standard hotel rooms average $250–350. Short-term rentals on Airbnb and other platforms are also a popular choice.
• Planning your route and transportation
  Decide in advance which attractions you’d like to visit and plan your city routes. Study public transportation options or rent a car for more freedom and flexibility.
• Insurance and healthcare
  Make sure to purchase travel medical insurance with coverage of at least $50,000 for the duration of your trip. Healthcare in the U.S. is expensive — even a basic doctor’s visit can cost hundreds of dollars without insurance.
• Packing and travel documents
  Bring your passport with visa, printouts of your hotel and flight bookings, insurance policy, and driver’s license (if you plan to rent a car). Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing — the Miami climate is subtropical and warm year-round.

More about vacation expenses

Besides accommodation, it’s also worth planning ahead for car rental. This is a great option if you’re planning to actively explore Miami and its surroundings. The average rental price for a standard car starts at $50 per day, not including fuel (around $4 per gallon) and insurance.

If you travel light and don’t plan on long-distance trips, public transportation might be enough — a ride on the metro or bus costs just $2.25. It’s also easy to get around the city by bike or electric scooter, which can be rented through pay-per-minute systems.

Additional Expenses

Besides transport and lodging, make sure to budget for daily expenses during your independent trip:

• Food — around $10 to $30 per day per person for basic meals (breakfast at a café, lunch at a food court, dinner at a casual restaurant). Dining at a nice restaurant starts from $50.
• Entertainment and activities — approximately $200–300 per week: museum tickets, cruise tours, zoo visits, water sports, and more.
• Shopping — the budget is individual, but even $200–300 can cover clothes, souvenirs, and gifts. Miami’s outlets often offer great deals.

Useful tips for travelers

1. 01. Since you'll be traveling on your own, it’s worth brushing up on conversational English. Spanish is also widely spoken in Miami — and you might even need it more often.
2. 02. While planning, research your potential routes, areas to stay, and transfer points. This will help you better estimate your budget and avoid confusion on arrival.
3. 03. The best time to visit is from October to May. Summers in Miami are hot, with chances of tropical showers and even hurricanes.
4. 04. You can exchange currency at the airport, banks, or currency exchange offices. But in most places, card payments are widely accepted — cashless payment is the norm.
5. 05. If you plan to use public transport, get a weekly Easy Card — it’s more economical and convenient.
6. 06. In cafés, restaurants, and taxis, tipping is expected — usually between 15% and 25% of the bill. Some places include the tip automatically, so check your receipt.
7. 07. The east coast of Florida is perfect for nightlife and parties, while the west coast is more suitable for families and a peaceful vacation.
8. 08. Don’t forget to arrange health insurance before your trip — medical services in the U.S. are expensive, even for minor visits.
9. 09. Once in Miami, buy a SIM card or eSIM with internet access — it’s cheaper. Also download essential apps like Google Maps, translators, accommodation or taxi services — they’ll come in handy.
10. 10. Create a list of must-see places: attractions, beaches, museums, restaurants. This will help you save time and make the most of your visit.

American Butler Help

Also, keep in mind that Miami isn’t just about beaches and skyscrapers — it's also one of the largest cruise ports in the world. Every day, cruise ships, boats, and yachts depart for Caribbean adventures: to Key West, the Bahamas, Cuba, Mexico, Haiti, and other destinations in Latin America. A cruise from Miami is one of the most scenic and convenient ways to visit several countries — without changing hotels.

You can buy tickets online in advance or directly at local tourist agencies. But even better — leave it to us. The American Butler team will help you:

• choose the perfect cruise for your budget and dates;
• arrange airport pickup and port transfers;
• book accommodation or rent a car for the days before and after your cruise;
• create a personalized travel itinerary in Miami tailored to your interests.