Miami Travel Guide
Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore in Miami
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May 26, 2026
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Miami is a multicultural destination where luxury comes alive — a city of sun-soaked beaches, world-class art, and unforgettable experiences. From the vibrant Wynwood Walls to the glamour of Art Basel, every moment invites you to see and be seen. Elevate your stay with a handpicked collection of exceptional hotels and resorts.
When you book through American Express Travel at a Fine Hotels + Resorts property*, Platinum Cardmembers unlock a world of elevated travel — including daily breakfast for two, guaranteed 4pm check-out, room upgrade upon arrival when available1, and a US$100 credit to enjoy dining, spa treatments, or other on-property experiences2.
Platinum Cardmembers enjoy access to exceptional benefits at over 3,000 hotels worldwide across Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection. Representative 685.3% APR variable. Annual fee and terms apply.
American Express® Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Cardmembers can access elevated benefits at more than 1,300 hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection. Representative 85.8% APR variable. Annual fee applies after the first year and terms apply.
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
Best Time to Visit
December through April when the weather is warm; avoid the summer humidity and risks of hurricane season, which can last into November.
Getting There
Book through American Express Travel and Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy savings on select flights to Miami with the International Airline Program. Fly direct from London Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic and stay connected in the skies as Starlink Wi-Fi begins rolling out from May 2026. Plus earn Virgin Points as you typically would.. Terms apply. Representative 685.3% APR variable applies to the Platinum Card Annual fees and terms apply.
Miami International Airport (MIA)
8 miles
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
25 miles
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available1
Daily breakfast for two
US$100 credit to use towards eligible charges2
Guaranteed 4pm check-out
Complimentary Wi-Fi
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
*,3
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available1
US$100 credit to use towards eligible charges2
Late check-out, when available
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
3The Hotel Collection requires a two-night minimum stay.
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Miami Beach, Florida
Faena Miami Beach
Situated on pristine white sand and unmistakably glamourous, Faena Miami Beach delivers a luxury experience rooted in art, culture, and elevated hospitality. Guest rooms and suites are richly designed with Golden Age-inspired details, red velvet accents, and sweeping views of the Atlantic. Beyond lounging at the pool or private beach (under an iconic candy cane-striped umbrella), you can catch an immersive live performances at Faena Theater, and savour award-winning cuisine at upscale Argentinian steakhouse, Los Fuegos.
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Miami Beach, Florida
Andaz Miami Beach Resort & Spa
Andaz Miami Beach Resort & Spa is a luxury hotel where historic Art Deco character meets modern elegance. Located on the chic stretch of Collins Ave in Mid-Beach, our oceanfront retreat offers the perfect balance of energy and relaxation. Just steps from the beachfront, we’re a destination for slowing down, reconnecting and experiencing a refined take on the city’s vibrant spirit.
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Miami Beach, Florida
1 Hotel South Beach
The 425 rooms and suites at 1 Hotel South Beach start at 550 square feet and expand significantly. The serene design lets the beach vibes in, with floor-to-ceiling windows and salvaged driftwood walls, live-edge wood desks, and glass terrariums. Get your fun in the sun at four pools, including an adults-only rooftop option, and 600 feet of private white-sand beach. Seedlings Camp hosts daily kids’ nature and art activities, and there are complimentary beach cruisers for joy rides along Miami Beach Boardwalk. You can also explore the art scene; the Bass Museum is nearby, and Art Basel Miami takes place in South Beach.
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Miami Beach, Florida
The Setai, Miami Beach
The Setai, Miami Beach occupies a restored 1937 landmark in the Art Deco District, where the aesthetics of the Far East are woven into the original facade. The hotel offers 91 Art Deco rooms, 3 Pool Villas, and 63 Ocean Suites, alongside three temperature-controlled pools, beachfront service, and Valmont Spa. Three signature restaurants, Jaya's South Asian, Japón's contemporary Japanese, and Ocean Grill's Mediterranean-Italian, anchor the dining program, complemented by Jo's Bar and the celebrated Caviar & Champagne Weekend Brunch, with free-flowing Champagne, carving stations, and live music.
Miami, Florida
Kimpton EPIC Miami
Take in the big city’s bright lights or views of Biscayne Bay from your private balcony at the Kimpton EPIC Miami, where rooms and suites have airy, contemporary interiors and yoga mats. There are two sparkling rooftop pools, complete with cabanas, and a private marina that offers dockside services such as departures for deep water fishing and sightseeing water tours. Minutes away, explore the sprawling Bayfront Park and the Brickell City Centre shopping complex. Swing by the hotel lobby beforehand for complimentary coffee and tea or upon your return for the nightly wine hour.
Explore Israeli, Vietnamese, and Italian Kitchens
AVIV
Restaurant photos courtesy of AVIV
AVIV (Hebrew for “spring”) blends ancient Israeli cooking methods with the modern cultural energies of both Miami and Tel Aviv. The result is a dynamic dining experience highlighted by a menu of delightful and creative dishes. Don’t miss out on favorites like the creamy Hummus Tehina, robust Salatim spread, and flavor-packed 72-Hour Braised Short Rib.
Tâm Tâm
Restaurant photos courtesy of Tâm Tâm
What started as a backyard supper club now holds a place among the top restaurants in Miami. Tâm Tâm is an unabashed Vietnamese food and drink party spot featuring boldly flavoured dishes served on sharable plates. The Tâm Tâm menu is less about traditional Vietnamese staples and more about specialties such as the namesake chicken wings, scallop pomelo crudo, and salt and pepper frog legs. Pair with a great wine, beer, or frozen mango Thai basil daiquiri. Reservations go fast. Check out the karaoke machine in the bathroom.
Rosemary’s Miami
Restaurant photos courtesy of Rosemary’s Miami
This New York City mainstay has become a go-to in Wynwood for its Italian countryside charm and excellent food. With tables nestled among a living indoor garden, you can pull up a chair next to flourishing tomato vines or eggplant stalks. At Rosemary’s, it’s all about freshness, simplicity, and a little bit of romance. Enjoy homemade pasta and exceptional seasonal dishes. Many menu items feature ingredients harvested right from the on-site garden, from nearby farms, or from a coastal bounty of local seafood.
Settle in for Steakhouse, French, and Chef-Driven Dining
Dirty French Steakhouse
Restaurant photos courtesy of Dirty French Steakhouse
Dirty French Steakhouse delivers a flamboyant, high-energy take on the classic American steakhouse in the heart of Brickell. French influences meet bold flavours among neon accents, zebra-print chairs, and a disco room that set a nightlife-forward tone. The menu features premium cuts of prime aged steak—from a New York Strip to a Wagyu Tomahawk—and decadent entrees, as well as a rotating raw bar selection and seafood towers. Tableside preparations and an extensive wine list complete the experience.
Bouchon Bistro
Restaurant photos courtesy of Bouchon Bistro
This award-winning French bistro features an open-air dining room that reflects the natural beauty of Coral Gables and its inviting community spirit. The Mediterranean-style exterior frames a beautiful central courtyard, where you can dine among rare orchids or under the shade of lignum vitae and calamondin plants. Bouchon's menu showcases French classics like roast chicken, steak frites, and croque madame, along with a raw bar and lavish seafood towers. Pair your meal with a selection from the extensive French and domestic wine list.
Platinum Card® Members have access to the following benefits with Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel.*
Recoveco
Restaurant photos courtesy of Recoveco
Spanish for “nook” or “cranny,” Recoveco offers an intimate setting, an open kitchen, and chef-driven dishes. This celebrated South Miami spot features a seasonally dynamic menu that knows no borders, but count on the best available ingredients in every selection. Standouts such as bone-in flounder, crackling-skin chicken, and Wagyu beef are renowned for their dynamic flavor and creative preparations—and served at a leisurely pace that lets you savour every bite. With a rotating menu and impeccable service to match, Recoveco is worth repeat visits (recovecorestaurant.com).
Enjoy Italian Aperitivo and Plant-Forward Plates
ViceVersa
Restaurant photos courtesy of ViceVersa
Enjoy Italian food and spirits spun from a distinctly Miami point of view at ViceVersa, a downtown aperitivo bar and restaurant. Drop in for a drink with a light bite or stay for a full dinner with wine. Start with fresh Treasure Coast oysters at the raw bar before moving to a classic caprese salad or the menu highlight, neo-Neapolitan pizzas. All pies feature daily stretched mozzarella and cold-fermented dough made from local flour. Cap off your meal with house-made gelato or sorbet.
FLORA
Restaurant photos courtesy of FLORA
FLORA reimagines plant-based dining through bold Latin American flavours and a produce-forward menu that’s vibrant and creative. Dishes spotlight ingredients like smoky mushroom skewers, torched avocado, Okinawa sweet potato with chimichurri, and a family recipe for Colombian corn arepas, with responsibly sourced meat and seafood options also available. Matching the menu’s energy, the transportive space features tropical greenery, warm textures, and an easy flow from the cozy dining room to the lush outdoor patio.
Explore Miami’s Arts and Culture Scene
Admire the Arts
Explore contemporary art at the Perez Art Museum Miami (pamm.org) or Rubell Museum (rubellmuseum.org) and the graffiti and murals at Wynwood Walls (thewynwoodwalls.com). Then take in a show at the Adrienne Arsht Center of Performing Arts (arshtcenter.org), one of the largest in the United States.
Discover Art Basel Miami
A mecca for art lovers, Art Basel Miami Beach showcases modern and contemporary works from local, regional, and international artists. It's recognised as one of the most important annual global art events, attracting collectors, enthusiasts, and gallery operators worldwide. Art Basel Miami 2026 runs from December 4 to December 6 during Miami Art Week, which is also an internationally renowned arts festival. Check out exhibits, fairs, and other creative celebrations all over town (artbasel.com).
Explore the Design District
Creativity is alive in Miami’s Design District, a treasure trove of art galleries, public installations, iconic fashion stores, and trendy restaurants. Take a complimentary tour of outdoor exhibits or step inside the always-free Institute of Contemporary Art featuring rotating and permanent collections. The Design District is filled with award-winning architectural design to admire, too. When you get hungry, choose from some of Miami’s top restaurants and lounges for a world-class dining experience (miamidesigndistrict.com).
Shop, Stroll, and Experience the City
Shop and Repeat
Brickell City Centre features four levels of shopping, dining, and entertainment sprawled over three city blocks. Get some shopping in at Lincoln Road Mall (lincolnroad.com), one of Miami’s most popular outdoor malls with more than 200 boutiques and restaurants. If you’re looking for high-end stores and chic eateries, explore the world-famous Bal Harbor Shops (balharbourflorida.com), an open-air galleria in a lush tropical garden setting.
Stroll the Boardwalk
The Miami Beach Boardwalk is a vibrant 40-block promenade offering spectacular Atlantic Ocean views, leisurely people-watching, and plenty of spots to break for drinks, dining, and shopping.
Take a Tour of Little Havana
Take in real Cuban colour and culture with a GetYourGuide food and walking tour of Miami's Little Havana. On the tour, you’ll sample authentic Cuban food with stops at restaurants and coffee shops, stroll down Calle Ocho, America’s most famous Cuban-American street, and visit local landmarks like the Bay of Pigs monument and the famous rooster sculptures. Along the way, enjoy street art, cigar stores, and the famed Domino Park. Don’t be surprised if you encounter a wild rooster or two. Tours run about three hours.
Soak Up the Views at South Pointe Park
Located at the southernmost point of South Beach, South Pointe Park is the place to soak up gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. After dark, watch the neighbourhood’s nightclub scene heat up.
Discover Nature and Hidden Landmarks
Hit the Gardens
Immerse yourself in the sights and scents of Florida's natural foliage at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden (mbgarden.org), a three-acre tropical oasis, or pay a visit to Italian-inspired Vizcaya Museum and Gardens for orchids, art, and antiques (vizcaya.org).
Unwind at the National and State Parks
Explore a watery wonderland at Biscayne National Park (nps.gov/bisc), renowned for swimming and snorkelling among diverse marine life along the mangrove-lined shores. Across the Bay is Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Miami skyline. Be sure to see Cape Florida Light, the oldest standing structure in the greater Miami area. With more than 1000 acres, Oleta State Park is Florida’s largest urban park; a gem for paddlers, kayakers, swimmers, and bicyclers (floridastateparks.org).
Visit the Monastery of Our Lady, Queen of Angels
When you’re ready to jump off the beaten path, check out the Ancient Spanish Monastery (theancientspanishmonastery.com) in North Miami Beach. Relocated from Spain in the 1900s, the monastery’s cloisters and outbuildings date back to 1133 AD. William Randolph Hearst’s effort to purchase, dismantle, and ship the structures, stone by stone, to the United States offers a fascinating look at yet another passion project by the media tycoon. Walking tours are available during operating hours.
Relax, Recline and Save
As a Platinum Cardmember, the world is your oyster with the International Airline Program. Book through American Express Travel and enjoy access to savings on select first class, business, and premium economy tickets with participating airlines on designated international flights. Terms apply. Representative 685.3% APR variable applies to The Platinum Card®. Annual fees & terms apply.
Membership Rewards® Programme
Cardmembers enrolled in the American Express Membership Rewards® programme will earn one additional bonus Membership Rewards point in addition to their standard earn rate (for a total of 2 points) for every full £1 spent on flights, prepaid hotels, car hire and experiences booked through the American Express Travel website americanexpress.com/en-gb/travel/. Specific Card products or limited time promotions may offer additional Membership Rewards points, please see individual Card or promotion Terms and Conditions for more information. Additional Membership Rewards points cannot be earned on products which are not prepaid but are paid directly to the supplier, including cruise bookings and select hotel bookings. These bookings will not earn two Membership Rewards points for every £1 spent but will be earned at the normal rate of one point for every £1 spent. Full Terms and Conditions apply, please visit americanexpress.com/uk/travel/terms-and-conditions/.
International Airline Program
American Express reserves the rights to change these conditions from time to time with 21 days prior notice and/or to discontinue the whole program.
1. Airlines reserve the right to change, cancel or restrict flight operations without notice. IAP upgrades or specially negotiated fares may be limited by airlines to certain flights and/or dates (“blackouts”). IAP is subject to the terms and conditions of each participating carrier. American Express does not guarantee that seats or tickets will be available. Cabins of service and discounts vary by airline and route. Discounts are applicable to adult fares however some airlines extend savings to child fares.
2. To qualify for the IAP upgrades or specially negotiated fares:
a) Your journey must start and end at the same port as designated by the participating airline and be completed within the period during which your selected carrier participates in the program. You will be advised of any applicable dates at the time of booking;
b) IAP tickets must be purchased through the Platinum Travel Service and must be charged to a valid American Express Platinum Card which is in good standing;
c) The Platinum Cardmember who purchases the ticket(s) must be one of the travellers;
d) IAP tickets are non-transferable and non endorsable.
3. Any travel on non-participating airlines must be ticketed and paid for separately and is not part of the IAP. Certain code share or flights on the worldwide partners of the participating airlines may not apply.
4. Certain IAP airlines or non-participating airlines impose restrictions such as ticketing time limit on advance booking to indicate a timeline for ticketing upon making your reservations. For each individual airline Terms & Conditions, please check with the Platinum Travel Service for details.
5. IAP upgrade offers or specially negotiated fares may not be combined with any other promotion, discount, negotiated or corporate rate.
6. American Express acts only as an agent for travel service providers and does not own or operate any airline or means of transportation. American Express is not liable for service deficiencies on the part of airlines or other service providers, including but not limited to: accidents and injuries; delays; changes in routes or itineraries; loss, theft or damages to possessions. American Express strongly advises travellers to insure themselves against travel risks. Travellers are responsible for ensuring that they have valid documentation and for complying with the health, customs, currency and other laws of any country they enter or attempt to enter.
7. IAP is available to Platinum Cardmembers from a variety of participating airlines each with specifically designated ports of departure and arrival. Please refer to the Platinum Travel Service for details of participating airlines, applicable routing and timetables and fares in force at any particular time.
8. Other International Airline Program Terms & Conditions may apply.
