Time it right and your trip to the Magic City needn’t cost an arm and a leg.

When to book flights to Miami

While cheap flights to Miami can be hard to come by during high season, on the off-season you may just clinch a deal. Located on the sunny southern tip of Florida, Miami is most popular during the winter months, when the blistering summer heat reduces to a balmy 20 degrees. Summertime can be much hotter, but brings with it regular rains to take the edge off. Perfect, if you don’t mind a little wet weather to go with your summer cocktail.

How to get around Miami

After a long flight, the last thing anybody wants to worry about it how to get around. Luckily, Miami International is only eight miles from the city centre, a direct drive along Route 112 (also known as the Airport Expressway). Regular shuttles run this route, but renting a car in Miami is also very affordable. Furthermore, this can add an extra dimension to your getaway, giving you the chance to explore the surrounding area.

Once in the city itself, settled in and freshened up, the Miami trolley is a good way of getting about. It travels to all the main sights such as Marlins Park, Biscayne Bay and the up-and-coming Allapattah, a neighbourhood packed with trendy markets. Presuming the weather’s playing nice, a water taxi service also makes a pleasant day trip between points of interest along Biscayne Bay.

Things you mustn’t miss in Miami

When one imagines Miami, one tends to picture white sand beaches, trendy nightclubs, glorious sunshine and magnificent Art Deco architecture. Not to mention the glitterati parading beachside promenades.

For something a bit off the beaten track though, head to the outskirts of Little Havana to discover a secret gem of an outdoor hangout called El Fresco. Packed with street art, pop up food stalls and a stage, this is one place most of the locals don’t even know about.

Otherwise, for a little peace and quiet, head to Wat Buddharangsi, a Buddhist temple offering a piece of uncharacteristic respite and mindfulness away from the glitz and glamour of Miami beach.

Tips for travelling in Miami

While visitors to Miami needn’t worry about obtaining a visa, it is required to complete an electronic system for travel authorisation (ESTA). This short questionnaire is similar to a visa waiver form, is valid for two years (or until your passport expires) and costs 14 USD. If you want to get your money’s worth, you’d better plan that next trip quickly!