How to get around Miami

Getting Around in Miami Public Transportation

When you arrive in Miami, the first thing you notice—besides the tropical air and the palm trees—is the vibrant energy that surrounds the city. But you don’t need a car to enjoy it. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or you’re a resident looking for efficient ways to move around, Miami’s public transportation offers practical, affordable, and surprisingly pleasant options to get around the city.

From the Airport — Your First Contact With the City

Most travelers begin their journey at Miami International Airport (MIA). After picking up your luggage, follow the signs to the MIA Mover, a free automated train that connects the terminals with the Miami Intermodal Center, where all public transportation options come together.

There, you can purchase your EASY Card or EASY Ticket at the vending machines. You can choose English or Spanish and select from the following passes:

• 1-day pass: $5.65
  
• 7-day pass: $29.25
  
• 30-day pass: $112.75

This card allows you to use Metrorail, Metromover, and Metrobus without paying separate fares. From the airport station, Metrorail takes you straight to downtown in about 20 minutes.

Metrorail and Metromover The Heart of the System

Metrorail is Miami’s elevated train system, with two main lines—the Orange Line and the Green Line—running across 23 stations from the airport to Palmetto. It operates daily from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., and a one-way trip costs $2.25.

In my experience, riding the Metrorail is safe, fast, and comfortable. It also offers panoramic views of the city while you avoid traffic, especially during rush hour. It’s an excellent option for reaching areas like Brickell, Coconut Grove, or Hialeah.

Once downtown, you can transfer to the Metromover, a free, fully automated system that loops around Downtown and Brickell. It operates on three circuits and connects to places like Bayside Marketplace, the Adrienne Arsht Center, and the Financial District. The best part: it’s completely free and offers stunning skyline views—especially if you sit at the front of the cars.

Metrobus and Trolley Mobility for Everyone

Beyond the trains, the Metrobus network covers nearly the entire metropolitan area. With more than 90 routes and 800 buses, it’s the most widely used system, serving around 250,000 passengers daily. Some lines, like 3, 11, 27, and 77, run 24/7, which is ideal for people who work or travel at night.

If you prefer something with more local charm, hop on the Miami Trolley. These orange-and-green streetcars are free and accessible for people with reduced mobility. They run through areas like Little Havana, Coconut Grove, Downtown, and Coral Gables from 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Just look for the nearest stop or signal the driver. It’s a nostalgic, practical, and very Miami way to get around.

Modern and Eco-Friendly Options Brightline, Tri-Rail, and Freebee

Miami’s transportation landscape continues to evolve. Brightline connects Downtown Miami with Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando, offering a fast and comfortable way to travel across South Florida. The ride to Orlando takes under three hours, and the trains offer Wi-Fi, spacious seating, and onboard service.

For frequent travelers, Tri-Rail is a more affordable option connecting Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. Tickets start at around $2.00, with discounts for students, seniors, and people with disabilities.

And if you prefer something more eco-friendly, try Freebee, a free electric ride service that operates in several neighborhoods. You just need to download the app, request a vehicle, and enjoy an emissions-free trip — especially ideal when the weather is so consistently pleasant in Miami.

Helpful Tips for Visitors and Residents

Whether you’re on vacation or have just moved to the city, these tips will help you make the most of Miami’s public transportation:

• Download the GO Miami-Dade Transit app to check schedules, routes, and buy digital tickets.
  
• Plan your transfers between Metrorail, Metromover, and Metrobus—most stations make connections easy.
  
• Travel light and stay aware of your belongings, especially at night.
  
• Take advantage of unlimited passes—they’re usually more cost-effective than paying per ride.
  
• Combine your trips with biking or walking. Citi Bike and pedestrian-friendly areas like Brickell or Bayside are perfect for short, healthy trips.
  

More Than Transportation An Experience

Public transportation in Miami isn’t just a way to get around—it’s a way to experience the city. From the futuristic Metromover gliding between skyscrapers to the classic charm of the Trolley, each ride reveals a different side of Miami’s spirit.

Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a resident rediscovering your surroundings, using public transit helps you save money, reduce stress, and feel the real rhythm of Miami.

So next time you arrive at the airport, grab your EASY Card, hop on the train, and let Miami’s public transportation take you wherever the sun always shines.

And if you want help planning your route, checking the best schedules, or finding the transportation option that suits you best, contact one of our experts. We’ll be happy to help you get around Miami more easily, affordably, and efficiently.