How to Get from Miami International Airport to Downtown, South Beach and Beyond
Taxi, rideshare, Metrorail and shuttle from MIA compared on cost and journey time, plus which one to pick for Downtown, Brickell or South Beach.
Miami International Airport (MIA) is one of the busiest travel hubs in the United States. If you've had to trek through immigration and customs, you'll know just how crazy it gets!
Once you've got your bags and you're ready to hit Downtown Miami or South Beach, it's worth knowing the smartest way to get there.
I last did this run in 2025. This guide lays out all the main transport options from MIA, with practical tips and links to help you travel smoothly and affordably.
Quick Overview of Travel Times from MIA
| Destination | Travel time |
|---|---|
| Downtown Miami | 15-25 minutes by car |
| Brickell | 20-30 minutes by car |
| South Beach | 25-45 minutes depending on traffic |
| Wynwood/Midtown | 20-30 minutes |
Option 1: Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
The fastest and most straightforward option is often a rideshare or taxi.
| Option | Cost |
|---|---|
| Uber/Lyft to Downtown | $20-$30 |
| Uber/Lyft to South Beach | $30-$45 |
| Taxi to Downtown | Around $30-$35 (metered rate) |
| Taxi to South Beach | $35-$50 depending on traffic |
Pickup zones for Uber and Lyft are on the Arrivals Level (Level 1). Follow the signs to the rideshare zone.
Option 2: Metrorail + Free Downtown Trolleys
Public transit in Miami can be surprisingly effective if you're travelling light.
Step-by-step to Downtown Miami or Brickell:
- Take the MIA Mover (automated train) from the terminal to the Miami Intermodal Center.
- Transfer to the Metrorail Orange Line.
- Ride to Government Center (for Downtown) or Brickell Station.
- Use the free Metromover or Downtown Trolley to finish your trip if needed.
- Cost: $2.25 per person, payable by contactless card or phone
- Travel time: From 42 - 75 mins depending on route taken.
For the very latest Metrorail maps and updates, check the Miami-Dade Transit site.
Option 3: Airport Shuttle or Private Transfer
A lifeguard hut at South Beach, Miami
Several companies offer shared or private shuttle services. This is a good choice if you're travelling as a group or have lots of luggage.
- SuperShuttle, Go Airport Shuttle, and Express Shuttle Miami all offer services to Downtown, Brickell, and South Beach.
- Prices start at around $15 per person (shared) or $60+ (private).
Some hotels also offer airport transfer services, either included or for a small fee, check with your hotel in advance. It's worth checking first: no point in double-paying to get there.
Where to Stay in Miami
Where you base yourself depends on the trip. Good options near the airport, on South Beach, and in Downtown / Brickell, at different price points:
Option 4: Renting a Car
If you're planning to explore beyond Miami or travel at your own pace, renting a car might be worth it. There can be great deals on car rental at MIA out of season.
- Major rental companies are located at the Rental Car Center, accessible via the MIA Mover (just follow the signs once you claim your luggage).
- I use Discover Cars to compare rates and book in advance.
Top Tip: Parking in Downtown and South Beach is usually extremely expensive (at least for me as a visiting Irishman), so weigh that against the convenience.
What to Do After Landing
If you've got a few hours to kill before check-in or just want to explore, here's what I'd do with them:
For beach time, South Beach is just 25 minutes away. If you want something a little quieter, head to Key Biscayne or the North Beach end of Miami Beach.
My Verdict
Miami International is well connected, and once you know your options, getting into the city is easy. Taxi, train, or the start of a Florida road trip: a little planning goes a long way to start your Miami trip on the right foot.