To get around in Florida, you can use a variety of transportation options including international and domestic airports, an extensive road network, a moderate rail network, and various public transportation systems.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Florida has several major international airports that provide direct flights to and from various destinations around the world. Miami International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country, serving as a major hub for American Airlines and offering non-stop flights to over 150 destinations worldwide. Orlando International Airport is another major airport, serving as a key destination for tourists visiting the city's numerous theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is a smaller but still significant airport, offering flights to destinations in the Caribbean, Latin America, and other parts of the United States. In addition to flying, visitors can also enter Florida by car or bus, with several major highways, including I-75 and I-95, connecting the state to other parts of the country.
For those traveling overland, there are several major entry points along Florida's borders, including the Georgia-Florida border to the north and the Alabama-Florida border to the west. Several bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, also offer routes into Florida from other parts of the country. Visitors can also take a train or bus from nearby cities, such as Savannah, Georgia, or New Orleans, Louisiana, to reach Florida.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights within Florida are readily available, with several airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, offering routes between the state's major airports. Some of the most popular domestic routes include flights from Miami to Orlando, Fort Lauderdale to Tampa, and Jacksonville to Key West. When booking domestic flights, it's a good idea to compare prices across multiple airlines and book in advance to get the best deals. Approximate costs for domestic flights within Florida can range from $100 to $300 or more, depending on the route and time of year.
Trains & Rail
Florida has a moderate rail network, with several train routes connecting the state's major cities. The Brightline train service, for example, offers high-speed routes between Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, with plans to expand to Orlando and Tampa in the near future. Amtrak also offers several routes through Florida, including the Silver Star and Silver Meteor trains, which connect the state to other parts of the country. To book train tickets, visitors can use the Amtrak or Brightline websites, or visit a train station in person. Prices for train tickets vary depending on the route and class of service, but can range from $50 to $200 or more.
Buses & Coaches
Several intercity bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, offer routes within Florida, connecting major cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. These buses are often an affordable option for travelers on a budget, with prices starting at around $20 to $50 or more, depending on the route and time of year. The quality of the buses and services can vary, but many companies offer comfortable seating, air conditioning, and onboard amenities like Wi-Fi and restrooms.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Miami, Jacksonville | $2.50-$5.00 | Limited routes, but convenient for getting around downtown areas |
| City Bus | Most cities | $1.00-$3.00 | Extensive routes, but can be slow and unreliable |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $2.50-$5.00/km | Available at airports and in major cities, but can be expensive |
| Ride-Hailing | Most cities | $5.00-$15.00 | Convenient and widely available, but prices can surge during peak hours |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | None | N/A | Not available in Florida |
Driving
- To drive in Florida, visitors will need a valid driver's license from their home country or state.
- Road conditions in Florida are generally good, with well-maintained highways and roads.
- Fuel costs in Florida are relatively low, with prices ranging from $2.50 to $3.50 per gallon.
- Car rental companies are widely available at airports and in major cities, with prices starting at around $40 to $60 per day.
- Hazards to watch out for when driving in Florida include aggressive drivers, construction zones, and wildlife, especially alligators and deer, which can be present on roads, especially at night.
- Visitors should also be aware of Florida's toll roads, which can be paid using cash or credit cards, or by using a SunPass or E-PASS transponder.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of peak season traffic and plan your travel accordingly, especially during holidays and summer months.
- Use a mapping app like Google Maps or Waze to navigate roads and avoid traffic congestion.
- Keep an eye out for scams, especially in tourist areas, and be cautious when using ATMs or exchanging money.
- Consider using a credit card or traveler's check instead of cash, especially when making large purchases or paying for services.
- Download the Uber or Lyft app to use ride-hailing services, which are widely available in Florida.
- Be mindful of sun exposure and heat exhaustion when traveling in Florida, especially during the summer months.
- Take advantage of free parking and public transportation options when available, especially in downtown areas and at theme parks.
- Always follow traffic laws and drive defensively, especially when navigating Florida's busy roads and highways.