When traveling by air, your airport experience can set the tone of your entire trip, and navigating around uncharted territories may often result in long lines, awful airport food, and overall travel frustrations. After a long-flight, the last thing you want is an even longer experience at the airport, so we’ve put together an insider’s guide to help you navigate MIA like a pro and get your trip off on the right foot.
Miami International Airport is located eight miles (13 kilometers) from downtown Miami and is the main airport for the south of Florida. Every year, more than 44 million passengers pass through MIA and its four terminals. The airport is connected to many different continents including Europe and Asia; however, it is best connected to Latin America with more direct routes than any other airport in the United States.
Whether you arrive early for your flight, are feeling peckish, or have a layover, Miami International Airport does food well, ensuring that you won’t go hungry. One of the most famous eateries at the airport is Café Versailles in Concourse D, a popular Cuban chain throughout all of Florida. Some of its specialties include its famous Cuban sandwich and a stellar ropa vieja, which is a classic Cuban dish of stewed beef. Other options include a burger joint (The Counter – Concourse D), a pizzeria (La Famiglia – Concourse J) and a sushi spot (Sushi Maki – Concourse D). For those wanting a pre-flight or post-arrival drink, there are several bars serving wine, beer and spirits. Ku-Va (Concourse D), another Cuban inspired restaurant, serves excellent mojitos, whereas wine lovers will fit right in at Beaudevin (also in Concourse D).
Miami International Airport is unique in that it offers many different services and amenities beyond those of most airports. Within the terminals, you’ll find a manicure/pedicure service and a spray-tanning booth. In addition to the standard luxury shops and boutiques, MIA also has a strong emphasis on supporting local artists, with temporary and permanent exhibitions for you to peruse. If your layover is overnight, but you want to remain close to the airport, Miami International Airport Hotel is a three-star option located in Concourse E.
Never one to shy away from implementing helpful new services and technologies for visitors, Miami International Airport has also recently welcomed Bringit, removing the hassles out of carrying baggage from/to Miami International Airport. Travelers are now able to effortlessly arrive and depart without bags in hand, foregoing the annoying baggage carousel and making check-in a breeze. Simply request the service through the user-friendly app, and the Bringit team will take care of the rest – allowing you to navigate the airport and travel hands-free.
Getting to or from MIA is also easy, with a range of options available. While there is parking at the airport, we recommend leaving your car at home in favor of the MIA Mover train, which connects MIA to Miami Central Station, or the Miami Beach Airport Flyer Bus. If you prefer a private ride, Uber is another affordable and convenient way to travel to and from MIA.
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