The vibrant city of Miami is the gateway to all the wonders of southern Florida – so whether you're landing at the airport for a holiday of exploration or purely on business meeting, hiring a car from Miami Airport is the best option to get you where you want to go.

The site is surrounded by residential suburbs like West Miami and Miami Springs, which are laid out in a neat grid pattern dominated by straight lines and numbered blocks. The airport area is just eight miles from downtown Miami, and follow Route 836 for the city centre and the beaches.

There are several important other highways to look out for across the city. These wide, multi-lane routes are perfect for travelling from one area to another. The I-95 route runs north-to-south down Florida’s west coast and links the heart of Miami with the resorts and ports to the north. Route One starts in the south of the city and heads down across the chain of islands known as the Keys – it’s a spectacular drive across bridges and causeways.

It's best to be fully aware of any charges or fees you might have to pay for using certain roads in your hire car, so make sure you're read up before you head out. You can find all the details on Florida's Turn Pike's website. You’ll need to keep all your documentation with you at all times when driving here, including your driver’s license, car rental documents and your proof of insurance.

Miami is one of the world’s great tourist destinations, standing in the south-east corner of the USA, facing down towards the Caribbean. The palm trees, sandy beaches and long, hot sunny days are a big draw for tourists but you’ll also find colourful Cuban and Haitian influences across the city. And from the family-friendly spooky House of Horror Amusement Park to the grand historic Coral Gables Merrick House and Gardens, Miami has something for everyone.

Discover South Beach

One of the best places for soaking up Miami's atmosphere is the famous South Beach area. Here, the wide sandy Atlantic shore leads back to meet a stylish promenade and rows of pastel-painted art-deco buildings that have been converted to become hotels, restaurants or luxury apartments.

Pull up a chair at one of the areas chic cafes – South Beach Café is perfect for a refreshing smoothie, or if you're after something more substantial the Front Porch Cafe has an eclectic menu to appeal for all tastes.

But if you're heading to South Beach, you're going to want to hit Miami's famed golden sands. Miami Beach is the most popular with tourists and offers plenty of space to kick back and enjoy the sun, but if you're after a bit more seclusion, Virginia Key is best suited. Adrenaline junkies can taste their skills out on the waves, with Surfside beach popular with those wanting to hang-10.

Head into the districts

Drive a few blocks inland and you’ll be in downtown Miami. This is a bustling centre of business and shopping but it also offers fine dining and exclusive nightlife venues. Alongside is the Bayside Marketplace, with more tourist-centric shops and eateries.

Head north to find the area of arty shops and boutiques now called the Design District. There are more than 130 little art galleries here plus assorted independent restaurants, antique stores and interesting cafes. It’s increasingly popular and makes a great place for a leisurely wander.

The centres of the Caribbean cultural influences are the area of Little Havana and Little Haiti. Here you’ll find lively shops, restaurants and events celebrating their roots.

Out of Miami

If you drive on the causeway to Key Biscaine Island, you’ll experience a more relaxed side of Miami. You can enjoy stunning views back across the sea to the city and you’ll find quieter beaches and spacious sports facilities here too. Further south, you’ll discover more ocean front dining and beachfront bars. Miami’s seafood demonstrates the success of the local fishing industry - look out for specialities like stone crabs and swordfish.

The drive south across the Keys is renowned. Highway One hops from exotic island to island via bridges and causeways. The islands were made famous by Ernest Hemingway and still offer exclusive beaches, bars and restaurants. To the west of Miami, there’s a different kind of day out. The Everglades is a protected National Park of swamps and waterways. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot rare manatees, fearsome crocodiles, and delicate storks.

Miami is a popular destination for tourists around the world, and with beautiful weather, amazing attractions and incredible food and culture to enjoy, it’s no wonder why. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, Miami is a fantastic place to visit.