Florida Travel Guide

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Welcome to the Florida travel guide! With its gorgeous beaches, exciting theme parks, and vibrant culture, Florida is a top destination for visitors from all over the world. Whether you're looking for an action-packed beach vacation or a relaxing retreat, this Sunshine State has something for everyone. In this article, we'll discuss why Florida is one of the best vacation spots in the United States and provide helpful tips for planning your trip.

If you’re still not convinced, here’s a few more reasons to go on holiday to Florida.

Warm weather: Florida is known for its warm climate and sunshine, making it a popular destination for those seeking a tropical escape.

Beaches: With over 1,200 miles of coastline, Florida offers some of the best beaches in the country, including Miami Beach, Panama City Beach, and Clearwater Beach.

Theme parks: Florida is home to some of the world's most famous theme parks, including Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.

Wildlife: From the Everglades National Park to the Kennedy Space Center, Florida is home to a wide variety of wildlife and ecosystems, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Cultural attractions: From the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa to the Perez Art Museum Miami, Florida offers a diverse range of cultural attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Food and drinks: With its strong Caribbean and Latin influences, Florida offers a rich culinary scene with plenty of opportunities to sample delicious local cuisine and drinks.

Shopping: From the boutiques of Miami's Design District to the outlet malls of Orlando, Florida is a shopper's paradise, offering a wide range of shopping options.

Nightlife: From the club scene in Miami to the bars and restaurants of Orlando, Florida offers a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of options for those seeking a good time after dark.

Frequently Asked Questions When Travelling To Florida

What Is A Good Budget For A Trip To Florida?

The budget for a trip to Florida depends on several factors such as the time of year, length of stay, type of accommodation, and planned activities. On average, a budget of $100 to $150 per day per person is a good starting point, but this can vary greatly.

If you plan to stay in budget accommodations, eat inexpensively, and limit your activities to free or low-cost options, you could get by on less. If you want to stay in a more luxurious hotel, dine at upscale restaurants, and visit theme parks and attractions, you will likely need to budget more.

Accommodation: The cost of different types of accommodation in Florida varies depending on the location, time of year, and amenities offered. Here are some approximate ranges: Prices for budget hotels in Florida start around $50 to $75 per night, but can vary greatly depending on the location and time of year. Mid-range hotels in Florida typically cost between $100 and $200 per night, with prices varying based on location and amenities, while luxury hotels in Florida can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 or more per night, with prices depending on location, time of year, and services offered.

Vacation rentals can range from modest apartments to spacious homes and can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 or more per night, and camping in Florida can cost anywhere from $20 to $40 per night for a basic campsite, to several hundred dollars per night for more luxurious options such as RV parks or glamping sites.

Food and drink: Fast food meals in Florida typically cost around $5 to $10 per person. Casual dining restaurants in Florida offer a variety of menu options, with prices ranging from $10 to $20 per person for lunch and $15 to $30 per person for dinner.

Upscale restaurants can cost $30 or more per person for dinner, depending on the location, menu options, and type of cuisine. And seafood restaurants in Florida are known for their fresh seafood, with prices ranging from $15 to $30 per person for lunch and $30 to $50 per person for dinner, depending on the type of restaurant and location.

Transportation: Bus fares in Florida typically cost $2 to $5 per ride, depending on the length of the journey and the transit authority. Train fares in Florida vary widely, depending on the type of train and the length of the journey. Short-distance commuter trains can cost $2 to $10 per ride, while long-distance trains can cost several hundred dollars for a one-way trip.

On average, taxi fares in Florida start at around $3 to $5, with additional fees for each mile or minute of the journey. While rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available in Florida, with fares starting around $5 to $10 for a short trip, and increasing based on the distance of the journey and time of day.

Activities and Excursions: Theme park admission prices in Florida can range from $50 to $150 or more per person, per day, depending on the park and the time of year. Some theme parks also offer annual passes for a flat fee, which can offer substantial savings for frequent visitors.

Museum admission prices in Florida can range from $10 to $20 per person, with some museums offering free or reduced-price admission on certain days or to certain groups. Many beaches in Florida are free and open to the public, but some may charge a fee for parking or access to amenities such as showers, restrooms, and lifeguard services.

The cost of water activities in Florida such as snorkeling, kayaking, and boat tours can range from $30 to $100 or more, depending on the type of activity, location, and duration of the excursion. The cost of nature and wildlife activities in Florida such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife tours can range from $10 to $50 or more.

It is important to keep in mind that this is a rough estimate and your actual budget may vary depending on your preferences and travel style.

How Many Days In Florida Is Enough?

If you have limited time and want to see some of the main attractions in Florida, a 4- to 5-day trip could be sufficient. During this time, you could visit popular theme parks like Walt Disney World or Universal Studios, and explore the beaches and natural wonders of the state.

If you have more time and prefer a more relaxed pace, a 7- to 10-day trip could be ideal. This will give you enough time to visit a few theme parks, as well as some of Florida's smaller attractions and hidden gems, like art galleries, museums, and local festivals.

If you enjoy road trips and want to explore more of Florida's diverse regions, a 10- to 14-day trip could be perfect. During this time, you could drive along the scenic Gulf Coast, visit the Everglades National Park, and explore the historic city of St. Augustine.

What Is The Best Way To Tour Florida?

The best way to travel around Florida depends on several factors, such as your budget, travel style, and the length of your trip. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Renting a car is a popular and convenient option for traveling around Florida, as it gives you the freedom to explore the state at your own pace and visit attractions that may be off the beaten path.
• Public transportation, including buses and trains, is available in Florida and can be a cost-effective option for traveling between cities and major attractions. However, it may not be the most convenient option for exploring more remote areas of the state.
• Private transfer services such as taxis, rideshare services, and airport shuttles are available in Florida and can be a convenient option for traveling to and from the airport, or for shorter trips between attractions.
• Guided tours, such as bus or walking tours, can be a convenient and informative way to see the state's major attractions, especially if you're short on time.

Ultimately, the best way to tour around Florida will depend on your budget, travel style, and the length of your trip. You can consider a combination of different options, such as renting a car for part of your trip and taking public transportation or private transfer services for other parts, to create a flexible and cost-effective itinerary.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Florida?

Florida's winter months (December to February) are some of the most popular with tourists, as they offer warm and sunny weather, as well as a range of holiday-themed events and attractions.

Florida's spring months (March to May) are also a popular time to visit, as the weather is warm and pleasant, and many of the state's beaches and outdoor attractions are starting to come alive with springtime festivities.

Summer in Florida (June to August) can be very hot and humid, with frequent thunderstorms, making it a less popular time to visit for some. However, it's still a great time to visit the state's beaches and water parks, and there are many festivals and outdoor events to enjoy.

Florida's fall months (September to November) are another good time to visit, as the weather is warm and pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices than the peak winter months.

What Are The Dos And Don’ts In Florida?

Here are some general "dos and don'ts" to keep in mind when visiting Florida:

Do:

• Respect the local laws and customs: Florida is a culturally diverse state, and it's important to be respectful of the local laws and customs, especially when it comes to dress code, behavior, and language.
• Stay hydrated: Florida is a hot and humid state, so it's important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially when participating in outdoor activities.
• Wear sunscreen: The Florida sun can be intense, so it's important to wear sunscreen and protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Be mindful of wildlife: Florida is home to a wide range of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, and sea creatures. When visiting state and national parks, or other wildlife habitats, it's important to follow the guidelines and rules to keep both yourself and the animals safe.

Don’t:

• Litter: Florida is a beautiful state, and it's important to keep it that way by not littering and disposing of your trash properly.
• Disturb wildlife: As mentioned above, it's important to be mindful of wildlife in Florida and to not disturb or harm any animals.
• Drive under the influence: Florida has strict laws against driving under the influence, and the penalties can be severe. Always plan ahead and arrange for a designated driver or use a taxi or rideshare service if you plan to drink.
• Ignore hurricane warnings: Florida is a coastal state and is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, especially during the summer and fall months. Always stay informed about the weather conditions and follow any evacuation orders if necessary.

By following these "dos and don'ts," you can help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and respectful trip to Florida.

What Are The Visa Requirements For Florida?

The visa requirements for Florida depend on several factors, including your country of origin, the purpose of your visit, and the length of your stay. Here are some general guidelines:

• Citizens of visa-waiver countries: If you are a citizen of a country that participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you may be able to enter the United States without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for business or tourism purposes.
• Non-Visa Waiver Program countries: If you are a citizen of a country that does not participate in the Visa Waiver Program, you will need to obtain a nonimmigrant visa before entering the United States, unless you are eligible for a different type of visa, such as a student visa or work visa.
• Canadian citizens: Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter the United States, but they must have a valid passport or other acceptable travel document.
• Green Card holders: If you are a lawful permanent resident of the United States, you do not need a visa to enter the United States, but you must have your Green Card with you.
• Temporary work visas: If you are coming to Florida for work purposes, you may need a temporary work visa, depending on the type of work you will be doing.

It's important to note that the visa requirements for Florida may change depending on current U.S. immigration policies and laws, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information before traveling. You can find more information on U.S. visa requirements on the U.S. Department of State website.

Do I need Travel Insurance To Visit Florida?

Travel insurance is not required to travel to Florida, but it is highly recommended. Travel insurance can provide you with coverage for unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost or stolen luggage, and more.

Having travel insurance can give you peace of mind, especially if you are traveling from a different country, as it can help you manage unexpected expenses and provide support in the event of an emergency.

How To Stay Safe In Florida?

Florida is generally considered to be a safe place to travel, but like any other destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe trip:

Stay alert, especially in crowded tourist areas, and be mindful of your personal belongings. Keep your valuables, such as money, passports, and electronics, secure and out of sight. When driving or crossing the street, be sure to follow traffic laws and stay aware of your surroundings.

Familiarize yourself with the emergency procedures in case of an emergency, such as the location of the nearest hospital or police station. And most of all, use common sense and trust your instincts, especially when it comes to personal safety.

Where To Stay In Florida?

The Best Booking Resources For Florida

These are the companies I use predominantly when I travel to Florida. They offer great customer service and the best value, consistently outperform their competitors, as they always have excellent deals. I rely on them the most, and they are the starting point in my search for travel deals.

Booking.com - This is the best travel partner when it comes to planning your vacation in Florida. With over 28 million listings in more than 200 countries and territories, you'll have no problem choosing from the world's most comprehensive selection of accommodations - from exotic villas to cozy apartments! Booking.com offers a secure and convenient way to book your next holiday, with unbeatable deals that will make sure you get the best value for your money when travelling to Florida.

Skyscanner - This is the perfect tool for finding the best flights at the best prices to Florida. With a comprehensive selection of airlines to choose from, you can compare prices and routes in seconds - saving you time, stress and money. Skyscanner's intuitive search engine makes it easy to find great deals on domestic and international flights. Plus, you can easily customize your search preferences so you get results that fit your budget and destination needs.

Get Your Guide - Are you looking for ways to make your travel experiences more memorable? With GetYourGuide, you can book amazing activities, tours and attractions all over Florida. Whether it’s a tour of an iconic city landmark or unique experience that’s off the beaten path, GetYourGuide offers something spectacular for any traveler. With thousands of things to do and see in different cities around Florida, this platform simplifies the search process with user-friendly filters.