11 Days in Florida: Ultimate Itinerary & Travel Tips

Discover the best of Florida in 11 days! From vibrant Miami to the serene beaches of Sanibel Island, this itinerary covers it all. Find insider tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to make the most of your Florida adventure.

Day 1 in Florida: Dive into Florida's Thrilling Adventures

Explore Orlando's Theme Parks

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping day at Orlando's world-renowned theme parks! Experience thrilling rides, captivating shows, and unforgettable attractions at Disney World and Universal Studios.

Journey into Space at Kennedy Space Center

Embark on a journey through the history of space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Witness historic spacecraft, experience thrilling simulators, and learn about the future of space travel.

Swim with Gentle Giants in Crystal River

Encounter the gentle giants of the sea in their natural habitat during the winter months. Swim with manatees in the crystal-clear waters of Crystal River for an unforgettable experience.

Day 2 in Florida: Embrace the Sunshine and Coastal Charm

Relax and Rejuvenate on Clearwater Beach

Escape to the pristine shores of Clearwater Beach, where soft white sands meet crystal-clear waters. Relax, swim, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal paradise.

Explore the Beaches of St. Petersburg

Discover the beauty and charm of St. Petersburg's beaches. Enjoy the pristine sands, diverse culture, exquisite dining, and shopping, and embark on exciting outdoor water adventures.

Discover Fort Myers' Rich History and Coastal Delights

Explore the charming city of Fort Myers, where history and coastal beauty intertwine. Visit the homes of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, and spend time on the pristine beaches of Sanibel Island or Fort Myers Beach.

Day 3 in Florida: Journey Through Time and Nature's Wonders

Explore the Oldest City in the Nation

Step back in time and wander through the historic streets of St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States. Admire the Spanish colonial architecture and visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.

Discover Florida's Ancient Caves

Venture into the depths of Florida Caverns State Park and explore the geological wonders of an underground cave system. Marvel at stalactites, stalagmites, and other natural formations.

Experience the Everglades on an Airboat Adventure

Skim across the shallow waters of the Everglades on an airboat adventure. Spot alligators and other wildlife from a unique perspective and immerse yourself in the beauty of this unique ecosystem.

Day 4 in Florida: Embrace Miami's Vibrant Energy and Coastal Glamour

Explore Miami's Vibrant Culture

Experience the vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and unique neighborhoods of Miami. Explore the Wynwood Walls, immerse yourself in the Latin culture of Little Havana, and soak up the city's energy.

Experience the Glitz and Glamour of South Beach

Indulge in the glitz and glamour of South Beach, where stunning beaches meet Art Deco architecture. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, explore the historic district, and soak up the sun.

Escape to the Laid-Back Charm of Key West

Escape to the laid-back island lifestyle of Key West. Enjoy refreshing drinks, breathtaking sunsets, and visit historical sites like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

References

Transportation in Florida

Getting around Florida cities can be relatively easy, depending on the location and mode of transportation. In cities like Miami, you can easily reach the destination by flying into the main international airport, MIA, or using the long-distance bus system or Amtrak train. Once in the city, you can use taxis, Uber, or Lyft to get around. In St. Augustine, the historic district is pedestrian-friendly, and you can use trolleys to connect the city, but a car or taxi/Uber ride may be required to get to the city. In Fort Lauderdale, a car is recommended to explore the city and its surroundings, but you can also use water taxis, the Sun Trolley service, or ride-sharing services. In Orlando, a car is not necessary if you're visiting primarily for theme parks, as there are other ways to get around, such as buses, taxis, or ride-sharing services. In Tampa, you can fly into the airport and use the Line 30 bus or a taxi to get to Downtown and beyond, or drive via the I-4W or take the Greyhound bus or train from Orlando. Walking is also an option in some areas, such as Downtown and Channelside.

Dos in Florida

Be friendly and smile, as Americans are known for their hospitality.
Respect personal space and keep a comfortable distance from others.
Be prepared for airport security checks, which can be time-consuming and thorough.
Arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight to account for security checks.
Dress in a way that allows you to quickly remove shoes, belts, and other items for security checks.
Keep your travel documents and passport easily accessible during security checks.
Pack TSA-approved toiletries in a quart-size ziplock bag for easy access.
Use travel insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses, as healthcare in the US can be expensive.
Be prepared for different accents and dialects in different regions of the US.
Use the 911 emergency number in case of an emergency.

Don'ts in Florida

Don't make jokes or comments on sensitive topics like race, gender, or politics, as they may offend.
Don't assume that everyone speaks English, as there are many dialects and accents in the US.
Don't block sidewalks or side streets, especially in New York City.
Don't assume that everyone is friendly, as some people may be in a hurry or have a different personality.