Walt Disney World Resort
The world's most visited theme park complex with four parks and two water parks
On this page
About Florida
Florida stretches 500 miles from the Georgia border to Key West, offering an extraordinary variety of experiences. The state boasts over 1,350 miles of coastline, the world's largest concentration of theme parks, subtropical wilderness in the Everglades, and vibrant multicultural cities like Miami and Tampa. Florida's year-round warm weather makes it a perennial favorite for domestic and international visitors.
- Capital
- Tallahassee
- Largest city
- Jacksonville
- Population
- 22.6 million
- Languages
- English, Spanish
- Currency
- US Dollar
- Time zone
- Eastern Time (UTC-5/UTC-4 DST), Central Time in Panhandle
Explore Florida by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Florida
The 3 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Everglades National Park
UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting the largest subtropical wilderness in the US
Miami Beach
Iconic Art Deco district with world-famous beaches and vibrant nightlife
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Florida Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Florida, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Florida
- Days 1-2Florida city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Florida
- Days 1-3Florida comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Florida, departure
Where to stay in Florida
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $80
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $200
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $500+
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The Breakers Palm Beach
One of America's most iconic resort hotels, The Breakers has defined Palm Beach luxury since 1896. The Italian Renaissance-style oceanfront resort features two championship golf courses, a world-class spa, and direct access to a private beach. Impeccable service and legendary history make this the gold standard of Florida luxury.
Four Seasons Hotel Miami
Perched in Brickell's financial district with spectacular views of Biscayne Bay, the Four Seasons Miami combines prime business location with resort-level amenities. The rooftop pool area overlooks the bay, the spa is among Miami's finest, and Zuma Miami on the ground floor ranks as one of the city's best restaurants.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
The most premium of Universal Orlando's on-site hotels, Portofino Bay recreates an Italian Riviera coastal village with stunning fidelity. Guests receive Early Park Admission to Universal parks, free water taxis to the theme parks, and complimentary Express access on select days. The Trattoria del Porto restaurant and Despicable Me-themed family suites are major highlights.
The Ritz-Carlton Naples
The signature luxury address on Florida's southwest Gulf Coast, The Ritz-Carlton Naples sits on a pristine stretch of Gulf beach and defines the elegance for which Naples is known. The Grill restaurant serves exceptional seafood, the spa is a full-service luxury retreat, and the staff-to-guest ratio ensures truly personalized service.
Where to eat in Florida
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Bazaar Mar by José Andrés
Celebrity chef José Andrés brings his avant-garde Spanish cuisine to SLS Brickell with a seafood-focused menu of theatrical small plates. The ceviche bar and live-fire cooking stations create unforgettable dishes that blend Spanish technique with Peruvian and Japanese influences. One of Miami's most acclaimed fine dining destinations.
La Palme d'Or at the Biltmore Hotel
The grande dame of Miami fine dining, La Palme d'Or at the historic Biltmore Hotel delivers classic French haute cuisine in the most glamorous setting in South Florida. The grand dining room of the National Historic Landmark hotel creates an atmosphere of Old World elegance, while the menu celebrates the French culinary tradition with Florida ingredients.
Bern's Steak House
One of the most legendary steakhouses in America, Bern's has operated in Tampa's Hyde Park since 1956. The restaurant ages its own beef, grows its own vegetables, and maintains one of the largest wine cellars in the world with over 500,000 bottles. The upstairs Harry Waugh Dessert Room — individual booths in old wine casks — is one of Florida's most memorable dining experiences.
Michael's Genuine Food & Drink
James Beard Award winner Michael Schwartz's flagship restaurant in the Miami Design District celebrates simple, honest cooking with locally sourced Florida ingredients. The wood-burning oven produces exceptional thin-crust pizzas, and the ever-changing menu reflects seasonal Florida harvests. A touchstone of Miami's farm-to-table movement.
Cafe Boulud Palm Beach
Daniel Boulud's Palm Beach outpost at The Brazilian Court Hotel delivers Parisian bistro elegance in Florida's most rarefied zip code. The seasonal menu draws on French technique applied to local Florida seafood and produce. The tropical courtyard setting and impeccable service attract Palm Beach's discerning social set.
The Capital Grille Miami
The Miami outpost of this nationally acclaimed steakhouse chain delivers on its reputation for dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. The Brickell location serves Miami's finance and business community, and the consistent quality and attentive service make it a reliable luxury dining choice.
Getting around Florida
Florida is best explored by rental car; public transit limited outside major cities
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $40 | $120 | $300 |
| Food (per day) | $20 | $50 | $120 |
| Transportation | $10 | $20 | $50 |
| Activities | $10 | $30 | $80 |
| Daily total | $80 | $200 | $500+ |
Best time to visit Florida
Essential travel tips
- Book theme park tickets online in advance — significant savings vs. gate prices
- Rent a car for maximum flexibility; Florida is very car-centric
- Visit theme parks on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds
- Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and stay hydrated in summer heat
Safety information
Monitor the National Hurricane Center (nhc.noaa.gov) from June 1 through November 30
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every 90 minutes and wear protective clothing
Never approach, feed, or attempt to handle alligators — maintain a minimum 15-foot distance
Swim near lifeguard stands; if caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore not against the current
Seek shelter immediately at the first sign of thunderstorms — get off the beach, golf course, or open areas
Drink at least 2 liters of water per day in summer; avoid outdoor activities during peak heat (11 AM - 3 PM)
Never leave valuables visible in rental cars — remove everything from sight when parking
Apply EPA-registered insect repellent (DEET or picaridin) when in wooded or marshy areas
Watch for jellyfish, man-o'-war, sea urchins, fire coral, and stingrays in coastal waters
Use standard urban precautions in crowded tourist areas; avoid Overtown and Liberty City neighborhoods at night
Watch where you step, especially in grassy areas — fire ant mounds look like irregular dirt mounds
Florida has high rates of pedestrian accidents — always use crosswalks and remain alert at intersections
Be cautious of overcharging taxis, timeshare pitches, and unsolicited help with luggage
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Florida?
Entry requirements follow United States rules. Citizens from VWP countries may enter visa-free for up to 90 days under ESTA. All others require a valid US visa. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Florida?
The currency in Florida is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Florida?
The main language(s) spoken in Florida: English, Spanish. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Florida?
The top attractions in Florida include Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Everglades National Park, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, and South Beach (Miami Beach). Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.