Miami & South Beach

Miami is not a typical American city — it is the unofficial capital of Latin America. Over 70% of the residents speak Spanish as their first language, Cuban cafeterías serve Cortadito and Croquetas on every corner, and the nightlife is among the most exciting in the world. Add to that Art Deco architecture, turquoise waters, and an art scene that rivals New York.

South Beach (SoBe)

The legendary beach between 1st and 23rd Street is the heart of Miami Beach — and one of the most iconic beach promenades in the world. Pastel-colored Art Deco hotels from the 1930s line the Ocean Drive, while on the other side, wide, white sand and warm Atlantic waters beckon. During the day, sunbathers and volleyball players, at night, Ocean Drive transforms into an open-air party with neon lights, music from the bars, and an endless stream of Lamborghinis and Ferraris.

The Art Deco Historic District includes over 800 buildings in Art Deco, Streamline Moderne, and Mediterranean Revival styles — the largest collection of this architecture worldwide. The Art Deco Walking Tour by the Miami Design Preservation League is the best way to understand the history of these buildings (daily at 10:30 a.m., about $25).

Wynwood & Design District

The former warehouse district Wynwood is now Miami's creative heart. The Wynwood Walls — an open-air museum with huge murals by international street artists — are a must-see. Every second Saturday of the month, the Wynwood Art Walk takes place, where dozens of galleries open their doors. Surrounding it: craft beer breweries, vegan restaurants, and boutiques.

Little Havana

Along Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street), Miami's Cuban heart beats. Old men play dominoes in Máximo Gómez Park, the scent of freshly rolled cigars fills the air, and in the Ball & Chain bar, couples dance salsa to live music. Try a Cafecito (strong, sweet Cuban espresso) at a Ventanita (street window) — from $1 — and a Cubano Sandwich at Versailles, the most famous Cuban restaurant in the USA.

Brickell & Downtown

Miami's financial district Brickell has become the city's trendiest residential area in recent years. Glittering skyscrapers, the Brickell City Centre for shopping, and along the bay, the Brickell Key Promenade with views of the skyline. Next door in Downtown: the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) with contemporary art in a stunning building by Herzog & de Meuron, and the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science with a three-story aquarium.