A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Fort Lauderdale vs. Miami for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Miami. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a bustling, spirited, and luxury coastal city. Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Miami

Miami is a high energy, glamorous, and exciting beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and beaches. See Miami travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Miami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Miami than Fort Lauderdale, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Fort Lauderdale is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty. Fort Lauderdale is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Miami is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Miami? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Miami is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Miami, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Fort Lauderdale has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami Better for Nightlife?

Miami is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Miami is a world class party destination. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

The nightlife in Fort Lauderdale has something for everybody. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami Better for Music?

Miami is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a live music destination.

Miami is a world class music destination. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Fort Lauderdale is not a live music destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami Better for Resorts?

There are first-rate resorts to choose from in both Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Miami is a great choice. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale and Miami both offer first-rate beaches.

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Miami. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

Miami is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami Better for Families?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Miami are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Miami is very family-friendly. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for romance. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Fort Lauderdale has plenty to offer. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Miami is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami is a good destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami Better for Students?

Miami is a good destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Miami is popular with students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Miami is a good destination for its public transit. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale and Miami both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Miami is a very walkable coastal city. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Miami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Miami or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Miami have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Miami has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Miami than Fort Lauderdale. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 7 days is enough time in Miami.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami than Fort Lauderdale if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Miami.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this spirited destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

Fort Lauderdale is a fun place to experience. In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Miami is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This beach city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this bustling destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, we can see that Miami is more expensive. And not only is Fort Lauderdale much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Fort Lauderdale would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fort Lauderdale and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Miami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Miami than you might in Fort Lauderdale.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Fort Lauderdale Expensive? and Is Miami Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Miami, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Fort Lauderdale or Miami?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Miami in the Summer?

Both Miami and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Miami in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Miami in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Miami fluctuates around 83°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Miami during summer. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of rain as Miami. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Miami in the Autumn?

Both Miami and Fort Lauderdale during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Miami. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Miami averages at about 78°F (26°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Miami. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 275 hours of full sun.

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Miami. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Miami in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Miami because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Miami. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Miami fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Miami during winter. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 243 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of rain as Miami. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Miami in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Miami. The spring months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Miami this time of year.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Miami in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Miami fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the spring, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Miami. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 300 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Miami. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Miami and Fort Lauderdale