Miami Car & Van Rentals – Compare Suppliers

Book your Miami car rental with Airport Van Rental, your trusted OTA partner. We compare multiple top brands at Miami International Airport and city locations to get you the lowest price, every time. With AVR, you enjoy transparent pricing (no hidden fees) and easy online booking. Reserve now without upfront payment and pay at pick-up, with free cancellation if your plans change. Miami’s spread-out attractions and vibrant neighborhoods are best explored on your own schedule and we’re here to make that happen affordably and hassle-free.

Find Your Perfect Miami Rental Car (Quick Booking Steps & AVR Advantages)

Why rent a car in Miami? Bienvenidos a Miami! This vibrant city is as famous for its Art Deco streets and Latin flavor as it is for sprawling suburbs and nearby natural wonders. Having your own wheels is essential for experiencing everything from South Beach’s nightlife to the Everglades’ wild beauty. Public transport is limited beyond the city core Miami’s Metrorail and trolleys won’t take you to the beach or far-flung spots. Taxis and rideshares can get very expensive (a couple of Uber trips might cost more than a full week’s car rental). In short, a rental car gives you freedom, comfort, and value in the Magic City: zip between neighborhoods on your own schedule, stay cool with A/C in the tropical heat, and explore off-the-beaten-path gems at your leisure.

Why Rent a Car in Miami?

Miami is a year-round destination with attractions spread across a large metro area making a car extremely handy. Here’s why savvy travelers opt for a rental in Miami:

• Freedom to Explore All of South Florida: Miami’s top spots aren’t clustered in one place. With a car, you can beach-hop and sightsee on your own terms. Start your morning in South Beach, then drive to Wynwood to see street art, and by afternoon head out to Everglades National Park or Key Biscayne. Want to venture beyond Miami? Go for it Fort Lauderdale is ~30 miles north and Key Largo ~60 miles south. Unlimited mileage rentals mean you can enjoy day trips to the Florida Keys or Palm Beach whenever you please. No tour schedules or train timetables holding you back.
• Save Time and Money vs. Rideshares/Transit: Miami’s public transit is limited and won’t reach many areas (the Metrorail doesn’t go to the beaches, for example). Relying on Uber/Lyft for multiple trips adds up fast a single MIA Airport to South Beach ride can be $40–$60 during peak times. With a rental car, you have door-to-door convenience and likely save money over a multi-day trip. Plus, you can avoid waiting around in the heat or rain for the next bus or rideshare.
• Comfort in Tropical Climate: South Florida is hot and humid much of the year, with sudden afternoon thunderstorms. Having a car with strong air conditioning is a lifesaver you’re only ever a quick A/C blast away from cool comfort. No sweating at bus stops or getting drenched running between attractions. Throw your beach gear, shopping bags, or family luggage in the trunk and go. The car becomes your private sanctuary between activities, which is priceless in Miami’s climate.
• Access Hidden Gems & Events: Many of Miami’s best experiences are reachable only by car. With your own vehicle, you can drive down the Overseas Highway to Key West, visit alligator farms in Homestead, or catch a Dolphins game in Miami Gardens none easily done via public transit. Miami also hosts huge events (Art Basel, Ultra Music Festival, sports championships) where having a car can help you get around on your own schedule. Even during peak tourist season (Dec–April) when hotels and flights book up, rental cars give you the flexibility to stay farther out or make spontaneous trips. (Just book ahead for holidays and events, when demand and prices are highest.)

Our Miami Car Rental Benefits (Why Choose AVR)

When you book with Airpot Van Rental, you’re getting more than just a car you’re getting our commitment to a smooth, affordable experience. Here are the AVR advantages for Miami rentals:

• Best Rate Guarantee: We scan dozens of providers in Miami (global brands and local agencies) to find you the cheapest rates. Because suppliers compete on our platform, you’ll spot deals here that you might miss elsewhere from promotional weekend rates to free upgrade offers. If there’s a lower price out there, we want you to find it here. We’ll match or beat comparable quotes whenever possible. The bottom line: with AVR, you’re certain to get Miami’s best deal.
• Wide Vehicle Selection: Miami is a city of variety, and our fleet reflects that. Need an economical compact for city traffic? A convertible to cruise Ocean Drive? An SUV or minivan for a family trip to the Keys? We have it all. Airpot Van Rental partners with over 50 suppliers, giving you access to thousands of vehicles from budget sedans to luxury cars (even exotics like Ferraris for special occasions). AVR specializes in vans, so if you need a 7–15 passenger van for a group or a cruise transfer, you’ll find more options here. Whatever your plans, you’ll find the perfect ride at the best price.
• Transparent Pricing (No Hidden Fees): The price you see is the price you pay we include all mandatory taxes and fees upfront. Miami rentals often have surcharges (airport facility fees, state taxes), but we itemize everything in your quote so there are no surprises at the counter. Unlike some sites, we never tack on sneaky booking fees. You can rent with confidence that your quote is fully inclusive. (Of course, optional add-ons like GPS or child seats, or incidentals like tolls/fuel, are extra, but we’ll make those clear too.)
• Flexible Booking Options: Travel plans can be unpredictable especially in hurricane season (June–Nov) when weather may change plans. That’s why most AVR bookings come with free cancellation up until 48 hours before pickup. If your trip gets delayed or you change your itinerary, you won’t be out of pocket. We also offer pay-at-pickup on most rentals, so you don’t have to pay until you actually get the car. Plus, one-way rentals are available if you’re flying into Miami and out of another city just choose a different drop-off location when booking (drop fees, if any, are shown upfront).
• Local Support & Travel Tips: Airpot Van Rental isn’t just a booking site we’re your travel partner. Our customer support team is U.S.-based and ready 24/7 to help with any questions or issues. Need to modify your reservation, or have a question about Miami driving? We’ve got your back. We also provide insider info right on this page (see below for driving tips on tolls, traffic, and parking). We want you to feel like a local behind the wheel. With AVR, you’re not only saving money you’re gaining peace of mind.

Miami Car Rental Prices Example Deals by Class

Miami enjoys a competitive rental market, which means great deals if you book at the right time. Here are some typical price ranges you might find (per day, in USD):

• Economy Car, from $25/day e.g. Nissan Versa or similar. Ideal for solo travelers or couples, with excellent fuel economy. Easy to park even in busy areas like South Beach. (In off-peak months you might snag economy rates around $20/day, while peak winter season can push them to $40+/day, so it pays to book early.)
• Midsize Sedan, from $30/day e.g. Toyota Corolla or Camry. A comfortable choice for longer drives (Miami to Orlando, anyone?) or if you need extra trunk space. Great for business trips in the Brickell area or day trips to Key Largo.
• Standard SUV, from $45/day e.g. Toyota RAV4 or Nissan Rogue. Perfect for families or groups with luggage. An SUV gives you a commanding view in Miami traffic and the flexibility to tackle a gravel road to an Everglades airboat tour. Unlimited mileage means you can roam freely across South Florida.
• Minivan or 12-Passenger Van, from $50/day e.g. Dodge Grand Caravan (7-pass) or Ford Transit (12-pass). Plenty of room for large families, reunions, or cruise groups heading to PortMiami together. Vans are in high demand in Miami due to cruise traffic and group tours, so book early if you need one. (These are AVR’s specialty we often have more van options and better rates than elsewhere.)
• Convertible, from $65/day e.g. Ford Mustang Convertible. Nothing says “Miami vacation” like driving with the top down along Ocean Drive. Convertibles are popular here, especially in winter and spring feel the ocean breeze as you cruise past palm trees and neon lights. Just don’t forget sunscreen!
• Luxury/Premium Car, from $85/day e.g. Mercedes-Benz C-Class or BMW 5-Series. Business travelers or those seeking a special experience can ride in style in downtown Miami or Coconut Grove. Many luxury rentals include premium features (leather, advanced GPS) for comfort on longer drives. (High-end exotic cars are also available in Miami think Lamborghinis or Rolls-Royces but those can run $500–$1500+/day or more. If you have a luxury occasion, we can help arrange it, just be ready for larger deposits and insurance requirements.)

(Note: “From” rates are examples based on recent searches and include taxes/fees. Actual prices depend on your dates, Miami’s seasonal demand, and vehicle availability. Florida’s high season (Dec–March) can see 20–50% higher rates than summer. Always search for your exact dates to get the most accurate quote, and book in advance for holiday periods.)

Miami Driving Guide Navigate Like a Local

Driving in Miami might seem daunting if you’re new to the city, but with a bit of local insight you’ll be cruising like a pro. From understanding the toll systems to finding parking in South Beach, we’ve got you covered:

Understanding Miami’s Toll System: Many of Miami’s highways and causeways use all-electronic tolling (no cash). Major toll roads include Florida’s Turnpike (which runs north–south through South Florida) and expressways like the Dolphin (SR-836) and Airport (SR-112) that link to MIA. All bridges to Miami Beach are tolled as well (e.g. the MacArthur Causeway). Rental cars are typically equipped for tolls: you can opt into your rental company’s toll program (usually ~$5–$15 per rental day plus the toll costs) or have tolls billed via your license plate. If you decline the rental’s program, you can still pay tolls online within 5 days via the Toll-By-Plate system in Florida. Pro tip: If you’ll be doing a lot of driving through toll plazas (say you plan trips to Orlando or the Everglades), the rental’s unlimited toll option can be worth it. Otherwise, for occasional tolls, paying as you go or online might save money. But never try to evade tolls the fines and admin fees later are hefty. And remember, no cash is accepted on Miami’s toll roads at all, so don’t expect a booth attendant!

South Beach Parking Strategies: Miami Beach is one of the trickiest places to park, thanks to its popularity. Street parking in South Beach is metered at about $4–$6 per hour (often with a 3-hour max) via the ParkMobile app. If you find a street spot, check signs many residential streets are permit-only at certain hours and are aggressively towed if you violate rules. A safer bet is to use municipal garages, which charge around $15–$20 for up to 24 hours (rates vary by location closer to hotspots like Lincoln Road or Ocean Drive can be on the higher end). One recommended garage is the 17th Street Garage near Lincoln Road it’s reasonably priced and a short walk to the beach. Hotels in Miami Beach often charge steep valet fees ($35–$50 overnight), so factor that in if you’re staying there. If you’re just visiting South Beach for the day, park in a public garage and walk or use local trolleys to get around the neighborhood. And always, always avoid parking in clearly marked resident-only zones Miami Beach doesn’t give warnings, they tow immediately and it’ll cost you $150+ to retrieve your car.

Traffic Patterns & Rush Hours: Miami is a big, bustling metro, and traffic reflects that. The main north-south artery, I-95, sees over 300,000 vehicles daily on some stretches it’s often congested, especially between the Golden Glades Interchange and downtown. Weekday rush hours are roughly 7:00–9:30 AM (traffic heading into downtown from the north and south) and 4:00–7:00 PM (traffic heading outbound to the suburbs). If you’re traveling during these times, plan for delays on I-95, the Dolphin Expressway (SR-836) heading west from downtown, and on the causeways to Miami Beach (MacArthur Causeway US-41 and Julia Tuttle Causeway I-195) those bridges can back up in both directions during peak beach and work times. Speaking of, weekends can have traffic too: Saturday late mornings/afternoons can see jams of beach-bound cars on causeways, and Sunday evenings everyone’s leaving the beach at once. Use apps like Google Maps or Waze locals rely on them to find alternate routes on surface streets when highways clog up. Miami also has Express Lanes on I-95 with dynamic toll pricing they’re free if you have 3+ people (HOV 3) but if you’re driving solo, you can pay a variable toll to use them (just make sure your rental is enrolled for SunPass). These express lanes can save time, but note: they require an approved transponder to use; you can’t pay cash or by plate there. If you don’t opt into toll coverage, stick to the regular lanes to avoid a fine.

Driving Laws & Safety: In Florida, keep in mind a few key rules. Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks law enforcement does ticket for failing to do so, especially in pedestrian-heavy areas like downtown and Miami Beach. It’s legal to turn right on red after a full stop (unless a sign says “No Right on Red”). The Move Over Law requires you to change lanes away from any stopped emergency vehicle (police, ambulance, tow truck) on the roadside, or if you can’t, slow down to 20 mph below the limit when passing. A brand-new Florida statute (the “HALO” law of 2025) requires a 25-foot buffer around emergency scenes basically, give first responders extra space; violations can incur fines. Speed limits in urban Miami are typically 30 mph in the city, 20 mph in school zones, and up to 55–60 mph on major arterials unless posted otherwise. Highways are 70 mph standard on stretches of I-95, Turnpike, etc. (though traffic often moves faster when it’s flowing stay right if you’re going slower, as Miami drivers can be aggressive about passing on the left). Also, texting while driving is illegal in Florida, and handheld phone use is prohibited in active school and construction zones. Police do enforce these, so play it safe and hands-free if you need to make a call.

Hurricane Season Considerations: Miami’s tropical location means hurricane season runs June 1 to Nov 30, with peak activity in August–September. The city is well-practiced in handling storms, but a few tips if you’re renting during this period: Keep an eye on the weather forecast if a storm is brewing, most rental companies offer flexible changes or early returns without penalty. Airpot Van Rental and our partners will often allow free date changes or cancellation if a named storm threatens your trip. If a hurricane is imminent, fuel up your car early (gas stations can run short before a storm). Note that rental fleets might be relocated out of harm’s way for major hurricanes, so availability can tighten if an evacuation is called. On the positive side, if you’re already in Florida and a storm hits, having a car gives you the option to evacuate inland if needed. Also, be extra cautious driving in heavy rain Miami’s streets can flood quickly in torrential downpours. Never drive into standing water; “turn around, don’t drown.” Storm season or not, it’s wise to allow some buffer in your travel plans in summer in case of weather delays.

Driving Style: Miami drivers have a bit of a reputation the mix of cultures here means driving can be, let’s say, assertive. It’s common to see quick lane changes and minimal use of turn signals. Stay alert, especially on the expressways. Keep a safe following distance (tailgating is common, but you don’t have to join in). If someone behind you is in a hurry, move aside rather than enforce the speed limit it’s just the courteous thing in South Florida’s fast lanes. Also be mindful of scooters and cyclists, particularly in Miami Beach and Wynwood; give them space when passing. On the flipside, Miami has some great driving aspects: roads are generally wide and well-marked, and aside from a few confusing highway merges, navigation is straightforward with GPS. Embrace the local radio and enjoy the drive driving in Miami can actually be fun once you get used to the rhythm!

Must-Do Miami Road Trips (From Beaches to Everglades)

One of the best things about renting a car in Miami is the ability to take spontaneous road trips. Here are three popular drives that show off South Florida’s diversity, all doable in a day or weekend:

1. Miami to Key WestThe Ultimate Coastal Drive

• Distance: ~165 miles one-way (about 3.5–4 hours without stops). Route: Follow US-1 South, which becomes the famous Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys.
• Highlights: This is a bucket-list drive. You’ll hop from key to key surrounded by turquoise water on both sides. Key Largo (about 60 miles from Miami) is the first major stop consider visiting John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling or a glass-bottom boat tour over the coral reefs. Islamorada (around mile marker 80) is great for lunch and famous for sportfishing try a casual seafood spot by the water. Don’t miss the iconic Seven Mile Bridge connecting Marathon to the Lower Keys there’s nothing like it, you’re driving over open ocean! Finally, Key West greets you with its colorful Conch-style houses and lively atmosphere. Stroll Duval Street, visit the Hemingway House (with its six-toed cats), and catch the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square (street performers and a gorgeous sunset make it special).
• Tips: Start early it’s a full day if you plan to return to Miami the same night. There are no gas stations on some long stretches of the Keys, so fill up in Florida City or Key Largo on your way down. In Key West, parking is scarce and expensive; consider using the Park N Ride garage on Grinnell St. and then exploring on foot or via trolley. If you can, stay overnight in Key West to fully enjoy the nightlife and drive back fresh the next day (the drive is much more relaxing when not rushed). Keep in mind the Overseas Highway speed limit is mostly 45–55 mph relax and enjoy the views. Also, check the weather: a sunny day makes for stunning scenery, while heavy rain could make the long drive less pleasant.

2. Miami to Everglades National ParkNature Escape

• Distance: ~45–50 miles to the park’s main entrance at Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center (about 1 hour via U.S. 41 Tamiami Trail or via FL-9336 through Homestead).
• Highlights: The Everglades is a vast subtropical wilderness right at Miami’s doorstep. Drive west on the Tamiami Trail (SW 8th Street) and you’ll be skirting the northern edge of the park along this road you’ll find Everglades Safari Park and Coopertown, both offering airboat tours if you want a thrilling ride through the marshes. For a deeper experience, enter through the main park gates near Homestead. Anhinga Trail (at Royal Palm, just 4 miles from the Coe Visitor Center) is a must-do short walk where you’re virtually guaranteed to see alligators and wading birds up close in the wild. You can drive further into the park to Flamingo (the end of the road, about 38 miles in) along the way, stop at Mahogany Hammock or Paurotis Pond for scenery and wildlife. Flamingo has a marina where you might spot manatees and crocodiles (yes, American crocodiles live here!).
• Tips: Bring bug spray especially in summer, mosquitoes are fierce (the dry season winter months, Nov–April, have far fewer bugs and more pleasant weather in the Glades). Also carry water and snacks; there are very limited services inside the park. Note that there are no restaurants or gas stations inside Everglades NP beyond the visitor center area, so fuel up before entering and maybe pack a picnic. Summer heat can be intense, so an early start (or late afternoon) is better for walks. Keep in mind the park entrance has an admission fee (around $30 per vehicle for 7 days). If you have time on the way back, swing by Robert Is Here fruit stand in Homestead for amazing fresh smoothies a classic local stop after exploring the Everglades.

3. Miami to Fort Lauderdale & Palm BeachCoastal City Hop

• Distance: ~30 miles to downtown Fort Lauderdale, ~75 miles to West Palm Beach if you go further. This can be a flexible half-day or full-day trip.
• Route: Head north on I-95 for speed, or take the scenic route on A1A up the coast for ocean views. You can even do one direction via the highway and the other along the beach.
• Highlights:Fort Lauderdale offers a more low-key vibe compared to Miami. Stroll Las Olas Boulevard for boutique shops and cafes, or enjoy Fort Lauderdale Beach’s calmer sands. If you’re a fan of boats, this city’s Intracoastal Waterway earned it the nickname “Venice of America” you can take a water taxi tour if time permits. Continuing north, Palm Beach is known for its luxury estates and history. Walk down Worth Avenue to window-shop high-end boutiques and admire the Mediterranean-inspired architecture. The Flagler Museum (Whitehall) in Palm Beach is a beautiful Gilded Age mansion turned museum if you like history. Nearby West Palm Beach (just across the bridge) has a lively dining scene at CityPlace/Rosemary Square. If you choose the coastal A1A drive, you’ll pass through affluent towns like Boca Raton, Highland Beach, and Delray Beach lots of pretty shoreline and mansions to see, but note A1A can be slow going with lower speed limits and traffic lights.
• Tips:A1A is slower but gorgeous consider taking it at least for a portion (like from Miami up to Fort Lauderdale through Hollywood and Dania Beach, or between Boca Raton and Palm Beach). In Fort Lauderdale, parking near the beach is easier than in South Beach, with public lots and garages around Las Olas Beach. For Palm Beach, there’s a public garage at Midtown on Hibiscus Street, or some street parking near Worth Ave (watch time limits). One idea is to park in West Palm Beach and take the pedestrian bridge or a short Uber to Palm Beach to avoid parking woes in the small island town. If you’re a museum/art lover, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach (a bit west of A1A) is a serene stop. Also, keep an eye on your time if you do go all the way to Palm Beach and back to Miami in one day, it’s a lot of driving (might be 3+ hours total). You could also do this as a loop: Miami → Fort Lauderdale (morning), then up to Palm Beach (lunch), and back to Miami by evening via the highway. Lastly, note that Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is along the way sometimes rental rates there can be cheaper than MIA, so if you’re price-hunting, you could plan to pick up or drop off a car at FLL and still see both cities.

Miami Car Rental Quick Info

• Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road (same as the rest of the USA). Passing on the left, slower traffic keeps right on highways.
• Speed Limits: 30 mph in cities/residential areas (and 15–20 mph in school zones); 55–60 mph on major urban roads; 65–70 mph on highways/freeways (70 mph on most of I-95 and the Turnpike in South FL). Traffic often exceeds the limit on I-95 stay with the flow but be cautious.
• Tolls: Extensive cashless tolls in Miami. SunPass is the local electronic toll pass (rental companies offer toll programs or bill you by plate). All Miami expressways and causeways use electronic tolling no cash booths. If you opt out of the rental’s toll program, you must pay tolls online after or you’ll incur a bill/fee. Plan routes to see if toll roads are avoidable or worth the time saved.
• Fuel: Rentals come with a full tank and should be returned full to avoid high refueling charges. Gas in Miami tends to be around the national average or a bit above (roughly $3–$4 per gallon as of recent times). Fill up at a local gas station (prices are usually cheaper a few miles away from Miami Beach or the airport). If you don’t refill, rental companies charge ~$7–$10 per gallon as a penalty so it’s much cheaper to top it off yourself. Regular unleaded (87 octane) is fine for most cars; if you rented a luxury or specialty car, check if premium is required.
• Payment & Deposit: A major credit card in the renter’s name is required at pick-up for the security deposit. The rental counter will put a hold (typically $200–$500) on your card that gets released when you return the car. Debit cards are accepted by many Miami locations, but often only if you provide a return flight itinerary or additional ID, and they will still require a deposit hold (funds come out of your bank). Cash is not accepted for the deposit or rental fee. Save yourself hassle by using a credit card if possible.
• Age Requirements: The minimum rental age is generally 21 in Florida. Renters 21-24 will pay a “young driver fee” (around $15–$30 per day) and may be restricted from renting luxury or large vehicles. Drivers 18-20 cannot rent from most major companies. At 25+, you have access to all vehicle classes with no young driver surcharges.
• Airport Rental Info: Miami International Airport’s Rental Car Center is off-site but easily accessed via the MIA Mover train (runs every few minutes from the terminals). It houses all the major rental brands under one roof, open 24/7. If you’re arriving late, most rental counters at MIA stay open to meet last flights just provide your flight number when booking so they know. Returning the car to MIA is straightforward: follow signs for “Rental Car Return” as you approach the airport. Tip: Gas up before you get to the airport area there’s a convenient Shell station on NW 37th Ave near the Rental Car Center, but prices there can be higher. Better to fill up a few miles away to save a few bucks.
• Local Driving Quirks: In Miami, languages on road signs can vary you’ll see English, Spanish, and Creole influences. Don’t be startled if you see “Exit” and “Salida” (Spanish for exit) on the same sign. Many locals speak Spanish, especially in areas like Little Havana the GPS and signs are still in English, but it adds to the cultural flavor. Also note, horn honking is more common here in traffic than in some U.S. cities don’t take it personally, it’s just a city driver thing. Keep your cool and drive defensively.
• Peak Season & Weather: Tourism peaks from December through April (also when car rental rates are highest). Expect heavier traffic, especially around events like Art Basel (early December) and spring break in March. Hurricane season (June–Nov) is off-peak for tourism; you’ll often find lower rates then, but keep an eye on weather forecasts. Miami’s summer (July–August) is very hot and humid always have water in the car and sunglasses (the sun is intense). Sudden thunderstorms are common on summer afternoons if rain is extremely heavy, consider pulling over for a short time; it usually passes quickly.
• One-Way Trips: Miami is a common start or end for Florida road trips. Most major rental companies allow one-way rentals (e.g. pick up in Miami, drop in Orlando or Key West). Often there’s no drop-off fee within Florida* (Avis, Budget, Alamo and others frequently waive intra-Florida one-way fees), but always check. If you’re planning to drive out of state (say a big road trip ending in Atlanta or New Orleans), one-way fees can be higher but we show them upfront. It’s a great way to see more of the U.S. just drop the car where you fly out.
• Roadside Assistance: All rentals come with basic roadside included (for major breakdowns), but for things like a flat tire or dead battery you might need to call the rental company’s roadside line (sometimes a fee applies unless you took their roadside assistance extra). Keep the emergency contact info given in your rental agreement handy. Dial *FHP (star 347) on your cell if you need Florida Highway Patrol on the highway. And of course, in any serious emergency, call 911.