My Florida Vacation:
From The Atlantic Shore to The Gulf of Mexico

STARTING FROM MIAMI

Day 1: Arrival in Miami

With this Tour, you will have two options depending on whether you are already in Miami or you will be arriving today.

Arriving in Miami on this day? Head over to the Rental Car office at the Airport to pick your car up and start driving South towards Homestead.

Already in Miami? You can pick up your car in the morning and head South towards the Keys. We recommend spending half a day in Key Largo (or similar) where you can do some snorkeling or a boat excursion at sunset!

Night: Key Largo Holiday inn key Largo*** or similar

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Day 2: Homestead > Key West

Head down to Key West. Depending on where you start today, you will have approx. 2 h 48 min (128 miles (ca. 206 km)) of scenic roads to drive. The Overseas Highway is considered one of the most memorable roads to travel on. You will encounter 42 bridges connecting 44 islands.

Arrive in Key West by early afternoon and enjoy time at your disposal to sightseeing the Island; you can visit the Hemingway House, the Little Truman House, the Lighthouse, and Duvall Street.

Don't forget that Key West also features a great (yet relaxing) night-life with local bars, live music, and Island-vibes!

Night: Key West Best Western Hibiscus Motel** or similar

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Day 3: Key West > Everglades City > Marco Island

You can spend a couple of hours in the morning to finish up your Key West explorations before heading back north.

After driving back along the scenic coastal Overseas Highway, you will start heading West on "Alligator Alley" towards the Gulf of Mexico. In the afternoon, you can enjoy your time exploring the Everglades National Park, maybe ride the airboat, learn many interesting facts regarding this precious natural ecosystem and maybe see some Gators!

Night: Marco Island Marco Beach Ocean Resort*** or similar

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Day 4: Marco Island > Sanibel > Sarasota

Today, you will explore the Gulf-side of Florida with its beautiful pristine water and long white-sand beaches. The difference between this side of Florida and the Atlantic one is so striking.

From Marco Island, you can head north towards Sanibel which is approx. 65 miles (ca. 105 km) (1h30) by car and later continue towards the lovely Sarasota for another 1h49 by car (104 mi (ca. 167 km)).

We highly recommend driving the local sea-side roads (when possible) even if it will take you longer, the scenery is worth the extra hours behind the wheel. Plus, this way you can stop anywhere you like to explore these beautiful places.

When you arrive in Sarasota, you can enjoy a walk in the city center and then head over to one of the many good restaurants.

Night: Sarasota Hampton Inn Sarasota - I-75 Bee Ridge*** or similar

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Day 5: Sarasota > Longboat Key > St Petersburg > Clearwater

Another day dedicated to the Gulf coast. From Sarasota to Clearwater there is not a long way to go, about a 76 miles (ca. 122 km) (1h54 min) in total, but you will have many things to see -

• You can opt for the scenic road by the sea passing through Longboat Key and maybe reach the beautiful Anna Maria Island.
• You can spend half a day at the Salvador Dali Museum in St Petersburg and stroll around the center.
• You can go to Fort De Soto Park to admire white beaches and crystal clear water.
• Don't miss the Sunset on Clearwater beach.

Night: Clearwater Magnuson Hotel Clearwater Central*** or similar

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Day 6: Clearwater > Crystal River > Orlando

Today, you will do a mini detour north before reaching Orlando.  This route is recommended especially for those that are interested in swimming with the Manatees.

You will go north towards Crystal River which is approx. 90 miles (ca. 145 km) 1.40 Hour by car. There are a couple of State Parks and attractions you can visit along the way as well.

Once in Crystal River, you can enjoy one of the excursions to swim with the Manatees and learn more about this incredible animal and in the afternoon start heading towards Orlando. Don't worry, you won't have much to drive, as it's approx. 90 miles (ca. 145 km) altogether. Less than 2 hours by car.

Night: Orlando Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista - Disney Springs Area**** or similar

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Day 7 & 8: Orlando

Spend the next 2 days in Orlando visiting the famous Theme Parks.

You can choose to do Disney or Universals (or both), we can also tailor this Itinerary to include a couple of extra nights if you want to stay in Orlando a bit longer, especially if you are traveling with Kids.

Night: Orlando Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista - Disney Springs Area**** or similar

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Day 9: Orlando > Kennedy Space Center > Meritt Island

Today, you will head back East towards the Atlantic ocean stopping by the Kennedy Space Center (NASA) first to learn more about space explorations and see where most rockets are launched from.

In the afternoon, we recommend visiting Merritt Island Park, a beautiful natural preserve with lots of Florida animals and incredible scenarios.

Night: near Melbourne Comfort Suites Palm Bay *** or similar

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Day 10: Melbourne > West Palm Beach > Miami

Head South back towards Miami, 180 miles (ca. 290 km). You can opt to drive the Interstate or the local roads by the ocean and stop along the way. One option could be to stop in West Palm Beach and explore this town famous for its millionaire and billionaire residents.

Arrive in Miami by late afternoon and drop off the rental car.

End of Service.

* Possibility to add 3-Day vacation in Miami at the end of the Tour.

• 9 nights in Hotels On the Road (some with breakfast included)
• Rental Car for 10 days. Type Buick Lacroix or similar - Unlimited mileage - CDW insurance

• International/Domestic Flights
• Park Admission / Attractions
• Extended Car Insurance
• Food and Drink
• Everything not expressly indicated in "The Price Includes"

OPTION WITH RENTAL CAR + HOTELS & ACTIVITIES:
Price in Double Room
Starting at $ 1060.00 per person
Price in Triple Room
Starting at $ 740.00 per person
Price in Quadruple Room
Starting at $ 580.00 per person


HOTEL ROOM: Single Rooms also available. Ask for the price!

Driving in the United States – What You Need to Know

Planning a self-drive road trip in the United States? Here are a few important tips to help you travel smoothly and confidently:

1. Driving Etiquette: Passing on the right is permitted in the U.S. and commonly practiced, especially on highways with multiple lanes. Don’t be intimidated by wide roads — it’s all part of the experience!
2. Right Turn on Red: In most states, you’re allowed (and often expected) to turn right at a red light unless a sign prohibits it. Always come to a complete stop before turning.
3. Parking Rules: Always check signs for restricted hours and meter rules — some areas are free during evenings or weekends. Never park in front of a fire hydrant, even if there's no sign. If marked spaces are painted on the ground, be sure to center your vehicle properly within the lines.
4. Toll Roads: Many tolls in the U.S. — often marked as Toll or Turnpike — are cashless and use automated systems like E-ZPass or FasTrak. Be careful not to enter lanes marked as “FasTrak Only” if you don't have a pass. Have cash or a credit card ready for tolls that still accept manual payment.
5. Speed Limits & Police Stops: Stick to posted speed limits. Driving more than 5–10 mph over the limit can lead to fines. If stopped by law enforcement, keep your hands visible on the steering wheel and follow instructions calmly and respectfully.
6. Navigation & Roadside Assistance: We highly recommend traveling with GPS navigation and a reliable roadside assistance plan for added peace of mind during your journey.

Room Configurations in the U.S.

Please note that triple and quadruple hotel rooms in the U.S. typically include:

• Triple rooms: One large bed + one smaller bed OR two large beds
• Quadruple rooms: Usually two large beds (double/double or queen/queen)

These configurations may vary by hotel brand and location.

Tipping in the United States

Tipping is standard practice in the U.S. and not typically included in the price of services. As a general guide:

• Restaurants: 20–25% of the total bill
• Hotel staff (bellhop, housekeeping): $2–5 per service
• Private drivers or guides: 15–20% depending on service level

Need More Tips?

When booking with USA Welcome and New York Welcome, our Travel Designers will provide additional insights and personalized advice to help you make the most of your USA road trip experience.

Inclusions: As outlined in the "Included in the Price"
Exclusions: Everything else not specifically outlined in the "Included in the Price"
Discounted Rates: Baby, Kid, Senior and any other discounted Rate only applies to the specified Age-Limit. National ID required at Voucher Exchange as proof of Age.
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