Most international flights arrive at Orlando International Airport. Orlando also has a second airport that also serves international destinations, Orlando Sanford Airport, which is situated about 25 miles outside Orlando. As you can imagine, Orlando is very popular for family holidays so flight prices rise during school holidays. The best months to look for deals on flights are May and October, as this is the transition between the cooler dry season and the hot and humid wet season. If you really want the parks to yourself, try January and February. You'll benefit from cheap prices on flights and hotels but don't expect temperatures to get higher than around 20°C.
Popular Flight Routes to Orlando
Flying from the UK to Orlando is a breeze - no matter which part of the country you live, you're bound to find a direct flight departing from an airport nearby! South-East dwellers can fly non-stop from London Gatwick, northerners can jet off from Manchester and those residing in Scotland can book direct flights from Glasgow. Bristol and Birmingham residents can also fly to Orlando with just one stop along the way.
Direct Flights to Orlando
You can fly direct to Orlando from London and Manchester, but from Belfast, Birmingham and Glasgow, you'll have to go indirect. There's a good selection of airlines offering direct routes to Orlando. These include Norwegian Air, Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic and British Airways.
A direct flight from the UK to Orlando will last around nine and a half hours, which is already a long time, so many opt for direct routes to the world's theme park capital, to reduce their journey times and to save them the hassle of a layover.
You won't find direct flights to Orlando departing from London Heathrow - you'll need to go via at least one airport, usually in US airports like Chicago O'Hare and Newark. Why not plan a multi-centre holiday to see a bit more of America while you're over the other side of the Atlantic?
If stopovers aren't your bag and you live in London, Gatwick is your new best friend. With non-stop flights taking off each day, it'll be a breeze to go there on your next holiday!
Main Airports in Orlando
Orlando, Florida is home to three airports: Orlando International Airport, Orlando Sanford International and Orlando Executive Airport. While the majority of flights will land in Orlando International, which is the busiest airport in Florida, several flights a week land at Orlando Executive from Glasgow and Belfast. Seasonal flights by TUI from the UK land at Orlando Sanford - keep in mind that it is 25 miles from the city centre.
On arrival in Orlando
Many Orlando hotels and the Walt Disney Resort offer a free shuttle service from Orlando International Airport, although reservations are often required. Local buses serve most of the tourist areas for about $2 one way, or you can take a shuttle bus. As shuttle buses cost between $18 and $45 per person for a return journey it might be worth hiring a taxi, especially if the whole family is in tow. You can also pick up car hire at Orlando Airport, and considering that all the major resorts have ample parking this is often the easiest way to get around.
Getting around Orlando
Most people decide to hire a car when they visit Orlando, but if you want to avoid driving there are still ways you can get around. Firstly, check whether your hotel offers free shuttle buses to any of the attractions, many of them do. The local bus network is also fairly comprehensive, if a little slow, but it's really cheap so if you've got the time this is a great option. Also, for travel along International and Universal Boulevard, the I-ride trolley offers regular cheap services.
Travelling further afield
If you're looking to travel a little further, trains depart to both New York and Miami, serving some interim destinations. The Greyhound intercity buses also offer low cost travel to a wide range of destinations. Public transport is fairly limited to major towns and cities though so if you're looking to head off the beaten track or want some more freedom then hiring a car in Orlando is again your best option.