Orlando holidays

How to reach Orlando

Flight time: Direct flights to Orlando from London take an average of 9 hours, depending on the jet stream and the time of year. Several major UK airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester, offer direct flights to Orlando.

Transfer time: Once you land at Orlando International Airport, the journey to downtown Orlando takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

Price:

• A taxi from the airport to downtown will cost an average of $40–$55.

• For something a little more budget-friendly, you might want to consider a shuttle service, which costs around $20 per person.

Best time to visit Orlando

Orlando's appeal is year-round, but with a little extra know-how, you can time your trip to best suit your interests.

• December to April are the most ideal months for many, when the weather is pleasant and the average temperature ranges from 15 to 28°C. Visiting during this season avoids summer's intense heat and humidity and the peak hurricane season, making it perfect for exploring the theme parks and outdoor attractions. The daily sunshine averages for this time of year are 7 to 8 hours.

• May to September is the hotter and more humid season, with temperatures often rising above 35°C. While the heat can be intense, this is also the time when you can enjoy extended opening hours at the water parks (expect 12-plus hours of sunshine daily) and a bevvy of exciting summer festivals.

• October to November sees a drop in humidity and crowd levels, offering a comfortable climate with smaller queues at the big-name attractions. It’s also a great time for those interested in Halloween events, which are spectacular in Orlando. Plan around 8 to 9 hours of sunshine a day.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language spoken, though Spanish is widely understood due to the diverse local population.

• Local habits and customs: Orlando is very tourist-friendly; the locals are generally warm and welcoming. Casual attire is acceptable in most places, but some upscale restaurants and clubs may require a specific dress code.

• Currency: The US Dollar (USD) is used. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and ATMs are readily available. An increasing number of businesses are now fully cashless.

• Getting around: Orlando offers various transportation options, including buses, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. Many resorts offer complimentary shuttle services for visitors to major theme parks. Rental cars are also a popular option for flexibility.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 120V, with a frequency of 60Hz. Plugs are type A and B. UK travellers will need a plug adapter.

• Time zone: Orlando operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), 5 hours behind GMT.

Best things to do in Orlando

Orlando, a city synonymous with fun and entertainment, offers an exhilarating range of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a nature lover or a culture enthusiast, Orlando has something to match your taste and budget.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• The Orlando Eye at ICON Park: Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of the Orlando skyline from 122m above the ground. The view is especially stunning at night when the city is lit up.

• Lake Eola Park: This downtown oasis offers picturesque views of Orlando's skyline reflected in the lake, perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.

The best districts

• Downtown Orlando: Explore the heart of the city with its vibrant nightlife, excellent restaurants and lively cultural scene.

• Winter Park: Just north of Orlando, this charming district features cobblestone streets, boutique shops and scenic boat tours on its beautiful lakes.

• Kissimmee Historic District: Explore the preserved buildings and the historical charm of Orlando's neighbour, offering a glimpse into the past of Old Florida.

Parks and gardens

• Harry P. Leu Gardens: Wander through 20 hectares of southern-styled gardens, including one of the largest rose gardens in Florida.

• Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens: A short drive from Orlando, this zoo is home to diverse wildlife and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Historic monuments

• The Orange County Regional History Center: Housed in a historic courthouse, this museum offers a deep dive into the rich history of Central Florida.

Day trips in the area

• Kennedy Space Center: Learn about the US space program and maybe even catch a live rocket launch.

• St. Augustine: Just a couple of hours from Orlando, this historic city offers cobblestone streets, pristine beaches and the oldest fort in continental America. Check our deals on holidays to St. Augustine.

• The Everglades: A bit of a drive but well worth it for nature enthusiasts looking to explore one of the nation’s most unique ecosystems.

Activities for families in Orlando

Orlando is a paradise for families, packed with activities that cater to children and adults alike.

• Walt Disney World Resort: With four theme parks that promise day-long entertainment and joy, this is the classic choice for many first-time Orlando visitors.

• Universal Orlando Resort: Explore your favourite movies and TV shows at this world-famous showcase resort.

• LEGOLAND Florida: Perfect for families with younger children, this park offers interactive attractions inspired by the popular building blocks.

• Crayola Experience: Get creative with hands-on activities that blend colour and creativity for a fun-filled family day out.

Free things to do in Orlando

The city has a good offering of free or inexpensive activities, making it easy to enjoy your Orlando holidays without spending a fortune:

• Disney Springs: This expansive shopping, dining and entertainment complex offers free admission, with live music nightly and a plethora of shops.

• Old Town: Step back in time at this recreated turn-of-the-century town, offering free weekly car shows and family-friendly activities.

• Boardwalk and nature trails: Many of Orlando's parks and lakes offer free boardwalks and nature trails that provide a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking and eco-tours: Discover Orlando's natural beauty on a guided eco-tour through the Forever Florida Wildlife Conservation Area, or explore the hiking trails at the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve, which offers a serene escape with its well-preserved ecosystems.

• Airboat rides: Experience the wild side of Florida with an airboat ride through the Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge. This high-speed adventure is perfect for spotting alligators and a variety of waterfowl in their natural habitat.

• Zipline adventures: For those seeking a thrill, the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park offers a zipline course that soars above the treetops, providing an exhilarating view of the surrounding area.

• Kayaking and canoeing: Paddle through the scenic waterways of Wekiwa Springs State Park or the Rock Springs Run, where clear, gentle rivers are perfect for kayaking and canoeing.

• Paddleboarding: Stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to explore Orlando's numerous lakes. Lake Eola, located in the heart of downtown, provides paddleboard rentals and a picturesque setting for beginners and experienced alike.

• Cycling and mountain biking: With its flat terrain and scenic landscapes, Orlando is ideal for cycling. For mountain bikers, the Santos Trail System offers a variety of trails ranging from green to black diamond, with features that include jumps, pumps and berms.

• Horseback riding: Explore the lush trails of Central Florida on horseback. Several stables around Orlando offer guided trail rides through beautiful woodlands and conservation areas, making for a memorable outdoor experience.

One of the great delights of holidays to Orlando is the chance to indulge in its diverse culinary scene. Known for its expansive theme park fare, Orlando also boasts a wide range of local and international cuisines that cater to all tastes.

Some typical dishes

• Grouper Sandwich: A Florida staple, this sandwich features freshly caught grouper, lightly breaded and fried, served on a soft bun with lettuce and tartar sauce.

• Citrus Barbecue: Utilising the abundant local citrus fruits, this unique barbecue style imbues traditional smoky flavours with a tangy twist.

Meat dishes

• Florida BBQ Ribs: Smothered in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce, these tender ribs are a favourite at local smokehouses.

• Pulled Pork Sliders: Mini buns loaded with slow-cooked pork, often enhanced with a sweet and tangy serving sauce.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Blackened Mahi Mahi: A popular fish in Florida, served blackened with spices that can pack a punch.

• Stone Crab Claws: Harvested locally, these are a real treat when served cold and with a mustard dipping sauce. The crab season runs from October to May.

• Shrimp and Grits: A Southern classic that pairs juicy, spiced shrimp with creamy, buttery grits.

Street food

• Fish Tacos: Fish tacos are a casual yet delicious street food staple in Orlando, featuring light, flaky fish topped with slaw and a squeeze of lime.

Sweets and desserts

Orlando’s desserts are often as creative as they are delicious. Key Lime Pie, originating from the nearby Florida Keys, is a must-try, with its rich, tangy filling and crumbly graham cracker crust. Another popular treat is Funnel Cake, often found at theme parks and fairs. It’s deep-fried until crisp and dusted with powdered sugar.

Local drinks

• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed Florida orange juice is a local and refreshing staple, celebrating the state’s abundant citrus production.

• Craft Beers: The local craft beer scene in Orlando is booming, with breweries like Cigar City and Orlando Brewing offering a range of innovative and flavourful brews