Orlando is one of the most visited destinations in the world, known for its theme parks, shopping, and diverse attractions. Planning your trip well can help you save money and make the most of every moment. In this guide, you'll find best Orlando tips to organize your trip intelligently and without any hassle.
When to Go and How to Save on Airfare
The best time to visit Orlando depends on your needs. To avoid crowds and save money, choose the months of January, February, September and early November. If you want to take advantage of special events, such as the Universal's Halloween Horror Nights or the Disney Christmas Parties, choice October or December.
Tips for finding cheaper flights:
- Buy in advance: 3 to 6 months in advance is ideal.
- Monitor prices: Use Google Flights, Skyscanner and Kayak.
- Avoid American holidays: Christmas, New Year, Easter and Thanksgiving are the most expensive periods.
- Consider flights with stopovers: They can be up to 30% cheaper than direct flights.
Where to Stay in Orlando: Best Areas and Hotels
The choice of accommodation greatly influences the travel experience.
Disney Hotels: Are They Worth It?
Staying at Disney hotels offers benefits such as free transportation, early park entry and immersive experienceHowever, prices tend to be high. The most popular resorts include:
- Economic: All-Star Movies, All-Star Sports and Pop Century.
- Intermediaries: Caribbean Beach Resort and Coronado Springs.
- Luxury: Grand Floridian and Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Economic and Luxury Options
If you want to save money, staying outside the parks is the best option.
- Budget hotels: Rosen Inn, Red Roof Inn and Best Western.
- Intermediate hotels: Holiday Inn, Universal's Endless Summer Resort.
- Rental houses: Kissimmee and Davenport are good areas for families.
Getting Around Orlando
Orlando is a large city with few public transportation options.
Is it worth renting a car?
Yes, if you plan to explore different outlets, malls, and parks. But be aware of additional costs like parking at the parks (average $30 per day) and tolls.
Free transportation from the parks
- Disney Skyliner: Cable car connecting resorts to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
- Free buses: Disney and Universal hotels offer transportation to the parks.
- Disney Monorail: Connects Magic Kingdom and Epcot to some resorts.
Uber, taxi or public transport?
- Uber/Lyft: Cheap and practical alternative, without the need to pay for parking.
- Taxis: More expensive, but useful for emergencies.
- Public transport: Bus lines are limited and not recommended for tourists.
Orlando Parks: How to Make the Most of Them
With so many options, it's important to plan what to visit and how to avoid queues.
How to avoid queues at parks
- Arrive before opening.
- use Genie+ at Disney to schedule attractions.
- Prioritize popular attractions in the morning, such as Flight of Passage (Animal Kingdom) and VelociCoaster (Universal).
FastPass, Genie+ and Lightning Lane
- Genie+ (Disney): Paid system that allows you to schedule line-skipping at selected attractions.
- Lightning Lane Individual: For popular attractions like the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.
- Universal Express Pass: Skip the line at almost every Universal attraction.
Best Restaurants and Where to Eat Well in Orlando
Orlando has restaurants for all tastes and budgets.
Budget Restaurants vs. Dining Experiences
- Economic: Five Guys, Wendy's, Panda Express.
- Gastronomic experiences:
- Be Our Guest (Magic Kingdom): Dinner at the Beast's castle.
- The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium (Universal CityWalk): Chocolate themed restaurant.
- The Cheesecake Factory: Famous for its generous portions and incredible desserts.
Tips for dining in the parks
- Book in advance: Disney restaurants sell out fast.
- Bring snacks: Allowed in parks and helps save money.
- Drink refills: At Universal parks and Disney hotels.
Shopping in Orlando: Outlets, Malls and Discount Coupons
Orlando is a shopping paradise, with unmissable discounts.
Best places to shop:
- Orlando International Premium Outlets: Big brands with up to 70% discount.
- Vineland Premium Outlets: Emptier option with exclusive stores.
- The Mall at Millenia: Luxury stores like Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Apple.
Tips for saving:
- Use discount coupons: Available on the outlets website.
- Buy outside of peak season: January and September have the best promotions.
Essential Apps and Tools for Your Trip
These apps help you plan your trip more efficiently:
- My Disney Experience: For attraction and restaurant reservations.
- Universal Orlando Resort App: Allows you to purchase tickets and access waiting times at attractions.
- Google Maps and Waze: Essential for city drivers.
- Klook and Tiqets: Purchase discounted tickets.
What to do in Orlando besides the parks?
If you want to get away from the park routine, there are several free or inexpensive options:
- Disney Springs: Entertainment center with themed shops and restaurants.
- ICON Park: Home to The Wheel, a Ferris wheel, museums and bars.
- Winter Park: Outdoor walks, markets and good cafes.
- Clearwater Beach: Best beach near Orlando, the 2 hours by car.
Safety in Orlando: How to Avoid Scams and Traps
Orlando is a safe city, but it's a good idea to take some precautions:
- Avoid buying tickets on the street: Many scams involve fake tickets.
- Keep an eye on your car: Do not leave bags in sight.
- Beware of tolls: Rent a car with SunPass or use cash.
Conclusion
Orlando has attractions for all types of travelers, and good planning makes all the difference. With these Orlando tips, you will be able to save money, avoid queues and make your trip even more unforgettableNow just pack your bags and enjoy!