Orlando is one of the most visited destinations in the world, famous for its theme parks and unmissable attractions. To make the most of the city, it is essential to understand what the best options are for transportation in Orlando. Is it worth renting a car? Is public transportation efficient? How much does Uber or Lyft cost? In this guide, you will find all the information you need to get around without any hassle.
H2: Do I Need to Rent a Car in Orlando? Is It Worth It?
The decision to rent a car depends on your travel profile. If you plan to visit several places outside the parks or go shopping, it may be a great choice. On the other hand, if your focus is on the theme parks and you want to save money, it may be better to opt for other alternatives.
H3: Advantages and Disadvantages of Car Rental
✅ Benefits:
- Greater freedom to travel at any time.
- Easy access to outlets and other nearby cities, such as Tampa and Miami.
- Ideal for large families or groups of friends.
❌ Disadvantages:
- High cost with daily rate, insurance, gasoline and parking.
- Heavy traffic during peak hours, especially on International Drive.
- Need to pay tolls (SunPass or E-Pass).
If you are traveling alone or plan to stay only in the parks, other options may be more advantageous.
H3: Where to Rent a Car and What Documents Are Required?
The main car rental locations are at Orlando International Airport (MCO) and at several rental companies in the city. Some of the best-known include:
🚗 Poplar – One of the favorites of Brazilian tourists.
🚗 Hertz – Option with a good variety of cars.
🚗 notice – Offers packages with toll included.
🚗 Budget – Economic alternative.
Required documentation:
- Valid passport.
- Brazilian driver's license (for short stays, the International Driving Permit – PID is not necessary).
- International credit card for deposit.
💡 Tip: Some rental companies accept payment in cash or debit card, but require an advance deposit.
H3: Tips for Saving on Rent
💰 Book in advance – Prices can double if you leave it until the last minute.
💰 Compare prices on websites like Rentcars and Expedia.
💰 Avoid picking up your car at the airport, as there are extra fees.
💰 Be aware of insurance options – Some coverage may be included on your credit card.
💰 Consider renting an economy car, which consumes less fuel.
H2: Alternatives to the Car: How to Get Around Without Driving
If you prefer to avoid renting a car, Orlando offers several transportation alternatives.
H3: Taxis and Ride-hailing Apps (Uber and Lyft)
Ride-hailing apps are very popular in the city and are often cheaper than conventional taxis.
H4: Price Comparison Between Uber, Lyft and Taxis
| Origin/Destination | UberX | Lyft Standard | Taxi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport → Disney | $25 – $40 | $25 – $40 | $55+ |
| Airport → International Drive | $20 – $35 | $20 – $35 | $50+ |
| International Drive → Universal | $10 – $15 | $10 – $15 | $25+ |
💡 Tip: Prices may vary depending on time and demand.
H3: Vans and Shuttle Services
Shuttles are great options for groups or those who want to save on travel.
H4: Reliable Companies and Average Prices
🚐 Mears Transportation – Shared shuttle service with prices starting from $20 per person.
🚐 SuperShuttle – Transfer from the airport to hotels, with average prices of $18 per person.
🚐 Brazilian Companies – Some offer Portuguese-speaking drivers and fixed prices.
H3: Public Transportation in Orlando
While Orlando doesn't have as efficient a public transportation system as other major cities, there are still options.
H4: How the I-Ride Trolley Works
🚌 Tourist bus that runs along the international drive, with stops at shopping malls and attractions.
💰 Cost: $2 per journey or $6 for the daily pass.
📍 Ideal for: those staying on International Drive and wanting to avoid Uber or taxi.
H4: Bus Lines and SunRail
🚌 Lynx – Orlando bus system, with fare of $2 by route.
🚆 SunRail – Train that connects Orlando to neighboring cities, but does not serve the parks.
H2: Transportation to Theme Parks
Each theme park has unique transportation options.
H3: Disney – How to Get to the Parks Without a Car
🏰 Disney Hotels Offer Free Transportation to the parks, including buses, boats and the Monorail.
🚌 Lynx and Uber are alternatives for those who are not staying at Disney.
H3: Universal – Transportation Options Available
🎢 Universal Hotels Offer free transportation to the parks.
🚖 Uber or Lyft are the best options for those who are not in the complex.
H3: Other Attractions – How to Get to Kennedy Space Center and Legoland
🚀 Kennedy Space Center – The best option is to go by rented car or book a tour with transportation included.
🎡 legoland – Provides Paid transportation from International Drive for $10 per person (round trip).
H2: Best Transportation Option for Every Type of Traveler
Every traveler has different needs, and the choice of transportation should be made based on that.
H3: Families with Children
✅ Best option: Rental car or free transportation from hotels.
🚼 Makes it easier to carry strollers and suitcases.
H3: Solo Travelers or Couples
✅ Best option: Uber, Lyft or I-Ride Trolley.
💰 Economical and practical for short trips.
H3: Large Groups
✅ Best option: Private Vans or minivan rental.
👨👩👧👦 It's cheaper to split the costs than to pay for several Uber rides.
H3: Who Wants to Spend as Little as Possible
✅ Best option: Public Transportation (Lynx) and I-Ride Trolley.
💰 It takes longer, but it's the cheapest alternative.
Now that you know all the options, transportation in Orlando, you can choose the best way to get around. With planning and detailed information, your trip will be much more comfortable and economical! 🚗✈️🎢