Holidays to Orlando
From world-class rollercoasters and wild waterparks to the enduring magic of Disney, Orlando holidays are all about endless fun in the Sunshine State.
There’s a mouse in the house
Think Orlando, think Disney! Whether you’re five or 55, Walt Disney World Resort feels just like a fairytale. There are, of course, the endless rides – you name it, it’s got it – but there are also waterparks, shops, restaurants, spas and, even golf courses!
Meet Mickey and the gang, belt your heart out at Hollywood Studios’ Frozen singalongs and go on a totally roarsome safari at Animal Kingdom. And before you ask, no, you can’t live here.
I’ve got thrills, they’re multiplying
Get your adrenaline kicks on one of Orlando’s craziest rollercoasters. The tallest and fastest in the city, SeaWorld’s Mako, delivers serious airtime, with a 200-foot drop that’ll get your pulse pounding!
The Jurassic World VelociCoaster in Universal's Islands of Adventure tops out at a mind-bending 70mph, while Universal’s Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit hits seven stories before a 65mph drop – all to your fave tunes!
Downtown delights
Sure, theme parks are Orlando’s major draw, but don’t sleep on downtown! Stroll through Lake Eola Park, take a swan boat across the water (minding the actual swans) and then dive into the city’s eclectic food scene.
Elsewhere, the Harry P Leu Gardens, just outside downtown, are bloomin’ great. For a different Rose-related experience, have a nosey around Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. And, if you still have time, check out what’s on at the Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
Wekiwa Springs things
Just north of Orlando, Wekiwa Springs State Park offers a welcome dose of natural tranquillity, perfect if you’re looking to recharge after a few days of theme park madness!
Go hiking, biking or horseback riding along the park’s trails, hire a kayak to paddle along the Wekiva River or take a restorative dip in the Wekiwa Springs, which are a toasty 22C all year round.
Sneak Peek
Best for... Endless theme park fun 🎡
Go... In winter or spring (outside the hols) to escape the crowds and heat 🥵
You have to... Brave the super-fast, super-tall Mako roller coaster🎢
Orlando holiday deals
Sonesta ES Suites Orlando - International Drive
- 1 May 2027
- 10 nights
- Self-catering
- From Manchester
Prices from
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Orlando Resort & Suites International Drive
3.8
Good
- 1 May 2027
- 10 nights
- Room only
- From Manchester
Prices from
Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort
4.4
Excellent
- 2 Oct 2026
- 14 nights
- Room only
- From Gatwick
Prices from
CoCo Key Hotel & Water Resort
- 1 May 2027
- 10 nights
- Room only
- From Manchester
Prices from
Details
Currency
US Dollar
Language
American
Time difference
GMT -5
Cost of a beer
$3.5
3-course meal
Around $22
Flight time
9 hrs
International flavours
Close to the coast, it’s all about seafood in Orlando, be that at the city’s top sushi joints or its oyster bars. And you can’t visit Florida without digging into a wedge of key lime pie! There’s a big Asian American community in Orlando, too, which is reflected in its food scene. Head to Little Vietnam on Colonial Drive for noodle soup (aka pho) or a bargain baguette sandwich (bánh mi).
Beyond Disney
Look, we get it, Disney is a certified winner for everyone, but Orlando has plenty of other gems hidden up its sleeve. Your whole fam will have a blast exploring LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s MINILAND USA, with little rides that won’t have you bricking it (sorry!). Meanwhile, at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, you can get super close to all sorts of marine life. Finally, swap adrenaline rushes for sugar rushes on a Chocolate Kingdom Factory Adventure Tour.
Cultural hits
Orlando doesn’t just go big on theme parks, it also goes big on art and culture. Snap pics of the cool and colourful murals dotted around the city, pop into the Orlando Museum of Art and mix fun and education at the Orlando Science Center. Music lover? Check out the Orlando Philharmonic. In the mood for a play? See what’s on at the indie Winter Park Playhouse.
When to go to Orlando
With its subtropical climate, you can visit Orlando year-round, but the most popular times to visit tend to be Christmas, Easter, spring break and the summer holidays (aka high season). If theme parks aren’t your thing or you’re travelling without kids, consider a holiday outside of these busy periods.
The best weather is usually between March and May when it’s still warm but not sweltering. It’s also the best time for cheap Orlando holidays.
And while the rainy season takes a decent chunk out of the year, lasting from June to September/October, you can expect short, sharp downpours rather than non-stop showers.
