Getting around Orlando
Exploring Orlando: Efficient ways to travel around the cityFrom taxis to trains and everything in between, Orlando offers plenty of ways to explore the city. Whether you prefer to explore the city by car or take advantage of the many public transportation options available, navigating Orlando is a breeze.
Orlando, Florida is one of the most visited cities in the world, attracting millions of travelers each year with its renowned theme parks, beautiful weather, and vibrant entertainment scene. With so much to explore, time is of the essence. It's important to have a reliable and efficient way to get around the city. Fortunately, Orlando offers a variety of transportation options. From taking the train to hopping on a bus, hailing a taxi, or renting a car, there are numerous ways to navigate the city to make the most of your trip.
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Getting around by car
Orlando is a car-friendly city. Navigating the city by car offers flexibility and convenience, making car rentals a popular choice for many visitors. You can find most major rental companies such as Avis, Enterprise, Alamo, National, and Budget at Orlando International Airport and throughout the city.
Toll roads like SR-417 and SR-528 help travelers move efficiently around the city. If your rental does not have a SunPass toll pass, make sure to have cash on hand to pay the tolls. The main interstate – I-4 – runs east to west, connecting Downtown, theme parks, and suburbs. Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan accordingly. GPS navigation is recommended for visitors who are not familiar with the lay of the land. Parking is available at most attractions, shopping areas, and hotels; however, there may be a fee so be aware of parking signs.
Getting around by taxi
Traveling through Orlando by taxi can be a hassle-free and convenient way to explore the city. With eight cab companies, including Yellow Cab and Checker, there is no shortage of taxi cabs available. It is quite easy to catch a taxi from Orlando International Airport or your resort hotel to the many attractions located in Central Florida. Taxis are ideal for direct trips to attractions like Universal Orlando or Disney World to avoid the stress of driving and parking.
Fares are metered and often include an initial fee plus a charge per mile. Flat rates are typically available for popular routes, such as from the airport to major attractions. Many taxis accept credit cards, but having cash can be useful.
At the airport, taxis are available on both the A and B sides of the Main Terminal, as well as the Ground Transportation level. A ride from Orlando International Airport to the Disney World Resort would cost approximately $60, while a ride from the airport to the International Drive would cost approximately $40.
Getting around by rideshare
Similar to other major cities, ride-sharing services, such as Lyft and Uber, are quite popular in Orlando. These services provide the convenience of ordering a ride directly from your smartphone and are often more affordable than taking a taxi. After arriving at the Orlando International Airport, you can easily find the designated rideshare pickup spots. These apps let you set your destination and see your fare before confirming the ride. For travel within the city, ride shares offer convenience as they are ideal for journeys to theme parks, shopping malls, or dining venues, eliminating the stress of finding parking.
Prices vary depending on the time of day, distance traveled, and demand. It is important to be aware of surge pricing during peak times and popular events which can exponentially increase the cost of a trip. While tipping your driver through the app is not mandatory, it is customary.
Getting around by rail
SunRail is a great option for getting around Orlando on the cheap. But just a heads-up, it doesn't run on weekends or most major holidays. Keep that in mind when planning your travels!
If you’re looking for an efficient way to explore both Orlando and the Greater Orlando region, consider using the city’s commuter rail system. SunRail operates Monday through Friday along a 49-mile route. Sixteen stations from DeBary in the north to Poinciana in the south connect key destinations like Downtown Orlando, Winter Park, and Florida Hospital. Fares are distance-based, with one-way tickets starting at approximately $2, and can be purchased at station vending machines or through the mobile app. Visit the SunRail website or use their mobile app to check schedules and fares. Each station has ample parking, and the trains are equipped with free Wi-Fi, restrooms, and bicycle racks. SunRail is an excellent option for day trips to local attractions accessible from the route; however, it doesn’t directly serve the major theme parks.
Getting around by bus
If you are traveling through Downtown Orlando during rush hour, I highly suggest taking the LYMMO bus. Not only is the bus free and comfortably air-conditioned, but it also travels in its own dedicated lane and controls the stoplights along its route, guaranteeing you will arrive at your destination faster than anyone else.
For an affordable way to explore Orlando, consider using the city’s LYMMO bus service. LYMMO is a free Downtown Orlando circulator bus that operates on four routes, connecting the Downtown business, entertainment, and shopping districts. The buses operate seven days a week from early morning until late evening. Buses arrive every five minutes during office hours and every 10 minutes in the evenings. All LYNX buses are hybrid electric vehicles and wheelchair accessible. While the LYMMO network is limited to Downtown, it’s perfect for exploring the area without a car and avoiding parking fees. Use the LYMMO in conjunction with other transportation for an efficient, budget-friendly Orlando experience.