Destination guide

Car hire in Orlando for crew on a break

Last reviewed August 2026 by the NonRevCars editorial team · about a 4-minute read

Orlando is one of the most spread-out theme-park cities in the world — the major parks and resorts sit miles apart along wide highways, and public transport between them is minimal at best. If you're spending more than a single day here, a car is close to essential.

Why bother with a car here

Unless you're staying inside a single resort complex and never leaving it, a car makes Orlando dramatically easier — Disney, Universal, and the outlet malls and restaurants outside them are all a proper drive apart, not a walk. Rideshares work but add up fast given the distances involved.

What to know about driving here

• Driving side: right-hand side.
• Toll roads (like the 417 and 429) are common and often the fastest routes — many rentals include an electronic toll pass, worth confirming when you book.
• Theme park parking is usually a separate paid fee on top of admission — factor it into your day.
• MCO (Orlando International) has a large rental centre with most major providers represented.

Good use of a day off

Even a non-park day benefits from wheels — Orlando's outlet malls, Winter Park's leafy downtown, and the springs and lakes outside the tourist core are all an easy drive and a nice contrast to the theme parks.

Frequently asked questions