Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Orlando
Ride-hailing, the Mears Connect shuttle and rental cars are the usual ways to reach the theme park areas. LYNX public buses are very cheap but slow.
Most visitors are not going to downtown Orlando but to the theme park and International Drive areas to the south-west.
Best for most people: Ride-hailing or rental car. Orlando is spread out and car-dependent, and Uber or Lyft reaches Disney, Universal or International Drive in about 25–35 minutes.
All the options
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Hours | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ride-hailing Uber and Lyft from the marked ride-share pickup zones at the terminals | about 20–35 min | about US$30–55 to the theme park areas, US$25–40 downtown | 24 h | Prices rise at busy times; follow signs to the pickup level. | |
| shuttle Mears Connect shared shuttle to Walt Disney World resorts and other areas | about 30–60 min depending on stops | check current fares | with flight arrivals | Disney's free Magical Express ended in 2022; book Mears Connect ahead. | |
| rental car Rental counters on the ground floor of terminals A, B and C | about 25–35 min to Disney | varies; toll roads apply | 24 h at most companies | Main routes use toll roads; ask about a toll pass. | |
| city bus LYNX buses from the terminal to downtown and towards International Drive | about 40–80 min | every 30–60 min | about US$2 | daytime and evening | Cheapest option but slow; check routes and last buses. |
| taxi Taxi stands at the Arrivals level | about 20–35 min | about US$45–75 to the theme park areas | 24 h | Metered; tipping 15–20% is customary. | |
| train Brightline intercity trains from the Terminal C station to Miami via West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale | about 3.5 h to Miami | several per day | varies | daytime and evening | Useful for onward travel south, not for central Orlando. |
*Approximate 2026 prices and times. Services change: check the operator before you fly, especially for late arrivals.
Sort it before you land
Partner links: TonyPlan may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Other airports
- Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), about 50 km north-east, used mostly by low-cost and charter flights; a rental car or transfer is the practical way from there.
Tips
- Check whether your hotel offers a free airport shuttle before booking anything else.
- Terminal C is newer and separate; allow time if you fly from there.
- Plan for Florida's afternoon thunderstorms delaying road traffic in summer.
- Tip drivers in cash or in the app, as is normal in the US.
Common questions
How much is an Uber from Orlando airport to Disney World?
Usually around US$30–55 depending on demand, time of day and your exact resort. Prices rise when many flights land together. Ride-share pickup zones are clearly signed at each terminal. Taxis cost more, typically around US$45–75 plus tip. Check whether your resort offers its own shuttle first.
Is there still a free Disney shuttle from Orlando airport?
No. Disney's Magical Express ended in 2022. Mears Connect now offers a paid shared shuttle to Walt Disney World resorts, and there are private transfers, ride-hailing and rental cars. Book the shuttle ahead to secure a seat. Check current fares and pickup points on the official websites before you travel.
Can I get from Orlando airport to the parks by public transport?
LYNX buses connect the airport with downtown and with areas such as International Drive for about US$2, but trips are slow and may need changes. With luggage and a tight schedule, most visitors prefer a ride-hail, shuttle or car. Routes and frequencies change, so check the LYNX timetable first.
Do I need a car in Orlando?
Not necessarily. If you are staying at a Disney resort or on International Drive, shuttles, ride-hailing and hotel transport can cover most needs. For Kennedy Space Center, the beaches or several parks, a rental car is more convenient. Expect toll roads around the airport.
Compiled by TonyPlan from airport and transport-operator information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.