Beyond Mickey and magic
Vacation in Orlando
Orlando is rightly considered the world capital of amusement parks, but it has much more to offer than Mickey Mouse and Harry Potter. Each year, millions of people are drawn to this city in the U.S. state of Florida, where there are dozens of amusement parks, as well as beautiful parks, exciting museums and top-quality restaurants. And the best thing about Orlando? The sun is almost always shining! So pack your bags, and fly to Florida with Discover Airlines! Let the sunny adventure begin!
Why visit Orlando?
✓ The best place in the world for amusement parks:
Orlando is considered a paradise for amusement park fans. With places like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld, this city has a lot to offer. Perfect for your family vacation in Florida!
✓ A broad range of outdoor adventures:
Orlando is not only known for its amusement parks. How about a visit to Discovery Cove or an airboat tour through the Everglades?
✓ Food and culture:
Fancy top international cuisine? That’s no problem, thanks to the many Michelin-starred restaurants. Or would you rather explore trendy neighborhoods like the Milk District and Audubon Park? The best of both worlds: Orlando is a real melting pot of cultures and tastes.
Full of magic
Would you like to experience the magic of Walt Disney World? Here you go! There are four different parks to choose from: the Magic Kingdom with Cinderella’s Castle, the futuristic technology in EPCOT, the exotic wildlife of Animal Kingdom and scenes straight from a movie in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Think Disney is only for children? Absolutely not!
Roll it!
Have you ever dreamed of walking through the magical world of Harry Potter? Say no more! At Universal Orlando Resort, you can do that — and much more besides! Fancy an adrenaline kick? There are also lots of rides and shows at Universal Studios. Movie fans will love it here!
Wonderful underwater worlds
Ready for an ocean full of adventures? SeaWorld boasts many exciting roller coasters like “Mako” as well as many other attractions — the perfect destination for thrill seekers. Discovering the diversity of SeaWorld is a must during your Florida vacation.
Safari feeling
Want to go on safari in the middle of Florida? On an airboat tour through the Everglades, you will get up close to alligators, exotic birds and colorful plants. A wild ride that shows you the untamed side of Florida.
Source of relaxation
Wekiwa Springs State Park is a real paradise. Whether swimming, canoeing or hiking, you can leave everyday life completely behind you here and enjoy the pleasures of a serene oasis. Relax surrounded by nature!
Beach paradise
Many people want to spend at least one day on the beach when they are on vacation. And of course, visitors to Orlando don’t have to miss out. Head for the beaches at Daytona Beach, Palm Beach or Fort Lauderdale, and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea. Your journey there also gives you the chance to see a bit more of Florida.
Art as far as the eye can see
Calling all art lovers! The Orlando Museum of Art is a true El Dorado for art aficionados. From American to modern to ancient art, here there really is everything an art lover’s heart could desire. Ready to have a look around?
Top tier entertainment
Fancy great entertainment? Then head to the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts! Here, you can enjoy anything from Broadway shows and concerts to ballet performances. There really is something for everyone here!
A bird’s-eye view
From the giant Ferris wheel “The Wheel” at ICON Park, you’ll have the best view of all. Particularly recommended at sunset! A real highlight for couples and all those who just want to see the skyline of the city.
Bucket list for your vacation in Orlando
1. Defying gravity at iFly Orlando
Does a free fall experience sound exciting but a little bit too risky? Then iFly Orlando is exactly the right place for you! In this vertical wind tunnel, you’ll fly as if you were skydiving — adrenaline kick included!
2. Calling all foodies!
East End Market is a real paradise for all who love food! From fresh vegetables and hand-made delicacies to street food, there’s plenty to taste and to enjoy.
3. Green oasis
A huge green oasis in the middle of Orlando. Unimaginable? No, it really does exist here: with over 50 hectares of exotic plants, flowers and unusual trees, Harry P. Leu Gardens are the perfect place to relax. After all, Orlando offers more than just action.
4. Our highlight: do you want to feel like an astronaut?
Rockets, interactive exhibitions and even a chat with real astronauts — the Kennedy Space Center is a real experience! Here, you can experience the everyday life of an astronaut, test simulators and listen to stories about space travel. The exclusive tour to the launch pads and the Apollo/Saturn V Center is particularly recommended.
5. Aquatic fun
A cool dip on hot days? Universal Volcano Bay is a water park of superlatives. Here you can look forward to exciting water slides, cozy wave pools and much, much more — perfect for a vacation with kids and anyone keen to splash!
Weather & best time to travel
A flight to Orlando is worth your while at any time of year, but for a relaxed time in the “Sunshine State”, it’s recommended to go in spring or fall. Mild weather and fewer tourists: perfect for amusement parks and outdoor activities. Summer is ideal for water park fans because it’s hot and sunny. But watch out for the crowds! In winter? Don’t worry, it’s still nice and warm. So Miami Beach is perfect even for a winter vacation. When are you traveling to Orlando with Discover Airlines?
Getting around
Orlando can be explored in many ways. A rental car is very useful — especially if you want to go to all the amusement parks and shopping hotspots. The city is expansive, and public transport is not always the best option for reaching many attractions quickly and easily. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are a convenient choice, especially after a long day at a park. With a rental car, it’s also easy to go on a trip across Florida and drive to other places like Miami or Cape Canaveral.
From Orlando International Airport (MCO) to the city center? No problem! Shuttle buses, taxis and ride-sharing services will take you directly to the city in about 20 to 30 minutes. For budget travelers, there is the Lynx bus, which is cheaper but takes a little longer.
Do’s and don’ts in Orlando
✓ Avoid waiting times:
For Disney World and Universal Studios, it’s worth booking Fast Passes or Lightning Lane tickets in advance. For those who don’t want to lose valuable time and want to experience more without standing in line for hours.
X Not all in one day:
Orlando has so much to offer that it is impossible to see everything in one day. Plan your time realistically, and include the occasional break so you won’t need a vacation after the vacation.
X Underestimate distance:
Orlando’s amusement parks and attractions are often located far apart. Therefore: allow time for the journeys, and consider whether a rental car is worth your while.
X Ignore the weather:
Especially in summer, Orlando can be hot and humid. Don’t forget to take sunscreen, hats and plenty of water to avoid heat stroke, for example!
✓ Downtown Orlando:
Also take time to visit the downtown area! There are many cool bars, restaurants and art galleries here. A walk around Lake Eola Park or a visit to the Thornton Park District is definitely a worthwhile experience.
✓ Visit amusement parks early:
Early arrival means shorter lines and more time. It is best to plan one day ahead and use the “Extra Magic Hours” if you are staying at a Disney hotel.
Questions & answers about your vacation in Orlando
Orlando is definitely the ultimate destination for amusement park fans! There are four Walt Disney World theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. Additionally, there are the Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. SeaWorld and the Volcano Bay water park both offer lots of aquatic fun.
From Orlando to Miami, it is around 370 km. So by car, the journey takes approx. 3.5 to 4 hours. Perfect for a road trip along the coast of Florida.
To get the most from your time in Orlando, you should aim for at least one week.
Did you know?
Orlando holds the title for the most visited city in the USA! Each year, over 75 million tourists come to the city. And quite rightly so!
