How Much is Uber from Orlando Airport to Disney World?
Chantelle KincyIt is finally here! You’ve made your park reservations, you’ve got the perfect Disney resort and you’ve stepped off the plane in Orlando.
Now what? What is the best way to get from the airport to the hotel? Should you use rideshare? How much is Uber from Orlando Airport to Disney World?
I’ve been in this situation and want to share with you my findings, so you don’t have to stress over this last little detail in your magical vacation.
Which Orlando Airport are you flying into?
There are two airports in the Orlando Airport that you might fly into for your Disney Vacation. As I write this post, I’ll be offering suggestions for both airports.
Orlando International Airport: This is the main airport that most guests fly into. The airport code is MCO, and it is located about 6 miles from downtown Orlando. You’ll find many flight options from all over the world arriving to and departing from MCO.
Orlando Sanford International Airport: SFB is located further from downtown and the parks, but is still a viable option when visiting Orlando. While MCO is the busiest airport in all of Florida, Sanford is smaller and less hectic.
There is only one terminal here, and if you are looking for faster lines, and ease of navigating the airport, SFB might be a good option for you. Due to it being a smaller airport, your flights may be slightly more expensive, and also your transportation could be more costly.
How far is it from Orlando Airport to Walt Disney World?
MCO: Orlando International Airport is 19 miles from the Walt Disney World Resort.
Sanford: Orlando Sanford International Airport is 50 miles from the Walt Disney World Resort.
How long does it take to get from the airport to Walt Disney World?
MCO: It takes about 20 minutes to drive from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World.
Sanford: The ride from Orlando Sanford International Airport can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic.
Transportation options from Orlando Airport to Walt Disney World
Ride-Sharing Service (Uber and Lyft)
If you’re new to ride-sharing, it’s effortless! All you need to do is download the app and enter your pick-up and drop-off locations for a quick journey. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to plan something without prior preparation, look no further Uber and Lyft are easy to use!
How much does it cost to Uber (or Lyft) from Orlando Airport to Walt Disney World?
This all depends on the day and time you will need a ride. Surge pricing can be in effect at popular times and places and that can make the fee higher. I always check Lyft and Uber to see which is cheaper at that time.
For larger families and groups, ride share can be a good option since the price is by car instead of per passenger like shuttles are.
➡️ Tip: Surge pricing will definitely be in effect at the time the parks close, leaving early or walking to a different location can help keep costs down.
If you’re looking for an economical ride from Orlando International Airport (MCO), UberX is the way to go, with fares averaging around $38 for a vehicle that seats 2-4 passengers.
XL vehicles capable of accommodating six passengers range from $55-$65, depending on the time of day.
Opting for a higher-end ride with Uber or Lyft, such as their black car service, can incur costs in excess of $100.
When arriving at Orlando Sanford, UberX fares are about $50 with XL costing around $80. Catching a ride with Black Car Service from SFB to Walt Disney World will cost around $150.
Minnie Vans
Minnie Vans can be reserved through the Lyft app, just like booking any other ride. Minnie Vans are decorated to resemble Minnie Mouse, painted red with white polka dots. They are driven by a Disney Cast member.
Because Minnie Vans are considered a premium service, the price of Minnie Vans are more than a regular Lyft ride, but if there is surge pricing during peak times, they may be more comparable.
Taxi
If you want a similar experience to rideshare, but don’t want to download an app or set up anything, you can always grab a taxi from either Orlando airport to Walt Disney World. Traditional taxis will normally cost a little bit more than Uber or Lyft.
How much does it cost to take a Taxi from Orlando Airport to Walt Disney World?
During times of low travel traffic, taking a taxi from MCO to WDW can cost about $40 each way. However, when visiting during a more popular time of the year, prices may reach up to $80.
From Sanford to WDW your taxi fare will be between $130-180 each way.
Town Car or Limo Service
If you are looking for a more luxurious and private experience, you may consider booking a private car service.
Surprising kids with a limousine at the airport can be an exciting way to start your Disney vacation, and create a core memory that they will never forget.
With this option, you could also make a quick stop at a grocery store to purchase food to take to your hotel, saving some money on snacks and meals.
Prices vary based on what kind of car you choose and any additional services you need. You can check the prices below.
✅ Click Here to Book Private Van Service from MCO or SFB
✅ Click Here to Book a Private Car from MCO
✅ Click Here to Book a Private Car from SFB
Shuttle/Bus Services
There are several companies that offer shuttles and buses from the airport to Walt Disney World.
Mears Transportation
Make your way to/from the airport with ease using Mears’ two unique shuttles services – proudly operated by the same company that ran Disney’s Magical Express!
Mears Standard Service consists of dedicated buses from Orlando to Disney World resort hotels.
It costs $16 per adult one-way and $13.50 per child (ages 3-9) one-way. You can book either one-way or round-trip transportation.
To ensure a successful booking, be sure to have your exact flight information readily accessible. The online booking engine will then take care of verifying all the details for you. You will also need to pick up your luggage from baggage claim and bring it with you.
With standard service, you will leave on your shuttle no more than 20 minutes after you check in at the Mears Connect desk at MCO.
Mears Express Service Express service costs more than standard service. You will pay a flat fee of $250 for a round-trip transfer of up to four passengers, regardless of whether they are adults or children. Even at this price, you are not guaranteed to have a private vehicle and will likely be sharing your ride with others.
Other Shuttle Companies
Of course, there are other companies that transfer from Orlando airport to Disney. Galaxy Vacations offers shuttle options with WiFi on board their clean, air-conditioned vans. Pricing starts at $17 for any passenger over 3 years old, and $10 for infants.
Book Galaxy Vacations shuttle here
Brightline Train
Get ready to make your journey to Disney World even quicker and more thrilling with the new Brightline train that will connect the Orlando International Airport (MCO) directly to a stop near Disney’s property! Reports speculate that trains should be operational sometime in 2023.
Rental Cars
Renting a car at either Orlando International or Sanford Airport is an easy and convenient way to get around – plus it gives you flexibility with your plans. However, be mindful of the cost as this may not be in everyone’s budget!
If you plan on visiting any place other than the resorts and parks, renting a car is a good idea. With multiple stops and trips, shuttles and Uber can really add up in price.
I always use Discover Cars to find the best rental car rates no matter where I travel.
Is there a Free Option for getting to Disney World from the Orlando Airport
Unfortunately, there are no free shuttle options for getting to Disney World from either Orlando airport to Walt Disney World.
Disney’s Magical Express Service
Magical Express was a Disney transportation option that guests loved from 2005 to 2021. You could walk directly from your flight to the Mickey bus outside, and be taken directly to your hotel. Your bags would “magically” appear at your hotel without you having to worry about it or lift a finger.
Sadly, this service was discontinued after the pandemic, and from all accounts, it looks like it will not be reinstated.
Also Read: How to use the Disney Payment Plan
The cheapest way to get from Orlando Airport to Walt Disney World
Galaxy Shuttle Service may be the cheapest option if there are only 2 people in your party. If you have 3 or 4, Uber is probably your best option. If you have a large group or family, I would suggest booking a private shuttle or car to your Disney Hotel.
How to use Uber at MCO and Sanford
MCO
Open your app to request an Uber ride
When you’re ready, open the Uber app to request a ride to your destination. Choose the MCO transportation option that suits your group size and luggage needs.
Exit on the arrivals level
You’ll get directions about MCO pickup points directly in the app. Pickup locations are located on Level 2 and may vary by terminal. Rideshare pickup signs might also be available at Orlando Airport.
Confirm your location
Go to your assigned MCO pickup location as specified by the app. Please note: this location may not always be at your nearest exit. Your driver’s name, license plate, and car color will show in the app. Verify your ride before you get in. If you can’t find your driver, contact them through the app.
Sanford
Request when you’re ready to walk outside
Choose a ride option that suits your group size and luggage storage needs. And select your preferred pickup location in the app.
Exit out the Terminal B door
Cross Red Cleveland Boulevard, then wait curbside for your driver.
Getting from Hotel to Park
Once you have made it from the airport to your hotel, you are ready to start visiting the parks. If you are staying at one of the Disney Resort hotels, you will have transportation to the parks at no additional cost.
If you are staying at off-property hotels, check to see if they offer a shuttle, most in the area do, although some charge a small fee for this service.
If you do not want to use the shuttle, or it is not offered, Uber or Lyft are your best options for getting to the parks. I love using the reservation system on Uber, where you can schedule a ride and have it ready at a specific time rather than waiting on a ride.
If you are staying on International Drive, Theme Park Express will take you to and from Epcot and Magic Kingdom.
Getting from Park to Park
If you have a park hopper ticket and want to switch parks, you’ll need to know the best way to get from park to park. Unlike the California Disney Parks, you can’t just walk across the way to get to the other parks.
The good news is Disney offers free transportation between resorts. Here is what you need to know:
From Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom to EPCOT: Take the monorail to the transportation center, and exit the monorail. You’ll then get on another monorail and go to Epcot.
You can also take one of the Disney buses from Magic Kingdom to EPCOT. Catch the bus just to the left of the main entrance.
Magic Kingdom to Animal Kingdom: The Disney bus is the only way to get to Animal Kingdom from Magic Kingdom.
Magic Kingdom to Disney Hollywood Studios: The most direct option for getting to Disney Hollywood Studios is by taking the bus.
From EPCOT
EPCOT to Animal Kingdom: Disney bus is the only way to get from EPCOT to Animal Kingdom.
EPCOT to Disney Hollywood Studios: There are two ways to get to Hollywood Studios from Epcot. The Skyliner is one way. Make your way to the International Gateway at EPCOT (between France and UK pavilions in World Showcase) for access to the Skyliner station. Climb aboard the Skyliner and let it whisk you past the Riviera stop to Caribbean Beach station. From there you will find the line to go into Hollywood Studios.
Another option is to take a boat from the International Gateway at EPCOT, board the boat that goes to Hollywood Studios and in about 30 minutes you’ll arrive.
The last option is by taking the Disney bus located just outside the entrance of EPCOT.
EPCOT to Magic Kingdom: The best way to get between these two parks is to take the monorail. The first monorail will take you to the transportation center, and then you will get on another monorail to go to Magic Kingdom.
From Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios to EPCOT: Skyliner. Board the skyline to the Caribbean Beach Station. Here, you will get on another skyline that goes to EPCOT.
Boat, you can catch a boat to EPCOT at the water just outside Hollywood Studios.
The other option is to take the Disney bus, located just past the entrance of the park.
Hollywood Studios to Magic Kingdom: Taking the bus is the best and most direct way to get to Magic Kingdom from Hollywood Studios.
Hollywood Studios to Animal Kingdom: The only way to get from Hollywood Studios to Animal Kingdom is by bus.
From Animal Kingdom
You’ll need to take the Disney bus from Animal Kingdom to any of the other parks.
Do you need help planning your Disney Trip?
I am a certified Disney Vacation Specialist and have taken hours and hours of coursework to become familiar with all things Disney. I also have experienced the Disney World theme parks firsthand and am able to offer helpful and pertinent tips for your trip.
Having me book your Walt Disney World Vacation, doesn’t cost you anything extra at all, and in some cases, can even save you some money!
If you want help, let me know! I love planning Disney trips!
