Orlando is a charismatic and popular city in the United States, famous for being home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld and multiple family-friendly attractions. It is a destination that attracts people of all ages. Whether it’s a family getaway, romantic escape, or solo adventure, finding affordable flights to Orlando is the cherry on top.
This guide will help you find the best flight deals to Orlando by comparing flights, budgeting your travel time, and exploring airlines and routes to save on airfare.
Why Fly to Orlando?
In addition to its globally renowned theme parks, Orlando offers a wide range of entertainment, shopping, dining, and outdoor activities.
- World-famous theme parks like Disney World & Universal.
- SeaWorld Orlando & water parks.
- Premium outlet shopping.
- Diverse dining options.
- Warm weather year-round.
With nonstop flights from almost every major U.S. city, Orlando is easy and affordable to reach.
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the city’s main airport. The airport is located approximately 12 miles southeast of downtown Orlando.
Airport Highlights:
- MCO is one of the busiest airports in the U.S.
- The airport is highly developed, featuring dining, lounges, and shopping.
- Hassle-free access to Disney, Universal and the downtown area.
Getting from MCO to Your Hotel:
- Taxi & Rideshare (Uber/Lyft).
- Shuttle services to theme parks.
- Rental cars.
- Public bus (LYNX).
Popular airlines flying to Orlando International Airport (MCO):
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- JetBlue Airways
- Spirit Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
Popular Routes to Orlando
Below are some of the busiest and most affordable routes to Orlando International Airport (MCO):
- Flights from New York to Orlando – 2.5–3 hours (Approximately)
- Flights from Chicago to Orlando – 3 hours (Approximately)
- Flights from Dallas to Orlando – 2.5 hours (Approximately)
- Flights from Los Angeles to Orlando – 5 hours (Approximately)
- Flights from Atlanta to Orlando – 1.5 hours (Approximately)
- Flights from Boston to Orlando – 3 hours (Approximately)
Due to high competition on these routes, finding cheap flights to Orlando is easy.
Cheapest Time to Fly to Orlando
Timing plays a significant role in securing cheap flights to Orlando. Therefore, it is important to know which months are best to fly and which to avoid.
Best Months for Cheap Flights to Orlando:
- January & February (after the holidays).
- Late August & September
- Early December (before Christmas rush)
Most Expensive Months:
- Spring Break (March–April)
- Summer vacation (June–July)
- Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Year
Cheapest Days to Fly:
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
Avoid flying on weekends – Friday, Saturday and Sunday due to high demand.
When Should You Book Flights to Orlando?
If you are searching for affordable flights to Orlando:
- Advance booking at least 4.12 weeks in advance for domestic travel is a must.
- During peak season, it is recommended to book 2.3 months in advance.
- Avoid last minute-booking, unless you are flexible with travel dates.
Tips to Find Cheap Flights to Orlando
Flying on a budget to Orlando is more about strategy than luck. If you are looking for affordable flights to Orlando, you can follow these tips below to fly on a budget flight to Orlando.
Compare Multiple Airlines and Booking Sites
It is best to compare different websites, as each platform shows different prices and airlines. It is best to check 2-3 tools, such as Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, and the airline’s official website, to find the best affordable flight.
Use Flexible Date Search Tools
Flexible travel can help you find cheap flights to Orlando. Instead of a single day, view prices for an entire week or month. Shift your trip by 1-2 days to find cheaper airfares. Most airlines lower their prices when demand is lower.
Set Price Alerts
Because airfares change constantly, alerts are the best way to notify you when prices drop. It is best to set alerts, especially for your rotes and dates. Book quickly when you see a dip in airfares.
Fly Midweek
Flying on mid-week days is cheaper than on weekdays. The best days to fly on a budget are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. It is better to avoid flying on weekends, from Friday to Sunday.
Consider Nearby Airports
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the primary airport serving Orlando. But travelers can also check Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) if looking for budget airlines. Compare prices for all nearby airports in your search.
Book Early for Holidays
During the holiday season, tickets sell out fast and are expensive. Advance booking 2-3 months early for major holidays and even earlier for Christmas, Thanksgiving and the summer holiday season. Early booking often gets you the best affordable airfares.
Avoid Unnecessary Baggage Fees
Budget airlines offer low base fares but are hated for their high add-on costs. It is advised to check the bag fees before booking. Also, paying baggage fees online is cheaper than paying them at the airport. Remember, a cheap ticket is not cheap if the baggage fee is doubled.
Where to Stay in Orlando
Orlando offers accommodation for every budget. From Luxury resorts to mid-range hotels and budget accommodation. A traveler will have a wide range of options to choose from. Search early and book the best and most affordable hotel for an unforgettable stay.
Best Things to Do in Orlando
Orlando offers so much fun and entertainment. Famed as the theme park capital of the world, Orlando is a perfect escape for unforgettable moments. Below are the top attractions to visit during an Orlando trip.
Visit Walt Disney World – The world-famous theme park is a must-visit in Orlando for all ages. It has so much to offer, from ionic Cinderella’s Castle to thrilling rides and spotting your childhood favorite cartoon characters.
Explore Universal Studios – Another spectacular place to visit, especially for movie lovers and thrill seekers. The Universal Orlando Resort includes Hollywood-style rides and exciting roller coasters.
Discover SeaWorld Orlando – Another exciting place to visit with family. SeaWorld is a perfect combination of marine-life exhibits and exciting rides. Visitors can see dolphins, whales and sea lions and experience thrill rides like Ice Breaker and Mako.
Shop at Orlando Premium Outlets – Shoppers can find top brands at discounted prices. It is also the place to go and shop for souvenirs and other essentials.
Visit Lake Eola Park – For nature enthusiasts, it offers the perfect escape from the crowds. Activities to indulge in include boat rides, enjoying views of the city skyline, and relaxing by taking a walk around the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orlando best known for?
Orlando is popular worldwide for its theme parks, including Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, and SeaWorld.
How many days do you need in Orlando?
It depends on the nature of travel, but mostly travelers will require a minimum of 4-7 days in Orlando to enjoy major theme park attractions without rushing.
Which airport should I fly into for Orlando?
Orlando is served by Orlando International Airport (MCO), the primary airport closest to Disney, Universal, and downtown.
How far is Disney World from Orlando Airport?
Walt Disney World is about 25–30 minutes by car from Orlando International Airport (MCO).
What is the cheapest month to fly to Orlando?
January, September, and early December are usually the cheapest months to fly to Orlando.
Do I need a car in Orlando?
It depends on the nature of the visit, but a car is helpful if you plan to visit multiple attractions in a limited time. Many hotels also offer shuttle services.
Is Orlando expensive to visit?
Again, it all depends on the nature of your travel and the months you plan to visit. But Orlando can be affordable if you plan to visit during off-peak season and avoid traveling during major events.
Is it cheaper to book a round-trip or two one-way tickets to Orlando?
Round-trip tickets are often cheap, but sometimes you can save a good amount by booking two one-way tickets on different airlines.
Which airlines offer the cheapest flights to Orlando?
Spirit, Frontier, Southwest, and JetBlue are a few budget airlines that offer affordable fares to Orlando International Airport (MCO).