Orlando holidays

With world-class theme parks, golfing and nightlife, Orlando holidays hit new highs on the fun factor.

The world’s theme park capital

Orlando’s located in the centre of Florida, just over an hour’s drive east or west from the coast. It doesn’t need beaches for bragging rights, though – Orlando’s bagged the title of ‘The Theme Park Capital of the World’, thanks to the big-name theme parks that call this place home. Walt Disney World Resort lays claim to four theme parks and a pair of waterparks, while Universal Orlando Resort heads up a couple of theme parks, as well as a waterpark. SeaWorld, Legoland and Discovery Cove are all part of the mix, too.

All bases covered

Whether you’re a tiny tot or all grown up, Orlando’s always a great choice. Walt Disney World Resort, for example, has everything from character-led parades to British-style pubs with live music. Meanwhile, over at Universal’s Volcano Bay, tot-friendly splash zones and sky-high chutes are both part of the programme. And, once the sun’s set – if you’ve still got some energy to burn – you can head back into the theme parks to watch firework and light shows, or tuck into a larger-than-life dinners in places like Universal’s CityWalk.

Sorted for shopping

While Orlando’s theme parks take most of the spotlight, there’s more to this place than rides and slides. The city’s shopping scene could rival any big US city – it’s got hundreds of outlets and malls peppered across its map. With more than 500 shops to get you started, International Drive’s a great jumping-off point for shopping trips. Or, if golfing greens sound more appealing than shopping sprees, you’ve got 200-plus courses to choose from in Orlando alone.

Daytrips to the beach

If your holiday’s not a hit without a visit to the beach, you've only got to drive for an hour or so until you can feel the sand under your feet. Head east and you’ll hit Cocoa Beach and Daytona Beach – on the latter, you can drive right onto the sand – or set the sat-nav west for Clearwater and St Pete Beach, which often crop up on lists of the world’s best.



How long does it take to fly to Orlando?

The flight time from Ireland to Orlando is between eight hours 30 minutes and nine hours.

When is the best time to visit Orlando?

The best time to visit Orlando is from March to May when it's dry and slightly cooler. Check out the weather in Orlando month by month.