Which Airport is Closest to Disney World? A Guide to Orlando Airports
Planning a magical trip to Disney World? Your adventure begins with choosing the right airport. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the closest airport to Disney World at just 20 miles away, but it’s not your only option.
This guide breaks down all your choices for flying into Walt Disney World Resort, comparing distance, transport options, and potential money-saving alternatives.
Key Takeaways
- Orlando International Airport (MCO): The closest major airport to Disney World at just 20 miles away, offering the most flights and transport options.
- Alternative Airports: Other options like Orlando Sanford, Tampa, and Melbourne airports might save you money despite being further away.
- Transport Considerations: Factor in not just distance but also travel time, transport options, and overall costs when choosing your airport.
Orlando International Airport (MCO): The Closest Major Airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the closest major airport to Walt Disney World. Located about 20 miles from the Disney World property, it takes approximately 30-45 minutes to reach the parks, depending on traffic.
MCO is the primary airport serving Orlando and is one of the busiest airports in Florida. According to Orlando International Airport’s official statistics, it handles over 50 million passengers annually, making it the busiest airport in Florida.
Orlando International Airport offers several advantages for Disney World visitors. It hosts over 40 airlines, including all major international carriers, and provides more nonstop flights from cities worldwide than any other nearby airport. You’ll also find a wide range of transportation options to Disney property, though note that Disney’s Magical Express service ended in early 2022.
The airport features excellent amenities including shops, restaurants, and Wi-Fi. However, being one of the busiest airports in the US means it can get quite crowded, especially during peak holiday periods.
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
Sanford International Airport (SFB) is located approximately 45 miles from Walt Disney World, making it about an hour’s drive away. Though farther than Orlando International Airport, it offers some benefits for Disney visitors.
This smaller airport often features lower airfare from budget airlines like Allegiant Air. According to Allegiant’s destination map, they serve numerous smaller cities with direct routes to Sanford that don’t have service to MCO. The airport is also less crowded than MCO, making it quicker to get through security and collect your luggage. Many travellers report that rental car prices may be lower here as well.
The main drawback is the increased distance to Disney World. The extra travel time can be quite long, especially after a tiring flight. Additionally, there are fewer transportation options to Disney World compared to MCO, with most visitors needing to arrange private transport or hire a car.
Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Tampa International Airport is located about 70 miles west of Walt Disney World. The drive takes approximately 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic. While it’s not the closest airport to Disney World, TPA offers some advantages for your Disney trip.
Tampa International Airport often has cheaper flights than Orlando for many routes. According to Skytrax World Airport Awards, TPA regularly ranks among North America’s top airports for its design and customer experience. It’s typically less congested than Orlando International Airport, making for a smoother arrival and departure experience. This option may be particularly good if you’re planning to visit Tampa attractions too.
| Airport | Distance to Disney | Travel Time | Airlines | Cost Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orlando International (MCO) | 20 miles | 30–45 min | 40+ airlines | Higher rental cars, more transport options |
| Orlando Sanford (SFB) | 45 miles | 60 min | Limited, budget-focused | Lower airfare, fewer transport options |
| Tampa International (TPA) | 70 miles | 75–90 min | Wide selection | Potentially lower airfare, higher transport costs |
Melbourne International Airport (MLB)
Melbourne International Airport is approximately 65 miles southeast of Walt Disney World. While it’s one of the smaller regional airports serving the area, it might be worth looking into for your Disney trip.
This airport could be a good option if you find a particularly good deal on flights, especially through carriers like TUI that use this airport. It’s also ideal if you’re planning to visit the Space Coast and Kennedy Space Center during your trip, as noted by Visit Space Coast Florida. Many visitors appreciate the quieter, less crowded nature of this airport compared to the major hubs.
The drive to Disney World takes about 1-1.5 hours, and transportation options are more limited than at larger airports, with most visitors needing to rent a car.
Overall
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the closest airport to Disney World at just 20 miles away, offering the shortest transfer time to the Disney parks.
For budget-conscious travelers, Orlando Sanford International Airport or Tampa International Airport can save you 15-30% on airfare according to Skyscanner, which may be worth the extra drive time.
The best choice depends on your total flight costs, driving preferences, and whether you need a rental car during your stay. While MCO provides the most convenience, alternative airports might free up more of your budget for Disney experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MCO or SFB closer to Disney World?
MCO (Orlando International Airport) is significantly closer to Disney World at about 20 miles away, compared to SFB (Orlando Sanford International Airport) which is approximately 45 miles away. According to Google Maps, the drive time difference is typically 25-40 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
How far is Walt Disney World from Orlando International Airport?
Walt Disney World is approximately 20 miles from Orlando International Airport, with a typical drive time of 30-45 minutes depending on traffic and which part of the Disney property you’re heading to. The route via SR-417 (toll road) is often faster during peak times.
Do I need a rental car at Disney World?
If you’re staying on Disney property, a rental car is not necessary as Disney provides free transportation between parks and hotels through buses, boats, monorails, and the Skyliner system. However, having a car gives you more flexibility to visit other attractions or find off-site dining options. According to Disney Tourist Blog, many visitors find having a car convenient for grocery runs and visiting non-Disney attractions.
Which is cheaper: flying to Orlando or Tampa for Disney World?
This varies depending on your departure city and when you’re traveling. Tampa International Airport often has lower airfare from some cities, especially those served by Southwest Airlines. However, the added transportation costs and time to reach Disney World might offset these savings. It’s worth checking both options for your specific travel dates.
Is there a shuttle from Orlando International Airport to Disney World?
Yes, since Disney’s Magical Express ended in 2022, Mears Connect and other private shuttle services now offer transportation between Orlando International Airport and Disney World. According to Mears Transportation, these services typically need to be booked in advance and cost around $16-34 per person each way depending on the service level.
Can I fly directly to Disney World?
No, there is no airport located on Walt Disney World property. The closest airport is Orlando International Airport (MCO), which is about 20 miles away. There was once talk of a Disney airport years ago, but according to Disney Parks Blog, no such plans currently exist.
Which Disney World park is closest to the airport?
Magic Kingdom is typically the furthest park from Orlando International Airport, while Hollywood Studios and Epcot are slightly closer. However, the differences are minimal, and all parks are within a 30-45 minute drive from MCO. Animal Kingdom is often the quickest to reach from the airport.
