If you’re flying into Orlando for a Disney vacation, there’s one big thing you need to figure out – how to get from the Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Disney World. Luckily, you have a lot of options!

Whether you’re looking for the cheapest way, the fastest way, or the most convenient way to get from the airport to your hotel, we’ve got a comprehensive list to help you decide (including some NEW options that are coming soon!). Plus, we’ll break down everything you need to know from pricing to whether they’ll help with your luggage and more. So, here are the best ways to get from the Orlando airport to Disney World in 2026!

MEARS Connect Driven By Sunshine

If you visited Disney World prior to 2022, you might recall that Disney actually had a complimentary shuttle to take guests from MCO to their Disney World hotel called Disney’s Magical Express. Unfortunately, that service was discontinued as of January 1st, 2022. So, now anyone traveling to Disney World needs to find their own way.

However, there’s one service that’s nearly identical to Disney’s Magical Express…minus the Disney theming and cost (or, rather, lack of cost).

MEARS Connect Driven By Sunshine is a new shuttle service that takes guests between the Orlando airport and Disney World hotels (including some other area hotels) for an additional fee. If you’re not familiar, MEARS is the company that operated Disney’s Magical Express. After its recent merger with its competitor, The Sunshine Flyer, it became the only bus shuttle service operating from MCO to Disney.

Many guests opt for the shuttle service because it takes a lot of the guesswork out of getting between the two locations. Basically, all you need to do is make a reservation online with your flight info in advance (though they do accept walk-ups). Then, you’ll get off your plane, head to the MEARS Connect pick-up area at the airport with your luggage, hop on (there can be a short wait involved here), and be taken to your hotel. Easy peasy!

Standard Service vs. Express Service

Currently, there are two different shuttle options including the Standard Service and the Express Service.

The Standard Service is the most similar to how Disney’s Magical Express functioned. Guests board a bus that then stops to drop people off at a few different hotels along the way. You may be the first drop-off or the last, so your travel time could be longer with this option.

The Express Service on the other hand guarantees that you’ll be taken directly to your hotel with no stops in between. You may have other families traveling with you, but they’ll all be going to the same hotel as you.

Pricing for both options is as follows:

• Standard Service
  • $17.60 per adult and $14.30 per child (ages 3-9 years) for one-way service
  • $33.60 per adult and $27.30 per child (ages 3-9 years) for round-trip service
• Express Service
  • $250 round-trip (for up to 4 people)
  • $55 extra per person for groups 5+

Keep in mind that Express Service cannot be booked for one-way only and children of all ages are included in the count. Additionally, MEARS Connect Driven By Sunshine does run discounts from time to time. So, be sure to check the website frequently to be sure you’re getting the best deal on your ride!

Rideshare or Taxi

Rideshare apps (like Uber and Lyft) and taxis also service all of the terminals at MCO. And, these can be a great option if you’re used to using them regularly. With both, there’s virtually no waiting for your ride at the airport and no extra stops on the way. This means that you can start your Disney vacation even sooner!

The most important thing to remember when using a rideshare like Lyft or Uber to get from the Orlando airport to Disney World is that you’ll need to select a car that is big enough to fit all of the people you’re traveling with AND your luggage. There are multiple car size options in both apps, so you should be able to find one that fits your needs. However, there may be additional costs if you’re traveling with a larger party.

Taxis function pretty similarly to these rideshare services, and they can usually be scheduled in advance so you know your ride will be there when you need it.

The Orlando airport is about 20 miles from Disney World property, which is important to note when using a rideshare service or taxi because mileage is calculated into the cost. When it comes to pricing, you can expect to pay somewhere between $60-$120 for your ride each way (remember this is for your entire party, not per person). These services can be subject to surge pricing though, so your ride could cost more or less depending on what time you’re flying in and out of MCO. You’ll also want to calculate a tip into your cost.

Private Car Service

If it’s luxury and convenience you’re looking for, a private car service may be your best option. Though, it is the most expensive.

Several private car services currently operate out of MCO to take you to and from Disney World. This includes Happy Limo, Quicksilver Tours, Tiffany Towncar, and FL Tours. At their core, they all function similarly with someone there to greet you at baggage and a wide variety of car sizes to fit your needs. They’ll also usually help with your luggage, can provide car seats and booster seats if needed, and may even offer a free grocery store stop if you want.

With all the added perks, you can expect to pay between $100-$300 round trip depending on your needs and what service you choose.

Rental Car

Don’t want to be tied down to transportation schedules or planning to visit some other theme parks in Central Florida while you’re in town? Getting a rental car at the Orlando airport and driving yourself to your hotel will give you the flexibility you need!

Renting a car from MCO is simple. Just choose your favorite car rental company, reserve your car online, and follow the signage at the airport to pick it up. While renting a car may not be the cheapest option, many car rental companies offer discounts. And, you won’t be charged to park at Disney World if you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel.

Minnie Van Service (Only Available at Select Resorts)

Minnie Vans are Disney’s version of a rideshare service. They provide rides for up to 6 people (including complimentary car seats) with a Cast Member as your driver. While the vans currently only service Disney World property and are not available for transportation between MCO and Disney World hotels for most guests, there are a select few who can catch a ride to the airport.

Currently, Disney World’s Minnie Van Service is available for transportation between MCO and Disney World hotels if you’re staying at one of the following:

• A Disney Deluxe Resort
• A Disney Vacation Club Villa
• A Club Level Room at a Disney World Resort Hotel

The cost of taking a Minnie Van to or from Walt Disney World to Orlando International Airport is $199 one-way, or $398 round-trip, and gratuity is not included. Unlike rides around Disney World, airport transportation cannot be booked through the Lyft app. If you’re staying at a Deluxe Resort or Disney Vacation Club Villa, you can check availability and book a ride to/from MCO by calling (407) 828-3500. If you’re staying in a Club Level room, you’ll need to work with a Disney Signature Services Cast Member to arrange airport transfers with Disney’s Minnie Van service.

Brightline Train (Coming soon!)

One other transportation option worth noting is the highly anticipated Brightline Train. Train service to Disney World isn’t available just yet, but it is coming soon! Once completed, the Brightline Train is expected to extend from South Florida to the Orlando International Airport. And, it’ll then go on to the touristy areas of Orlando.

Previously, a Disney Springs station was announced, but more recent plans involve a Brightline station somewhere near Disney Springs. Disney has not shared whether they plan to offer transportation from the station. But, more details will come as the Brightline Train develops over the next few years so stay tuned!

FAQ

How far is the Orlando Airport from Disney World?

The Orlando International Airport is about 20 miles from Disney World. The exact distance will depend on the location of your hotel.

What’s the best way to get to Disney World from MCO?

The best way to get to Disney World from MCO really depends on your preferences! If getting to Disney World as fast as possible is most important to you, you’ll want to consider the MEARS Connect Driven By Sunshine Express Service. Rideshare, taxi, or private car services are also great options for speed of travel. However, if you want to keep costs minimal, you’ll want to consider the MEARS Connect Driven By Sunshine Standard Service.

What is the cheapest way to get to Disney World from MCO?

This is really going to come down to how many people you’re traveling with. The Standard Service with MEARS Connect Driven By Sunshine or a rideshare service are currently the two most affordable options. Though, pricing can vary. The main difference between the two in regard to cost is that MEARS Connect guarantees your price in advance. Whereas, you may be subject to surge pricing with Uber and Lyft.

What if I fly into Sanford Airport or another area airport?

Currently, MEARS Connect Driven By Sunshine only services MCO. We suggest that you consider using a rideshare service, taxi, private car service, or rental car to get between the airport and Disney World if you won’t be flying directly into the Orlando International Airport.

Will Disney drop my luggage off at my room for me?

It depends on where you’re staying! While Disney used to offer concierge luggage service for anyone staying at a Disney World Resort hotel, this was discontinued when Disney’s Magical Express was eliminated. Disney is currently piloting a new airport luggage transfer service for those staying at the following Disney hotels:

• Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
• Disney’s Pop Century Resort

You can learn more about how the new service works here. Just note that this pilot program can only be utilized if you’re flying with Southwest Airlines. All other guests are responsible for picking up their luggage from baggage claim before heading to whichever transportation service they’re using. Disney will hold luggage at the front desk of your hotel if you arrive before your room is ready. However, they will not deliver it to your room.

Comments

What is your preferred way to get from the Orlando Airport to Disney World? Let us know in the comments which ones you’ve tried!