The 6 Best Airports in and Around Orlando for Your Next Trip

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My first time landing in Orlando was pure chaos. I had no idea there were so many airport options beyond MCO, and I ended up spending way too much time in traffic trying to reach Disney World. Now, after multiple trips to Central Florida (and countless hours helping friends plan their own Disney adventures), I’ve figured out exactly which airports can save you serious time and stress.

Want to skip the madness of MCO’s tourist crowds or find a cheaper way into Winter Park? These are the best places in Orlando to start your Florida adventure. Whether you’re heading to the theme parks or settling into the charming brick streets of Winter Park, I’ll show you exactly which airports will get you closest to where you want to be without the typical Orlando airport headaches.

Quick tip on how to find cheap flights to Orlando

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Top Airports in and Around Orlando

Looking for airports in and around Orlando? Fly into Orlando International Airport for the closest access to major attractions, choose Orlando Sanford International Airport for budget-friendly flights, land at Tampa International Airport for additional airline options, or arrive at Daytona Beach International Airport for easy beach access. Whether you’re visiting for theme parks, beaches, or business, these airports offer great travel options.

1. Orlando (MCO) – Orlando International Airport

• ✈️ Airlines: Delta, Southwest, American, JetBlue, United, Spirit, Frontier (and dozens more)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November 🍂, January to April 🌞 for shorter lines and lower fares
• 💰 Why It’s Great: Amazing connectivity 🌎, Disney/Universal transport options 🚌, and decent food scene 🍔
• 🏆 Perfect For: Theme park visitors 🎢, family travelers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, and rental car bargain hunters 🚗

MCO is basically Orlando’s main airport and your most direct shot at all those theme parks you’ve been saving up for. Budget airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Southwest have tons of daily flights here, which means better flight deals. 

Getting to the parks from MCO is pretty straightforward. Since Disney killed their free Magical Express service, most people use Mears Connect ($16 per adult) or the Sunshine Flyer bus to get to Disney. Universal has their own shuttle options too. The rental car situation is massive here with every company you can think of, which means prices stay pretty competitive even during busy seasons.

For most Orlando visitors, MCO remains the obvious choice for its combination of flight options, convenient theme park connections, and an arrival experience that feels like your vacation has already started, even if you’re still dodging tourists taking selfies with the Disney store.

2. Sanford (SFB) – Orlando Sanford International Airport

• ✈️ Airlines: Allegiant, TUI (UK), National Airlines, charter flights
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to October 🍂, January to March ☀️ for lowest fares and fewer tourists
• 💰 Why It’s Great: Budget airline hub 💸, easier navigation 🧭, and shorter security lines ⏱️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Budget travelers 💰, longer Orlando stays 🏠, and east Orlando attractions 🎡

SFB is the ultimate airport hack for savvy Orlando visitors who care more about saving cash than saving a few miles on their drive to Disney. This smaller airport specializes in budget flights that can literally cut your airfare in half, depending on where you’re flying from.

From here, you’re just 45 minutes from Kennedy Space Center, where you can walk under actual space shuttles and meet real astronauts during special events. The pristine beaches of New Smyrna are only 30 minutes east, offering way less crowded stretches of sand where you can actually drive right onto the beach and set up for the day without fighting for parking.

For travelers who prioritize budget over convenience and don’t mind a slightly longer drive to the theme parks, Sanford delivers significant savings and a much less stressful airport experience than its massive Orlando counterpart.

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3. Tampa (TPA) – Tampa International Airport

• ✈️ Airlines: Southwest, Delta, American, United, JetBlue, Spirit, Frontier
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to May 🌸, September to November 🍂 for pleasant weather and lower fares
• 💰 Why It’s Great: Efficient layout 🏢, proximity to beaches 🏖️, and excellent parking options 🚗
• 🏆 Perfect For: Gulf Coast explorers 🌊, alternative Disney approaches 🏰, and stress-free travelers 😌

TPA is the chill alternative to Orlando’s tourist madness and your secret weapon for a smoother Florida vacation. This consistently top-rated airport sits on Tampa’s west side, putting you within striking distance of both Orlando’s attractions and the Gulf Coast’s stunning beaches.

Once you land, you’re just 30 minutes from the white sands of Clearwater Beach with its famous pier and nightly sunset celebrations, or the more laid-back St. Pete Beach where local bars like The Undertow serve cheap drinks with your toes literally in the sand. The vibrant St. Petersburg downtown area is packed with cool murals, craft breweries, and the mind-bending Salvador Dalí Museum housing the largest collection of his works outside Spain.

For families, Busch Gardens Tampa offers serious roller coasters and zoo animals without Disney-level crowds or prices, while the Florida Aquarium lets you get up close with sharks and touch stingrays. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Florida Airports to Fly Into

4. Daytona Beach (DAB) – Daytona Beach International Airport

• ✈️ Airlines: American, Delta, Sunwing (seasonal)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌺, September to November 🍂 for fewer crowds and race-free periods
• 💰 Why It’s Great: Small airport ease 🏢, oceanfront proximity 🏖️, and zero traffic stress 🚗
• 🏆 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🌊, NASCAR enthusiasts 🏎️, and Orlando park alternatives 🎢

DAB is the ultimate no-stress Florida airport experience and your express ticket to miles of drivable beaches without the typical tourist chaos. This compact airport operates with a refreshing simplicity that makes arriving and departing almost suspiciously easy.

If American or Delta serves your home city with a direct flight, the convenience factor is off the charts. While flight options are more limited, fares are often comparable to Orlando. The airport sits just 5 minutes from the famous Daytona Beach shoreline where you can actually drive your car right onto the hard-packed sand, a truly unique Florida experience.

You’re also near the massive Daytona International Speedway, where you can take a tour or catch races throughout the year (not just the famous Daytona 500). Plus, you get actual beach time and much smaller crowds. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Beaches to Fly To

5. Jacksonville (JAX) – Jacksonville International Airport

• ✈️ Airlines: Southwest, Delta, American, JetBlue, United, Allegiant
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸, September to October 🍂 for pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists
• 💰 Why It’s Great: Uncrowded operations 👍, affordable flights 💵, and Florida-Georgia gateway 🚗
• 🏆 Perfect For: North Florida explorers 🌊, budget travelers 💰, and Orlando alternative seekers 🏝️

JAX is North Florida’s surprisingly chill major airport and your backdoor to a completely different Florida experience. 

Upon landing, you’re just 30 minutes from Jacksonville Beach and Atlantic Beach with their wide, uncrowded shorelines and local surf scenes. The gorgeous Amelia Island is only 45 minutes north with its upscale resorts and pristine state parks that somehow remain way less crowded than beaches half as nice further south.

For travelers who want to experience Florida without the theme park chaos or who are planning a longer Florida road trip, Jacksonville’s airport offers cheaper flights, zero stress, and access to beaches that locals prefer but tourists usually miss completely.

6. Miami (MIA) – Miami International Airport

• ✈️ Airlines: American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Spirit, and dozens of international carriers
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌴, September to November 🍂 for lower humidity and cheaper rates
• 💰 Why It’s Great: International connectivity 🌎, public transit options 🚇, and gateway to the Keys 🏝️
• 🏆 Perfect For: South Florida explorers 🌊, international travelers 🛂, and cruise connections 🚢

MIA is basically the beast of Florida airports and your ticket to everything South Florida. This massive hub is American Airlines territory and connects to pretty much anywhere in Latin America and the Caribbean you’d want to go.

Nearby, South Beach is where you can people-watch along Ocean Drive, scope out the wild Art Deco buildings, and decide if the club scene is worth the hype and expensive drinks (sometimes yes, often no). Wynwood Walls is also about 20 minutes away with some of the coolest street art you’ll ever see plus tons of breweries where you can sample local beers while deciding which mural makes the best Instagram backdrop.

If you’re heading to the Florida Keys, MIA sits right at the top of the overseas highway, so you can land, grab a rental car, and be driving over those stunning blue water bridges within an hour.

• Read Next: Cheapest Caribbean Islands to Fly To

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about best airports in Orlando

Before you depart on your trip to Florida, let’s look at some of the frequently asked questions about the best airports in Orlando. Hopefully my answers will help ensure a fun and memorable vacation.

What are the two major airports in Orlando?

The two major airports in the Orlando area are Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). 

Orlando International Airport (MCO), located just six miles from Downtown Orlando, is the busiest airport in Central Florida. With its extensive flight connectivity, MCO serves as a major gateway for travelers visiting Orlando’s many world-renowned attractions.

The airport hosts numerous domestic and international airlines, providing a wide range of flight options to accommodate various travel needs. MCO offers exceptional passenger amenities. These include dining options, shopping outlets, lounges, and convenient ground transportation services. Altogether, it’s a comprehensive and convenient travel hub.

Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), situated approximately 18 miles northeast of Orlando, is the second major airport in the area. While smaller in size compared to MCO, SFB is notable for its operation of several low-cost carriers.

These airlines specialize in offering affordable flights, making SFB an appealing choice for budget-conscious travelers. Despite its smaller scale, SFB still provides essential services and facilities, including dining options, shops, and transportation services.

Both airports play a significant role in serving the Orlando area, offering distinct advantages for travelers. MCO stands as the larger and more well-known airport, with broad flight connectivity and proximity to major attractions. On the other hand, SFB appeals to budget travelers seeking cost-effective flights. Consider your specific travel needs, flight options, and preferences when selecting between the best airports in Orlando.

What is the best airport to fly into Orlando?

When it comes to determining the best airport to fly into Orlando, the answer depends on various factors that align with your specific needs and preferences. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is often regarded as the top choice for many travelers. Here’s why:

Proximity to Major Attractions: Orlando International Airport (MCO) is located just six miles southeast of Downtown Orlando. This makes it the closest airport to the city’s major attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld. This proximity translates into less travel time. It allows you to quickly immerse yourself in the magic and excitement of these renowned destinations.

Extensive Flight Connectivity: MCO serves as a major transportation hub, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights. With over 50 million passengers passing through its gates annually, MCO hosts numerous airlines. As such, it ensures a comprehensive selection of flight options to suit every traveler’s needs.

Efficient Transportation Options: MCO offers a multitude of transportation options to facilitate seamless connectivity. From rental cars and taxis to shuttles and buses, the airport provides convenient access to the city and beyond. The airport’s direct link to SunRail, Orlando’s commuter rail system, further enhances accessibility for passengers.

While MCO is the primary choice for most travelers, it’s important to consider other airports within driving distance of Orlando. Depending on your specific requirements, factors such as flight availability, cost, and convenience may lead you to consider another one of the best airports in Orlanda as an alternative.

Which of the best airports in Orlando is cheapest to fly into?

When it comes to determining the more cost-effective airport to fly into in the Orlando area, Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) often stands out as a favorable option.

Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is frequently associated with more affordable flights due to its operation of several low-cost carriers. These airlines specialize in offering competitive fares and can provide budget-friendly options for travelers. By focusing on cost-conscious travelers, SFB presents an opportunity to find cheaper flights and potentially save money on airfare.

On the other hand, while Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the primary gateway to the region, it typically accommodates a broader range of airlines, including major carriers. This can result in a wider spectrum of flight options. However, it may also be accompanied by higher ticket prices compared to SFB.

However, it’s important to note that flight prices can vary based on several factors. This includes the specific airlines serving each airport, seasonal demand, time of booking, and the destination. It is advisable to compare prices from different airports and airlines using online travel booking platforms or by directly visiting the airlines’ official websites. By conducting thorough research and being flexible with travel dates, it’s possible to secure cost-effective flights regardless of the airport.

It’s worth considering that while SFB may offer cheaper flights, it is located further from the main attractions in Orlando compared to MCO. As such, always weigh the potential savings against factors such as transportation costs and travel time to their desired destinations.

What is the cheapest day of the week to fly to Orlando?

Flying to Orlando tends to be most cost-effective on Wednesdays. Choosing this mid-week day for travel can not only offer monetary savings on airfare but also has the added benefit of potentially shorter wait times at local attractions due to fewer crowds.

Which of the best airports in Orlando is closest to Disney World?

When it comes to proximity to Walt Disney World, Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the closest airport. Situated just six miles southeast of Downtown Orlando, MCO offers the shortest travel distance to the Walt Disney World Resort.

The convenience of MCO’s location cannot be overstated. Upon landing, travelers can quickly proceed to ground transportation options, including rental cars, taxis, shuttles, and even the direct link to SunRail. These services efficiently connect passengers to the Walt Disney World Resort, located in Lake Buena Vista, within a short drive.

By choosing MCO as your arrival airport, you minimize travel time and maximize your enjoyment at Walt Disney World. Whether you’re embarking on a magical adventure at the Magic Kingdom, exploring the futuristic world of Epcot, venturing into the wild at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, or immersing yourself in cinematic experiences at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, MCO’s close proximity ensures that the enchantment begins soon after you touch down.

It’s important to note that other airports in the area, such as Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), Tampa International Airport (TPA), and Miami International Airport (MIA), also offer access to Walt Disney World. However, they involve longer travel distances, which can impact your overall travel experience and may result in additional travel time.

To start to your Disney adventure, choose Orlando International Airport (MCO) as your arrival point. It positions you just a short drive away from the magic and wonder of Walt Disney World. This makes MCO the clear choice for travelers seeking the closest airport to this beloved attraction.

What is the difference between MCO and SFB?

MCO (Orlando International Airport) and SFB (Orlando Sanford International Airport) are both airports serving the Orlando area in Florida. The primary difference is their size and location. MCO is the larger and busier of the two, located closer to downtown Orlando and major attractions like Walt Disney World. SFB, on the other hand, is smaller and situated farther north, often serving charter flights and some budget airlines. MCO typically offers a broader range of international and domestic flights, while SFB might offer more limited options but potentially cheaper fares.