Where to stay in Orlando?

Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, two great reasons to visit Orlando whether enjoying a couple's break or creating memories with the kids. With these two epic destinations, the rest of Orlando sometimes is forgotten but it does have a lot to offer. Tranquil neighbourhoods with shady parks and botanical gardens, a rich cultural life, world-class museums, a vibrant culinary scene and a pace of life that is slower than many other cities on the American tourist trail. Enjoy the theme parks but plan a few days during your visit to see the other side of Orlando. And, with hotels to suit all budgets on just about every street of Orlando, finding somewhere to stay is never a problem.

The hotels of Orlando

Whether you want a five-star all-inclusive resort or a private villa where you can set your own timetable, you will find something in Orlando or its surrounding countryside. If you want to be near the action, then all of the theme parks have accommodation - often themed - right on their doorstep or even inside. Choose a thatched-roofed safari lodge in Disney's Animal Kingdom and the wildlife of Africa will roam outside your bedroom window. In contrast, Disney's Boardwalk Villas are colourful vintage buildings set right on the waterfront. The views from your bedroom window are different but equally enticing.

For something a little grander where Victorian elegance meets contemporary luxury, there is the Disney Grand Floridian Resort with its breathtaking chandeliers or the historic Angebilt Hotel with its upmarket lobby. For a touch of Italian sunshine in Florida, the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel has rooms, restaurants and shops modelled on Portofino. If you want to get right away from the theme parks and the city centre, then look for accommodation in suburban neighbourhoods such as Winter Park with its chic galleries and trendy restaurants.

The viewpoints of Orlando

If you are brave enough to open your eyes, the best viewpoints in Orlando are from the top of its many roller coasters. If you want photo opportunities that are a little less fleeting then many hotels have rooftop bars where you can sip cocktails and admire city and sea views at sunset. The Dickson Azalea Park is hidden away in the city and once inside, you will find plenty of scenic points with water features, lush greenery and gorgeous blooms. A definitely quirky landmark is Tom Fruin's Glass House. A sculptural piece that blends stained glass with architecture, this unusual house is photogenic during the day and even more so at night when it is lit from inside.

The magical fun of Orlando

Any visit to Orlando should set aside a few days to enjoy the theme parks. Universal Orlando Resort has adrenaline-fuelled rides aimed at all ages as well as entertaining shows and day-long fun. If you are travelling with younger children, this park is (slightly) smaller and easier to navigate. Enjoy the fast-paced excitement of the Islands of Adventure or catch up with favourite movie characters in Universal Studios. Volcano Bay is the latest addition with its water thrills and spills.

Walt Disney World is truly mega with its own transport system and rides, parks, resorts and attractions covering thousands of acres. Plan your days to take in Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios. You can also shop to your drop, play a round of golf and then dine in one of its countless restaurants and cafes.

If that all sounds a bit too energetic, take a few hours to browse the artworks in the Orlando Museum of Art. As well as its permanent collections that span both American and world art, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions as well as family-friendly events. Its restaurant is also a good place for meeting up with friends over coffee or for simply taking a few moments to catch your breath.

Orlando never shuts, you can visit the city and the theme parks at any time of the year while a packed programme of cultural events sees something happening nearly every month. For the most comfortable weather, March to May is the best season. Visits to theme parks, of course, peak during school holidays, but at BudgetAir, we will make sure you get our best deals on Orlando flights and hotels no matter when you plan to visit.