Compare cheap car hire at Orlando International Airport with practical details on the rental car centre, vehicle choices, driving routes and seasonal prices.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the main airport serving Orlando and central Florida. Located about 10km southeast of downtown Orlando, the airport is the primary arrival point for visitors heading to major attractions including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and the wider Florida theme park area.
Hiring a car at the airport is the most common way to travel around Orlando. Many attractions are spread across a large area, and driving allows visitors to move easily between resorts, theme parks, shopping districts and beaches.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Orlando has seasonal direct flights from Ireland, particularly during the winter sun and holiday travel seasons.
- Dublin → Orlando International Airport (Aer Lingus)
The direct flight from Dublin typically takes around 9 hours.
Where the Car Hire Desks Are Located
At Orlando International Airport, rental car counters are located inside the Main Terminal on Level 1 (Ground Transportation).
After collecting luggage, passengers follow signs for ground transportation where the car rental desks are located. Vehicles are collected from the airport parking garages directly connected to the terminal.
The process is straightforward, with the vehicle pickup areas located only a short walk from the rental desks.
Airport maps and transport information can be found on the official Orlando International Airport website.
Some travellers flying to central Florida also arrive at Sanford Airport, which is located about 45 minutes north of Orlando and also offers a range of rental car options.
Car Hire Companies at Orlando Airport
Orlando Airport hosts a large number of international and US car rental companies.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Alamo
- Enterprise
- National
- Dollar
- Thrifty
- Sixt
Most vehicles are collected directly from the parking garages connected to the main terminal.
Typical Rental Prices at Orlando Airport
| Season | Economy Car | Family / Midsize | SUV / Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | $35 – $65 per day | $60 – $95 per day | $95 – $160 per day |
| April – June | $30 – $55 per day | $55 – $90 per day | $90 – $150 per day |
| July – August | $45 – $80 per day | $80 – $130 per day | $130 – $200 per day |
| September – October | $30 – $60 per day | $60 – $95 per day | $95 – $160 per day |
| November – December | $40 – $75 per day | $75 – $120 per day | $120 – $190 per day |
Popular Rental Vehicles in Orlando
Economy Cars
Small cars are a good choice for couples or travellers staying near the main attractions.
Family SUVs
SUVs are very popular in Orlando because many visitors travel with luggage or family groups.
Minivans
Minivans or Minibuses are frequently rented by families visiting theme parks because they provide space for larger groups.
People Carriers and Larger Vehicles
Larger vehicles are popular with families and groups travelling together. Rental companies at Orlando Airport usually offer several multi-passenger options.
- 7 Seater SUVs – suitable for families with luggage
- 8 Seater SUVs – extra space for larger groups
- 12 Seater vans – common for group travel or theme park trips
- 15 Seater passenger vans – ideal for large family groups
Driving from Orlando International Airport
The airport connects directly to several major highways serving central Florida.
- Walt Disney World – about 30 minutes
- Universal Orlando Resort – around 20 minutes
- Downtown Orlando – roughly 20 minutes
- Cocoa Beach – about 1 hour
Major roads serving the airport include State Road 528 (Beachline Expressway), Interstate 4 and Florida’s Turnpike.
Travellers continuing their journey through the United States sometimes also compare arrival airports such as Orlando Airport and other international destinations when planning longer trips.
Driving Tips for Florida
Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road in the United States. Roads around Orlando are wide and generally easy to navigate.
Some highways in Florida are toll roads. Rental companies usually offer electronic toll programmes that automatically charge tolls to the rental account.
More travel information can be found on the official Visit Orlando tourism website.
Places to Visit by Car from Orlando
With a rental car, visitors can easily explore several destinations across central Florida.
- Walt Disney World Resort – the largest theme park complex in Florida
- Universal Orlando Resort – theme parks and entertainment district
- Kennedy Space Center – NASA visitor complex on Florida’s Space Coast
- Cocoa Beach – Atlantic coast beach destination
Many visitors combine these attractions during a holiday in central Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Orlando Airport?
The rental counters are located on Level 1 of the main terminal in the Ground Transportation area.
Which companies operate car hire at Orlando Airport?
Major suppliers include Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Alamo, National, Dollar, Thrifty and Sixt.
How far is Orlando Airport from Walt Disney World?
The drive usually takes around 30 minutes depending on traffic.
Is driving in Orlando easy for visitors?
Yes. Roads are wide and clearly signposted.
Do Florida highways have tolls?
Yes. Some highways around Orlando are toll roads.
Do I need a credit card to hire a car at Orlando Airport?
Most rental companies require a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.
Are automatic cars common in the United States?
Yes. Most rental vehicles in the United States are automatic.
Should I book Orlando Airport car hire in advance?
Booking ahead usually provides better prices and vehicle availability.
How long does it take to drive from Orlando Airport to Universal Orlando?
The journey typically takes around 20 minutes.
Which highways connect Orlando Airport to the city?
The airport connects to State Road 528, Interstate 4 and Florida’s Turnpike.
