Hotel vs. Villa for Your UK Family Holiday
The answer to this question, goes far beyond just cost, it requires the holidaymakers to consider so much more in terms of their priorities and what they seek to experience throughout their holiday in Orlando.
The financial cost is of course a large determining factor, and while an initial glance at the nightly price might favour one option, a closer look at the total holiday spend often reveals a different picture. Here is an objective comparison to help you budget and decide.
Cost Comparison: Orlando Villas vs. Hotels
The cost of your accommodation will be heavily influenced by your party size, the time of year you travel, and the level of luxury you choose.
Nightly Accommodation Rate (Average Estimates)
The cost of Orlando villas tends to be quoted per property, whereas hotels are per room. This makes direct comparison tricky, but when dividing the villa cost by the number of people, villas often come out cheaper for larger families or groups, who would potentially require multiple rooms if staying in a hotel.
Additional Costs
Now let us look beyond the cost of accommodation. Consider these add-ons for a true comparison:
- Dining Costs (Major Saving with Villas): The most significant potential saving with Orlando villas is having a fully equipped kitchen. We estimate based on current prices and experience, that dining out at hotels or other eateries for every meal costs a family of four £150-£300+ daily. A villa allows for cost-effective supermarket shopping and packing lunches for the parks.
- Hotel Fees: Although not all, some Orlando hotels charge mandatory Resort Fees (£15-£45 per night) and Parking Fees (£12-£25 per night). These are often excluded from the initial booking price.
- Villa Fees: Orlando villas usually have a one-time Cleaning Fee (£75-£150) and local taxes (around 12-14%) applied to the total. These are normally part of the agreed price at the time of booking. Pool heating is another optional extra, however we would only recommend if you are travelling between November and April. Pool heating when booked direct with the property owner is on average around £20.00 per day.
- Transport: Villas are often a short drive from the parks, meaning a Florida rental car is essential (approx. £300-£500+ per week). Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle buses, which saves on parking costs but can be less flexible. Of course there are other options available, many visitors are now using Uber/Lyft throughout the visit.
The Advantages: Hotel vs. Orlando Villa
Beyond the price, both types of accommodation offer distinct benefits that might sway your final decision.
Why Choose an Orlando Villa?
- Space and Privacy: Florida Villas offer separate bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, a private pool, a spacious living area, and often a games room. This is invaluable for families needing space to spread out, especially after a long day at the theme parks.
- Private Pool: Having your own screened pool means you can swim anytime, day or night, without worrying about crowds or set operating hours. This is the top reason many UK families choose Orlando villas.
- Self-Catering Freedom: The full kitchen and laundry facilities are a game-changer. They allow you to stick to routines, cater for fussy eaters, manage allergies easily, and cut down on packing by doing laundry as you go.
- Group Value: They are perfect for sharing with friends or extended family, dramatically bringing down the per-person cost.
Why Choose an Orlando Hotel?
- Location, Location, Location: Hotel perks include complimentary shuttles or walking distance to parks, saving on car hire and parking.
- Immersive Experience: Official resort hotels offer themed magic, early park entry, transport, and package delivery perks.
- Convenience and Services: Daily housekeeping, on-site dining, concierge, and resort amenities offer a hassle-free, serviced holiday.
- Short Stays: For short weekend trips or part of a multi-stop itinerary, the check-in ease and lack of a one-off cleaning fee make a hotel more practical.
Final Consideration for UK Travellers
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your holiday style and budget priorities.
- For park priority and included transport, a hotel is ideal if you accept dining out and shared rooms.
- If your priority is space, privacy, cost-saving, and the ‘home-from-home’ relaxation that comes with your own private pool and kitchen, then booking one of the many fantastic Orlando villas near Disney and the other attractions offers undeniable value for your UK holiday pound.
