This eleven-night Orlando & Florida Gulf Coast Self Drive includes return flights from the UK to Orlando, car hire, and eleven nights’ hotel accommodation - comprising seven nights in the theme-park home of Orlando and a further four night along Florida's stunning Gulf Coast.
To start your trip, you'll spend the first seven nights in Orlando. World-famous for its plethora of theme parks and water parks, Orlando is the ultimate family destination. Meet Mickey Mouse and friends at Walt Disney World or try Bertie Botts and chocolate frogs at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Rocket-launch yourself into space with a visit to the Kennedy Space Centre or meet all of your favourite animal species at ZooTampa at Lowry Park.
After a fun-filled Florida stay, drive onwards to Florida Gulf Coast and experience four nights here. With so much to see and do, you'll be spoilt for choice. Swim and snorkel by the powder-white sands of Siesta Key Beach, shop 'til you drop at Coconut Point, and get a glimpse at the stunning marine species of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. No visit here is complete without some time to spot pretty seashells at Indian Rocks.
7 nights - Avanti Palms - Orlando
Your Orlando & Florida Gulf Coast Self Drive adventure starts with your flight from the UK to Orlando. Pick up your hire car at the airport and transfer to your chosen accommodation for a seven-night stay.
A city nestled in central Florida; Orlando is home to over a dozen theme parks and water parks. Over the course of the next seven days you'll discover a plethora of exciting experiences; visit Walt Disney World and see parks like the Magic Kingdom and Epcot or enjoy a family day out at the movie-themed Universal Studios and Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Drive a little further from Orlando to uncover the real feel of Florida at Bok Tower Gardens and see acres of ferns, palms, oaks, and pines as well as camellias and magnolia blooms.
Go behind the scenes at NASA when you step into the Kennedy Space Centre; walk through the giants of space travel and come face-to-face with the real Space Shuttle Atlantis. Drive approximately 45 minutes from the Disney area and embark an Airboat Tour or enjoy the thrill of a Drive-thru Safari Adventure. Challenge yourself to an unforgettable outdoor experience at Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park and meet over 1,300 fascinating animals at ZooTampa at Lowry Park.
3 nights - Sirata Beach Resort - St Petersburg
Drive from Orlando to Florida Gulf Coast and enjoy a three-night stay here in your chosen hotel.
A place known for its white sands, beautiful wildlife, cultural riches, and mangrove swamps - Florida's Gulf Coast. Head down to the immaculate shores of Siesta Key Beach to start your visit. St Armands Circle, approximately ten minutes away, is your go-to for high-end shopping and fine dining or Coconut Point offers impressive retail opportunities. Spend time with the family at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to learn about over 100 marine species, including dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, seahorses, manta rays, and more.
Pay a visit to The John and Mable Ringing Museum of Art on a Monday for free entry and see circus memorabilia, history, and art on display in the setting of a giant mansion. Wander Naples Botanical Garden to enjoy the incredible themed greenery, with influences from Asia, Brazil, and the Caribbean. Look for seashells at Indian Rocks, hidden between Clearwater and St Petersburg. Spot alligators on an airboat ride at Myakka River State Park.
