Your 3-Week Itinerary at Walt Disney World

Planning a magical three-week holiday to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is an adventure that can create memories to last a lifetime. With four iconic theme parks, water parks, shopping, dining, and a variety of entertainment options, Walt Disney World in Orlando offers something for everyone. Over the course of this three-week itinerary, you will experience all the Disney magic, explore other popular attractions in Orlando like SeaWorld, International Drive, and Universal Parks, and even take a trip to Busch Gardens in Tampa.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know for your Disney holiday, including how to get there from London, where to stay, and tips for making the most of your holiday. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney traveller, this comprehensive itinerary will help you plan the ultimate trip.

Getting There from London

Flying from London to Orlando is a straightforward process, with multiple daily flights departing from London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW) airports. Direct flights are available with several major airlines, including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. The flight time is approximately 9-10 hours, providing ample time to relax and get excited about your upcoming adventure.

Once you arrive at Orlando International Airport (MCO), you can use Disney’s Magical Express service to take you directly to your Disney resort. This complimentary shuttle service is available for guests staying at a Walt Disney World property and is a convenient way to start your holiday. Alternatively, you can use a taxi, ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, or a private shuttle to reach your accommodation.

Accommodation: Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Located in the heart of Walt Disney World, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is the perfect base for your 3-week adventure. This mid-range, family-friendly resort offers a blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwestern American cultures, reflected in its stunning architecture and décor. The resort features comfortable rooms, several dining options, and fantastic amenities, including a large pool with a waterslide, a fitness centre, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Staying at a Disney resort provides the added convenience of free transportation to the Disney parks, extra magic hours, and early access to FastPass+ reservations.

Week 1: Exploring Walt Disney World’s Parks

The first week of your Walt Disney World adventure is all about diving headfirst into the enchanting worlds created by Disney. With a 14-day pass, you can explore each of the iconic Disney parks at a relaxed pace, allowing you to truly experience the magic of Walt Disney World. This week focuses on the classics, starting with the timeless Magic Kingdom, where you can revisit childhood memories with Cinderella’s Castle and iconic attractions like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean. As the days progress, you’ll immerse yourself in the international flair and futuristic excitement of Epcot, the wild adventures of Animal Kingdom, and the cinematic wonders of Hollywood Studios. Whether it’s navigating through the bustling Main Street, U.S.A. or experiencing the world of Pandora at Animal Kingdom, this first week sets the tone for a vacation filled with unforgettable memories.

Day 1: Arrival and Magic Kingdom

Morning: Arrive in Orlando and take Disney’s Magical Express from the airport to Coronado Springs Resort. Check-in, drop off your luggage, and freshen up.

Afternoon: Head straight to the Magic Kingdom, the most iconic of Disney’s parks, to start your adventure. Begin with the classics in Fantasyland, such as Peter Pan’s Flight, It’s a Small World, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.

Evening: As the sun sets, make your way to Tomorrowland to experience Space Mountain and the family-friendly Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. Cap off your first day with the Happily Ever After fireworks show in front of Cinderella’s Castle, a magical experience to kickstart your vacation.

Day 2: Magic Kingdom

Morning: Return to the Magic Kingdom, but this time, start your day in Adventureland. Ride Pirates of the Caribbean and take a scenic tour on the Jungle Cruise. Don’t miss a visit to The Enchanted Tiki Room for a fun musical show.

Afternoon: Move on to Frontierland to catch the Country Bear Jamboree and experience the thrills of Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Use your FastPass+ reservations to minimize wait times.

Evening: Head over to Liberty Square to experience the eerie Haunted Mansion. Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll down Main Street, U.S.A., taking in the atmosphere, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying the magical nighttime ambiance.

Day 3: Epcot

Morning: Start your day at Epcot in Future World, home to iconic attractions like Spaceship Earth and The Seas with Nemo & Friends. Don’t miss Soarin’ Around the World for a breathtaking flight simulation over iconic landmarks.

Afternoon: Head to the World Showcase, a collection of pavilions representing 11 different countries. Begin your journey on the Mexico side, and make your way around the world, exploring each country’s culture, food, and attractions.

Evening: As you circle back to Future World, make sure to ride Test Track, where you can design your own virtual concept car and test it on a high-speed track. End your day with Epcot Forever, a nighttime fireworks and laser show over the World Showcase Lagoon.

Day 4: Typhoon Lagoon

Morning: After a few days of theme parks, it’s time to cool off at Typhoon Lagoon, one of Disney’s water parks. Arrive early to grab a good spot on the beach, then hit the Crush ‘n’ Gusher, a thrilling water coaster, and relax in the Castaway Creek lazy river.

Afternoon: Continue the fun with attractions like the Humunga Kowabunga slides and the Storm Slides. For families with smaller children, the Ketchakiddee Creek area offers pint-sized slides and water play areas.

Evening: Wind down with a swim in the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, one of the largest wave pools in the world. Head back to the resort for a relaxed evening, perhaps exploring the resort grounds or enjoying a quiet dinner.

Day 5: Rest on Resort in Morning, Disney Springs in Evening

Morning: Take a well-deserved rest day. Sleep in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the resort, and explore the amenities of Coronado Springs. Spend time at the Dig Site, the resort’s main pool area, or take a peaceful walk around the lake.

Afternoon: Continue your relaxation by visiting the resort’s spa for a massage or facial. Alternatively, join in one of the resort’s recreational activities, such as painting classes or yoga.

Evening: Head to Disney Springs, Disney’s shopping, dining, and entertainment district. Explore the many shops, from World of Disney to specialty boutiques. Enjoy street performances and live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for an evening out.

Day 6: Animal Kingdom

Morning: Begin your day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom by heading straight to Pandora – The World of Avatar. Experience Avatar Flight of Passage, a stunning 3D ride, and explore the lush landscapes of Pandora.

Afternoon: Move on to Africa, where you can go on a Kilimanjaro Safaris adventure, spotting real animals on a guided tour. Don’t miss the Festival of the Lion King, a Broadway-style musical show that will captivate audiences of all ages.

Evening: Explore Asia, riding the thrilling Expedition Everest roller coaster and walking through the Maharajah Jungle Trek to see tigers and other exotic animals. End the day with the Rivers of Light nighttime show, a beautiful display of lights, water, and music.

Day 7: Hollywood Studios

Morning: Start your day early at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Head straight to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to pilot the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run or join the Resistance on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.

Afternoon: Experience the thrills of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and the exciting Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. Don’t miss a visit to Toy Story Land, where you can enjoy rides like Slinky Dog Dash and Toy Story Mania!.

Evening: Catch the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular or the Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage show. Conclude your day with Fantasmic!, a stunning nighttime show featuring fireworks, water effects, and Disney characters.

Week 2: Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal Parks

Week two is all about variety, blending the charm of Disney with the aquatic thrills of SeaWorld and the exciting atmosphere of Orlando’s bustling International Drive. With access to both Disney and SeaWorld parks, you’ll continue to experience the best of both worlds. Spend days gliding through the waves at Blizzard Beach, marvelling at marine life at SeaWorld, and enjoying the urban vibe of International Drive, with its diverse dining, entertainment, and shopping options. The highlight of the week is a visit to Universal Studios, where the movie magic continues with adrenaline-pumping rides and detailed, immersive lands. By the end of this week, you’ll have experienced a broad spectrum of what Orlando has to offer, from fantasy realms and movie sets to the natural wonders of the ocean.

Day 8: SeaWorld

Morning: Visit SeaWorld Orlando, known for its marine life shows and thrilling rides. Start with a visit to Manta, a flying roller coaster that simulates the motions of a manta ray. Then explore Shark Encounter, where you can walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks.

Afternoon: Enjoy the Dolphin Days show and visit the Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin exhibit. Ride Infinity Falls, a river raft ride with the world’s tallest drop.

Evening: Visit Pacific Point Preserve to see sea lions and seals, and conclude your day with Electric Ocean, SeaWorld’s evening event featuring a fireworks show.

Day 9: International Drive

Morning: Explore International Drive, Orlando’s bustling strip known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Visit ICON Park and take a ride on The Wheel, a 400-foot tall observation wheel offering panoramic views of the city.

Afternoon: Visit the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Orlando for interactive and fun experiences. Take a break at one of the many restaurants or cafés along International Drive for lunch.

Evening: Continue your exploration by visiting the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando museum, followed by some shopping at the Orlando International Premium Outlets. Return to the resort for a quiet evening or explore more dining options on International Drive.

Day 10: Epcot

Morning: Revisit Epcot, focusing on attractions you may have missed on your first visit. Head to Future World East to ride Mission: SPACE and see the impressive Spaceship Earth exhibit.

Afternoon: Spend more time in the World Showcase, starting from the Canada side this time. Enjoy performances like the Voices of Liberty at the American Adventure pavilion, and explore the galleries in the Japan and Morocco pavilions.

Evening: Experience the new Harmonious nighttime spectacular, a show celebrating the music of Disney with fireworks, fountains, and more. Take a leisurely stroll back through the World Showcase, enjoying the pavilions lit up at night.

Day 11: Blizzard Beach

Morning: Cool off with a visit to Blizzard Beach, Disney’s other water park. Start with the Summit Plummet, a near-vertical, high-speed slide. For a more relaxed experience, float along Cross Country Creek, the park’s lazy river.

Afternoon: Try the Teamboat Springs family raft ride and enjoy the Tike’s Peak area, designed for younger children. The Slush Gusher is another thrilling water slide to enjoy.

Evening: Spend the rest of the evening relaxing by the wave pool or take a dip in the Melt-Away Bay. Head back to Coronado Springs for dinner and enjoy a quiet night at the resort.

Day 12: Adventure Island

Morning: Take a day trip to Adventure Island, a water park located next to Busch Gardens in Tampa. Start with the Colossal Curl, a multi-person raft ride that combines speed, drops, and turns.

Afternoon: Spend time at Rambling Bayou, a lazy river ride, and enjoy the Paradise Lagoon, which features waterfalls and slides. Try the Vanish Point for some high-speed thrills.

Evening: Return to Orlando and relax at your resort. Take the evening to rest after a full day of water fun.

Day 13: Universal Studios

Morning: Visit Universal Studios Florida, where the movies come to life. Head straight to Diagon Alley in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, then explore the shops and attractions like Ollivanders and the Knight Bus.

Afternoon: Make your way to Springfield, U.S.A., where you can enjoy The Simpsons Ride and other themed attractions. Continue to Hollywood, where you can watch Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show.

Evening: Conclude your day with the thrilling Revenge of the Mummy roller coaster and explore the New York section of the park. Take a ride on Transformers: The Ride-3D before heading back to your resort.

Day 14: Magic Kingdom

Morning: Return to Magic Kingdom for another day of classic Disney magic. Begin with rides in Tomorrowland, like Astro Orbiter and Carousel of Progress, before heading to Adventureland for more fun.

Afternoon: Experience Liberty Square and enjoy attractions like Liberty Belle Riverboat and Hall of Presidents. Have lunch at one of the charming eateries on Main Street, U.S.A., and do some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Evening: End your day at Fantasyland, with rides like Dumbo the Flying Elephant and Prince Charming Regal Carrousel. Finish off your Magic Kingdom experience with one last viewing of the Happily Ever After fireworks show.

Week 3: Universal Parks and SeaWorld’s Three-Park Ticket

The final week of your itinerary focuses on pushing the boundaries of adventure, as you explore beyond Walt Disney World’s borders. This week includes more high-energy experiences at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, water fun at Volcano Bay, and a safari experience at Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay. It’s a week that balances excitement and relaxation, with opportunities to unwind at the resort or shop at Orlando’s premium outlets. As the vacation nears its end, the combination of thrilling rides, exotic animal encounters, and leisurely shopping trips will leave you with a well-rounded Orlando experience. With one last hurrah at Universal Studios and a peaceful morning at Disney Springs, this final week ensures that your 3-week journey concludes on a high note, filled with a blend of excitement, discovery, and relaxation.

Day 15: Rest Day on Resort and Disney Springs

Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a relaxed morning at Coronado Springs Resort. Take advantage of the resort’s amenities, like the pool or the fitness center.

Afternoon: Continue your day of relaxation with a stroll around the resort grounds. Participate in any scheduled activities or simply lounge by the pool with a good book.

Evening: Head to Disney Springs for dinner and some light shopping. Enjoy live entertainment and soak in the lively atmosphere. Take this opportunity to relax and recharge before the final stretch of your vacation.

Day 16: Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Morning: Start your day at Universal’s Islands of Adventure by heading straight to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey inside Hogwarts Castle, and then take a ride on the Flight of the Hippogriff.

Afternoon: Explore Jurassic Park and ride the thrilling Jurassic World VelociCoaster. Visit Toon Lagoon for some classic comic strip fun, and ride Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls.

Evening: End your day in Marvel Super Hero Island, riding The Incredible Hulk Coaster and meeting your favorite superheroes. Leave time to visit The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man before heading back to your resort.

Day 17: Busch Gardens

Morning: Take the complimentary shuttle from SeaWorld to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Start with a safari through the Serengeti Plain to see animals like giraffes and zebras.

Afternoon: Ride some of the park’s famous roller coasters, like SheiKra and Cheetah Hunt. Explore the Jungala area to see tigers and orangutans, and enjoy some of the park’s live entertainment.

Evening: Before returning to Orlando, catch one of Busch Gardens’ evening shows, or take a final ride on Montu, an inverted roller coaster. Return to Coronado Springs for a restful night.

Day 18: Universal’s Volcano Bay

Morning: Visit Universal’s Volcano Bay, a tropical-themed water park. Arrive early to secure a spot near Waturi Beach, and then ride Krakatau Aqua Coaster, the park’s signature water coaster.

Afternoon: Float along the Kopiko Wai Winding River, and enjoy the Wave Village area. Try out some of the park’s thrilling water slides, like Ko’okiri Body Plunge.

Evening: Take in the beauty of the park as the sun sets, and relax on the beach. Head back to your resort for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Day 19: International Drive and Shopping Mall

Morning: Take a leisurely morning before heading out to International Drive. Visit attractions like the Orlando Eye or the WonderWorks interactive science museum.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon shopping at Orlando International Premium Outlets. Find great deals on designer brands, and pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back home.

Evening: Return to International Drive for dinner, choosing from one of the many restaurants that line the street. Enjoy some evening entertainment at venues like Mango’s Tropical Café or catch a show at The Improv Comedy Club.

Day 20: Universal Studios and CityWalk

Morning: Spend your last day in the parks at Universal Studios Florida. Start with rides you may have missed, or revisit favorites like Transformers: The Ride-3D and Men in Black: Alien Attack.

Afternoon: Continue exploring the park, taking in shows like Animal Actors on Location! or The Blues Brothers Show. Visit the Hollywood section to explore more of the movie-themed attractions.

Evening: Head over to Universal CityWalk for dinner and entertainment. Enjoy a variety of dining options, from The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium to Hard Rock Café. Take in a show at the Blue Man Group or dance the night away at Rising Star Karaoke.

Day 21: Disney Springs Morning and Home

Morning: Spend your last morning at Disney Springs, picking up any last-minute souvenirs and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Take a ride on the Aerophile balloon for a unique view of Disney Springs and the surrounding area.

Afternoon: Head back to Coronado Springs Resort to finish packing and prepare for your journey home. Check out of the resort and take Disney’s Magical Express back to Orlando International Airport.

Evening: Reflect on your magical 3-week adventure as you board your flight back to London. Say goodbye to Orlando and the memories you’ve made, already dreaming of your next visit to the most magical place on Earth.

Tips for the Ultimate Disney Holiday

Tickets to Buy to Maximise Your Trip

1. Disney’s 14-Day Ultimate Ticket with Memory Maker: This pass provides unlimited access to all four Disney parks, plus water parks and more for 14 consecutive days. The Memory Maker feature allows you to download all your photos taken by the Walt Disney World photographers, making it a fantastic value.
2. Universal Orlando 3 Park Explorer Ticket: This ticket gives you access to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay for up to 14 days. It’s perfect for those looking to explore all that Universal has to offer.
3. SeaWorld’s Three Park Ticket: This ticket includes admission to SeaWorld, Aquatica, and Busch Gardens. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy these parks and the free shuttle to Busch Gardens is a great bonus.
4. Disney Quick Service Dining Plan: While Disney has paused the dining plans temporarily, if it returns, the Quick Service Dining Plan is an excellent option for families. It includes two quick-service meals and one snack per day, providing flexibility and a variety of dining options.

Getting Around Without a Car Rental

• Disney Transportation: Guests staying at Walt Disney World resorts have access to complimentary bus, boat, and monorail services to and from the parks, Disney Springs, and other resort areas.
• Local Buses and Shuttles: Use the I-Ride Trolley for easy and affordable access to International Drive. The Lynx bus service also offers routes to places like SeaWorld and the shopping outlets.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: For trips to areas not covered by Disney transportation, consider using taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. These services are widely available in Orlando and offer convenient door-to-door service.
• Hotel Shuttles: Some hotels, like Disney’s Coronado Springs, offer shuttles to SeaWorld and other attractions. Check with your hotel for shuttle schedules and availability.

Extra Tips for an Enjoyable Disney Holiday

1. Plan Ahead: Use Disney’s FastPass+ system to reserve access to popular attractions in advance. For Universal, utilise the Virtual Line system where available.
2. Stay Hydrated: Florida can be hot and humid, especially in the summer months. Carry a refillable water bottle and take advantage of free water cups at quick-service locations.
3. Take Breaks: With so much to see and do, it’s easy to get tired. Plan for rest days and take breaks during your park days to avoid burnout.
4. Pack Smart: Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a lightweight backpack. A poncho or umbrella is also handy for Florida’s sudden rain showers.
5. Make Dining Reservations: Popular Disney restaurants can fill up quickly. Make reservations up to 60 days in advance to secure your preferred dining spots.
6. Enjoy the Magic: Don’t forget to take in the little details that make Walt Disney World and Universal special. From hidden Mickeys to spontaneous character meet-and-greets, these small moments create the magic of your trip.

Conclusion

This 3-week itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to exploring Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and other exciting attractions in the Orlando area. By planning carefully and taking advantage of transportation options and ticket packages, you can maximise your time and create a vacation filled with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a Disney fanatic, a thrill-seeker, or a first-time visitor, this adventure is sure to be magical from start to finish.