A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Fort Lauderdale vs. Orlando for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Orlando. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. It's also known for shopping, theater, and nightlife. See Orlando travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Fort Lauderdale than Orlando. While Orlando is larger than Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Orlando is known for its theatre productions and shopping. Fort Lauderdale is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Orlando is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Orlando and Fort Lauderdale. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is a good destination for theatre. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Fort Lauderdale is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Orlando? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Orlando offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Fort Lauderdale makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Orlando has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Fort Lauderdale for the nightlife scene. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando Better for Resorts?

There are amazing resorts to choose from in both Fort Lauderdale and Orlando.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Orlando is a great choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?

Orlando is a great destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Orlando is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando Better for Families?

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Orlando is very family-friendly. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Fort Lauderdale makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando Better for Students?

Orlando is a good destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Orlando is popular with students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Orlando.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Orlando a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Orlando is not a walkable coastal city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Orlando Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Orlando have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 7 days is enough time in Orlando.

Families should spend more time in Orlando than Fort Lauderdale. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Orlando, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Orlando. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Fort Lauderdale that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orlando than Fort Lauderdale if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Orlando.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?

In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The family-friendly destination of Orlando offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?

In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

The city of Orlando offers food and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Orlando is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

The active city of Orlando offers theater and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Fort Lauderdale much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Fort Lauderdale would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fort Lauderdale and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Orlando would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orlando than you might in Fort Lauderdale.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Fort Lauderdale Expensive? and Is Orlando Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 22% larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Orlando in the Summer?

Both Orlando and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Orlando in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Orlando fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in July than Orlando. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Orlando in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Orlando. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Orlando. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Orlando averages at about 75°F (24°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Orlando. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Orlando in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Orlando. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally a little warmer than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Orlando fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Orlando. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Orlando in the Spring?

Both Orlando and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Orlando in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Orlando fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Orlando. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Fort Lauderdale