Flying into Tampa and out of Orlando

[wvhokies]

We're planning a week-long trip in May 2012, and we definitely want to go to Busch Gardens Tampa as well as Legoland. We're unsure what else we'll visit, but plan to spend 2 days in Tampa and then the rest of the week in Orlando.

First, I checked Southwest's flights and it seems like it's not really any significant increase for us to fly into Tampa, but out of Orlando (actually about $50 less than round-trip to Orlando). However, would there be any other costs I haven't thought of (would it cost more to pick up a rental car in Tampa, but return it to Orlando airport?)

Also, I know this is the transportation thread, but thought I'd ask also if anyone had a recommendation for where to stay in Tampa. I think we'd like to stay at Bonnet Creek in Orlando.

Thank you!!

 

[OKW Lover]

The major car rental companies in FL have very competitive rates and don't normally charge more for picking up at one airport and dropping off at another. However, you'll need to check your dates to be sure.

Also consider just using a car for the first couple of days and then returning when you get to WDW. Most of the major car rental agencies have an office on Disney property.

 

[KINGBOBOFTHENORTH]

Also, I know this is the transportation thread, but thought I'd ask also if anyone had a recommendation for where to stay in Tampa.

As OKW Lover stated, most rental car companies charge the same rate whether you return it to your originating airport or to another airport, within Florida. So it's not a big deal to do what you've proposed. But consider this; TPA is barely over an hour from Disney World so if it saves you $100 to fly both into and out of Tampa, consider doing that. It's just not that far. I live in Orlando by Disney and always compare TPA and MCO fares. If it saved me $100 on a round trip, I'm using TPA.

Regarding a hotel, I like the Hilton Garden Inn and the Hampton Inn in Tampa's Ybor City area. Ybor is an old historic district known mostly for night clubs and restaurants now. But the TECO Trolley line originates there and you can take it over to the Florida Aquarium, Cruise Terminal and Channelside areas for a nominal fee.

BobK/Orlando

 

[snowy76]

We love flying in and out of TPA. The airport is smaller and easier to navigate than MCO, quieter too. Since you're at WDW, you're already southeast of Orlando proper. It's an easy drive. I agree with Bob - if the price is right to fly RT, do it!