How to Get to Orlando From Key West [2025 Guide] 🚗🚌🚄✈️
Planning to travel from Key West, Florida to Orlando in 2025? Whether you’re chasing theme park adventures or heading to a business event, you have several ways to make the journey. This guide covers the fastest, cheapest, and most comfortable transportation options — including driving, buses, flights, and shuttles — so you can pick what works best for your trip.
🚗 Driving from Key West to Orlando
Driving gives you full control of your schedule and lets you enjoy the stunning Overseas Highway.
- Distance: ~390 miles (628 km)
- Average Driving Time: 7–8 hours
- Route: US-1 North to Florida’s Turnpike to Orlando
- Estimated Cost: ~$60–$90 for gas + tolls
Tip: If possible, plan your drive in two parts with an overnight stop in Miami or Fort Lauderdale for a more relaxed trip.
🚌 Bus Travel from Key West to Orlando
Buses are the most budget-friendly way to travel, but be prepared for a long journey.
- Companies: FlixBus, Greyhound, Keys Shuttle (with transfers)
- Travel Time: 11–15 hours (including transfers in Miami)
- Fares: $50–$100 one-way
- Departure Points: Key West bus terminals or shuttle pickup spots
- Arrival Points: Orlando Greyhound Station or International Drive
Tip: Book well in advance to lock in the lowest fares, especially during peak tourist months.
✈️ Flights from Key West to Orlando
Flying is the fastest and most convenient option, though there are few direct flights.
- Flight Time: ~3–5 hours total (including layovers)
- Cost: $150–$350 one-way
- Airlines: American Airlines, Silver Airways, Delta (usually with a Miami or Tampa layover)
- Departure Airport: Key West International Airport (EYW)
- Arrival Airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Tip: For quicker travel, consider driving or shuttling to Miami International Airport and catching a nonstop Orlando flight.
🚐 Shuttle & Private Transfer Options
For door-to-door convenience, private shuttles are ideal — especially for groups or families.
- Companies: Florida Keys Express Shuttle, Keys Shuttle
- Travel Time: 8–9 hours
- Cost: $100–$200 per person (private options higher)
- Service: Pickup from Key West hotels or homes, drop-off in Orlando or nearby areas
Tip: Shared shuttles are cheaper, while private transfers give you flexibility on departure times.
📊 Key West to Orlando Travel Comparison
| Mode of Transport | Travel Time | Cost (One-Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | 7–8h | $60–$90 | Flexibility, scenic drive lovers |
| Bus | 11–15h | $50–$100 | Budget travel |
| Flight | 3–5h total | $150–$350 | Fastest travel |
| Shuttle | 8–9h | $100–$200 | No-car convenience |
| Private Transfer | 8–9h | $300+ | Luxury & comfort |
🧳 Travel Tips for 2025
- For speed, flying from Key West or via Miami is best.
- For budget savings, buses are the most affordable option.
- For scenic views, driving the Overseas Highway is unbeatable.
- For comfort, book an Amtrak train from Miami after taking a shuttle or bus from Key West.
- Always check weather forecasts — especially during hurricane season — before traveling.
🌟 Why Visit Orlando from Key West?
- Theme Parks: Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld
- Attractions: ICON Park, Kennedy Space Center (nearby)
- Events: Year-round conventions and festivals
- Shopping & Dining: Premium outlets, world-class restaurants
📌 FAQs
Q1: How far is Key West from Orlando by car?
About 390 miles, which takes 7–8 hours to drive via US-1 and Florida’s Turnpike.
Q2: Can you fly directly from Key West to Orlando?
Direct flights are rare; most routes require a layover in Miami, Tampa, or Fort Lauderdale.
Q3: What is the cheapest way to get from Key West to Orlando?
Taking a bus with transfers in Miami is usually the most affordable option, starting around $50.
Q4: Is there a train from Key West to Orlando?
No, but you can take a shuttle or bus to Miami and then board an Amtrak train to Orlando.
Q5: What’s the fastest way to get to Orlando from Key West?
Flying from Key West (EYW) to Orlando (MCO) is the quickest, even with a layover.