Expert guide: Why choose a Kissimmee villa for your Orlando holiday

Thinking about a holiday to Orlando? A villa stay in Kissimmee, known as the big, bold heart of Florida, could be the perfect fit, offering all the space, privacy and perks you need for a brilliant break near the parks.

With some of our experts just back from Florida, we asked them the most asked questions about why a Kissimmee villa is the ultimate way to do Orlando.

LEGOLAND® Water Park

What makes Kissimmee a top area to stay for an Orlando holiday?

Kissimmee has a vibe of its own – something that surprised even Tom Waite, our North America Product Manager. I’ve always loved Orlando, but Kissimmee just has this different energy,” he says. “You’ve got all the adventure right on your doorstep, with Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and classic Florida spots like Old Town with its vintage cars and boardwalk feel, but without the non-stop bustle. It’s relaxed but packed with things to do – the perfect mix.”

Maxine Brown, Personal Travel Expert at Kuoni Bluewater, adds that a stay in Kissimmee means your holiday doesn’t have to be all about theme park thrills. “Kissimmee has great golf courses, boutique indie shops and local-favourite eateries to enjoy fresh seafood and southern favourites.”

Old Town, Kissimmee

How easy is it to get from Kissimmee to Orlando’s main attractions and theme parks?

If you’re worried about highway driving times, Kissimmee's location is close to all the action. Becky Allen Gurr, Personal Travel Expert at Kuoni Chester, assures us, “We were at Walt Disney World in under 15 minutes and Universal Orlando Resort was just a quick drive too. Plus, most resorts offer shuttles, so you can leave the car behind if you wish.”

The convenience makes a difference, especially with kids or if you’re planning to split your time across multiple parks. “We had our own car, but having shuttles at the ready is great for those who don’t want to drive,” Nathaniel Short, Personal Travel Expert at Kuoni Meadowhall adds. “One evening, we headed to International Drive for a late-night bite – everything’s so accessible.”

Universal Studios Orlando

What types of accommodation can you find in Kissimmee?

Kissimmee’s got variety in spades. From cosy villas to vibrant resort communities, there’s something to suit every holiday style and budget. “We started our stay in a spacious villa at Championsgate, which had its own pool and plenty of room to relax,” says Eve Jetten, one of our North America Tailormade Travel Experts. “Then we moved to Margaritaville Cottages for a resort experience.”

If you’re after a mix of privacy and social spaces, Kissimmee’s resort-style communities are ideal. “It’s all about picking what fits your holiday,” Eve adds. “Whether you want total privacy or a lively atmosphere, we’ll recommend an itinerary that works for you and your gang.”

Adventurer Themed Villas, Encore Resort at Reunion

What are the benefits of choosing a villa over a hotel?

Villas in Kissimmee come with some real perks – starting with space and privacy. Maxine points out, “We had our own pool, garden and lounge areas, which meant no waiting for loungers or crowding at the pool. It felt like a home, not just a room.”

And then there’s the bonus of self-catering. “Having a kitchen was a game-changer,” says Tom. “Breakfast was easy, we made our own packed lunches, and on nights when we didn’t feel like going out, we had a barbecue or cooked dinner.”.

Executive Plus Homes Orlando Area

Are there villa options to suit every budget, family size and holiday style?

Yes! From budget-friendly stays to luxurious estates, Kissimmee’s villa scene delivers. “Some villas are more basic, but still give you all the essentials, while others go all out – we’re talking cinema lounges, themed bedrooms for the kids and game rooms,” Nathaniel says. “We stayed in a four-bed villa, but you can go as big as a 15-bed mansion!”

Beach Drive Retreat, ChampionsGate Resort

What’s the difference between staying in a villa and a resort complex?

Staying in a villa gives you all the comforts of a standalone home, but if you’re after something a bit more social, a resort complex brings the best of both worlds. “In resorts like Encore Resort at Reunion, you get an on-spec villa all to yourself but also have incredible facilities like a ten-acre waterpark, restaurants and tennis courts on your doorstep,” Maxine explains.

Nathaniel points out the community feel of these complexes. “You’re part of a community, so it feels a bit more vibrant, especially if you’re there with family or friends. And it’s nice to have places to enjoy downtime without leaving the grounds.”

Aquapark, Encore Resort at Reunion

What’s it like staying in a resort complex?

Bear’s Den and Margaritaville Resort & Cottages Orlando really stood out to our team. “Bear’s Den is ultra-luxurious, with stunning homes and access to high-end amenities like a championship golf course and in-room spa treatments,” says Tom.

For Becky, the location of Margaritaville Cottages was a huge win. “It’s right by the Sunset Walk promenade, so we could pop out for dinner, shopping or just to grab an ice cream,” she says. “Plus, the shuttles to Disney made getting around easy.” Eve also loved Margaritaville. “You have all the comforts of home, plus quirky touches like a frozen margarita maker right in your villa,” she laughs. “The colourful cottages are packed with personality – way more fun than your standard hotel room.”

Margaritaville Resort & Cottages Orlando

Can you book a specific villa in a preferred location?

Absolutely! “If you want a specific spot, our travel experts can arrange a named villa that meets your needs,” Becky says. “So, if you want a villa with Avatar-themed bedrooms or a place close to a particular resort area, they’ll work their planning magic.” Eve adds, “It’s nice to know exactly what you’re getting, especially when it comes to big family trips where everyone has their own wish list.”

Bear's Den

Can you combine a stay in Kissimmee with other popular spots in Florida?

One of the best parts about staying in Kissimmee is how easy it is to explore nearby attractions. “Beyond the theme parks, there are fantastic places just a short drive away,” Maxine says. “You can hop on an airboat through the Everglades, paddle through Shingle Creek or spend the day at Kennedy Space Centre – perfect for when you want a change of pace.”

We also have some suggested itineraries that combine a Kissimmee stay with time at Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort or a beach escape on Florida’s Gulf Coast, like St. Pete-Clearwater or Sarasota. These options make it simple to add even more variety to your holiday.

Wild Florida Airboat tour

This feature was created on 5th November 2024. The information within this feature is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of print. Feature by Heather Flanagan.