Short answer: The train gets you to Orlando stress‑free; the car gets you everywhere once you arrive. If your plans include Disney, Universal, Space Coast beaches, or out‑of‑city day trips, pairing Brightline with a same‑day airport pick‑up is often the sweet spot.
Why combine Brightline + car?
- Skip I‑95/Turnpike fatigue—arrive rested and ready to drive.
- Avoid extra nights’ parking in Miami or Orlando.
- Keep one‑way costs low: pick up and return in the same city.
- Use train time to work or nap; save your energy for the parks.
Where to pick up your car in Orlando
Brightline’s Orlando Station sits by Terminal C at MCO, steps from Garage C. After you arrive, follow signs to the counters and collect your vehicle from the garage. For fast comparisons, open our Orlando Airport car rental results and lock in an All‑Inclusive+ rate.
Who should ride first, then drive?
- Families heading straight to resorts—train snacks and Wi‑Fi beat highway pit stops.
- Weekenders—catch a morning train, pick up, and be at a theme park by lunch.
- Business travelers—work on board, then drive the last 20–30 minutes to meetings.
- Theme‑park hoppers—split your trip: rail to Orlando, then rent a car for flexible park access.
When is a car the better choice end‑to‑end?
If your itinerary is spread across South Florida or you’re luggage‑heavy, driving both ways may still win. But you can mix and match: book Miami Airport car hire for the outbound, then switch to Orlando once you’ve trained north.
Popular alternatives
Flying into Fort Lauderdale? Start with FLL Airport car rental. Visiting the Gulf Coast after Orlando? Compare Tampa Airport car hire before you go.
Cost‑saver checklist
- Travel light: a mid‑size is usually enough for two adults + two kids + luggage.
- Return where you picked up to avoid one‑way fees when possible.
- Plan for tolls on SR‑528, SR‑417 and the Turnpike—Hola Car Rentals offers cashback on tolls on selected bookings.
Why Hola Car Rentals
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
- All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage and transparent pricing.
- Trusted brands only: Alamo, Enterprise, National, Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty, Budget, Avis, Payless.
Plan the easiest Orlando weekend: ride Brightline, pick up at MCO Terminal C, and book it all in one place with Hola Car Rentals.
