Planning a trip to Orlando often comes down to one big question: should you stay at Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort? Increasingly, travellers are discovering they don’t have to choose at all. A Disney and Universal split stay offers the perfect solution, combining two world-famous resorts into one seamless holiday.
A split stay simply means dividing your holiday between two different hotels during your trip. A split stay between Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and Universal Loews Royal Pacific Resort is an extremely popular option. This approach allows guests to experience both destinations without compromise.
One of the biggest advantages of a split stay is variety. Disney and Universal each offer completely different styles of holiday experience. Disney focuses on immersive storytelling, classic characters, and magical theming across its four theme parks. Universal, on the other hand, is known for high-speed thrills, blockbuster attractions, and cutting-edge rides like those found in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
By combining the two, you get the best of both worlds in a single trip.
Starting your holiday at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is ideal for easing into the Orlando experience. This moderate-level Disney hotel offers a relaxing atmosphere with lakeside views, multiple dining options, and excellent transport links to all Disney parks. Guests can explore Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom while enjoying perks such as Early Theme Park Entry.
After several days of Disney magic, transferring to Universal Orlando brings a noticeable shift in energy. Staying at Loews Royal Pacific Resort adds an extra layer of luxury and convenience. This Premier Universal hotel offers a tropical-inspired setting, spacious rooms, and one of the most valuable perks in Orlando: Universal Express Unlimited. This benefit allows guests to skip regular queues at many of the most popular rides, significantly increasing time in the parks.
Another major benefit of a split stay is location efficiency. Disney and Universal are not directly connected, so staying in both areas reduces unnecessary travel time. Instead of commuting back and forth across Orlando, you stay right where the action is.
From a practical perspective, a split stay also helps break up a longer holiday. A typical Orlando trip can last two weeks or more, and staying in one resort for the entire duration can feel repetitive. Switching hotels midway introduces a fresh environment and renewed excitement.
In terms of planning, split stays are now easier than ever to book. Many UK travel specialists offer packaged itineraries that include Disney and Universal hotels, park tickets, flights, and transfers. This removes the stress of coordinating multiple bookings and ensures a smooth transition between resorts.
Ultimately, a Disney and Universal split stay is about maximising your Orlando experience. It allows you to enjoy Disney’s storytelling magic and Universal’s adrenaline-filled attractions in one carefully balanced holiday. For many travellers, it is no longer a question of “Disney or Universal?” but rather “why not both?”