So you’ve made the decision to book a Disney holiday – but is it worth staying at a Disney hotel?
Our answer is a definite yes!
In fact, for many families (including ours) staying at a Disney Resort hotel is part of the magic itself.
While off-site hotels and villas can be cheaper, Disney hotels offer something that’s hard to replicate: total immersion in the Disney bubble. From the moment you arrive, everything feels easier, more convenient and more magical.
Whether it’s early entry to the parks, complimentary Disney transport, being able to hop on the Skyliner to Epcot or watching fireworks from your resort, staying on-site adds an extra level of magic to your trip that many guests feel is worth the extra cost. In addition, UK visitors can often access good deals on Disney hotel stays when bundled together with transatlantic flights – see our guide to Disney World deals UK visitors get for more on this.
So whether your priorities are value for money, deluxe dining, easy transport or being walking distance from the parks, there’s a Disney hotel for every type of holiday.
In this complete guide to the best Walt Disney World hotels in 2026 and 2027, we’re breaking down every resort so you can find the right fit for your trip.
- Jump to Value Resorts
- Jump to Moderate Resorts
- Jump to Deluxe Resorts
Value Resorts
The best thing about staying at a Disney Value Resort is that you still get access to so much of what makes a Walt Disney World holiday special – just at a much more affordable price.
While the hotel design can be bold, colourful and a little more playful than the prettier Deluxe Resorts, that larger-than-life theming is exactly why many families love them and return again and again.
The rooms at Disney Value Resorts are similar in layout to some of the more expensive options, and you still get all the major perks of staying on-site, including Early Theme Park Entry and access to Disney’s complimentary transport network, taking you straight to the parks.
Although the dining options at Value Resorts aren’t usually as extensive as those at Moderate or Deluxe hotels (Value Resorts only offer food court/ quick-service style dining, rather than table-service meals) you’re never far from great food. Hop on a free bus to Disney Springs or catch the Skyliner to Epcot from resorts like Pop Century or Art of Animation, and you’ll have dozens of fantastic dining options within easy reach.
It’s worth remembering Pop Century and Art of Animation also have other Skyliner resorts (such as the Deluxe Riviera Resort, which has excellent character dining) close at hand, meaning you can make reservations to dine at these hotels during your stay. While these hotels are generally slightly more expensive to book than the All-Star resorts, you may think this extra convenience is worth paying for.
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Pop Century is one of the most popular Value Resorts thanks to its central location and fun, 20th-Century theming. It also has Skyliner access – the popular Disney gondola system – that will take you straight to parks such as Epcot and Hollywood Studios. This is one of the best Value Resorts at Disney.
Pros
- Skyliner access
- Recently refurbished rooms
- Excellent value for money
- Strong food court
- Close to excellent character dining options via Skyliner, eg at the Riviera Resort (make sure you book!)
Cons
- Rooms are smaller
- Can feel busy and crowded
- If you’re not a fan of heights, perhaps don’t go for a Skyliner resort!
Transport options
Skyliner, buses
Price range
££
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation is a beautiful budget resort, with its design lifted straight from Disney classics like The Lion King, Cars, Finding Nemo and The Little Mermaid. It has fantastic-sized family suites and direct Skyliner access. Little ones will feel like they’ve stepped straight into their favourite Disney film!
Pros
- Incredible Disney theming
- Family Suites for larger groups
- Skyliner access
- Amazing pools
- Strong family appeal
Cons
- Standard Little Mermaid rooms are located at the far side of the resort, away from amenities, which can be hard on little legs.
- Can be expensive for a Value Resort
- Very busy resort
- Anyone with a fear of heights may not fancy a Skyliner resort
Transport options
Skyliner, buses
Price range
££–£££
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Disney’s All-Star resorts are one of the cheapest ways to stay on-site at Walt Disney World. If you’ve never been to Disney World before or are wondering if a Disney hotel is worth it, these can be a great option. However, there are a few things to watch out for.
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Fun Disney theming
- Recently updated rooms
- Good bus transport
Cons
- Bus-only transport
- Can feel very busy
- Less convenient than Skyliner resorts – more tucked away, with the nearest resort being the Animal Kingdom
- May miss out on some deals – the recent 2027 UK Free Dining & Drinks deal was not available at popular times on standard rooms at All-Star Resorts.
Transport options
Buses only
Price range
£
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
All-Star Music is a quieter All-Star option. While it’s often priced similarly to All-Star Movies and Sports, it’s often less busy and there are family suites available for larger groups. If you’re considering an All-Star resort, this would be our pick.
Pros
- Affordable
- Family suites available
- Often quieter than Movies
Cons
- Bus-only transport
- Less iconic theming
- Can feel basic
Transport options
Buses only
Price range
£
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
This is the simplest Value Resort at Disney. It’s aimed at sports-loving families (although keep in mind, these are mainly US sports, such as baseball and American Football… you won’t see much English Premier League here!) We found it was quite basic compared with other similarly priced resorts but the theming is fun and appeals to sporty kids.
Pros
- Fun sports theming
- Often one of the best priced resorts
Cons
- Bus-only transport
- Can host large school trips and cheerleading teams (this can mean you have to queue to get into the food court)
- Basic compared to other resorts
Transport options
Buses only
Price range
£
Moderate Resorts
Moderate Resorts offer a step up from Value Resorts, with bigger rooms, improved dining options (as in the quality and choice of restaurants) and more relaxed atmospheres – while still being more affordable than Deluxe resorts.
The resorts are designed to be charming and luxurious, with detailed architecture, multiple pools, lush gardens and soft, atmospheric music playing around the site to make you feel completely immersed in the Disney vibe.
You’ll also still benefit from Disney’s complimentary transport system, including buses, boats, and in some cases Skyliner access depending on the resort. Plus, staying on-site gives you access to Disney perks such as Early Theme Park Entry.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
When we first stayed at Caribbean Beach, years ago, the Skyliner – Disney World’s fantastic gondolier system – had not yet been developed and it felt a little isolated from the parks. That all changed when the Skyliner opened, making this resort one of the best connected of all the Disney resorts. You can easily access Epcot and Hollywood Studios from here, there are multiple pool areas and you can even chill in a hammock on a sun-kissed beach… who says Disney can’t be relaxing?
Pros
- Skyliner hub location
- Excellent transport
- Beautiful resort grounds
- Delightful pool area
- Sebastian’s Bistro is a gem
Cons
- This is a huge resort with long internal walks
- It can feel spread out
- There are multiple internal bus stops – buses can be crowded
Transport options
Skyliner, buses
Price range
£££
Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter
This is one of the smallest moderate resorts at Disney. It’s a breathtakingly pretty destination, all set along the Sassagoula River, with pastel-coloured buildings, cobblestone pathways and a lovely, light-filled reception area.
It’s also home to the famous beignets at Scat Cat’s Club Cafe – an icing sugar-covered fan favourite snack you simply have to try. You can catch a boat to Disney Springs, which is one of the most enjoyable Disney travel experiences. In the evenings, you can watch outdoor Disney movies or take a stroll to the neighbouring Port Orleans Riverside resort for dining and exploring.
Keep in mind it might not be the most family-friendly resort – it has just one pool area (and during our stay, we found the lifeguards a little strict with kids!) However, many guests find its quiet, romantic feel to be one of its strengths.
Pros
- Small resort footprint
- Beautiful theming
- Boat to Disney Springs
- Mickey beignets
Cons
- No Skyliner
- Limited dining options
- Limited pool options
- Can be harder to find availability
Transport options
Buses, boat to Disney Springs
Price range
£££
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside is the larger counterpart to French Quarter, offering a more spacious setting with beautiful riverside views and lush greenery.
The resort is split into two distinct areas: Alligator Bayou – which has a more rustic, woodland feel – and Magnolia Bend (our personal favourite!) which features elegant mansion-style buildings inspired by the American South.
It’s a great choice for guests who want a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of space to explore. There’s also a scenic boat service to Disney Springs, as well as multiple bus stops throughout the resort due to its size.
Dining options are slightly more varied here (consisting of a food court, restaurant and pool bar) and the resort is home to a large main pool area along with several quieter leisure pools spread throughout the grounds.
Because of its size, internal walking distances can be a reasonable distance and buses can get crowded, particularly in the evenings.
Pros
- Large, spacious resort
- Beautiful theming
- Boat to Disney Springs
Cons
- No Skyliner
- Buses can get busy
- Resort is spread out – may not suit guests who prefer compact sites
- Dining could be more varied
Transport options
Buses, boat to Disney Springs
Price range
£££
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is a beautiful blend of Spanish and Mexican architectures and landscapes, all set on a stunning lakeside.
It’s large, modern resort that leads you through a mix of architectural styles, from Moorish-style courtyards with fountains, fragrant with jasmine, to desert-themed areas, filled with rocks and cacti.
It has some of the strongest dining options you’ll find at any Disney resort, from a sports bar that’s a cut above, to Three Bridges Bar and Grill, a relaxed bowl food and bar experience, to Toledo, a rooftop gourmet Spanish experience (read our review of this underrated dining spot).
One thing to be aware of is that Coronado is also the most convention-focused Disney resort, which means it often has a more “business hotel” feel in some areas, particularly around Gran Destino Tower.
This can mean huge groups can arrive for corporate events and the food court can get very busy at these times.
However, elsewhere there is plenty of space to accommodate guests, with multiple pools, including the Lost City of Cibola pool – a feature pool with a Mayan-style pyramid, complete with a waterslide kids love.
Keep in mind, though, that if you stay in the Gran Destino Tower, you get incredible views but the main pool areas are located in a separate part of the resort and can be quite a walk away.
Pros
- Large, spacious resort
- Stunning theming
- Excellent range of dining options for a Moderate Resort
Cons
- No Skyliner access
- Buses can get busy at peak times
- Large layout means longer walking distances
- Gran Destino can give parts of the hotel a corporate feel and make communal areas busy
- Staying in the tower gives you incredible views, but it’s a bit of a walk to the nearest pool
Transport options
Buses
Price range
£££
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
The Cabins at Fort Wilderness offer a completely different type of Disney stay, providing a rustic, woodland-style experience in standalone cabin accommodation.
Each cabin includes its own kitchen, living area, and private outdoor space, making it a strong option for larger families or longer stays who want extra space and flexibility.
The resort is set within a large wooded area with a strong outdoorsy, nature-focused feel. Transportation is via internal bus routes and boat service, including access to Magic Kingdom via ferry from the main marina.
Guests also have access to a wide range of activities such as campfire evenings, pony rides and archery, making it one of the most unique and experience-led resorts at Walt Disney World.
However, due to the size and spread-out layout of the resort, getting around can take longer than at more compact Disney hotels.
Pros
- Extremely spacious accommodation with separate living, dining, and sleeping areas
- Full kitchen facilities, ideal for longer stays or self-catering
- Private outdoor space with BBQ area
- Peaceful, secluded woodland setting away from the busiest parks
- Unique Disney activities including campfires, pony rides, and outdoor movies
- Boat access to Magic Kingdom, offering a scenic transport option
Cons
- Located in a very large, spread-out resort, so internal travel can take time
- No Skyliner or monorail access
- Requires internal buses or walking to get around the resort
- Less “classic Disney hotel” feel compared to themed resorts
- Can feel isolated if you prefer being closer to parks and dining hubs
Transport options
- Buses/ boats
Price range
£££–££££
(Varies significantly depending on season and demand; often priced closer to Deluxe Villa-level stays)
Deluxe Resorts
Disney Deluxe Resorts offer the highest level of comfort at Walt Disney World, with the best dining options, the most spacious rooms and the most convenient park access. Many are within walking distance of major parks or connected via monorail, boat or Skyliner, making them especially appealing for guests who want to maximise their park time.
Each Deluxe Resort is unique and magical in its own way, with beautiful theming, exceptional restaurants and some of the best resort experiences on Disney property.
Of course, all of this comes at a price. For many UK visitors, staying at a Deluxe Resort –especially when combined with the cost of long-haul flights and park tickets – can feel like a once-in-a-lifetime treat.
That said, if your budget allows, we think it can absolutely be worth it. The convenience of the transport options, the incredible atmosphere and the one-of-a-kind design of these hotels can make a huge difference to your overall holiday experience.
And if a full two-week stay at a Deluxe Resort feels out of reach, many Disney regulars choose to “resort hop,” splitting their holiday between two or more hotels. A few nights at somewhere like the Polynesian or Beach Club before moving to a more affordable resort can be a great way to experience the best of both worlds (and can allow you to access the table-service upgrade on the free dining & drinks deal for part of your stay).
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is one of the most famous Disney hotels, themed around the South Pacific with lush gardens, tropical design, and a relaxed island atmosphere.
It is located on the monorail loop, offering direct access to Magic Kingdom and Epcot (or you can catch a boat to the Magic Kingdom).
The resort is also known for its incredible dining, including popular spots like ‘Ohana (famous for its character dining and its pineapple-coconut breakfast bread) and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. There are beach areas that offer fantastic views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks over Cinderella Castle.
Pros
- Monorail access to Magic Kingdom and Epcot
- Excellent dining options
- Beautiful theming and atmosphere
- Great views of Magic Kingdom fireworks
- Spacious rooms with modern updates
Cons
- Very expensive, especially during peak seasons
- Can feel busy due to popularity
- Some rooms are a long walk from the central areas
- Dining is exceptional but also popular – make sure you book table-service ahead of your stay
Transport Options
- Monorail
- Boats to Magic Kingdom
- Buses
Price Range
££££
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Grand Floridian is Walt Disney World’s flagship resort, offering Victorian-style elegance, fine dining and a prime location on the monorail line.
It sits just one stop from Magic Kingdom, with some rooms even within walking distance of the park.
The resort is home to award-winning dining, including Victoria & Albert’s, the Grand Floridian Cafe and Narcoossee’s, and offers one of the most luxurious atmospheres on property.
This is the one where many celebrities stay when they visit Disney!
Pros
- Closest Deluxe resort to Magic Kingdom
- Monorail and boat access
- Exceptional fine dining options
- Elegant, upscale theming
- Beautiful lobby and resort grounds
Cons
- One of the most expensive resorts at Disney
- Can feel formal compared to other Disney hotels
- Dining is exceptional but also popular – make sure you book table-service ahead of your stay
Transport Options
- Monorail
- Boat to Magic Kingdom
- Buses
Price Range
££££
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is instantly recognisable thanks to the monorail running directly through the building (yes, that’s right – you get a train driving into the middle of your hotel).
It’s a slightly crazy concrete-utopia vision of the future, from the perspective of mid-20th Century Disney imagineers, but it somehow works – and its design is loved by Disney fans around the world.
It is one of the closest resorts to Magic Kingdom, with some rooms offering walking access to the park. You can also get excellent views across the park, particularly at night – sitting on your balcony to watch the fireworks is an incredible experience.
The resort has a modern, sleek design and is home to popular dining locations such as Chef Mickey’s and California Grill – see our take on whether it’s worth the price.
Pros
- Walking distance to Magic Kingdom
- Monorail through the resort
- Excellent park views in select rooms
- Strong dining options
Cons
- Less immersive theming compared to other Disney resorts
- Can feel more “modern hotel” than “Disney magic”
- High price point
- Dining is exceptional but also popular – make sure you book table-service ahead of your stay
Transport Options
- Monorail
- Walking to Magic Kingdom
- Buses
- Boats
Price Range
££££
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is inspired by the great American national parks, featuring towering wood interiors, waterfalls, and a peaceful forested setting.
It offers boat access to Magic Kingdom, making it one of the most relaxing ways to reach the park.
The resort has a cosy, secluded feel while still being relatively close to the action.
Pros
- Beautiful, immersive theming
- Boat access to Magic Kingdom
- More affordable than monorail Deluxe resorts
- Peaceful, relaxing atmosphere
- Great pool and dining options
Cons
- No monorail or Skyliner access
- Can feel isolated compared to other Deluxe resorts
- Bus travel required for most parks
Transport Options
- Boat to Magic Kingdom
- Buses
Price Range
££££
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort offers a sophisticated, New England-style seaside theme and one of the best locations at Walt Disney World.
It is within walking distance of Epcot and also offers boat access to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
It has some of the most underrated dining at Disney – see our review of lunch at the Ale and Compass.
Guests also have access to Stormalong Bay, one of the most impressive pool complexes on property – and you are just a few minutes’ walk away from the Boardwalk Inn, which has one of the most charming nightlife experiences at Disney (see below).
Pros
- Walking distance to Epcot
- Boat access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Incredible pool complex (Stormalong Bay)
- Fantastic dining options nearby
Cons
- Expensive
- Can feel quieter
- Shared amenities can get busy
Transport Options
- Walking to Epcot
- Boats to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Buses
Price Range
££££
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Disney’s Beach Club Resort shares many amenities with Yacht Club but has a lighter, more relaxed coastal theme.
It also offers walking access to Epcot and is known for its proximity to Disney’s Boardwalk area.
It is especially popular with families due to its pool and location.
Pros
- Walking distance to Epcot
- Access to Stormalong Bay
- Great location for Epcot festivals
- Family-friendly atmosphere
Cons
- Very expensive
- Limited quick-service dining options
- Can feel busy during peak seasons
Transport Options
- Walking to Epcot
- Boats to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Buses
Price Range
££££
Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
Disney’s Boardwalk Inn is set along a lively entertainment waterfront inspired by 1930s Atlantic seaside boardwalks.
Although it comes to life in the evenings, with circus performers and jazzy music, the whole area is quaint and charming, rather than noisy, so don’t worry about disturbance.
Guests can walk to Epcot and Hollywood Studios or take a boat between them.
The area has restaurants, bars and entertainment right on its doorstep, making it one of the most active Deluxe resorts.
Pros
- Walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Lively entertainment area
- Great dining and nightlife options
- Unique atmosphere
Cons
- Can feel busy at night
- Expensive
- Dining options aren’t as extensive as those at the Magic Kingdom resorts
Transport Options
- Walking to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Boats
- Buses
Price Range
££££
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offers one of the most unique hotel experiences at Walt Disney World, with savanna views where guests can see giraffes, zebras and other wildlife from select rooms and viewing areas.
The resort features incredible African-inspired theming and some of the best dining at Disney, including Boma and Jiko.
Pros
- Unique savanna animal viewing experience
- Incredible theming and atmosphere
- Excellent dining options
- Peaceful, immersive setting – the lobby is incredible
Cons
- Remote location – far from most of the parks (aside from Animal Kingdom)
- No Skyliner or boat access
- Longer travel times to other parks
- Dining here is exceptional and popular – make sure you book table-service ahead of your stay
Transport Options
- Buses only
Price Range
££££
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort is a modern Deluxe resort inspired by European elegance and Disney’s classic travel heritage.
It has direct Skyliner access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, making it one of the most convenient resorts for those parks.
The resort also features upscale dining and a refined, contemporary atmosphere.
Pros
- Skyliner access
- Modern, elegant design
- Strong dining options (we love Topolino’s Terrace)
- Great Epcot and Hollywood Studios access
Cons
- Expensive
- Less traditional “Disney theming” – this is probably the kind of hotel most European guests picture if they’ve never been to Disney before, rather than the instantly recognisable Disney theming found at some other resorts
- Limited quick-service options compared to larger resorts
- Table-service dining here is incredibly popular – partly thanks to its views and partly due to its accessibility via the Skyliner. Make sure you book ahead of your stay.
Transport Options
- Skyliner
- Buses
Price Range
££££
Disney Vacation Club
Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is Disney’s version of a timeshare-style vacation ownership programme. Members purchase points that can be used to stay at Disney Vacation Club villas across Walt Disney World and other Disney destinations.
The key thing for most visitors to know is that you do not need to be a DVC member to stay at these resorts. Many villas are available for regular hotel bookings, just like any other Disney resort.
However, for most UK visitors, we don’t usually recommend focusing too heavily on Disney Vacation Club resorts when planning a first trip. This is because DVC is designed more around long-term ownership, and for UK guests the biggest trip costs tend to be flights, park tickets and accommodation rather than repeat stays.
That said, DVC resorts can still be a fantastic option if you want extra space, kitchen facilities, or a more apartment-style stay within the Disney bubble.
- Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Wilderness Lodge
- Boulder Ridge Villas at Wilderness Lodge
- Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Villas
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas (Jambo House & Kidani Village)
- Disney’s Beach Club Villas
- Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
- Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Which Walt Disney World Hotel is the best?
Now you’re asking!
Between us, we’ve stayed at numerous resorts and – while we have our personal favourites – each of them has been special in its own way.
The most important thing is to decide on your priorities before you book.
If value is your main goal, our recommendation would be Pop Century, thanks to its accessibility, closely followed by Art of Animation for families with young children. If you fancy an All-Star, our favourite is All-Star Music, although the theming at All-Star Movies is particularly fun.
In terms of Moderate Resorts, we spent years returning to Port Orleans Riverside but have recently had our heads turned by Coronado Springs – we love the relaxed Spanish vibes and incredibly array of dining options, although we do miss the Port Orleans boat trips to Disney Springs!
That said, we’ve had wonderful, relaxing times at all of the Moderate resorts down the years and each one of them offers something a little bit different.
For Deluxe Resorts, you really can’t go wrong – each and every destination is really special. The Magic Kingdom-based resorts (Polynesian, Contemporary and Grand Floridian) probably offer a more diverse array of dining options, while the Epcot-based resorts (Yacht and Beach Club and the Boardwalk Inn) have a really lovely atmosphere.
A couple of things to keep in mind when booking a Deluxe – unless you opt for Wilderness Lodge, these hotels often have a more European hotel layout, with rooms that open off long corridors, rather than external walkways. This came as a surprise to us, as many Florida holidays involve stepping straight outside into the sunshine from your room.
And unlike Moderate Resorts, which often have several smaller leisure pools spread across different village areas, Deluxe Resorts like the Polynesian tend to focus around one main feature pool and one or two quieter pool areas.
The dining at Deluxe Resorts is a huge part of the appeal. Many of the most famous restaurants at Walt Disney World are located inside Deluxe hotels – from ‘Ohana at the Polynesian and California Grill at the Contemporary to Topolino’s Terrace at Riviera Resort and the signature dining at Grand Floridian.
However, these restaurants are incredibly popular, and staying at the resort does not guarantee you a table. If there’s somewhere specific you really want to eat, it’s important to book dining reservations as early as possible, especially for breakfast character dining or signature evening restaurants.
And remember – whether you end up at the Grand Floridian for a fortnight or a few days at an All-Star, you can still enjoy Disney World’s incredible range of resorts by booking one of these restaurants yourself – or simply stopping by for an explore.
Wherever you choose, we’re sure you’ll love it!
