It’s no secret that Orlando is home to some of the world’s most exciting and best-loved attractions. But beyond Disney World and Universal Studios, there are so many charming, creative, and naturally inspiring places to visit. You may have recently moved to the region or are a lifelong Windermere socialite. However long you’ve lived here, however familiar you think you are with the area, we bet there’s something on this list that you’ve never done before. There’s always an opportunity to tour Orlando with fresh eyes.
You might be planning a private luxury tour for family or friends, but where do you start? Do you take the reins or hand them over to a private planner? Take a private jet or cruise in a luxury limousine? A private luxury tour has so many components that you could get a little overwhelmed. So, let us guide you through everything you need to know about organizing a luxury tour in Orlando.
What Kind of Luxury Are You After?
When locals think of luxury, it doesn’t just mean limos and champagne. Orlando’s luxury scene is more nuanced than ever. Your perfect tour might involve:
- A wellness escape with a private yoga instructor at Four Seasons Spa, followed by a juice tasting at a boutique farm in Sanford.
- A thrill-seeking itinerary featuring a private VIP tour of Universal Studios with no lines topped off with rooftop cocktails at any of Orlando’s fabulous rooftop bars.
- An art and architecture experience exploring private galleries in Winter Park and a yacht cruise on the Butler Chain of Lakes.
Think about what your group might be most interested in. What mood do you want to set? Is it a fun and celebratory get-together or an informative cultural tour to showcase Orlando? Defining the tone will help you realize exactly what tour you want to create.
Hire a Luxury Tour Planner or Do It Yourself?
For high-value individuals, we know that time is money. Some people prefer to handle all the details themselves, but for many, there aren’t enough hours in the day. That’s where luxury tour planners come in. These experienced planners arrange every element of the tour, including perks you might not have access to. Let’s compare the two options below:
Why Hire a Luxury Tour Planner?
- They have access to restricted or VIP-only experiences.
- Local concierge teams know how to bypass crowds, secure private bookings, and manage all the logistics. This is ideal for busy professionals.
- It’s the best option for multi-day tours or large groups. They’ll take care of books, tickets, and reservations.
Why Do It Yourself?
If you’re well-connected or prefer curating your own itinerary, Orlando is one of the best places to do it. Many venues offer direct luxury booking options if you know where to look.
- Use your Amex Platinum Concierge or Chase Private Client perks for preferred access and VIP arrangements.
- Always call ahead to see if venues offer private experiences. Most places will go above and beyond for the right price.
- Consider bundling services: some upscale transport companies offer luxury bookings with restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues.
Suggested Luxury Itineraries for Locals
Itinerary 1: The Ultimate Central Florida Day Tour (By Car + Water)
Morning:
- Chauffeur pickup in a Bentley or Rolls-Royce from your home.
- Head to Lake Nona’s Wave Hotel for a private breakfast tasting with a pastry chef at BACÁN.
- Next, a one-hour private art tour in Winter Park with a local curator visiting the Rollins Museum of Art and exclusive galleries.
Midday:
- Gourmet lunch at Prato, booked with a chef’s table experience and sommelier pairing.
- Follow with a private boat cruise along the Winter Park Chain of Lakes with a mixologist onboard.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a personalized shopping experience at The Mall at Millenia with a private stylist and VIP lounge access.
- Optional spa treatment at the Four Seasons Spa Orlando.
Evening:
- Helicopter transfer from I-Drive to Windermere for a lakeside private dinner.
Itinerary 2: A Jet-Set Day Trip from Orlando Executive Airport (KORL)
A private jet day trip is a great option for those looking to escape the local bubble without straying too far from home.
Morning:
- Depart from Orlando Executive Airport via private charter.
- 45-minute hop to Key West International Airport or Savannah/Hilton Head International.
Midday:
- In Key West: Luxury brunch at Latitudes on Sunset Key and a private snorkeling or yacht cruise.
- In Savannah: Historic mansion tour, horse-drawn carriage ride, and lunch at The Grey.
Evening:
- Return to Orlando by sunset.
- Optional: Have your luxury sedan waiting with pre-arranged catering and champagne for the ride home.
Essential Tips for a Seamless Experience
- Book early, even as a local – Locals sometimes assume proximity means availability. Not so with private chefs, stylists, or yachts, especially during convention season or holidays.
- Leverage local membership clubs – Venues like the University Club of Orlando or The Alfond Inn’s Elite Member Circle offer access to premium services or event bookings that can level up your tour.
- Use the right credit card – Luxury travel cards often include concierge services, private event access, and free upgrades. Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve are strong bets for affluent locals.
Don’t Forget Event-Based Tours
Orlando locals can create tours around seasonal happenings like:
- Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival (March)
- Orlando Wine Festival & Auction (March)
- EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival (Aug–Nov)
When to Plan Your Luxury Tour?
Even for locals, Orlando’s high season can be overwhelming. Consider these windows for a quieter, more exclusive feel:
- Late April – Early May: Just after spring break but before summer.
- Mid-September – Early October: Post-summer lull, perfect for adults-only tours.
- Early December: Get the holiday magic without peak season crowds.
Be A Tourist in Your Own City for a Different Perspective
Being a city resident doesn’t necessarily mean you know it better than anybody else. However, if you approach it with fresh eyes, experiencing the things usually reserved for tourists, you’ll get a feel for the city from a different perspective. If you know where to look, Orlando can become a playground for affluent locals, with doors opening up that you might not have noticed before.
With luxury experiences tucked into unexpected corners of the tri-county area, locals in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties can craft unforgettable, high-end tours with minimal effort, especially if you take advantage of private tour planners. Sometimes, the best way to fall in love with your city again is to see it through the eyes of a traveler.
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