The Cheapest Places to Travel to From Canada in 2024

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Written by Enoch Omololu

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Travel doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Have you thought about going to San Francisco in the fall? What about Las Vegas in the winter? Maybe there’s a destination in the list below that you haven’t considered.

Canadians can travel to countless destinations without breaking the bank by knowing where and when to find deals. Whether it includes staying close to Canada and travelling to the USA or venturing a bit farther internationally, there is no limit to affordable travel experiences.

By researching and planning ahead, Canadians can enjoy memorable, budget-friendly trips.

Cheapest Places Near Canada To Visit

If you’re looking to stay in the general vicinity of Canada, there are plenty of cheap places to travel and attractive countries near Canada to visit. These options are sure to have you excited to take a vacation without your wallet paying the price.

1. San Francisco, California

San Francisco is just under a six-hour flight from Toronto and less than a three-hour flight from Vancouver, making it a popular destination near Canada to visit. Planning a trip for the fall very well might end up being a win-win.

Tourism slows, driving prices down, and the San Francisco weather is at its warmest as the city’s trademark fog lifts.

2. Florida City, Florida

Florida City is just under three and a half hours by plane from Toronto and a bit further from Vancouver at nine and a half hours. However, it can offer refuge from the cold Canadian winter. The cheapest time to travel to Florida City is January to September, but winter and early spring offer beautiful weather in southeast Florida.

3. Washington, DC

Just an hour and a half plane ride from Toronto, the capital city of the United States, is the perfect destination for sightseeing. Most of DC’s famous attractions and museums are free, making Washington, DC, a great destination to visit on a budget.

The cheapest time to visit falls between Thanksgiving and the New Year – so if you’re looking for a Christmastime vacation, this might be the trip for you!

4. Varadero, Cuba

Looking for another sunny destination that’s just slightly further than Florida? Look no further than Varadero, Cuba. If you’re looking for an affordable, all-inclusive resort experience, Varadero is known for having some of the best prices.

Visiting Varadero in mid to late April ensures crowds will be smaller and prices will be lower. With plenty of top-tier resorts, you may also be able to save on food and drinks through hotel deals.

5. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Known for its picturesque beaches, water sports, whale watching, and local resorts, Puerto Vallarta is a classic vacation destination. Visit between April and June when rain is scarce, the weather is pleasant, and room rates and travel are affordable.

6. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City is one of the oldest, largest cities in the Americas. It is an urban getaway with many affordable, low-cost hotel options. Like Washington, DC, Mexico City is known for its sightseeing, architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The best time to travel is during the low-traffic season that spans from Easter to mid-December.

7. Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is an old Mayan city located just a bus ride away from Cancun. The best deals to visit Tulum will fall between November and December. With beautiful white beaches and rich history, Tulum is a perfect budget-friendly destination. You’ll also be in close proximity to many other Mexican destinations along the Riviera Maya.

Related: Best Places to Retire in British Columbia

Cheap Places To Travel Internationally

When you’re looking to head a little bit farther away, you might consider cheap places to travel internationally. These destinations are some of the most popular options for Canadians looking to get outside of the country and venture somewhere brand new.

8. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Jamaica is more affordable than many other Caribbean islands, making it a popular vacation destination. It is just over a four-hour flight from Toronto, providing an easily accessible international option. Known for its resorts and white beaches, Jamaica is most affordable during the winter, but you may also be able to find many last-minute deals.

9. The Bahamas

Plan your trip to the Bahamas in September for cheap flights and affordable hotels, and bed-and-breakfast options. With white sand beaches with turquoise water and exceptional snorkelling, the Bahamas have many experiences to take part in. You’ll certainly enjoy a relaxing oceanside experience.

10. Marrakesh, Morocco

While it might be known to many as the city of luxury, Marrakesh is a great destination for budget travellers due to the reasonable cost of living and many free attractions. Visit during the off seasons from March to May and from September to November for affordable hotel rates and moderate weather.

11. San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan is the oldest European-founded city in the Americas and remains the capital of Puerto Rico. Its rich history and location on the coast make it a popular tourist destination.

The best time to visit is late summer, and the cheapest month to fly to San Juan is September. San Juan has a robust nightlife scene and charming beaches and museums, making it an excellent destination for singles and families alike.

12. Dominican Republic

Well known for its beaches, resorts, and golfing, the Dominican Republic has many affordable travel options. The best time to travel to the Dominican Republic is during the spring. Like many Caribbean Islands, the Dominican Republic has an excellent selection of all-inclusive resorts, so you can get everything you need in one place.

13. Bocas del Toro, Panamá

A six-hour flight from Toronto, Bocas del Toro has a vibrant culture steeped in nature, with beaches, rainforests, and surfing easily accessible. Travelling around the islands by bus and boat is affordable and is a great way to feel immersed in the culture. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall.

14. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Known for its annual Carnival, Lake Atitlan brings together performers, floats, and cumbia music. About a seven-hour flight from Toronto, Lake Atitlan is best to travel to in early spring. Guatemala is a country in Central America that bridges the connection between Mexico and the South American continent.

15. Barranquilla, Colombia

Barranquilla is a hidden gem in Colombia. At the mouth of the Magdalena River, Barranquilla is known for its beauty and its festive Carnival celebrations. Spring is the cheapest time to visit. You can fly into Bogota from Toronto in about six hours and from Vancouver in about 11.

16. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi is a bustling city that is the cheapest to visit in the fall, avoiding the rainy season. One of the most budget-friendly destinations, Hanoi will surely have affordable and delicious street food.

The cost of living in Vietnam is quite low, meaning that visitors can experience luxury on a comparably reasonable budget.

17. San José, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is famous for environmentalism and ex-pats. The best time to visit is between December and April, when it will be the driest, brightest, and cheapest. Costa Rica borders Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. It’s typically warm year-round.

18. Panama City, Panama

The capital of Panama, Panama City, is home to the Panama Canal, and it is the only place where you can watch the sun rise on the Pacific and set on the Atlantic. The best time to travel to Panama City is between January and mid-April.

19. Nha Trang, Vietnam

The seafood capital of Vietnam, Nha Trang, is a great budget travel and food destination. The weather here is best between February and May. It’s a coastal resort city where you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful sandy beaches with plenty of entertainment on Nha Trang’s promenade.

Cheapest Places To Travel In Europe

Trips to Europe can sometimes come with a staggering price tag – but these destinations can allow you to enjoy the European experience without breaking the bank.

20. Lisbon, Portugal

With its urban feel and famous shores, Portugal’s capital city is well-loved among budget travellers. Book a trip for spring or fall, and you’ll still be able to enjoy beach days without the crowds and higher prices. There are plenty of direct flights from North America to Lisbon, which helps cut down costs.

21. Split, Croatia

Head to this city along the Adriatic Sea in September and October when the crowds have dispersed to enjoy architecture, swimming and picturesque views. You’ll be able to enjoy the typical Mediterranean experience without the price tag of Southern France or the Amalfi Coast.

22. Krakow, Poland

Take in the architecture of the well-preserved medieval core and Jewish quarter when you visit this city near the border of the Czech Republic. While the high season from June to August brings with it many festivals and tourists, travelling to Krakow outside of these dates may be equally rewarding without the increased prices.

23. London, England

England’s capital city and a central meeting point for many, London is so expansive that there are many free and budget-friendly activities if you know where to look. The cheapest time to travel to London is between November and March.

24. Budapest, Hungary

Take a trip to Budapest’s thermal baths and take a walk through the city. Budapest has much to offer and is consistently a hit with budget travellers.

The best time to travel here is November to March if you want to save money. You’ll enjoy the city’s traditional sections as well as its modern offerings.

25. Olomouc, Czech Republic

Olomouc is known for its large squares and numerous historic religious buildings throughout the city. The best time to visit is May through September. Its baroque style is sure to appeal to history buffs and selfie-takers alike.

26. Leipzig, Germany

Leipzig is a center of culture with many museums and world-renowned bookmaking. The best time of year to visit is May to September. It’s considered one of Germany’s most beautiful cities, as it has restored its old buildings rather than demolishing them.

FAQs

What is the cheapest country to travel to right now?

The Dominican Republic is consistently one of the cheapest countries to travel to in the world. That’s because many flights go there, and the cost of living is low, so travellers can eat well and enjoy nice accommodations with a low price tag.

What is the safest and cheapest country to visit?

Iceland, a European country located in the midst of the Atlantic Ocean, is widely considered the safest and cheapest country to visit. Crime rates are very low – and so are prices.

How can I travel abroad on a low budget?

If you’re looking to travel abroad on a low budget, you should plan ahead and look for ways to travel in the off-season. Seeking out the cheapest flights and accommodations can help you lower the costs of your trips.

Is $1,000 dollars enough to travel?

As long as you’re willing to travel on a budget, $1,000 a week per person is enough to travel comfortably, often with flights included.

Can you travel to Europe for $50 a day?

$50 a day may be practical in a travel destination closer to Canada, but it is not as practical when travelling to Europe. If you do choose to travel to Europe on $50 per day, you may have to consider cheaper housing options like hostels rather than hotels.

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Gravatar for Enoch Omololu

Enoch Omololu

Enoch Omololu is a personal finance expert. He has a master’s degree in Finance and Investment Management from the University of Aberdeen Business School (Scotland) and has completed several courses and certificates in finance, including the Canadian Securities Course. Enoch is passionate about helping others win with their finances and has written about money matters for over a decade. He has been featured or quoted in The Globe and Mail, CBC News, Yahoo Finance, GO Banking Rates, Financial Post, Bankrate, Forbes, Toronto Star, CTV News, and other personal finance publications. He founded Savvy New Canadians, one of Canada’s top financial education platforms.

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