15 CHEAP Places to Fly from Florida This Year

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Escaping Florida’s intense summer heat doesn’t have to cost a fortune. After spending way too many hours hunting for flight deals from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando airports, I’ve discovered some seriously affordable getaways that aren’t just cheap for the sake of being cheap. While everyone else is sweating it out at Disney World, you could be sipping coffee in Colombia or exploring Mexico City’s food scene.

From Orlando to South Florida, these are some of the best places in Florida to snag budget-friendly flights that are actually worth visiting. I recently grabbed a $200 roundtrip to Cartagena’s walled city and found regular deals to places like Medellin, where perfect 75-degree weather and mountain views make the short flight time even sweeter. Here are 15 destinations that prove traveling doesn’t require a second mortgage.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Florida

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. MCO) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other cheap flight deals.

In 2024 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $225 roundtrip fare from Miami to London. On average, I save about $300 roundtrip on chosen flight routes. I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 1-2 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Affordable Travel Destinations from Florida

Looking for the best travel destinations from Florida? Explore the vibrant culture of Havana, with its classic cars, historic architecture, and lively music scene. Relax on the stunning beaches of Nassau, where crystal-clear waters and luxury resorts await. Discover the beauty of Cancún, known for its white-sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Mayan ruins. Experience the charm of San Juan, with its colorful streets, historic forts, and delicious Puerto Rican cuisine. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or history, these top destinations from Florida offer something for every traveler.

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1. Fort Lauderdale to Havana ($150–$220 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, Southwest, American (restrictions apply)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌴 for perfect tropical weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, classic car enthusiasts 🚗, music lovers 🎵

Havana is like stepping into a time capsule with a killer soundtrack. This vibrant Cuban capital delivers classic cars cruising past colorful colonial buildings while salsa music spills from every doorway.

Old Havana (Habana Vieja) is packed with cobblestone streets, historic plazas, and buildings in various states of beautiful decay. El Malecón is the famous seawall where locals gather at sunset to socialize, fish, and play music with waves crashing over the barrier. The vintage American cars here aren’t just for tourists, they’re actual taxis that locals have kept running for 60+ years through incredible ingenuity and mechanical wizardry.

This quick hop from Fort Lauderdale is one of the easiest ways for Americans to visit Cuba, especially during the dry season from November through April, when the weather is warm, breezy, and ideal for walking the city.  JetBlue and Southwest usually offer the best fares if booked 2 to 3 months in advance. 

A little planning is required before heading to Havana. You’ll need to qualify under one of the approved travel categories like “Support for the Cuban People,” which is easy to meet with an itinerary focused on local experiences. 

2. Orlando to Nassau ($123–$210 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, Bahamasair, Silver Airways (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-April 🌴 for perfect beach weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, snorkeling enthusiasts 🐠, cruise alternatives 🛥️

Nassau is basically the easiest international beach escape from Orlando. This Bahamian paradise offers those ridiculous turquoise waters and powder-white beaches you’ve seen all over Instagram.

Cable Beach stretches for miles with perfect sand and gentle waves, while downtown Nassau gives you that colorful Caribbean vibe with pastel buildings, straw markets, and the famous Queen’s Staircase carved directly into limestone. For the ultimate beach day, grab a quick ferry to Blue Lagoon Island where you can chill with hammocks stretched between palm trees or swim with dolphins in crystal clear water.

This super short flight makes for a perfect weekend getaway. JetBlue typically offers the best combination of price and comfort, though Bahamasair occasionally drops fares below $150 roundtrip during their seasonal sales. The real money-saving hack is traveling during shoulder season in early December or May when weather is still perfect but prices drop dramatically. 

3. Miami to Cancun ($169–$250 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: American, Spirit, Frontier, Aeromexico (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌴 for perfect beach weather without hurricane risk
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, all-inclusive fans 🍹, ancient ruin explorers 🏛️

Cancun is where you go when you want Miami vibes but with clearer water and cheaper drinks. This Mexican hotspot delivers that perfect combo of white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and nightlife that goes until sunrise.

The Hotel Zone is a 14-mile strip of beaches and resorts where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico with water so blue it looks photoshopped. For a break from beach lounging, Chichen Itza lets you explore ancient Mayan ruins and check a world wonder off your bucket list, while Isla Mujeres offers a chiller vibe with golf cart transportation and fewer crowds just a quick ferry ride away.

Flights from Miami are almost always affordable thanks to heavy airline competition. Spirit and Frontier regularly drop one-way fares under $99 during Tuesday sales if you can travel light. The best time to visit is between November and April, when you’ll get perfect 80-degree days and less rain, with slightly better deals in February and March compared to the December peak

4.Tampa to San Juan ($96–$180 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, Spirit, Southwest (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-April 🌴 for perfect tropical weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach enthusiasts 🏖️, food lovers 🍽️, history buffs 🏛️

San Juan delivers Caribbean paradise without needing a passport or currency exchange. This Puerto Rican capital mixes colorful colonial history with perfect beaches and a food scene that’ll ruin American “Puerto Rican” food for you forever.

Old San Juan is packed with blue cobblestone streets, colorful buildings from the 1500s, and massive forts that look like they’re straight out of Game of Thrones. Condado Beach gives you that perfect mix of clear water, soft sand, and beachfront bars where you can grab piña coladas (invented in Puerto Rico!) without ever leaving the beach. 

Flight deals on this route are plentiful with Spirit regularly dropping fares below $150 roundtrip if you can travel with minimal luggage and book during their Tuesday sales. JetBlue costs more but gives you a much better experience with free WiFi and snacks. December through April offers perfect 75-85 degree days without the extreme humidity and occasional rain of summer months. 

5. Orlando to San Francisco ($248–$340 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: United, JetBlue, Frontier, Alaska (7+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September-November & April-May 🌉 for clearest weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Foodies 🍷, outdoor enthusiasts 🌲, tech enthusiasts 💻

San Francisco is where you trade Orlando’s sweaty theme parks for foggy hills and sourdough bread. This compact city packs incredible diversity into 7×7 miles of peninsular paradise.

The Golden Gate Bridge obviously makes it onto everyone’s photo reel, but viewing it from Baker Beach gives you that perfect shot without the tourist crowds. Mission District serves up the best burritos you’ll ever have at places like La Taqueria where the line is worth it, plus colorful murals covering nearly every available wall. 

For nature without leaving the city, Golden Gate Park is bigger than Central Park with hidden gardens, actual bison, and museums that would be main attractions in other cities.

This cross-country route stays surprisingly affordable if you know when to book. Frontier and Spirit battle for the budget crowd with basic fares sometimes dropping below $300 roundtrip if you can travel light and book 6-8 weeks ahead. Fall is absolutely the best time to visit with perfect weather and fewer tourists while summer is famously foggy and chilly. 

6. Orlando to Santo Domingo ($112–$190 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, JetBlue, American (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-March 🌴 for driest weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Culture seekers 🏛️, beach explorers 🏖️, budget travelers 💰

Santo Domingo is Dominican paradise without the all-inclusive resort bubble. This vibrant capital offers the oldest European city in the Americas with colonial architecture, incredible food, and beaches just minutes from downtown.

Zona Colonial is packed with 500-year-old buildings, cobblestone streets, and the first cathedral in the Americas where you can literally walk through history while street vendors sell fresh coconuts and mangos. Boca Chica Beach is just 30 minutes from the city with calm, shallow turquoise water perfect for swimming. 

Spirit dominates this route with the cheapest fares, sometimes dropping below $130 roundtrip if you book during their Tuesday sales and can travel with just a personal item. JetBlue costs more but gives you a much better experience with free WiFi and actual legroom. January and February offer perfect weather without the rainy season downpours that can happen in other months. 

7. Orlando to Belize City ($148–$230 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: United, American, Copa (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-April 🌴 for dry season
• 🏆 Perfect for: Jungle explorers 🌿, diving enthusiasts 🐠, adventure seekers 🧗‍♀️

Belize is basically where Caribbean beaches meet jungle adventures. This small Central American country offers the perfect mix of crystal clear waters, ancient ruins, and outdoor thrills without the crowds of Mexico.

The Great Blue Hole is that famous perfect circle of deep blue water you’ve seen on every diving bucket list, while Ambergris Caye gives you that laid-back island vibe with golf carts as the main transportation and beachfront bars built on wooden piers over the water. The jungle interior hides Mayan ruins like Xunantunich where you can climb ancient temples without the massive crowds at similar sites in neighboring countries.

This direct flight from Orlando makes getting to paradise surprisingly easy. United and American compete for the lowest fares, with deals sometimes dropping below $180 roundtrip if you book 8-12 weeks out and travel during weekdays. February and March offer perfect weather with minimal rain and humidity. 

8. Jacksonville to New York City ($159–$240 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, Delta, American, United (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-October 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, culture seekers 🎭, food enthusiasts 🍕

New York City is basically sensory overload in the best possible way. This iconic metropolis hits you with endless energy, diverse neighborhoods, and that distinct feeling that you’re walking through movie sets at every turn.

Central Park gives you that perfect escape from concrete jungle madness with acres of paths, ponds, and green space surrounded by skyscrapers, while neighborhoods like Greenwich Village and Williamsburg offer completely different vibes just a subway ride apart. The food scene is unmatched from $1 pizza slices that somehow taste amazing at 2 AM to food trucks serving authentic international cuisine that rivals fancy restaurants.

May and September hit that sweet spot with perfect walking weather without the summer tourist hordes or winter freeze. JetBlue typically offers the best combo of price and experience on this route with free WiFi and more legroom, though American and Delta run sales that can drop prices below $200 roundtrip if you book 6-8 weeks ahead. 

• Read Next: Budget-Friendly Flights from NYC

9. Miami to Dublin ($368–$480 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Aer Lingus, British Airways, American (connecting flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-September 🌦️ for longer daylight and milder weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History lovers 🏰, pub enthusiasts 🍻, literary fans 📚

Dublin is like trading Miami’s endless summer for a city where rain is a personality trait. This compact Irish capital packs medieval castles, literary history, and the world’s friendliest locals into walkable neighborhoods where pubs outnumber grocery stores.

Temple Bar is the famous nightlife district that tourists love and locals avoid, packed with pubs where live traditional music plays all day and Guinness flows like water. For a less touristy experience, The Liberties neighborhood gives you those authentic Dublin vibes with traditional pubs where old men argue about politics and bartenders know most customers by name. 

This long-haul route occasionally sees amazing deals, particularly with Aer Lingus which sometimes drops fares below $400 roundtrip during their seasonal sales. For the best prices, book 3-4 months ahead and aim for travel in May or September when weather is decent but high season prices haven’t kicked in. 

• Read Next: Must-See Attractions in Europe

10. Miami to Lima ($207–$300 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: LATAM, American, Avianca (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-October 🏔️ for dry season in the highlands
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food lovers 🍽️, history buffs 🏛️, adventure seekers 🧗‍♀️

Lima is South America’s underrated gem with food so good it’ll ruin you for every other cuisine. This coastal Peruvian capital blends ancient history, stunning Pacific views, and the best restaurant scene on the continent.

Miraflores is the upscale district with clifftop parks where you can watch paragliders soar over the Pacific while locals jog along perfectly manicured paths. Barranco is a bohemian neighborhood with colorful colonial buildings, street art, and the famous Bridge of Sighs crossing a tiny ravine.

This route from Miami is one of the best deals in international travel, with LATAM and Avianca frequently offering fares under $300 roundtrip during their seasonal sales. For the absolute cheapest deals, book 2-3 months out and travel midweek during May or June when Lima’s coastal fog (called “garúa”) hasn’t fully settled in. 

• Read Next: Stunning Places in South America

11. Fort Myers to Oranjestad ($131–$210 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, American, Spirit (connecting flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-August 🌴 for lower prices and less wind
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, casino enthusiasts 🎰, water sports fans 🏄‍♀️

Aruba is that perfect Caribbean island that lives up to its “One Happy Island” nickname. This Dutch paradise offers bone-white beaches, crystal clear waters, and constant sunshine with barely any rain all year.

Eagle Beach consistently ranks among the world’s best beaches with powder-soft white sand and calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming, while Palm Beach gives you that resort strip with beachfront bars and restaurants where you can sip fruity drinks with your toes in the sand. The island’s desert-like interior is filled with unique attractions like Arikok National Park where cacti grow alongside limestone caves and natural pools form perfect swimming spots along the rugged northeastern coast.

There are no direct flights from Fort Myers, so a connection is required, but it’s absolutely worth the extra leg. American typically offers the lowest fares with layovers in Miami or Charlotte, while JetBlue has a more comfortable experience for a bit more money. For the best value, plan a trip between May and July, when roundtrip flights often dip under $200 and you’ll still get sunny 85°F days with low humidity. 

12. Fort Lauderdale to New Orleans ($55–$120 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, Delta (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February-May & October-November 🎭 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food lovers 🍤, music enthusiasts 🎺, party seekers 🍹

New Orleans is basically a vibe you can’t find anywhere else in America. This city operates on its own frequency with incredible food, live music pouring from every doorway, and an attitude that celebrates life at full volume.

The French Quarter is obviously where tourists flock with its iconic balconies and non-stop party scene on Bourbon Street, but the real magic happens in neighborhoods like the Marigny where locals pack into tiny jazz clubs to watch world-class musicians jam until sunrise. Magazine Street offers six miles of shops, restaurants, and bars without the tourist crowds. 

This short hop from Fort Lauderdale is one of the best deals in domestic travel, with Spirit regularly dropping fares below $70 roundtrip if you can travel with just a personal item and book during their Tuesday sales. February through April brings perfect weather plus the insanity of Mardi Gras season when the whole city transforms into one massive street party. October and November offer equally amazing weather without the peak crowds. 

13. Key West to Boston ($45–$140 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (with connection)
• 🛫 Airlines: American, Delta, United (connecting flights only)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-June & September-October 🍂 for mild weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, seafood lovers 🦞, college town explorers 🎓

Boston is where you trade Key West’s endless summer for a city that actually has seasons. This historic playground is packed with cobblestone streets, killer seafood, and an energy that makes you want to randomly shout “wicked” in conversation.

The Freedom Trail is this genius red brick path running through the city connecting all the historic spots so even the most directionally challenged tourists can follow it without getting lost. Harvard Square is where you can pretend you’re smart enough to attend Harvard while browsing bookstores and eavesdropping on actual geniuses. 

Getting from Key West to Boston means connecting through a bigger airport, usually Miami or Atlanta. American Airlines runs the most options but rarely drops fares below $250 even during their sales. May and early October are when Boston absolutely shines with perfect walking weather and way fewer tourists.

14. Miami to Paris ($500–$620 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 9 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Air France, American, Delta, Norse Atlantic (7+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-October 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Art lovers 🎨, food enthusiasts 🥐, romantic getaways 💑

Paris is basically everything you’ve seen in movies and more. The city actually lives up to the hype with its perfect mix of iconic landmarks, incredible food, and neighborhoods that each feel like their own little world.

The Eiffel Tower is obviously a must but seeing it sparkle at night hits different than during the day, while Montmartre gives you those classic Parisian vibes with its winding streets and artists selling paintings in the square. The Louvre is massive but skip the crowds fighting for selfies with the Mona Lisa and check out the less packed wings instead. For the best views in the city, head to the rooftop terrace at Galeries Lafayette department store. 

This transatlantic route from Miami sees some surprisingly good deals thanks to competition between major airlines. Air France offers direct flights and occasionally runs sales with fares around $550 roundtrip if you book 3-4 months ahead. Norse Atlantic is the budget option with bare-bones service but sometimes drops prices below $500 if you can travel light. Spring and fall hit that sweet spot with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists clogging up the attractions. 

15. Tampa to Denver ($123–$200 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, Southwest, United (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-October 🏔️ for outdoor adventures and April for skiing deals ⛷️
• 🏆 Perfect for: Mountain lovers 🏔️, craft beer enthusiasts 🍺, outdoor adventurers 🥾

Denver is where flat Florida vibes meet Rocky Mountain highs. This city combines urban coolness with easy access to some of the most ridiculous natural scenery in America.

16th Street Mall runs through downtown with free shuttle buses connecting shops, restaurants, and the insanely cool Union Station that’s been transformed from a transportation hub to a food and drink destination with some of the city’s best restaurants inside a historic train station. Larimer Square gives you that perfect Instagram backdrop with string lights crossing over a street lined with Victorian buildings now housing trendy restaurants and boutiques. 

Frontier Airlines basically gives this route away sometimes with fares dipping below $100 one-way if you book during their frequent sales and can pack efficiently. They’re based in Denver so they typically have the most flight options. Southwest often matches these prices while giving you those two free checked bags. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Florida

Do you have more queries about the cheapest places to fly from Florida? Here are some common questions I get asked a lot about cheap flights from Florida to anywhere.

What airport is cheapest to fly out of in Florida?

In Florida, there are several major airports, and the cheapest one to fly out of may change based on these variables.

1. Miami International Airport (MIA): Often offers competitive prices, especially for international flights.
2. Orlando International Airport (MCO): A major hub that might provide affordable options, particularly to tourist destinations.
3. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): Known for being a hub for several low-cost carriers, this airport might offer some of the best domestic flight deals.
4. Tampa International Airport (TPA): Another option that might have reasonable prices depending on the destination and timing.
5. Jacksonville International Airport (JAX): Sometimes offers good deals, particularly for domestic flights.

It’s essential to note that the “cheapest” airport can vary widely depending on where you’re flying to, when you’re traveling, and the airlines operating at that time. Utilizing online travel comparison tools and being flexible with travel dates and times can help you find the best deals from these and other Florida airports.

What are the cheapest international destinations from Florida?

Florida, with its strategic location, offers affordable flights to numerous international destinations. Popular cheap international flights from Florida often include Havana, Cancun, Belize City, and Lima. By using platforms like Expedia and setting up fare alerts, travelers can ensure they’re getting the best deals and explore a range of destinations without breaking the bank.

How can I find roundtrip flight deals from Florida?

Finding the best roundtrip flight deals from FL requires a mix of planning and flexibility. Utilize travel comparison sites, set up price alerts, and consider traveling during off-peak seasons for your chosen destination. Being open to alternative airports and flying on weekdays can increase your chances of snagging unbeatable deals.

Which airlines offer cheap flights from cities like Miami and Tampa?

Several airlines offer competitive rates for flights departing from Florida cities. Spirit, JetBlue, LATAM, and American Airlines are among the carriers that frequently offer affordable destinations to fly from Florida hubs like Miami and Tampa. It’s advisable to subscribe to airline newsletters and monitor their promotions for the best deals.

Are there cheap domestic flights departing from Fort Lauderdale and Orlando?

Absolutely! Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, being major flight hubs, offer a plethora of domestic flight options. Destinations like Denver, New Orleans, Boston, and San Francisco often feature inexpensive trips from these FL cities. Airlines like Spirit and JetBlue are known for their domestic deals, making exploring the U.S. more accessible and affordable.

How can I ensure I’m getting the best flight deals from Florida?

To consistently secure the cheapest places to fly from Florida, it’s essential to book flights well in advance, remain flexible with travel dates, and utilize fare comparison platforms. Monitoring price drops, considering alternative airports, and traveling during off-peak times can also lead to significant savings. Remember, a little research goes a long way!