7 Affordable Fall Destinations You Can Fly to Right Now

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I know what you’re thinking: affordable flights don’t exist anymore, right? Wrong. I spend way too much time hunting for flight deals (my browser history is embarrassing), and I’ve got some good news: you can still fly to incredible places this fall without selling your car.

These are the best places in fall that won’t make your wallet cry. I just snagged a $400 round trip to Porto, Portugal, last week, and let me tell you—sipping coffee on those iconic blue-tiled streets was worth every penny. From Mexico City’s endless street food scene to the warm Mediterranean waters of Croatia, I’m sharing actual flight deals I’ve found, plus when to book them. No crazy catches, just real destinations you can actually afford right now.

My #1 tip for finding cheap fall flights

Looking for the cheapest places to fly in the fall? Then you’re probably interested in how you can find the cheapest flights all year round. This tip has saved me significant money on airfare, so I want to spill the beans before we cover locations. 

I’ve been using Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find the cheapest flights for both domestic and international destinations. It’s a free service where you to select your home airport and receive free email alerts about cheap flight deals. They also send out alerts regarding mistake fares and other too-good-to-be-true savings.  

The free tier is a great way to save money on occasional flights if you’re only an occasional traveler. However, I recommend looking into the premium-level membership if you book several flights a year or more. For just $49 a year, you’re the first to know about exclusive deals and incredible savings. When Going saves me hundreds of dollars on each flight, there’s no question that it pays to go premium. 

I’ve saved thousands of dollars on flights since I started using Scott’s Cheap Flights, and you can see those savings. For an even better deal, you can use my discount code Jon20 to save 20% when you join Going!

Best Cheap Getaways to Travel during the Fall

Looking for cheap escapes to travel during the fall? Visit North Carolina for vibrant autumn foliage and scenic mountain drives, Texas for mild weather and lively festivals, Washington, DC for stunning fall colors and historic landmarks, and Toronto, Ontario for crisp air and beautiful city parks. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, these destinations offer budget-friendly escapes to travel during the fall.

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1. Asheville, North Carolina ($98–$180 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: American, Delta, United (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Leaf peepers, craft beer lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, art scene explorers

Asheville is the ultimate fall getaway with ridiculously affordable flights and some of the most spectacular autumn colors you’ll find anywhere in America. The city offers that perfect mix of mountain vibes and cool culture without the crowds or prices of bigger destinations.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is basically fall foliage heaven with endless scenic overlooks where you can capture those perfect Instagram shots of mountain vistas exploding with red and gold. Downtown Asheville has one of the best craft brewery scenes in the country, with over 30 breweries like Wicked Weed and Highland Brewing all within walking distance. Don’t miss the massive Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home that looks even more impressive in the season, or hike to Looking Glass Falls where the surrounding forest reflection makes everything magical.

Fall temperatures hover around a perfect 65°F with minimal rain, ideal for exploring both outdoors and the city’s amazing food scene. Score the cheapest flights by booking 4-6 weeks ahead on American or Delta, which often drop midweek fares below $120 roundtrip from major East Coast and Atlanta hubs. 

2. Dallas, Texas ($88–$160 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: American, Southwest, Spirit (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Sports fans, foodies, shoppers, urban explorers

Dallas delivers major bang for your buck in fall with crazy cheap flights and perfect weather after the scorching Texas summer finally cools down. The city offers big-time attractions without the big-time prices, making it ideal for a quick weekend escape.

Klyde Warren Park is Dallas’ coolest urban green space built over a freeway where food trucks gather and locals hang out, while the Bishop Arts District is packed with indie boutiques, amazing restaurants, and street art that’s perfect for your social feed. Sports fans can catch the Cowboys or Mavericks in action depending on the month, and the massive Dallas Arboretum turns into a pumpkin paradise with its “Autumn at the Arboretum” festival featuring over 90,000 pumpkins and gourds. Don’t miss the free Reunion Tower GeO-Deck observation hours on special days for insane panoramic city views.

Fall brings those perfect Texas temperatures around 75°F with sunny skies and way less humidity than summer months. The absolute best flight deals come from Southwest‘s famous Tuesday sales, which frequently feature Dallas routes starting at $88 roundtrip from neighboring states. For longer flights, American offers hub discounts with fares below $120 from most major cities when you book 3-5 weeks ahead and fly mid-week. 

3. Washington, DC ($89–$170 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: American, United, Southwest (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: History buffs, museum hoppers, political junkies, budget travelers

Washington, DC is the ultimate fall getaway with ridiculously cheap flights and perfect weather for exploring a city where most attractions are completely free. The nation’s capital transforms in autumn with colorful foliage framing iconic monuments and way fewer tourist crowds.

The National Mall looks even more stunning with fall colors surrounding the monuments, and you can actually take photos without fighting through summer tour groups. All the Smithsonian Museums are 100% free, from the mind-blowing Air and Space Museum to the recently renovated Natural History Museum with the Hope Diamond. Wander through Georgetown when the historic brick buildings are framed by golden leaves, or check out the trendy Navy Yard neighborhood along the riverfront where locals hang out at outdoor beer gardens and restaurants.

Fall temperatures stay comfortably around 65°F, perfect for walking between monuments without the swampy summer humidity DC is notorious for. The cheapest flights typically come from Southwest‘s Tuesday sales, with fares often dipping below $100 roundtrip from Northeast and Southeast cities when you book 4-6 weeks ahead. American and United frequently battle for the best deals on this route, so setting fare alerts on both airlines can score you midweek flights for as low as $89 roundtrip from major hubs. 

4. Toronto, Ontario ($119–$210 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: Air Canada, Porter, United (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: City explorers, foodies, cultural enthusiasts, hockey fans

Toronto is Canada’s most vibrant city and surprisingly affordable in fall with flight deals that make a quick international getaway totally doable. The city offers an incredible mix of cultures, neighborhoods, and experiences without the summer crowds or winter freeze.

Kensington Market is where you’ll find Toronto’s coolest shops, global street food, and vintage stores all packed into a few colorful blocks. The massive CN Tower offers those iconic skyline views, while the nearby Distillery District has cobblestone streets lined with indie boutiques and restaurants housed in historic whiskey factory buildings. Sports fans can catch the Maple Leafs hockey season opener or explore the Hockey Hall of Fame. Don’t miss Toronto Islands for the best city skyline photos, just a quick ferry ride from downtown.

Fall brings comfortable temperatures around 60°F and gorgeous foliage in the city’s many parks like High Park, where you can hike trails covered in red and gold leaves. For the absolute best flight deals, Porter Airlines frequently runs flash sales with fares as low as $119 roundtrip from East Coast cities when you book 3-5 weeks ahead. 

5. Guatemala City, Guatemala ($135–$240 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: Avianca, American, United (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, coffee lovers, budget explorers

Guatemala City is your affordable gateway to one of Central America’s most incredible countries, with fall flights at rock-bottom prices and perfect weather for exploring. The city serves as the ideal jumping-off point for adventures that cost a fraction of what you’d pay in more touristy destinations.

Zona 1 is packed with colonial architecture and the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral in the main plaza, while Zona 10 (Zona Viva) is where you’ll find the city’s best restaurants and nightlife. The National Palace is actually worth visiting inside with its crazy detailed murals and artifacts. Most travelers use the city as a base for day trips to nearby Antigua with its colorful colonial buildings and coffee plantations, or Lake Atitlán where traditional Mayan villages surround what many call the most beautiful lake in the world.

Score the absolute cheapest flights by setting fare alerts on Avianca, which frequently drops prices below $160 roundtrip from Miami, Houston, and LA for midweek departures. The sweet spot for booking is 5-7 weeks ahead, and flying on Tuesday or Wednesday can save you up to $70 compared to weekend flights. 

• Read Next: Best Places to Travel in September
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6. Reykjavik, Iceland ($260–$390 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: Icelandair, Play Airlines, Delta (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Northern lights hunters, hot spring enthusiasts, adventure travelers, photographers

Reykjavik is surprisingly affordable in fall when airlines slash prices before winter tourism picks up for northern lights season. The city offers the perfect base for exploring Iceland‘s otherworldly landscapes with fewer tourists and a chance to see the aurora without peak season prices.

Downtown Reykjavik is super walkable with colorful buildings, amazing coffee shops, and the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church that looks even more dramatic against fall’s moody skies. The famous Blue Lagoon is less crowded in fall, letting you actually enjoy those milky blue waters without photo-bombers in your shots. Fall is prime time for Golden Circle tours where you can see the massive Gullfoss waterfall, erupting Geysir, and dramatic landscapes with way fewer tour buses around. For the ultimate experience, take a northern lights tour as the aurora viewing gets better each week deeper into fall.

By late October and November, you’ll have enough darkness to spot the northern lights but still decent daylight hours for exploring, with temperatures ranging from 30-45°F. The absolute best flight deals come from Play Airlines, Iceland’s budget carrier that regularly drops prices below $300 roundtrip from Boston, New York, and Washington DC when you book 6-8 weeks ahead. Mid-week departures on Icelandair typically save you $60-80 compared to weekend flights, and they frequently offer fall flash sales that include hotel packages at significant discounts. 

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7. Gothenburg, Sweden ($320–$460 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: SAS, Lufthansa, KLM (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Design enthusiasts, seafood lovers, cozy culture seekers, off-the-beaten-path travelers

Gothenburg is basically Sweden’s hidden gem that flies under the tourist radar, offering all the Scandinavian coolness without the insane prices or crowds of Stockholm. The city hits that perfect sweet spot of historic charm, amazing food, and cutting-edge design that makes for an epic fall getaway.

Haga district is the city’s oldest neighborhood where you can wander cobblestone streets lined with wooden houses and traditional cafés serving cinnamon buns the size of your face. The Gothenburg Archipelago is just a 30-minute tram and ferry ride away, with car-free islands where colorful fishing villages look even more picturesque with fall colors. Don’t miss the Liseberg amusement park when it transforms for Halloween, or the indoor Fish Church market where you can sample the freshest seafood at prices locals actually pay. The Konstmuseum art museum houses an impressive Nordic collection that you can explore without fighting through crowds.

Fall brings that cozy Swedish atmosphere in cafés and restaurants across the city. Temperatures range from 40-55°F, ideal for exploring with a warm coffee in hand. The cheapest flights typically come from SAS Airlines, which offers sale prices below $370 roundtrip from East Coast hubs when you book 8-10 weeks ahead for midweek travel. Setting fare alerts on Lufthansa can also score you connecting deals through Frankfurt or Munich that sometimes dip below $350 roundtrip.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the cheapest places to fly in the fall

Looking to make some big travel plans in the fall 2025? Here are some popular questions and answers about cheap places to fly in the fall.

Is it cheaper to fly in the fall?

Absolutely! Flying during the fall season often presents a favorable economic prospect for travelers. As the summer travel rush dissipates, airlines typically experience a decline in demand for tickets. In response, they tend to adjust their pricing strategies, offering more competitive fares to entice passengers. Consequently, astute travelers can take advantage of this period to secure more cost-effective flights, enabling them to explore their desired destinations while optimizing their travel budgets.

What are some of the cheapest places to fly in the fall?

Some of the cheapest places to fly in the fall include Asheville, NC; Dallas, Texas; Washington, DC; Toronto, Ontario; Reykjavik, Iceland; and Gothenburg, Sweden. These destinations offer affordable flights, budget-friendly accommodations, and a range of attractions and activities. 

Remember that actual prices will vary depending on several factors, including the departing airport, airline, and travel days. Airfare prices change frequently, so the actual cheapest places to fly in September, October, and November may differ. 

Are there any specific days or times to book flights for the cheapest fares?

Generally, booking weekday flights and avoiding peak travel times can help secure cheaper fares. Additionally, booking well in advance or being flexible with travel dates can increase the chances of finding the best deals. Signing up for airline newsletters or fare alert services like Going to stay informed about flash sales or discounted fares is also beneficial.

What are some tips for finding the cheapest places to fly in the fall?

Finding the cheapest places to fly in the fall requires research and flexibility. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

• Be Flexible. Being flexible with your travel dates can significantly impact the cost of your flight. Consider flying on weekdays or shoulder season dates when demand is lower. Prices tend to be cheaper during these times.
• Explore alternative airports. Check if there are alternative airports near your destination that may offer cheaper flights. Sometimes flying into or out of smaller regional airports can save you money.
• Sign up for fare alerts. Subscribe to fare alert services (like Going) to receive notifications about special deals and discounted fares. This lets you know about price drops and promotions for specific destinations.
• Use flight comparison websites. Utilize flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights to compare prices across multiple airlines and find the best deals. These platforms often have flexible date options that show you the cheapest days to fly.
• Plan your trip during off-peak times. Traveling during off-peak times, such as early fall or late fall, can help you find cheaper flights and accommodations. Avoiding major holidays or popular vacation periods can save you money and provide a more affordable travel experience.
• Utilize frequent flyer programs and travel rewards. If you have accumulated frequent flyer miles or travel rewards points, check if they can be used to offset the cost of your fall flights. Airlines and credit card companies often have partnerships that allow you to redeem points for discounted or free flights.
• Consider budget airlines. Check if any budget airlines are operating in your region or flying to your desired destination. These airlines often offer lower fares but may have additional fees for services like baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals.

Which US airlines offer the cheapest flights in the fall?

The cost of flights can vary depending on destination, travel dates, and demand. However, several US airlines are often considered budget-friendly or known for offering competitive fares. Here are a few US airlines that are often associated with affordable flights:

• Southwest Airlines: Southwest is well-regarded for its low-cost fares and transparent pricing. They do not charge change fees and offer two free checked bags, making them popular among budget-conscious travelers.
• JetBlue Airways: JetBlue is known for its reasonable fares and comfortable in-flight experience. They offer complimentary snacks and beverages, in-flight entertainment, and generous legroom, making them a popular choice for affordable domestic flights.
• Spirit Airlines: Spirit is an ultra-low-cost carrier that offers extremely low base fares. They operate on a no-frills model, meaning additional fees may apply for baggage, seat selection, and refreshments. However, their low base fares can be appealing for travelers looking for the absolute lowest prices.
• Frontier Airlines: Frontier is another ultra-low-cost carrier that focuses on providing affordable flights. They offer a range of fare options, allowing travelers to choose add-ons and services based on their preferences and budget.
• Allegiant Air: Allegiant Air specializes in offering low-cost flights to leisure destinations. They often serve smaller airports and focus on non-stop flights to popular vacation spots. Allegiant’s unbundled pricing model means that additional fees may apply for services beyond the basic fare.

It’s important to note that while these airlines may offer affordable base fares, they may charge additional fees for services that are typically included with other airlines. I recommend comparing prices across multiple airlines and using flight comparison websites to find the best deals for your specific travel needs.

Is October a cheap month to fly?

Certainly! October tends to be a wallet-friendly month for air travel. As the peak summer season winds down, airlines adjust their pricing to attract passengers during this relatively quieter period. The decrease in demand often leads to more affordable fares, making October an opportune time for budget-conscious travelers to explore their desired destinations without breaking the bank. So, seize the chance to take flight in October and enjoy the added perk of pocket-friendly fares along the way!