Summer travel is in full swing in July, which means travelers can expect more people at the airport and popular destinations.  With more people traveling during the summer, prices for flights and hotels tend to increase as destinations come to life in the warmer temperatures.

With the summer Olympics in Paris, some destinations in Europe are cheaper than average summer prices. Whether you are looking for a quick and cheap getaway or booking a last-minute vacation, there are a few options for less than $500 round trip.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you need a quick and cheap getaway this July, San Juan is the best option, as flights from various cities cost less than $200 round-trip. Take into account that the cheaper prices for flights and hotels probably have a lot to do with July being the rainy season.  Even with more rain, there is still plenty to do in July. What’s great about San Juan is that it can be as cheap or expensive as you want it.

Things to do while there include spending time in Old San Juan for good food and music. Visit the trendy neighborhood of Santurce, where you will be surrounded by local markets during the day and open-air bars and restaurants at night. Those looking for adventure should explore the cave formations at Cueva Ventana with a guided tour just outside of San Juan and spend time in the upscale neighborhood of Condado.

Round-trip flights leaving Fort Lauderdale, Boston, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Tampa, Washington, D.C., Charlotte, New Orleans, Cleveland, Orlando, Nashville, and Chicago can be purchased for less than $200. The cheapest option leaves Miami. Use July 16 through July 23 for a round-trip flight for less than $100.

Toronto, Canada

July is a great time to visit Canada’s largest and most diverse city.  Like many cities, where the climates are cooler in the winter, Toronto comes to life in the summer.  In a city known for its art, use the summer to take in the street murals around the city.

Another fun place to explore is the St. Lawrence Farmer’s Market, where visitors can taste the many flavors of Ontario. Toronto’s Queen Street West is also a must-see. Named one of the world’s coolest neighborhoods by Vogue Magazine, the street is a fun way to experience Toronto authentically. The street is home to boutique shops, casual and fine dining restaurants, art galleries, and more.

Round-trip flights from New York City, Nashville, Orlando, Las Vegas, Nashville, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and Chicago can be purchased for less than $250 on Skyscanner.

Fort Lauderdale is the cheapest option. Use July 17 through July 23 as your travel dates for a round-trip flight for less than $190.

Panama City, Panama

Panama City has it all: adventure, gorgeous architecture, beautiful rainforests, delicious food, and so much more. There is no shortage of fun or things to do. Some of the best activities in Panama City include taking a day trip outside of the city to Soberania National Park, which has more than 55,000 acres of wildlife and scenic trails. It is perfect for a day trip. 

A great way to explore and learn about the history of the neighborhoods is the Legends of Casco Viejo Tour. You will hear the stories behind iconic places such as Independence Square and Plaza Bolivar. Pro tip: spending time with a guide is also a great time to ask where the best places to eat are. Local guides tend to know the hidden gems.

On Skyscanner, round-trip flights from Charleston, Miami, Norfolk, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa cost less than $400. The cheapest option leaves Dallas. Use July 23 through July 30 as your travel dates for a round-trip flight for less than $300.

London, United Kingdom

There is some suspicion that London is cheaper than normal since most people are heading to Paris for the summer Olympic games. Historically, London’s prices have been higher because more people travel there during the summer. Take advantage of these cheaper-than-average prices. London is a great jumping point for other destinations in Europe and Africa.

Expect your time in London in July to be filled with music festivals, flower fields, and more. The Somerset House Summer Series, held in the grand courtyard of the iconic Neoclassical building, hosts summer concerts. The Wimbledon Tennis Championships take place between July 1 and July 14. Large screens showing the matches will be found throughout the city. Visitors can also catch outdoor live music at the National Theatre’s River Stage on the South Bank throughout July.

Round-trip flights from Orlando, Miami, Boston, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles can be purchased for less than $500. New York is the cheapest option. Use July 20 through July 30 as your travel dates for a round-trip ticket for less than $350.


Amsterdam, Netherlands

This is a deal you don’t see every day. A few flights from the East Coast will get travelers to Amsterdam for less than $500 round-trip. Amsterdam is a magical place – especially in the summer. The city is filled with summer festivals, the parks and neighborhoods come to life, and there are rich cultural experiences to enjoy in the best weather.

One of the best ways to soak in Amsterdam’s breathtaking architecture is by cruising down the canals.  Enjoy a river cruise and a four-course dinner while the sun is setting over the city. Milkshake Festival is scheduled for July 27 and July 28, and the open-air cinema series is back, where you can enjoy movies in the park.

Boston, New York City, and Washington, D.C. are all three destinations where travelers can find round-trip flights for less than $500 on Skyscanner.

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