Need a change of scenery? Summer is the perfect time to escape the daily grind and trade your morning traffic for a window seat at 35,000 feet. And good news, Calgary: according to our data, flight prices to some major destinations are down this summer, meaning that much-needed vacation is closer than you think.
Here are 10 places where you’ll score summer savings on flights from Calgary. Already know where you want to go? Start planning.
Maui, Hawaii
There’s no bad time to visit Hawaii, but with flight prices from Calgary to Maui down 23% compared with last year, we’d say this summer is an especially good time. Apart from nearly 120 kilometers of coastline, head to Waianapanapa State Park for its volcanic, black lava sand beach and Molokini, a crescent-shaped islet formed by a volcanic crater where snorkelers can swim among hundreds of species of fish and coral.
Miami, Florida
Miami is hot right now. Literally, it’s hot – think summers in the 30s – but it’s also hot for travellers from Calgary looking for a beach vacation that won’t break the bank. In fact, flight prices are down 20% compared to last year. After a day at the beach, head to South Beach for world-famous dining and nightlife and to check out the classic art deco architecture.
Abbotsford, British Columbia
You don’t have to leave Canada to slow down and enjoy the outdoors, and with flight prices down 54% compared to last summer, Abbotsford, B.C. may have everything you need. The addition of a new Calgary-based low-cost airline makes the trip even more affordable. And with plenty of parks and trails offering up hiking and biking opportunities with scenic views along with summer festivals like July’s Berryfest and August’s Agrifair, there’s no better way to escape the city hustle for a while.
Mexico City, Mexico
If you’re looking for warm weather (think temperatures in the 20s), vibrant nightlife and a favourable exchange rate, look no further than Mexico City. And with flight prices from Calgary down 32% compared to last summer, it’s a pretty perfect time to trade traffic for tacos – and other tasty eats from four-star restaurants and street stalls alike. While the summer may bring rain in the afternoons, there’s plenty to do to stay dry, including more than 150 museums – many of which offer free entry.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Travelling to Iceland in summer means experiencing nearly 24 hours of sunlight per day, so you’ll have extra time to explore the natural beauty of the area alongside the charming city centre that is downtown Reykjavik. And with flights from Calgary down 31% compared with last year, you’ll be able to experience it all for less. Rent a car and explore the natural wonders at your own pace, take a dip in one of the area’s thermal pools (like the not-so-Secret Lagoon), and download the Appy Hour app to take advantage of the city centre’s drink specials.
Austin, Texas
Come to Austin for the cool city vibe and eclectic nightlife, but stay for the food – and the savings. This summer, flights from Calgary are down 29% compared with last year. And if you love barbeque, you’re in luck. From the lengthy lines at Franklin Barbecue to the flavourful Tex Mex at Grizzelda’s to the savoury brunch at Arlo Grey, there are almost too many options. When you’re not eating, take a DIY tour of the city’s street art and catch local live music at The Continental Club or Elephant Room.
Brussels, Belgium
If a classic European city break is what you’re after, Brussels may be just the place – and this summer may be just the time (our data shows flights from Calgary are down 25% compared with last year). Wander the Grand-Place, an ornate square where you’ll find plenty of photo ops, markets and quaint cafes where you can enjoy a Belgian beer and bit of people watching. And don’t forget to stock up on chocolate.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Trade highways for waterways in this charming seafront city where flight prices are down 18% compared with last summer. Hop aboard a boat at Nyhavn Harbour, and take in the scenic city views. Copenhagen is incredibly walkable, but if you really want to see the city like a local, rent a bike – biking culture is huge. To cool down, go for a swim right in Copenhagen’s harbour – you’ll find people taking the plunge at Islands Brygge, or head to the beach at nearby Svanemøllen or Amager Beach Park.
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Charlottetown is a vibrant city by the water full of historic charm with natural beauty to spare. And, if you need more of a reason to check it out for yourself, flight prices are down 18% this summer compared with last year. Drive 30 minutes to Prince Edward Island National Park, where you’ll find pretty beaches, scenic trails and plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking and camping.
Dublin, Ireland
Many people use Dublin as a jumping off point for exploring the wider Irish countryside, but this cozy capital city has a lot to offer in its own right – think pretty cathedrals, historic museums and lively pubs with Irish music (we like The Hairy Lemon Pub for traditional tunes). With flight prices from Calgary down 17% compared with last year, you can use that savings on local fish and chips (we recommend Fish Shack Cafe in Temple Bar) or a full Irish breakfast (the perfect start to a day exploring).
Ready to go? KAYAK searches hundreds of travel and airline sites at once to help you find the right flight at the best price. Filter your search by the things that are important to you – like take-off time, layovers and more – so you can be confident you’re planning the perfect trip.
Methodology:
Destinations represent the largest drop in destination prices from Calgary. Search dates considered were 5/9/18 – 5/8/19 for travel dates 5/24/19 – 9/2/19. To find the change in median airfare, search dates 5/9/17 – 5/8/18 and travel dates 5/28/18 – 9/3/18 were used.
