Let’s face it, after experiencing a time of lockdowns, travel restrictions, and staying home; we are all more than ready to get out and explore the world again!
But where do you start?
Finding the best travel sites to help you plan an amazing destination vacation can be overwhelming, and figuring out how to get the best prices for flights, hotels, and rentals is more important than ever.
Today, there are countless travel sites that offer a plethora of services. From booking flights and hotels to searching for the best activities and attractions in your destination, these sites have everything you need to plan your next adventure.
To make sure you get the best deals possible, we’ve rounded up ten of the top 2023 travel websites that you should be using to book your next vacation or business trip.
What Are the Best Travel Sites in 2023?
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, on a road trip tour of the U.S., or seeing international sights, these best online travel sites in 2023 have everything you need to find the best flights, hotels, and activities.
The best travel sites we recommend for 2023 include:
- GetYourGuide
- Withlocals
- Skyscanner
- Rome2Rio
- Hotel Tonight
- Hotels.com
- Vrbo
- Booking.com
- Scott’s Cheap Flights
- CruiseDirect
These sites offer consumers access to the best travel deals for flights, hotel, and rental car deals, as well as discounted attractions, activities, and more. From a range of guided tours, walking tours, and day trips that are perfect for exploring your destination in depth to last-minute discounts and best price guarantees, these best online travel sites have it all.
Taking an in-depth look at each site, its benefits, and offers, we’ll break down the best travel websites to ensure you get the best value for your money when booking your next big trip.
1. GetYourGuide
Overview
When it comes to travel websites dedicated to experiences and attractions, GetYourGuide is one of the best. Offering an array of activities, from small-group tours and bike rides to museum visits and walking tours. With GetYourGuide’s best price guarantee, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best deal on tickets and experiences.
Top Features of GetYourGuide
- GetYourGuide offers the best price guarantees and a detailed selection of adventures for first-time travelers
- They offer a wide selection of experiences and attractions, including tours from locals.
- You can filter by type, budget, duration, and more
- The time each activity is estimated to take is listed upfront
- You can easily modify existing bookings or cancel them with 24/7 customer service & online chat
- GetYourGuide provides location-based experiences listing the top adventure picks, most popular sites, and activities that will likely sell out quickly at your destination
- With hundreds, even thousands of reviews on each activity, you can be sure to read about the best experiences and travel tips for your destination from other travelers
Pricing
GetYourGuide offers a free sign-up with an email, Facebook, or Apple option. The price of each experience varies by location but can range from $10-$20 per person, like this Voodoo Queen Tour in New Orleans, to activities upwards of $300. Time frame and complexity are often driving factors of pricing on GetYourGuide, but local deals and discounts often come up as a great way to save money.
Bottom Line
GetYourGuide is one of the best online travel sites for first-time travelers headed to new destinations ranging across over 150 countries or those looking to explore a local area in depth. Travelers on strict budgets can also benefit from this service’s local guides offering discounted tours, activities, etc. GetYourGuide is free to sign up for and gives travelers an option at sign up to opt-in for additional promotional material and discounts.
2.WithLocals
Overview
Where GetYourGuide offers location-based guided activities, WithLocals doubles down on the local aspect.
WithLocals focuses solely on local vendors, entrepreneurs, and everyday people and offer experiences that are tailor-made to a certain location. Some of the best experiences on WithLocals include anything from food tours, cooking classes, private boat cruises, and authentic cultural activities.
Top Features of WithLocals
- WithLocals offers private tours only, meaning there are no strangers, just you and your local host
- With options to fully customize your upcoming trip to your needs, you can make it as long or short as you’d like
- You’ll find experiences for all budgets, from budget-friendly options like city walking tours to more expensive multi-day cultural activities
- Avoid the crowds and experience a destination from the perspective of a local
- Experiences are designed to take you away from the tourists and crowds towards authentic local spots
Pricing
Much like GetYourGuide, WithLocals also offers free sign-up to use their services. Prices for experiences will vary depending on the length and complexity of the activity, but prices tend to be lower than GetYourGuide’s. For example, you can score a walking and food tour of Florence, Italy, for just 71.93 euros or $78. Local experts also offer up discounts for travel groups and activities, allowing you to save even more.
Bottom Line
WithLocals is best suited for travelers looking for a unique experience that goes beyond what’s commonly offered in tourist traps. Whether you’re after an interactive cooking class or want to get off the beaten path, WithLocals has something special for every traveler.
Budget-conscious travelers will find this travel website ideal. It’s free to sign up, so there’s no risk in checking it out and seeing what unique experiences are awaiting you!
3. Skyscanner
Overview
Skyscanner is best known as a flight comparison website with the ability to compare flight prices from different airlines for any destination. This travel website can help you find the best flights, hotels, and car rentals at great prices. Skyscanner offers some of the lowest prices on flights and the most hotels to choose from, making it a great tool for finding deals.
Top Features of Skyscanner
- Search engine for flights, hotels, and car rentals all in one place
- Compare different airlines for the best price on flight tickets
- Exclusive discounts and offers on select destinations
- Price alerts when there are specific flight prices or hotel specials
- Last-minute deals on flights and car rentals
- Deals tailored to your destination preferences
- Skyscanner offers the ‘Greener choice’ label, which highlights the flights that emit less CO2
- Skyscanner is a globally accessible site operating in 30 languages
Pricing
Skyscanner is completely free to use, with no hidden fees. This makes it great for budget-conscious travelers who are looking for the best deals without spending too much. For example, Skyscanner offers a one-night stay at the famous Venitian Hotel in Las Vegas for $188, while competitors list the same room for $231 per night. Flights and car rentals with Skyscanner are also typically lower than competitor prices.
Bottom Line
Skyscanner is a great option for those that are environmentally conscious or just looking for the best last-minute deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals. Free to sign up and easy to use, this is the best site for budget-savvy travelers to get great deals on all their travel needs. With discounts, exclusive offers, and last-minute deals, many travelers can benefit from using Skyscanner.
4.Rome2Rio
Overview
Unlike other sites, Rome2Rio is a unique travel search site that sources transportation services from around the world. It helps travelers find flights, rental cars, trains, buses, and ferries to get from point A to point B. This innovative travel website makes it easy to plan a journey through multiple modes of transport with price estimates for all journeys.
Top Features of Rome2Rio
- Find best route combinations using multiple modes of transport
- The mobile app allows you to book tickets directly from your device
- Price estimates for all journeys, including flights and train tickets
- Compare best route options with estimated time and cost
- Maps and directions available on the site or mobile app
- Offers discounts when booking multiple flights or legs of a journey
Pricing
With so many modes of transportation in one place, Rome2Rio offers excellent value for money. It’s free to use, with no hidden fees or charges when you find flights and transportation and book your tickets. Rome2Rio also provides a price range for each mode of transportation from your starting location to your destination. For example, from Austin, Texas, to Sarek National Park, Sweden, Rome2Rio provides estimated bus fares and a range of flights from $700 to over $2,000.
Bottom Line
Rome2Rio is the best site for finding the best route combination and estimated cost of any journey. For travelers without a vehicle or trying to avoid the cost of a car rental, Rome2Rio provides public transit options.
5. Hotel Tonight
Overview
Last-minute accommodations don’t have to mean low-quality or expensive rooms. HotelTonight is the best site for finding last-minute deals on over 1 million hotels worldwide. From boutique hotels and B&Bs to 4-star resorts and luxury villas, you’ll find great deals on every type of room imaginable.
Top Features of HotelTonight
- Last-minute deals on 1,000,000+ hotels
- With last-minute mobile bookings available, a change of plans or emergency during travel can be a much less stressful experience
- Deals tailored to your destination preferences
- 24/7 customer support for any questions you have about bookings or cancellations
- Book accommodations in the United States and abroad in advance with the HotelTonight App
- You can also use their loyalty program, HT+Perks, and gain access to even steeper discounts if you frequently use their service
Pricing
HotelTonight offers some of the best deals on last-minute accommodations, saving you up to 70% off your bookings.
Booking a last-minute, same-day hotel in San Fransisco, you’ll find outrageously low prices, some lower than $90 for the night. Finding last-minute accommodations was once a hassle, but HotelTonight has made it easier and more affordable than ever. With the interactive Google Map-like feature, you can compare various destinations easily.
Bottom Line
HotelTonight is ideal for travelers experiencing a change in plans, like last minute plane tickets or weather-related flight delays. Travelers finding themselves in an emergency change of plans or those doing very last-minute trip planning can find amazing deals on hotels without compromising quality.
With the best discounts, 24/7 customer support, and an easy-to-use mobile app, HotelTonight is your best bet for finding last-minute accommodations.
6. Hotels.com
Hotels.com has been around since 1991 and has become a staple in the travel industry. Now part of Expedia Inc., Hotels.com offers unbeatable discounts on over 425,000 hotels worldwide, from luxury brand names to budget-friendly options.
Top Features of Hotels.com
- Discounts of up to 50% off the best available rates
- Periodic promotions of up to 25% off for signing up for the Hotels.com free membership
- Special offers on hotel stays and package deals
- Free cancellations with the Package Protection Plan, similar to travel insurance for your stay
- Reward program offering exclusive discounts and perks
- Mobile app for booking on the go
- You can earn a free night with ten one-night stays, a single booking of 10 nights, or any mixture of the two, totaling ten nights.
- Booking in advance to lock in the best rates
Pricing
Hotels.com offers unbeatable deals and discounts of up to 50% off the best available rates. The best prices are often found by booking further in advance, as the best rates are locked in well before the check-in day. Hotel rooms in one of the busiest cities, New York, can be found at a 25% discount on Hotels.com and with additional member savings on select hotels.
Bottom Line
For travelers looking for the best discounts on a wide range of accommodations, Hotels.com is the best option. Hotels.com provides unbeatable discounts of up to 50% off the best available rates for those looking for lengthy accommodation, luxury, or other.
7. Vrbo
Overview
Vrbo is the best site for travelers looking to book vacation packages, private home rentals, cabin rentals, beach houses, and other private rentals. With over 2 million properties available in 190 countries, Vrbo offers one of the widest selections of rental options.
Top Features of Vrbo
- Wide selection of rental options, from cabins to beach resorts
- Much lower service fees compared to competitors, typically 6% to 12%
- Vrbo offers better filtering and higher functionality than its competitors
- You’ll find last-minute deals, which can save you up to 35% off the best available rates
- Easy and secure payments through their platform
- Vrbo offers unique stays and experiences like castle stays and cooking classes
- Real-time customer service & online chat support if you have any questions or issues
Pricing
Vrbo offers one of the best deals in vacation rentals with much lower service fees than competitors. Vacation rentals in Seattle can be found at $100 a night or less, while the same rental through another provider could cost up to 16% more in service fees alone. Laid out in a similar Google Maps style, you can compare and contrast area prices quickly.
Bottom Line
For travelers looking for a more comfortable getaway, Vrbo offers the best deals on vacation rentals from cabins to beach resorts. With a much lower service fee than its competitors, you and your fellow travelers can save money on extended stay vacations. Unique stays and experiences are also a huge selling point for Vrbo.
8.Booking.com
Overview
Founded in 1996, Booking.com is a well-established leader in online travel booking, similar to Google flights, but with more functionality. One of the best features of Booking.com is its comprehensive filters, which make it easy to find specific types of accommodation with amenities like free breakfast and the best deals for business trips. From connecting or one-way flights to flight + accommodations and attractions, Booking.com is one of the best all-in-one travel websites.
Top Features of Booking.com
- Save up to 50% on accommodations just by signing up as a member
- Cheapest flight options available with best deals for business trips
- Easy to compare prices on multiple booking sites in one place
- Comprehensive filters make it easy to find the best accommodation and amenities
- Secure payments through their platform
- Excellent customer service support, online chat, and travel insurance to allow free cancellations
Pricing
Booking.com offers unbeatable discounts of up to 50% off the best available rates. With options for extra savings on business trips and the ability to set a multitude of filters, Booking.com is one of the best value travel websites. For example, when booking a flight+ accommodation to Miami, Florida, you’ll find a massive list of options with savings from $100 to over $500 and more.
Bottom Line
Booking.com is great for those traveling for business. With the best all-in-one packages and comprehensive filters, Booking.com is one of the best value travel sites for finding unbeatable discounts and hotel bookings. With secure payments and excellent customer service support, management & company representatives will easily book travel for employees.
9. Scott’s Cheap Flights
Overview
The premier travel site to find cheap airfare, Scott’s Cheap Flights is unique in that it offers you a first chance at deals from your local (or selected) airport. This means you can save on flights to various travel destinations by being the first to know when prices drop.
Top Features of Scott’s Cheap Flights
- Find the best flight deals from specific airports and destinations
- Get alerted to published fare error fares for the best prices
- Free plans for basic international travel and domestic travel are available
- Paid annual plans grant you access to mistake fares, first-class, domestic economy, and business-class deals
- Receive exclusive emails with the best deals around the world
- Access to best flight deals available, updated daily
Pricing
Scott’s Cheap Flights is free to join, and users can save up to 90% off regular flight prices. The site offers free and paid plans. The Limited plan is free, offering only international economy deals. For $49/ year, the Premium plan offers a wider array of deals from your select airports, and with the Elite plan for $199/year, you’ll have access to the catalog of features from Scott’s Cheap Flights, including deals from every U.S. airport.
Bottom Line
For nomadic travelers and those planning an open vacation in the future, Scott’s Cheap Flights is ideal. With the best fares available from select airports and a wide selection of plans to choose from, it’s best for budget travelers looking to save money.
10.CruiseDirect
Overview
CruiseDirect is a U.K.- based one-stop shop for all cruise plans and offers discounts on cruises. Founded in 1999, CruiseDirect has become one of the most trusted digital travel agencies for the best value when booking cruises.
Top Features of CruiseDirect
- Access to new cruise discounts and last-minute deals
- Compare best prices across multiple brands in one place
- Thousands of ocean and river cruises to choose from
- Secure payment methods and a simple booking process
- Access to discounts and hand-selected deals like ‘Cruise of the Week’ with a free membership
- Options to travel from the U.K. or select your location
- Wide selection of cruises from destinations around the world
Pricing
A CruiseDirect Membership is free, granting users access to the best cruise discounts and last-minute deals. Booking fees are the same or cheaper than other online travel agencies, so you’ll always be getting the best value for your money. Caribbean cruises are available anywhere from 4 to 14 days from 449 pounds or $549 to upwards of $1,000.
Bottom Line
CruiseDirect is a great option for frequent travelers, UK-based adventurers, or those that are looking for a wider range of cruise destinations and lengths. With steep discounts, hand-selected deals, and secure payments, CruiseDirect is best for those looking to save money when booking entire trips.
What Are the Best Travel Sites By Type?
Interactive tools, convenience, and best value for money are key features to look out for when searching best travel sites. The best travel sites by functionality provide easy-to-use search, bookings, and payment options.
Here are the best travel sites by type:
- Best All-In-One Booking Site: Booking.com
- Best Vacation Rental Site: Vrbo
- Best Last-Minute Booking Site: Hotel Tonight
- Best Transportation Rental Site: Rome2Rio
These best travel sites are easy to use, provide the best deals for their purpose, i.e., all-in-one features or unique stays, and can be compared for best prices. They also offer convenient payment options, allowing you to book securely online without any hassles.
Final Thoughts
The best travel sites for flights, hotels, and more are those that offer the best deals and the best value for money. By considering factors such as convenience, best prices, best features, and secure payment options when looking for the best travel sites, you can ensure the best overall experience possible. From the newest all-in-one booking sites to the most convenient transportation rental sites, there is an option for every traveler looking to save money on their trips.