Cheap flights to Fort Lauderdale

Thanks to the 1960 movie, Where the Boys Are, this once-quiet city in South Florida became synonymous with Spring Break. But starting in the 1980s, the city of Fort Lauderdale made efforts to change its image and started to put limits on the mega-party scene, hoping to ensure a family-friendly experience.

Today, the city still draws plenty of college kids in March, but the energy is not quite so wild. In fact, Fort Lauderdale has moved upmarket and Port Everglades is now one of the largest cruise centres in the world. The T-shirt shops and souvenir stores that once overwhelmed the waterfront have given way to trendy shops, nice restaurants, and a new two-mile promenade that offers unobstructed pedestrian access along one of the city’s nicest beaches.

The water is what attracts most travellers who book a flight to Fort Lauderdale – the area boasts more than 20 miles of powdery sand beaches and 300 miles of waterways, making it truly the “Venice of America”.

Getting around Fort Lauderdale

Ample parking and wide-flung city limits make driving the easiest way to get around Fort Lauderdale. Renting a car is best, and you can often find package deals when you book your cheap flight to Fort Lauderdale. Major car rental companies can be found at the airport. If you’re not a driver, there are plenty of taxis around the city, but they are expensive. The bus is much cheaper, but is very complicated. You can also take a water taxi downtown via the New River and the waterway. 

What is good to know if travelling to Fort Lauderdale?

• Fort Lauderdale is an affordable alternative to the more expensive Miami. The water is cleaner, the snorkelling is more colourful, the arts scene is growing, and the weather is perfect.
• Don’t miss the water taxi in Fort Lauderdale. If you’re on a tight budget, but have some time on your hands, this is a great way to get around, catch a tour of celebrity homes and yachts, and spend very little money. Consider getting a seven-day pass, which makes this transportation option very affordable.
• If snorkelling or diving is your thing, Fort Lauderdale is a great destination. Not only will you be able to easily view brightly coloured fishes and coral through especially clear water, there are abundant opportunities to dive on old wrecks.
• The International Swimming Hall of Fame is another must for water lovers. It houses more than 10,000 square feet of Olympic aquatic memorabilia, as well as paintings, sculptures and literature dating back as far as the 1880s all on the sport of swimming.