Travel and tourism booking websites

1. Google Flights

Google Flights is a powerful and intuitive flight search engine that helps travelers find the best airfare deals quickly. It’s not a booking platform itself but rather a metasearch tool that aggregates flight data from airlines and online travel agencies. One of its standout features is the ability to track prices and receive alerts when fares drop. The “Explore” tool allows users to discover destinations based on budget, travel dates, or interests, making it ideal for flexible travelers. The calendar view shows the cheapest days to fly, and filters help narrow down options by airline, number of stops, and departure times. Google Flights integrates seamlessly with other Google services like Maps and Gmail, enhancing the planning experience. While it doesn’t offer hotel or car rental bookings directly, it’s often the first step in planning a trip due to its speed and accuracy. The interface is clean, ad-free, and user-friendly, which appeals to both casual and frequent travelers. However, since it redirects users to third-party sites for booking, customer service and final pricing may vary. Overall, Google Flights is a top choice for travelers who want a fast, flexible, and data-rich way to find the best flight options available.

2. Kayak

Kayak is a comprehensive travel search engine that aggregates results from hundreds of travel sites, making it a go-to platform for comparing flights, hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages. It’s particularly popular for its user-friendly interface and powerful filtering tools that allow travelers to sort by price, duration, airline, and more. One of Kayak’s standout features is its “Hacker Fares,” which combine two one-way tickets from different airlines to create a cheaper round-trip option. Kayak also offers price trend forecasts, helping users decide whether to book now or wait for a better deal. The mobile app includes a trip management tool that organizes itineraries and sends real-time alerts for flight changes. Kayak’s “Explore” feature is great for flexible travelers, showing destinations within a set budget. While Kayak doesn’t handle bookings directly, it redirects users to the provider’s site, which means customer service and cancellation policies depend on the third party. Despite this, its speed, accuracy, and breadth of options make it a favorite among savvy travelers. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or a multi-stop international trip, Kayak provides the tools and insights to help you find the best deals and make informed travel decisions.

3. Expedia

Expedia is one of the most established and widely used online travel agencies, offering a full suite of booking services including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages. It’s especially popular for travelers looking to bundle services for additional savings. Expedia’s user interface is clean and easy to navigate, and it frequently offers exclusive deals and discounts for members. The Expedia Rewards program allows users to earn points on bookings, which can be redeemed for discounts on future travel. One of its strengths is the ability to book everything in one place, making it ideal for travelers who want a streamlined experience. Expedia also provides 24/7 customer support, which adds a layer of reassurance, especially for international travel. The platform includes verified guest reviews, flexible cancellation options, and a price match guarantee on many bookings. However, some users report that refunds and itinerary changes can be cumbersome, especially when dealing with third-party providers. Despite this, Expedia remains a top choice for travelers who value convenience, variety, and loyalty rewards. Whether you're planning a luxury escape or a budget-friendly adventure, Expedia offers the tools and support to help you book with confidence.

4. Booking.com

Booking.com is one of the world’s largest and most trusted platforms for booking accommodations, offering over 28 million listings that range from hotels and resorts to apartments, hostels, and unique stays like treehouses and boats. It’s particularly favored for its flexibility, with many properties offering free cancellation and no prepayment options. The platform is user-friendly, with powerful filters that help travelers find exactly what they’re looking for—whether it’s pet-friendly stays, beachfront properties, or accommodations with specific amenities like pools or kitchens. Booking.com’s Genius loyalty program rewards frequent users with discounts, free room upgrades, and complimentary breakfasts at select properties. One of its standout features is the sheer variety of accommodations, making it ideal for both budget travelers and luxury seekers. The site also includes verified guest reviews, which help users make informed decisions. Booking.com supports multiple languages and currencies, making it accessible to a global audience. While it primarily focuses on accommodations, it also offers airport taxis and some activity bookings. However, some users have noted that customer service can vary depending on the region and property. Overall, Booking.com is a top choice for travelers seeking convenience, variety, and competitive pricing in their accommodation bookings.

5. Airbnb

Airbnb has revolutionized the way people travel by offering unique, home-like accommodations in over 220 countries and regions. Unlike traditional hotel booking platforms, Airbnb connects travelers directly with hosts who offer everything from private rooms and entire homes to treehouses, yurts, and even castles. This makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking authentic, local experiences or accommodations that cater to specific needs like long-term stays, pet-friendliness, or remote work setups. Airbnb also offers “Airbnb Experiences,” which include guided tours, cooking classes, and cultural activities hosted by locals—perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the destination. The platform is easy to use, with detailed listings, verified reviews, and secure payment systems. Hosts often provide personal touches and local recommendations, adding to the charm. However, service and cleaning fees can significantly increase the total cost, and cancellation policies vary by host. Airbnb has also introduced features like “AirCover” for guest protection and flexible search tools for spontaneous travelers. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin in the woods or a chic apartment in the heart of a city, Airbnb offers a wide range of options that cater to both budget-conscious and luxury-seeking travelers.

6. Priceline

Priceline is a well-established online travel agency known for offering deep discounts on flights, hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages. It’s especially popular among budget-conscious travelers thanks to its unique features like “Express Deals” and the now-retired “Name Your Own Price” tool, which allowed users to bid on travel services. Express Deals offer significant savings by keeping certain booking details hidden until after purchase, making them ideal for flexible travelers who prioritize price over specifics. Priceline’s interface is clean and easy to navigate, with robust filtering options and a mobile app that provides exclusive deals and real-time updates. The platform also includes a loyalty program called Priceline VIP, which offers additional discounts and perks for frequent users. Priceline is particularly strong in the U.S. market but also offers international options. While the savings can be substantial, the trade-off is reduced flexibility—many discounted bookings are non-refundable and cannot be changed. Customer service is generally reliable, though it can be limited for Express Deals. Overall, Priceline is a great choice for travelers who are willing to trade some control for lower prices, especially for last-minute bookings or spontaneous getaways.

7. Trip.com

Trip.com is a rapidly growing global travel service provider, originally founded in China and now serving millions of users worldwide. It offers a comprehensive range of travel services including flights, hotels, train tickets, car rentals, airport transfers, and guided tours. The platform is especially strong in Asia, making it a top choice for travelers heading to destinations like China, Japan, Thailand, and South Korea. One of Trip.com’s standout features is its multilingual support and the ability to book in multiple currencies, which makes it highly accessible to international users. The mobile app is sleek and user-friendly, offering real-time flight updates, itinerary management, and 24/7 customer service. Trip.com often features competitive pricing, flash sales, and loyalty rewards, making it attractive for budget-conscious travelers. It also provides detailed hotel reviews, flexible cancellation policies, and a wide range of accommodation types. However, some users have reported delays in refunds and occasional discrepancies in booking confirmations, particularly when dealing with third-party providers. Despite these minor drawbacks, Trip.com is a reliable and convenient platform for booking travel, especially for those exploring Asia or looking for a one-stop shop for all their travel needs.

8. Trivago

Trivago is a hotel price comparison website that helps travelers find the best deals by aggregating listings from over 200 booking platforms, including Expedia, Booking.com, and Agoda. Unlike traditional booking sites, Trivago doesn’t handle reservations directly—instead, it redirects users to the provider offering the best rate. This makes it an excellent tool for budget-conscious travelers who want to ensure they’re getting the lowest possible price for their accommodations. Trivago’s interface is clean and easy to use, with filters for price, location, star rating, amenities, and guest reviews. One of its standout features is the ability to view price trends and compare rates across different platforms for the same hotel, which can reveal significant savings. It also includes a map view to help users choose accommodations based on proximity to landmarks or neighborhoods. While Trivago excels at hotel comparisons, it doesn’t offer flights, car rentals, or activity bookings, which may limit its usefulness for travelers seeking an all-in-one solution. Additionally, since bookings are made through third-party sites, customer service and cancellation policies vary. Still, for travelers focused on finding the best hotel deals quickly and efficiently, Trivago remains a top-tier resource.

9. Skyscanner

Skyscanner is a globally recognized travel search engine that specializes in helping users find the best deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals. What sets Skyscanner apart is its flexibility and user-friendly tools that cater to both spontaneous travelers and meticulous planners. One of its most popular features is the “Everywhere” search, which allows users to discover the cheapest destinations from their departure city—perfect for those with wanderlust but no fixed plans. Skyscanner also offers multi-city and open-jaw flight options, making it ideal for complex itineraries. The platform aggregates prices from airlines, online travel agencies, and booking sites, ensuring a wide range of options. It includes price alerts, fare calendars, and filters for stops, duration, and airlines. While Skyscanner doesn’t handle bookings directly, it redirects users to the provider’s site, which means customer service and refund policies depend on the third party. The mobile app is sleek and includes real-time notifications and travel inspiration tools. Skyscanner is especially popular among budget travelers, backpackers, and digital nomads for its ability to uncover hidden deals and flexible travel options. Overall, it’s a powerful tool for anyone looking to explore the world without breaking the bank.

10. Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is one of the most trusted and widely used travel platforms in the world, known primarily for its vast collection of user-generated reviews and ratings. It covers a wide range of travel services including hotels, restaurants, attractions, tours, and experiences. What makes Tripadvisor unique is its community-driven approach—millions of travelers share honest feedback, photos, and tips, helping others make informed decisions. The platform also features “Travelers’ Choice” awards, which highlight the best-rated destinations and businesses globally. In addition to reviews, Tripadvisor allows users to book hotels, flights, vacation rentals, and activities directly through its site or app. Its “Things to Do” section is particularly valuable for discovering local tours, skip-the-line tickets, and curated experiences. Tripadvisor’s forums are another standout feature, offering a space for travelers to ask questions and share advice. While the booking interface isn’t as streamlined as some competitors, and prices can sometimes be higher than on dedicated OTAs, the depth of information and community insights make it an indispensable planning tool. Whether you're looking for the best seafood restaurant in Cape Town or a hidden gem in the Serengeti, Tripadvisor helps travelers plan with confidence and connect with authentic experiences.

11. Vrbo

Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner) is a leading platform for booking vacation homes, ideal for families, groups, and travelers seeking more space and privacy than traditional hotels offer. Owned by Expedia Group, Vrbo specializes in entire-property rentals—meaning no shared spaces with hosts or other guests. Listings include beach houses, cabins, condos, and luxury estates across more than 190 countries. The platform is user-friendly, with detailed property descriptions, high-quality photos, and verified guest reviews. Vrbo’s filters allow users to search by amenities like pools, pet-friendliness, or waterfront access. It also offers a “Trip Boards” feature for collaborative planning, which is great for group travel. Vrbo’s pricing is transparent, though service and cleaning fees can add up. The platform provides 24/7 customer support and a “Book with Confidence Guarantee,” which includes payment protection and rebooking assistance. While it doesn’t offer flights or car rentals, Vrbo excels in the vacation rental niche, especially for longer stays or travelers who want a home-away-from-home experience. It’s a top choice for those prioritizing comfort, privacy, and the ability to cook, relax, and spread out while traveling.

12. Agoda

Agoda is a popular travel booking platform that specializes in accommodations, particularly in Asia, but has expanded globally to include properties in over 200 countries. Known for its competitive pricing and frequent flash deals, Agoda is a favorite among budget-conscious travelers and digital nomads. The platform offers a wide range of lodging options, from luxury hotels and resorts to hostels, apartments, and vacation homes. Agoda’s interface is sleek and mobile-friendly, with powerful filters for amenities, location, and guest ratings. One of its standout features is the “Secret Deals” and “AgodaCash” rewards program, which provides additional discounts and cashback on bookings. Agoda also supports multi-language and multi-currency options, making it accessible to a global audience. In addition to accommodations, Agoda offers airport transfers and some activity bookings, though it’s not as comprehensive in flights or car rentals as other platforms. Customer service is generally reliable, and the platform provides clear cancellation policies and booking confirmations. Agoda is especially strong in Southeast Asia, making it a top choice for travelers heading to destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Its combination of affordability, variety, and user-friendly tools makes it a valuable resource for both short-term stays and extended travel.

13. Hopper

Hopper is a mobile-first travel booking app that uses predictive analytics and machine learning to help travelers find the best time to book flights, hotels, and car rentals. Its standout feature is its price prediction tool, which analyzes billions of data points to forecast future prices with impressive accuracy. Users can “watch” a trip, and Hopper will notify them when prices are expected to rise or drop, making it ideal for budget-conscious and flexible travelers. The app also offers a “Price Freeze” option, allowing users to lock in a fare for a small fee while they finalize their plans. Hopper’s interface is sleek, intuitive, and designed for mobile use, making it especially popular among younger travelers and digital nomads. In recent years, Hopper has expanded its offerings to include hotel bookings, car rentals, and even fintech-style travel protections like cancel-for-any-reason and flight disruption guarantees. While it doesn’t offer as many destination discovery tools as some competitors, its strength lies in helping users save money and book with confidence. Hopper is best suited for travelers who are flexible with their dates and want to maximize savings through smart, data-driven booking strategies.

14. Travelocity

Travelocity is a well-known online travel agency that offers a wide range of booking services, including flights, hotels, vacation packages, car rentals, cruises, and activities. It’s part of the Expedia Group, which means it shares inventory and pricing with other Expedia-owned platforms but maintains its own branding and user experience. Travelocity is especially popular for its “Customer First Guarantee,” which includes 24/7 support, price match assurance, and flexible cancellation policies. The platform’s interface is clean and easy to navigate, with helpful filters and bundled deals that can save travelers money when booking multiple services together. Travelocity also features verified guest reviews, interactive maps, and travel guides to help users make informed decisions. One of its standout features is the “Roaming Gnome” mascot, which adds a fun, approachable tone to the brand. While it may not always offer the absolute lowest prices, Travelocity is valued for its reliability, customer service, and comprehensive travel planning tools. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a full-service booking experience with the backing of a major travel group and the convenience of managing all aspects of their trip in one place.

15. Orbitz

Orbitz is a full-service online travel agency that offers bookings for flights, hotels, vacation packages, car rentals, cruises, and activities. Like Travelocity, it’s part of the Expedia Group, which means it shares access to a vast inventory of travel services while maintaining its own brand identity and loyalty program. Orbitz is especially known for its Orbitz Rewards program, which allows users to earn “Orbucks” on bookings—usable toward hotel discounts. This makes it particularly appealing to frequent travelers who want to save on future stays. The platform’s interface is clean and intuitive, with helpful filters and bundled deals that offer additional savings when booking multiple services together. Orbitz also provides 24/7 customer support, flexible cancellation options, and a price guarantee on many bookings. It includes verified guest reviews, interactive maps, and travel guides to help users make informed decisions. While it may not always offer the absolute lowest prices compared to niche discount sites, Orbitz is valued for its reliability, ease of use, and rewards benefits. It’s a great option for travelers who want a one-stop shop for planning and managing their trips, with the added bonus of earning rewards along the way.