Are you looking for a vacation spot that has a host of free attractions and affordable accommodation while still being close to the bright lights of Seattle? Well the beautiful city of Bellevue could be just what you are looking for.

A trip to Bellevue needn’t break the bank; follow these handy tips to bag some cheap Bellevue hotels and bargain flights for a wallet-friendly getaway.

Cheap Flights to Bellevue

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is 17 miles away from the center of Bellevue. Over 20 airlines offer flights to and from domestic cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Chicago, and Dallas, as well as flights to international locations such as Tokyo, London, Vancouver, Seoul, and Dubai. Check out Delta, US Airways, and Southwest Airlines for some cheap flight deals.

You can save some extra cash when you land at the airport by jumping on the public transit bus which departs from Sea-Tac Airport Bay 1 and stops at Bellevue Transit Center. The bus costs a mere $2.50 for a one-way fare. Shared hotel shuttle buses are also available and will drop you off directly outside of your hotel, just make sure that you book them in advance.

Affordable Accommodation

There is a decent selection of Bellevue accommodation options that cater to all tastes and budgets. Take the hassle out of hotel hunting by using an online hotel comparison site. Hipmunk is one of the newest travel compare companies on the scene, and they have already earned themselves the reputation of having an easy to use website that searches hundreds of hotels, apartments, and hostels all at the click of a button.

Airbnb It!

If you can’t find a hotel room that falls within your budget then try having a look on Airbnb. Hosts will list their property or spare rooms on the site for visitors to rent during their stay. Not only will this give you a more unique stay but you can also grab a bargain deal on accommodation too. Hipmunk  compares Airbnb accommodation in the area as well as hotels.

Abundant Free Activities

Bellevue is blessed with a number of free and cheap activities, particularly nature-based ones. A top draw is the stunning Bellevue Botanical Gardens where woodlands, wetlands, rockeries, and manicured grounds span a whopping 53 acres. A Visitor Center allows guests to learn more about the gardens and how they benefit the eco-systems of the area. Entry is free all year round.

The area also has over 30 parks, creeks, wildlife sanctuaries, and beach recreation areas that are open to members of the public and completely free of charge. Visitors can sunbathe on the sandy banks of Lake Washington at the popular Newcastle Beach Park, bird-watch in Mercer Slough National Park or admire Bellevue’s skyline from the 20-acre oasis that is Bellevue Downtown Park — all of which have free admission.

Be a savvy traveler and follow the above tips for a memorable and low-cost vacation to Bellevue. Happy travels!