The best new flight routes for summer 2024

November 11, 2023

By Jacob Lewis

EasyJet has put on sale its new routes for the summer of 2024, including 12 fresh routes from 8 UK airports.

Available to book from November 8, the destinations feature classic coastal hotspots like Malta, Alicante, and the Algarve, while also introducing UK travellers to a range of thrilling new locations in the upcoming year.

Destinations that caught our eye include new flights to Reus, the birthplace of Spain's renowned architect Gaudí, and the start of year-round departures to Enfidha in north-eastern Tunisia.

EasyJet isn't alone in broadening its horizon for budget-friendly travel in the new year with Wizz Air and Jet2 also offering up a selection of tempting new routes.

From Ibiza’s sleepy neighbour, the tranquil island of Formentera to the bustling bazaars of Cairo, Egypt's historic capital, these are the top new destinations we’re most excited to visit in summer 2024.

Formentera

Why we’re excited

Formentera may be the tiniest Balearic island, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up with its shimmering shores and crystal-clear waters. A slice of paradise for beach connoisseurs, the island has sands and seas that would make the Caribbean do a double-take.

But Formentera is more than just secluded bays and sun-kissed beaches. It's laced with 125km (77 miles) of 'green routes' – an invitation to lace up your hiking boots or pedal through pine forests and swaying wheat fields.

Just 20km (12 miles) in length and as narrow as 2km (1.2 miles) wide at certain points, it’s also a hotspot for birdwatching, with African migratory birds flocking to its lagoons and wetlands.

Who is now flying there?

Jet2holidays is offering trips to Formentera, Spain, from May 16 to October 5. Holidays are accessible from 11 UK airports: Belfast International, Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool John Lennon, London Stansted, Manchester, and Newcastle International.

Cairo

Why we’re excited

Cairo is shaping up to be the go-to city break destination for 2024, bustling with fresh attractions, especially the Grand Egyptian Museum. The architectural gem is set to unveil its treasures in spring 2024 and is the new home for the legendary Tutankhamun's collection and more. For now, there's a chance to get a glimpse of what's in store with an exclusive tour that lets you climb the Grand Staircase and see 64 statues that aren't part of the usual tour path.

The city is also home to timeless spots like the Giza Pyramids and the lively Khan el-Khalili bazaar, where the scent of spices fills the air. Plus, you can explore Cairo's rich religious history by visiting its mosques and Coptic churches. If you're looking to chill out, a felucca ride on the Nile is the perfect way to take a break from the city buzz. Foodies have to try the local eats like koshari and ful medames. Or just kick back in one of the cafés or tea houses with a cup of Egyptian tea or some flavourful shisha.

Getting about is a breeze, thanks to cheap cabs and Africa’s most expansive metro network. Or for the truly intrepid, Uber offers a moped pickup service that will weave you through the capital’s clogged traffic in no time.

Who is now flying there?

EasyJet started operating flights to Cairo on November 1. The flights from London Luton airport will depart three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays year-round. Meanwhile, Wizz Air also started flying from Luton on October 30, with departures on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Marrakech and Agadir 

Why we’re excited

This summer is set to be a big one for holidays to Morocco, as UK holidaymakers find they are spoilt for choice for getaways to the North African kingdom thanks to Jet2 announcing its first flights and holidays to the country.

Marrakech is an excellent entry point for Morocco first-timers. Getting lost within the maze of souks in the historic medina is a sensory feast that has to be seen, smelt and heard to be believed. The Koutoubia Mosque, with its impressive design and decoration, stands as a spiritual beacon and a must-visit landmark​​. Art and nature intertwine at André Heller’s ANIMA, a botanical garden adorned with works from renowned artists like Rodin and Picasso, offering peaceful walks with the Atlas Mountains framing the horizon​​. For a taste of local culture, the Jardin Majorelle offers a serene botanical escape, and those looking for adventure can soar above the city in a hot air balloon at sunrise​.

Agadir has a different rhythm, and is perfect for returning holidaymakers who may have enjoyed Marrakech but want to dig a little deeper. The serene Paradise Valley offers day hikes through almond and olive orchards, the chance to sample local honey and argan oil before a dip in cooling ​natural pools. History buffs can explore the walled Medina of Taroudant, a historic trade centre with sprawling souks known for silver jewellery​​. Nearby Taghazout awaits surf enthusiasts, offering year-round waves and beginner lessons against a backdrop of sandy beaches​​. Lastly, the Souss-Massa National Park caters to wildlife enthusiasts with its bird-watching opportunities, especially for spotting the endangered bald ibis​.

Who is now flying there?

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays.com now offer year-round services to Agadir and Marrakech. The flights and holiday packages for both winter 24/25 and summer 25 are on sale now. In total, up to 17 weekly flights will be connecting 6 UK airports with Morocco. Marrakech will be accessible via flights from Birmingham, Glasgow, Manchester, and London Stansted, while Agadir will be served by flights from an extended list of UK airports, including Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, and London Stansted.

Reus/Costa Dorada

Why we’re excited

The birthplace of the architect Antoni Gaudí, the city of Reus is steeped in art and architecture. While there are no buildings designed by him, the city's ‘modernist route’ is a homage to its son's legacy, lined with splendid buildings that mirror the spirit of his works. Away from the new, why not unwind in the city’s historic plazas? Cafés and tapas bars at the Plaza del Mercadal offer a taste of local life and cuisine.

Most holidaymakers landing at Reus airport will skip the small city and head directly to the Costa Dorada. Literally the Gold Coast, gilded beaches stretch as far as the eye can see. Child-friendly resorts dot the coastline and the roller-coaster packed PortAventura World theme park is on hand for the thrill seekers in the family. For those who prefer their grapes over gravity-defying rides, nearby Priorat region offers world-class wine tasting experiences in a rugged landscape.

Who is flying there?

EasyJet will begin operating twice-weekly flights from Luton and Manchester to Reus in Spain, both starting on April 2. The flights will run on Tuesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer.

Northeast Tunisia

Why we’re excited

The coastal region of Northeast Tunisia is making a comeback as a go-to destination on the Med. EasyJet’s new routes to Enfidha-Hammamet airport unlock the charm of resorts such as Sousse and Hammamet, known for their golden beaches and warm, Mediterranean waters. Sousse, with its UNESCO World Heritage-designated medina, is a labyrinth of history, offering an authentic slice of Tunisian life amidst its ancient walls. Visitors can explore the Ribat, a fortified monastery, or the bustling souks.

Hammamet, on the other hand, is a vibrant hub of leisure and relaxation. Its wide beaches are perfect for families, while the old town, with its fort and cultural centre, is a peaceful retreat for history buffs and art lovers. The town's gardens are renowned for their beauty, particularly the citrus and jasmine flowers, giving the town the nickname ‘Garden Resort.’ The menus at all-inclusive hotels always ensure to offer a taste of the region, with its focus on seafood and Tunisian spices.

Further up the coast, the Cap Bon peninsula is a treasure trove of serene landscapes, dotted with vineyards, orchards, and the occasional flamingo flock gracing the wetlands. Visitors can book day tours to see the stunning peninsula, with stops including at the Kerkouane Archaeological Site.

Who is now flying there?

EasyJet has three new routes to Enfidha. Liverpool to Enfidha which will start on April 1 and operate twice a week on Mondays and Fridays, Belfast International to Enfidha will launch on April 20 and operate twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays and Glasgow to Enfidha will launch on May 2 and operate twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays.

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