Airlines Expand Direct Flights From Israel to Popular Italian Resorts

Major airlines are increasing direct flight options from Ben Gurion Airport to popular European destinations, with a significant expansion of routes to Italy. Bluebird Airways is launching direct flights from Tel Aviv to Bologna, operating three times weekly with fares starting at 128 euros one-way. Beginning September 17, the airline will add direct flights from Tel Aviv to Rome and Naples, in addition to existing routes to Bergamo and Milan.

Wizz Air is also boosting its services between Tel Aviv and Italy. The carrier will resume flights to Catania four times a week and to Venice three times a week. Frequencies to Rome and Milan will increase to 14 weekly flights, and to Naples, seven weekly flights.

According to the travel agency Gulliver, by autumn and during the Jewish holidays, at least 11 Italian cities will be accessible from Tel Aviv without layovers. These include Rome, Milan, Venice, Verona, Bologna, Naples, Bari, Catania, Palermo, and Cagliari. Israeli carriers El Al, Arkia, and Israir also operate flights to Italy, with some routes being seasonal.

Italy remains a top destination for Israelis. In July, approximately 180,000 passengers flew from Israel to Italy, representing 7.8% of the total passenger traffic at Ben Gurion Airport, up from 5.84% the previous year. From January to July 2026, over 640,000 passengers traveled to Italy, accounting for 7.5% of Ben Gurion's total traffic. Rome and Milan are the most frequently chosen destinations, followed by Catania, Verona, and Naples, according to lastminute.co.il.

The average round-trip ticket price for direct flights to Italian cities is around $350 as of October 3, though prices vary significantly by route and date, with some routes showing a price difference of up to 160%. Experts attribute the high cost of some flights to increased demand for services from Israeli airlines, which often offer more flexible booking conditions and may include carry-on baggage in their fares. Ticket prices are dynamic, influenced by travel dates and flight occupancy.