Israel Expands Direct Flights to Unexpected European and Central Asian Cities

While many Israeli travelers continue to flock to popular destinations like Athens, Cyprus, and the United States, the range of direct flights from Israel is broadening, offering access to less conventional and more authentic destinations. This expansion allows travelers to explore cities that previously required connecting flights or complex planning, combining culture, cuisine, nature, and unique experiences.

Tamar Garzon, CEO of Gulliver, notes that more Israelis are seeking new destinations beyond the usual tourist spots, enabled by the growing availability of direct flights. She emphasizes that discovering places off the beaten path enriches travel experiences with authentic local culture.

Among the surprising direct flight destinations from Israel are Malaga, Spain, known for its Andalusian charm, beaches, and cultural sites; Bologna, Italy, famed for its culinary heritage and historic university; and Vilnius, Lithuania, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a vibrant cultural scene. Montenegro’s coastal town Tivat offers luxury marinas and natural beauty, while Copenhagen, Denmark, is celebrated for its Scandinavian design and culinary excellence.

Further afield, Tashkent in Uzbekistan provides a gateway to Central Asia’s Silk Road culture with a mix of modern and historic architecture. Riga, Latvia, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, is recognized for its Art Nouveau architecture and classic European atmosphere at relatively affordable prices.

These flights are operated by various airlines including Arkia, Tus Airways, Wizz Air, El Al, Uzbekistan Airways, and Air Baltic, with prices ranging from approximately $250 to over $1,000 depending on destination and travel dates in late August and early September 2026.