New United Airlines Routes to Split, Bari, Glasgow, and Santiago de Compostela Unlock Unique European Travel for Tourists

As travel demand continues to surge, airlines are increasingly eyeing lesser-known destinations in Europe to cater to tourists seeking more unique and accessible travel options. These new routes are set to connect major U.S. hubs to destinations that were previously difficult to reach without multiple transfers or lengthy train rides, opening up exciting opportunities for travelers looking for something beyond the typical tourist hotspots.

With European travel seeing a steady rise, airlines are actively expanding their offerings. This summer, several major carriers have announced seasonal routes to cities that were once more challenging to access. Delta Air Lines introduced flights from New York’s JFK Airport to Catania, a charming city in Sicily, and from Detroit to Brussels, Belgium. American Airlines followed suit, launching seasonal flights to Athens and Zürich from Dallas-Fort Worth, as well as to Budapest and Prague from Philadelphia. These new connections offer tourists a direct flight experience to some of Europe’s most alluring destinations.

The growing trend of seasonal routes highlights a significant shift in the airline industry’s approach to catering to the travel market. Between May and October, these flights become particularly attractive for tourists looking to explore destinations off the typical tourist trail. For example, a direct flight to Catania eliminates the hassle of connecting flights, providing a smoother and more efficient travel experience. These seasonal offerings cater not only to vacationers but also to business travelers and those with specific tourism interests, including history, art, and gastronomy.

United Airlines is stepping up its game with a major expansion from its Newark Liberty International Airport hub, adding several new European destinations to its summer 2026 roster. Four new routes will connect Newark to Croatia’s Split, Italy’s Bari, Scotland’s Glasgow, and Spain’s Santiago de Compostela. These cities are gaining increasing attention from travelers seeking authentic European experiences. Santiago de Compostela, in particular, is renowned for its cultural significance as the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. The route’s growing popularity among tourists, particularly those seeking a blend of adventure and spirituality, has made it a prime destination for travelers in recent years.

The expansion of these routes meets the demand for deeper, more meaningful travel experiences. Destinations like Split, Bari, and Glasgow are seeing an uptick in interest as more travelers look to venture beyond the well-worn paths to cities like Paris and Rome. Offering direct flights to these culturally rich and historically significant cities makes travel easier and more appealing to those looking to explore lesser-visited locales. With these new connections, United Airlines and other carriers aim to attract tourists looking for something unique, offering new experiences that blend history, culture, and stunning natural beauty.

As travelers increasingly seek new and offbeat destinations, airlines are responding with targeted route expansions. The new direct connections are designed to appeal to those eager to experience the authentic local culture and beauty of these regions. Whether it’s the vibrant city life in Glasgow, the historic charm of Bari, or the pilgrimage spirit of Santiago de Compostela, these destinations provide fresh alternatives to typical tourist-heavy cities. United’s addition of flights to Reykjavik, Iceland, also caters to the growing demand for nature-focused travel, where travelers can explore the unique landscapes of the island nation.

United Airlines’ new offerings will make it easier for tourists to access some of Europe’s most captivating and lesser-known destinations. The Santiago de Compostela route will follow in late May. These flights will be operated on Boeing 737-MAX 8 aircraft, providing an efficient and comfortable journey for travelers seeking to experience Europe’s cultural gems. Additionally, United will introduce a direct connection between Washington Dulles and Reykjavik, Iceland, further broadening its European travel offerings.

For tourism, these new direct flights open up countless possibilities. Travelers can now explore more niche destinations with ease, contributing to the tourism growth in cities that were previously not as accessible. This development benefits both the airlines and the cities themselves, as more visitors will bring increased economic activity to local businesses, hotels, and cultural sites. This expansion also allows travelers to experience Europe in new ways, bypassing the typical tourist crowds in favor of more intimate, culturally rich destinations.

As airlines announce new summer routes for 2026, the focus is shifting toward offering direct access to lesser-known but highly sought-after destinations across Europe. From the historical paths of Santiago de Compostela to the coastal beauty of Split and the cultural richness of Glasgow and Bari, these new routes are set to redefine the European travel experience. For tourists, these destinations provide fresh alternatives to traditional hotspots, encouraging exploration of Europe’s diverse cultural and historical offerings.

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