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Glasgow Times
6 days ago
- Glasgow Times
Is Bergen worth visiting? What to do, see and where to stay
A bright, optimistic and yellow-lettered question that, without you even knowing it yet, will shape your entire city break. Directly on the mountainside, it reads: 'Bergen?'. I learned later that this short but sweet question is a permanent art installation by the Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson. Bergen? art installation outside the airport (Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest) Can you guess what it means? Now, the answer will become clear to you very soon, but I'll keep you curious a while longer. Meanwhile, here are 7 very obvious reasons that you need to book a trip to Bergen for 2026 (but believe me, it was hard to whittle these down). Why you should visit Bergen 1. Convenient When it comes to city breaks, we Brits look for convenience, and Bergen ticks all of those boxes. You can fly to Bergen in under two hours from the UK, making it ideal for a weekend jaunt. It couldn't be a better time to explore Norway either, as launches its biggest ever Bergen programme. The popular airline flies to Bergen from seven UK airports, so it's handy to get to from wherever you are in the country, including Bristol, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle International, and London Stansted airports. From next year, you'll also be able to fly to Bergen from three new airports (Belfast International, East Midlands and Liverpool John Lennon). Jet2 is similarly expanding its programmes to the Norwegian city from Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester and London Stansted. If you want to learn more, check prices and even book your next city break to Bergen (which I couldn't recommend more), visit the Jet2 website. 2. Eco-friendly I was completely taken with how green Bergen was as a destination. Considered as one of the most sustainable cities in the world (Global Destination Sustainability Index), it's actually the largest place in the Nordics that holds a Sustainable Destination certificate. The city champions sustainability across the board, from its cruise to recycling industries. Unbelievably, 80% of car sales in Norway were electric vehicles (2023). Frankly, they're putting the UK to shame with only 4.6% o of our roughly 34 million cars being fully electric. Bergen is an inspiring place to be, but its passion for sustainability doesn't just benefit the locals. Tourists can enjoy free use of the Light Rail and buses as well as discounts at attractions, activities and accommodation which can be reached by walking or via public transport. You can pick up a Bergen card online, tourist information office or at selected hotels, hostels and campsites too. I didn't use it myself on my trip, but if I were going again – even for just 24 hours (you can pick up a pass for 48, 72, 96 hours too) – I would definitely be picking up a card for the convenience and the savings. You get free or discounted entry to over 30 museums and attractions, including the Fløibanen funicular, Bergen Science Centre VilVite and Bergen Aquarium. A 48-hour adult pass will cost you 504 NOK (£39.51), meanwhile, a child's pass will set you back 106 NOK (£11.97). If you get the digital version, you can activate it whenever you want, so it's ideal for saving money on those sightseeing days. In my days there, I found Bergen to be an incredibly walkable and compact city, although it wasn't my favourite way to get around, but more on that later. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Bryggen is postcard-perfect (Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest) 3. History Speaking of museums and attractions, Bergen is overflowing with history to uncover. When you think of this Nordic city, you might picture its iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, Bryggen. It's the ideal Instagram pic or a classic backdrop on your postcard to home, but it's so much more than that. This colourful harbour spot has something for everyone. History buffs will be able to get a glimpse into Bergen's trading past as they explore the incredibly well-preserved medieval architecture. If you're more into shopping, you can spend hours browsing for the perfect souvenir in one of its many shops. If you're peckish, I couldn't recommend a visit to Baker Brun more. Their staff were incredibly friendly and the pastries were delicious! The composer Edvard Grieg's home has been turned into a museum, exhibition and concert hall (Image: Newsquest) But beyond the city centre, I'd recommend a trip to Troldhaugen – the home turned museum of Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg and his wife, Nina. If you haven't heard of Grieg, don't worry – neither had I before my visit. However, it's more than likely that you have heard at least one of his songs if you have been to one of the UK's most popular theme parks, Alton Towers. I was a little embarrassed that the only way I knew Grieg's "In the Hall of the Mountain King" was because of the adverts for a British roller coaster resort. However, a guided tour around his home, the exhibition centre and his garden composing hut set me straight. Edvard Grieg lived in the house for 20 years (Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest) It's very reasonably priced at NOK 175.00 ( £12.54) for an adult ticket, and children under 16 go free. If you visit in the summer, they host daily concerts, which you can buy tickets for separately on their website. If I had to choose another historic highlight for me on this trip, it would have to be the Fantoft Stave church. This striking church was unlike anything I had ever seen. I was taken aback by the beautiful wooden medieval architecture, which became more important still when I learned that only 28 Stave churches still exist in Norway today. There used to be over 1500 in the country, but over the years, they have tragically disappeared. This church, located just 6km from Bergen city centre, was originally built in Fortun in Sogn in 1170. Fantoft Stave church celebrates elements of Norse religion and Christianity within its architecture (Image: Newsquest) Over the years, there have been many changes to the building before it was moved to Fantoft in the late 19th century. In June 1992, the church made headline news after it was set on fire and burned to the ground. Lucky for us, a quick decision was made to rebuild it. Re-opening in 1997, visitors and locals alike were able to visit and take in the architecture and celebrate the beautiful blend of Christianity and the Old Norse religion. Take a trip up Mount Ulriken on the Ulriksbanen (Image: Newsquest) 4. The views Coined as the city of the 7 mountains, Bergen is not short on incredible views. Lucky for us tourists, we don't need to go far – or hike very high – to find them either. After arriving at Bergen airport in the early morning, we were quickly whisked off to the city's highest mountain, Mount Ulriken. As a Scot, I'm no stranger to a hike or two, but I was relieved to see that a shiny yellow cable car was taking us to the top of the steep 643m high mountain. Riding the gondola is an experience in itself. The short but smooth trip lets you take in the most spectacular vista of the city and sea, mountains and fjords. Once you reach the top, you can take a few selfies before indulging yourself with a truly unforgettable dining experience at the Skyskraperen restaurant (but more on that later). The view from the top of Mount Ulriken at the Skyskraperen restaurant was breathtaking (Image: Newsquest) If you don't want to leave the comforts and convenience of the city centre, you simply must take the trip up Mount Fløyen. Norwegians really do put the fun in funicular (sorry). The 6-minute trip treats you to breathtaking views of the city below and the surrounding fjords and mountains. The Fløibanen funicular is a 6-minute journey with incredible views (Image: Newsquest) At the top, you can enjoy a bite to eat at the Fløirestaurant or the exclusive eatery Schou. If you prefer a smaller snack before heading out to explore, it's worth visiting the Fløistuen shop and café. There's plenty to entertain you at the top, including various beautiful walking and cycling routes (you can rent bikes up there), Lake Skomakerdiket (where you can canoe), a large playground and even a Troll forest! I went on a tour around Bergen's city centre on two wheels (Image: Newsquest) 5. Adventurous activities If you love a sense of adventure from a city break, you won't be disappointed with the offering in Bergen. I have never ridden a bike abroad, and now it's something I want to do in every city I go to. A tour with Bergen Bike Rent on our first evening completely converted me to the charms of seeing a city on two wheels. Our fantastic guide showed us the sights of the bustling city centre from the Cathedral to the fish market. We went through picturesque alleys and across the pretty city square. I'm not a confident cyclist, but our knowledgeable guide showed us the ropes of riding an electric bike and reassured us throughout. We did the Bergen Downtown route, but there are also two others you can do – a dark blue route designed for the more active amongst us and a new route through the largest bike and pedestrian tunnel in the world. I can't wait to go back because I'm simply desperate to try it. Special thanks to Bergen Bike Rent for the guided tour (Image: Newsquest) Beyond biking, Bergen and the west of Norway boast access to amazing activities like kayaking and rafting, golf courses, zip lines, glacier tours and more. You can find out more and book your next adventure via the Visit Bergen website. 6. Delicious places to eat When I used to think of Norway, I simply pictured the snow-dusted landscapes, jaw-dropping fjords, Norse Gods and Viking hats. Truthfully, I had never considered Norway as a foodie destination, but how wrong I was! I didn't have a bad meal when I was there, but there were a few standout meals that I have to mention. Norwegian pastries are the perfect snack to enjoy as you mooch about the city (Image: Newsquest) Snacks and pastries As I teased earlier, I couldn't recommend a visit to Baker Brun. Their service was incredible, especially with a group of hungry journalists with lots and lots of questions. No traveller's day is complete for me without a taste of a traditional pastry and a mooch about a city centre. Bergen's answer was a delicious Skillingsboulle, which scored very highly with the entire group. The menu at Skyskraperen is seasonal and beautifully made. ( Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest) Lunch I'm not about to forget lunch at the Skyskraperen restaurant in a hurry. Lunch at the top of Mount Ulriken was our welcome meal, and what a welcome it was. Between the spectacular view and the delicious seasonal menu, I was completely speechless. Whilst we enjoyed the 3-course menu of modern Norwegian dishes, the restaurant caters for both hikers and visitors from the cable car. The food was divine, but I must recommend treating yourself to a glass bottle of Alde cider. We raved about it the entire time we were in Norway, and we all bought ourselves a bottle at Duty Free to take home. All in all, you simply can't go to Bergen without experiencing this wonderful restaurant for yourself. You've got to pick up a bottle of Alde (Image: Newsquest) Dinner When it comes to dinner, I couldn't recommend a visit to Bryggen Tracteusted more. Located in one of the oldest and best-preserved wooden buildings in the UNESCO site, everything about it feels warm and welcoming, from the staff to the traditional Bergen recipes. Take a look inside Bryggen Tracteusted (Image: Newsquest) We ate here on our last night, and it was a very fond farewell feast indeed. 7. Gateway to the Fjords I can't write a story about a trip to Norway without mentioning its beautiful Fjords. A bucket list experience for many, Bergen is the ideal gateway to the West of Norway and some truly breathtaking scenery. Simply hop on the train at Bergen station and enjoy the delights of one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. You're going to want to get a window seat for the journey to Flåm through Myrdal (trust me). Snow-dusted mountains and stunning waterfalls can be seen throughout the journey (Image: Newsquest) From snow-dusted mountains almost all year round to traditional colourful wooden houses decorating the mountainside, my jaw dropped and my nose was pressed to the window for almost the entire time (which must have been a sight for the other passengers, I'm sure). Travellers can enjoy a 5-minute photo stop at the Kjosfossen waterfall (Image: Newsquest) A highlight of the journey – before you even get to the Fjord village of Flåm - has to be the 5-minute photo stop at the truly stunning Kjosfossen waterfall. The picture above speaks for itself. This memorable train journey connects you to the beauty of the UNESCO Nærøyfjord. This electric cruise from Flam to Gudvangen is probably the most peaceful two hours I've spent in a long time. The 20km Fjord gives nature lovers plenty of time to try and spot some seals and porpoises from the deck. Spot seals and porpoises from the deck of the Nærøyfjord cruise (Image: Newsquest) The route has plenty of points of interest, including one of the smallest churches in Scandinavia – Underdal church – which fits only 40 people. The cruise showcases the very best of Norway in a neat nutshell and is an absolute must for your trip. Recommended reading There you have it, 7 reasons why you absolutely need to make Bergen your next city break. As Europe's rainiest city, you might not get guaranteed sunshine, but you can be assured that you'll experience culture, history, beautiful views, delicious places to eat and wonderful people to show you the way. Special thanks to all of our guides and our new Norwegian friends, Linn and Stein, for welcoming us with open arms. Other cities will give you your bog-standard welcome sign, but not Bergen. This delightful, curious and vibrant city gives you an invitation as soon as you step off the plane. But it's more than an invite; that question mark is a challenge. You've arrived in Bergen, what will you do now?
South Wales Argus
6 days ago
- South Wales Argus
Is Bergen worth visiting? What to do, see and where to stay
A bright, optimistic and yellow-lettered question that, without you even knowing it yet, will shape your entire city break. Directly on the mountainside, it reads: 'Bergen?'. I learned later that this short but sweet question is a permanent art installation by the Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson. Bergen? art installation outside the airport (Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest) Can you guess what it means? Now, the answer will become clear to you very soon, but I'll keep you curious a while longer. Meanwhile, here are 7 very obvious reasons that you need to book a trip to Bergen for 2026 (but believe me, it was hard to whittle these down). Why you should visit Bergen 1. Convenient When it comes to city breaks, we Brits look for convenience, and Bergen ticks all of those boxes. You can fly to Bergen in under two hours from the UK, making it ideal for a weekend jaunt. It couldn't be a better time to explore Norway either, as launches its biggest ever Bergen programme. The popular airline flies to Bergen from seven UK airports, so it's handy to get to from wherever you are in the country, including Bristol, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle International, and London Stansted airports. From next year, you'll also be able to fly to Bergen from three new airports (Belfast International, East Midlands and Liverpool John Lennon). Jet2 is similarly expanding its programmes to the Norwegian city from Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester and London Stansted. If you want to learn more, check prices and even book your next city break to Bergen (which I couldn't recommend more), visit the Jet2 website. 2. Eco-friendly I was completely taken with how green Bergen was as a destination. Considered as one of the most sustainable cities in the world (Global Destination Sustainability Index), it's actually the largest place in the Nordics that holds a Sustainable Destination certificate. The city champions sustainability across the board, from its cruise to recycling industries. Unbelievably, 80% of car sales in Norway were electric vehicles (2023). Frankly, they're putting the UK to shame with only 4.6% o of our roughly 34 million cars being fully electric. Bergen is an inspiring place to be, but its passion for sustainability doesn't just benefit the locals. Tourists can enjoy free use of the Light Rail and buses as well as discounts at attractions, activities and accommodation which can be reached by walking or via public transport. You can pick up a Bergen card online, tourist information office or at selected hotels, hostels and campsites too. I didn't use it myself on my trip, but if I were going again – even for just 24 hours (you can pick up a pass for 48, 72, 96 hours too) – I would definitely be picking up a card for the convenience and the savings. You get free or discounted entry to over 30 museums and attractions, including the Fløibanen funicular, Bergen Science Centre VilVite and Bergen Aquarium. A 48-hour adult pass will cost you 504 NOK (£39.51), meanwhile, a child's pass will set you back 106 NOK (£11.97). If you get the digital version, you can activate it whenever you want, so it's ideal for saving money on those sightseeing days. In my days there, I found Bergen to be an incredibly walkable and compact city, although it wasn't my favourite way to get around, but more on that later. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Bryggen is postcard-perfect (Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest) 3. History Speaking of museums and attractions, Bergen is overflowing with history to uncover. When you think of this Nordic city, you might picture its iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, Bryggen. It's the ideal Instagram pic or a classic backdrop on your postcard to home, but it's so much more than that. This colourful harbour spot has something for everyone. History buffs will be able to get a glimpse into Bergen's trading past as they explore the incredibly well-preserved medieval architecture. If you're more into shopping, you can spend hours browsing for the perfect souvenir in one of its many shops. If you're peckish, I couldn't recommend a visit to Baker Brun more. Their staff were incredibly friendly and the pastries were delicious! The composer Edvard Grieg's home has been turned into a museum, exhibition and concert hall (Image: Newsquest) But beyond the city centre, I'd recommend a trip to Troldhaugen – the home turned museum of Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg and his wife, Nina. If you haven't heard of Grieg, don't worry – neither had I before my visit. However, it's more than likely that you have heard at least one of his songs if you have been to one of the UK's most popular theme parks, Alton Towers. I was a little embarrassed that the only way I knew Grieg's "In the Hall of the Mountain King" was because of the adverts for a British roller coaster resort. However, a guided tour around his home, the exhibition centre and his garden composing hut set me straight. Edvard Grieg lived in the house for 20 years (Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest) It's very reasonably priced at NOK 175.00 ( £12.54) for an adult ticket, and children under 16 go free. If you visit in the summer, they host daily concerts, which you can buy tickets for separately on their website. If I had to choose another historic highlight for me on this trip, it would have to be the Fantoft Stave church. This striking church was unlike anything I had ever seen. I was taken aback by the beautiful wooden medieval architecture, which became more important still when I learned that only 28 Stave churches still exist in Norway today. There used to be over 1500 in the country, but over the years, they have tragically disappeared. This church, located just 6km from Bergen city centre, was originally built in Fortun in Sogn in 1170. Fantoft Stave church celebrates elements of Norse religion and Christianity within its architecture (Image: Newsquest) Over the years, there have been many changes to the building before it was moved to Fantoft in the late 19th century. In June 1992, the church made headline news after it was set on fire and burned to the ground. Lucky for us, a quick decision was made to rebuild it. Re-opening in 1997, visitors and locals alike were able to visit and take in the architecture and celebrate the beautiful blend of Christianity and the Old Norse religion. Take a trip up Mount Ulriken on the Ulriksbanen (Image: Newsquest) 4. The views Coined as the city of the 7 mountains, Bergen is not short on incredible views. Lucky for us tourists, we don't need to go far – or hike very high – to find them either. After arriving at Bergen airport in the early morning, we were quickly whisked off to the city's highest mountain, Mount Ulriken. As a Scot, I'm no stranger to a hike or two, but I was relieved to see that a shiny yellow cable car was taking us to the top of the steep 643m high mountain. Riding the gondola is an experience in itself. The short but smooth trip lets you take in the most spectacular vista of the city and sea, mountains and fjords. Once you reach the top, you can take a few selfies before indulging yourself with a truly unforgettable dining experience at the Skyskraperen restaurant (but more on that later). The view from the top of Mount Ulriken at the Skyskraperen restaurant was breathtaking (Image: Newsquest) If you don't want to leave the comforts and convenience of the city centre, you simply must take the trip up Mount Fløyen. Norwegians really do put the fun in funicular (sorry). The 6-minute trip treats you to breathtaking views of the city below and the surrounding fjords and mountains. The Fløibanen funicular is a 6-minute journey with incredible views (Image: Newsquest) At the top, you can enjoy a bite to eat at the Fløirestaurant or the exclusive eatery Schou. If you prefer a smaller snack before heading out to explore, it's worth visiting the Fløistuen shop and café. There's plenty to entertain you at the top, including various beautiful walking and cycling routes (you can rent bikes up there), Lake Skomakerdiket (where you can canoe), a large playground and even a Troll forest! I went on a tour around Bergen's city centre on two wheels (Image: Newsquest) 5. Adventurous activities If you love a sense of adventure from a city break, you won't be disappointed with the offering in Bergen. I have never ridden a bike abroad, and now it's something I want to do in every city I go to. A tour with Bergen Bike Rent on our first evening completely converted me to the charms of seeing a city on two wheels. Our fantastic guide showed us the sights of the bustling city centre from the Cathedral to the fish market. We went through picturesque alleys and across the pretty city square. I'm not a confident cyclist, but our knowledgeable guide showed us the ropes of riding an electric bike and reassured us throughout. We did the Bergen Downtown route, but there are also two others you can do – a dark blue route designed for the more active amongst us and a new route through the largest bike and pedestrian tunnel in the world. I can't wait to go back because I'm simply desperate to try it. Special thanks to Bergen Bike Rent for the guided tour (Image: Newsquest) Beyond biking, Bergen and the west of Norway boast access to amazing activities like kayaking and rafting, golf courses, zip lines, glacier tours and more. You can find out more and book your next adventure via the Visit Bergen website. 6. Delicious places to eat When I used to think of Norway, I simply pictured the snow-dusted landscapes, jaw-dropping fjords, Norse Gods and Viking hats. Truthfully, I had never considered Norway as a foodie destination, but how wrong I was! I didn't have a bad meal when I was there, but there were a few standout meals that I have to mention. Norwegian pastries are the perfect snack to enjoy as you mooch about the city (Image: Newsquest) Snacks and pastries As I teased earlier, I couldn't recommend a visit to Baker Brun. Their service was incredible, especially with a group of hungry journalists with lots and lots of questions. No traveller's day is complete for me without a taste of a traditional pastry and a mooch about a city centre. Bergen's answer was a delicious Skillingsboulle, which scored very highly with the entire group. The menu at Skyskraperen is seasonal and beautifully made. ( Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest) Lunch I'm not about to forget lunch at the Skyskraperen restaurant in a hurry. Lunch at the top of Mount Ulriken was our welcome meal, and what a welcome it was. Between the spectacular view and the delicious seasonal menu, I was completely speechless. Whilst we enjoyed the 3-course menu of modern Norwegian dishes, the restaurant caters for both hikers and visitors from the cable car. The food was divine, but I must recommend treating yourself to a glass bottle of Alde cider. We raved about it the entire time we were in Norway, and we all bought ourselves a bottle at Duty Free to take home. All in all, you simply can't go to Bergen without experiencing this wonderful restaurant for yourself. You've got to pick up a bottle of Alde (Image: Newsquest) Dinner When it comes to dinner, I couldn't recommend a visit to Bryggen Tracteusted more. Located in one of the oldest and best-preserved wooden buildings in the UNESCO site, everything about it feels warm and welcoming, from the staff to the traditional Bergen recipes. Take a look inside Bryggen Tracteusted (Image: Newsquest) We ate here on our last night, and it was a very fond farewell feast indeed. 7. Gateway to the Fjords I can't write a story about a trip to Norway without mentioning its beautiful Fjords. A bucket list experience for many, Bergen is the ideal gateway to the West of Norway and some truly breathtaking scenery. Simply hop on the train at Bergen station and enjoy the delights of one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. You're going to want to get a window seat for the journey to Flåm through Myrdal (trust me). Snow-dusted mountains and stunning waterfalls can be seen throughout the journey (Image: Newsquest) From snow-dusted mountains almost all year round to traditional colourful wooden houses decorating the mountainside, my jaw dropped and my nose was pressed to the window for almost the entire time (which must have been a sight for the other passengers, I'm sure). Travellers can enjoy a 5-minute photo stop at the Kjosfossen waterfall (Image: Newsquest) A highlight of the journey – before you even get to the Fjord village of Flåm - has to be the 5-minute photo stop at the truly stunning Kjosfossen waterfall. The picture above speaks for itself. This memorable train journey connects you to the beauty of the UNESCO Nærøyfjord. This electric cruise from Flam to Gudvangen is probably the most peaceful two hours I've spent in a long time. The 20km Fjord gives nature lovers plenty of time to try and spot some seals and porpoises from the deck. Spot seals and porpoises from the deck of the Nærøyfjord cruise (Image: Newsquest) The route has plenty of points of interest, including one of the smallest churches in Scandinavia – Underdal church – which fits only 40 people. The cruise showcases the very best of Norway in a neat nutshell and is an absolute must for your trip. Recommended reading There you have it, 7 reasons why you absolutely need to make Bergen your next city break. As Europe's rainiest city, you might not get guaranteed sunshine, but you can be assured that you'll experience culture, history, beautiful views, delicious places to eat and wonderful people to show you the way. Special thanks to all of our guides and our new Norwegian friends, Linn and Stein, for welcoming us with open arms. Other cities will give you your bog-standard welcome sign, but not Bergen. This delightful, curious and vibrant city gives you an invitation as soon as you step off the plane. But it's more than an invite; that question mark is a challenge. You've arrived in Bergen, what will you do now?
Scotsman
17-07-2025
- Scotsman
Jet2.com adds Verona to ski programme from Edinburgh Airport
Following continued demand from skiers and snowboarders in Scotland, has expanded its ski programme from Edinburgh Airport by adding Verona to its line-up of ski destinations. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The leading leisure airline has put new ski services on sale to Verona for both Winter 25/26 and Winter 26/27, representing an additional 4,000 ski seats on sale. Verona is an exclusive destination to from Edinburgh Airport in winter. New weekly Saturday services will be available from Edinburgh Airport from 7th February 2026 for Winter 25/26, which are perfectly timed for the 2026 Winter Olympics, and for Winter 26/27 from 26th December 2026, meaning customers can slope off to the snow during the Christmas holidays. The flights are scheduled to operate in the morning, offering friendly flight times for snow enthusiasts looking to make the most of their winter escape. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The addition of Verona to ski programme from Edinburgh Airport means customers can access the Italian Alps and the many ski resorts, slopes and views it offers. Skiers and snowboarders can take advantage of several popular ski resorts located close to Verona, including Val di Fassa, nestled in the Trentino region and one of Italy's largest ski areas, Madonna di Campiglio, situated in the Brenta Dolomites of Northern Italy, and Cortina d'Ampezzo, a charming ski resort in the Dolomites offering stunning scenery and world-class ski runs. Ski slope As a result of this expansion, has ski flights on sale to six ski destinations from Edinburgh Airport for both Winter 25/26 and Winter 26/27 – Verona,Chambery,Geneva, Salzburg, Innsbruck and Turin. In addition to this wide choice of destinations, dates and flights, customers booking and travelling on ski flights from Edinburgh Airport with to enjoy VIP customer service which has seen the UK's third largest airline win numerous awards and accolades. Customers can also enjoy a 10kg hand luggage and 22kg baggage* and 22kg ski carriage* with ski programme for Winter 25/26 and Winter 26/27 from Edinburgh Airport, in addition to Verona, is as follows: Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Chambery – a popular area for winter sports, Chambery serves as a gateway to world-famous ski resorts in the French Alps, including Courchevel, the host of the 2023 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships. Weekly Saturday services from Edinburgh Airport, offering quick and easy access to some of Europe's best slopes. Geneva – up to two weekly services (Saturday and Sunday) on sale. Surrounded by the Alps, Geneva is a great gateway to some of the most popular French and Swiss ski resorts, including Tignes, Flaine, Verbier, Zermatt and the Three Valleys. Salzburg – weekly Saturday ski flights on sale from Edinburgh Airport. Salzburg straddles the Austrian-German border and is key to hundreds of ski resorts, including Kaprun, Mayrhofen and Obertauern. Turin – this Italian gateway gives skiers endless options and with top resorts, such as Pila, Vars, Le Corbier and Val d'Isere easily accessible, the region is a popular choice for skiers and snowboarders. Weekly Sunday ski services are available from Edinburgh Airport to the Italian city. Innsbruck – with incredible ski resorts right on its doorstep, Innsbruck is the city of choice for many snow-worshippers. Skiers and snowboarders can access the Tyrolean capital from Edinburgh Airport with weekly Saturday services available. Steve Heapy, CEO of and Jet2holidays, said: 'We are experiencing continued demand from skiers and snowboarders in Scotland clamouring to book the best of the action for this winter and next and our ski flights are selling very well. As a result, we are delighted to be expanding our ski programme even further and giving snow sports fans more choice, with the addition of Verona from Edinburgh Airport for Winter 25/26 and Winter 26/27. Verona provides fantastic access to the best ski resorts in the Italian Alps, whether you are a beginner or an expert, with several resorts within easy reach. With perfectly timed flights, we are giving skiers access to the best ski resorts across Europe, and we know our new ski services to Verona from Edinburgh Airport, along with those already on sale, will be a huge hit with snow sports enthusiasts.' Jonny Macneal, Head of Aviation at Edinburgh Airport said: "It's in fair Verona where we lay our skis this and next winter, something we're sure our passengers will love! "Making sure we work with our airline partners to provide a varied list of destinations is something we're always keen on so it's great to see add yet more options to its winter schedule." *charges apply Visit
Glasgow Times
10-07-2025
- Business
- Glasgow Times
Jet2 launches winter 2026 ski sale from Glasgow Airport
Thousands of seats are available for the 2026/27 season, giving skiers and snowboarders the chance to travel to some of the best ski resorts in the French and Swiss Alps. The airline will operate a ski programme to Geneva from Glasgow Airport next winter. Weekly Saturday services are on sale to the popular ski destination from December 12, 2026, and throughout the winter season. Read more: No trains to run on major Glasgow Central railway line this weekend The ski seats on sale for Winter 26/27 from Glasgow Airport represent a capacity increase of nine per cent compared to last winter. The airline will be flying its new A321neo aircraft across the full winter season, offering more seats to Geneva. Steve Heapy, chief executive officer of and Jet2holidays, said: "We enjoyed another successful ski season last winter, and with skiers and snowboarders already looking ahead to winter 26/27, we have responded by launching our ski programme for next winter from Glasgow Airport. "With more seats on sale to Geneva at the most popular times, we are putting our best-ever ski programme on sale. "Our biggest and best ski programme offers skiers and snowboarders more choice and flexibility than ever before and means they can hit the slopes, while benefitting from all the advantages of travelling with our award-winning airline." Passengers can look forward to a 10kg hand baggage allowance and the option for hold luggage and ski carriage, each weighing up to 22kg. Jonathan Ford, portfolio manager at AGS Airports, said: "It is great to see continuing to expand its presence at Glasgow Airport. "The decision to increase capacity on its popular ski services to Geneva next winter is a clear reflection of strong demand and confidence in the market. "We're also excited to welcome the introduction of the A321neo to Glasgow operations—an aircraft that offers greater fuel efficiency, reduced noise, and an enhanced passenger experience for those choosing to fly from Glasgow.'
Metro
04-07-2025
- Metro
‘Secret' Canary Island lesser-known than Lanzarote gets new direct UK flights
How many Canary Islands can you name? Our money's on the big four: Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, and Fuerteventura. But did you know the Spanish archipelago, famed for its black- and white-sand beaches and rugged volcanic landscapes, has four more? One of which is about to become more accessible to UK travellers. Enter, La Palma, a small island with a forested terrain, narrow cobbled streets and glistening turquoise oceans. If this sounds like your perfect holiday – and you live in or close to Manchester or London Stansted airports – you're in luck. Because and Jet2holidays have just announced new flights and holidays to the island. From April 3, 2026, two weekly services on Mondays and Fridays will run yearly from Manchester. The same will be available from Stansted on October 26, 2026. Alongside new flights – which means Jet2 will cover five locations across the Canary Islands – a range of 2 to 4-star hotels on La Palma will be added to the roster. This includes resorts in Los Cancajos, Puerto Naos and Tazacorte. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Metro found one holiday in the 3-star Los Rosales Apartments currently priced at £535 per person. From April 6-10, 2026, enjoy a self-catering, one bedroom apartment in the Los Cancajos area, flying from Manchester. A little boujier at £954 per person, book the 4-star Melia La Palma in Puero Noas. Flying from Stansted on October 26, 2026, spend seven nights in this peaceful seafront location, complete with bed and breakfast, coach transfers, and an infinity pool. Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy said: 'The launch of La Palma gives holidaymakers and independent travel agents the chance to enjoy everything this incredible island has to offer. 'We are delighted to be expanding our presence across the Canary Islands from London Stansted and Manchester airports by adding this brand-new gateway to our portfolio, appealing to holidaymakers looking to explore the island's natural beauty. 'We are confident that these new flights and holidays will prove popular with customers looking for an adventure style holiday, paired with knockout scenery.' As travellers on Reddit describe La Palma as 'less touristy than Tenerife,' with 'spectacular sunsets,' and 'stunning green landscapes,' we're guessing your 2026 summer holiday is sorted? Unlike its neighbour, Tenerife, which is renowned for being more of a party island, life on La Palma is laid back. There's more of a focus on nature, from hiking, kayaking, and swimming, than there is on singing karaoke in Playa de las Américas. (Which we're not knocking, by the way. Who doesn't love belting out Whitney Houston to a bar full of strangers?) For those who prefer sightseeing on land, hike the Ruta de los Volcanes, Caldera de Taburiente National Park, or Cubo de la Galga, an ancient laurel forest and Unesco World Biosphere Reserve. More of a water baby? La Palma boasts plenty of natural pools, including Charco Azul or Piscinas de la Fajana, both on the northeast of the island. The beauty spots are free of charge. Of course, because La Palma is an island, there are some incredible beaches to explore, too. Puerto Naos is the largest, and is known for its black sand and calm waters. This makes it perfect for snorkelling. Los Cancajos is a Blue Flag Beach, meaning it meets high environmental and quality standards. The horsehoes-shaped cove has cobalt blue waters and gentle waves, and ideal for diving. Puerto de Tazacorte is another black sand beach and is split into two sections. While one area is family friendly, the other is reserved for naturists. Make sure you spend some time in the harbour town, too. The tiny coastal village is made up of brightly coloured houses, while independent cafes and restaurants line the seafront. Fancy getting more up close and personal with the ocean? Kayaking and canoeing tours are available. From £43 per person, spend two hours exploring the famous Cueva Bonita and pass by fishermens' sea caves. Dolphin and whale watching experiences are popular here, too. For £50, you'll head out with marine biologists to admire the marine creatures in their natural habitat. Back on solid ground, La Palma has much more to offer. For an alternative evening activity, join a stargazing tour for unspoiled views of the night sky. Tours often include trips to viewpoints like Roque de los Muchachos, a telescope observatory which hosts the largest optical-infrared telescope in the world. A tour watching the sunset through a telescope with a glass of wine will set you back £47 per person. If singing, dancing, and embracing local culture is another holiday non-negotiable, you'll want to visit La Palma on Carnival Monday. (The date changes each year, as it's the Monday before Ash Wednesday.) The vibrant Carnival Los Indianos in Santa Cruz de La Palma is designed as a tribute to the island's relationship with Cuba. The two nations have such strong ties, La Palma is even nicknamed the 'Cuba of the Canary Islands.' It celebrates the arrival of Canary Islanders from Latin America, who arrived on La Palma in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries with gold and jewels in tow. In a comical – if not slightly sarcastic – nod to the ostentatiousness of the wealthy, locals don white suits and accessories before engaging in a 'talcum powder battle.' During this festival, the streets are filled with music, and traditional dancing. More Trending Finally, indulge in the tasty Canarian cuisine. Due to its unique position off the coast of Africa, ties to Latin America, and being part of Spain, the food is a rich blend of each culture. Staple incredients include local fruit and veg grown in the fertile volcanic soil, fresh seafood and meat. Standout traditional dishes are mojo, a spicy sauce made with peppers, herbs, and spices, and served with potatoes, fish, or meat, and gofio, a toasted grain flour. TripAdvisor cites Restaurante Chipi-Chipi as one of the best eateries on the island. The restaurant serves up Mediterranean and European cuisine, and has impeccable reviews. One diner said they enjoyed 'one of the best meats' they've ever eaten, while another said the price was 'unbeatable.' Classic starters, like crackling, croquettes, and goats cheese range from 65 cents to €4.70 (56p to £4.04). Main dishes like veal and ox chops cost between €20 and €24 (£17.18 and £20.61). La Palma enjoys a subtropical climate, with yearly warm temperatures and high levels of sunshine – specifically over 300 days. The warmest months are July and August, with average highs around 22°C and 25°C. January and February are the coolest months, with temperatrues averaging around 20°C. Summer is when you can expect the island to be at its busiest. So, if you're looking to avoid the crowds, visit during the shoulder season. This is between March and May, when temperatures are comfortable, the chance of rainfall is low, and conditions are ideal for exploring. MORE: Is it safe to travel to Crete? Latest tourist advice amid wildfire evacuations MORE: Ryanair and easyJet cancel hundreds more flights due to French air traffic control strikes — what to do if your holiday's affected MORE: The 'best all-round' Greek island that gets hardly any visitors
