Italy Awaits from Bournemouth: New Flights to Naples, Sicily, and Beyond, Here Is What You Need To Know

Published on
November 1, 2025

Bournemouth Airport has long been a key gateway for travellers seeking European and UK destinations. With flights to popular cities like Venice, Girona, and many more, the airport has a solid reputation among frequent flyers. However, as more and more travellers are looking to explore new and exciting destinations, a call for more variety in flight options has been growing.

In a recent survey conducted by the Daily Echo, more than 1,000 comments were shared on a Facebook post asking what new destinations passengers would like to see added to the airport’s roster. The responses revealed a mix of highly requested European hotspots and international cities, each offering something unique for tourists.

While Bournemouth Airport already offers several flights to destinations such as Venice, Dubrovnik, and Girona, passengers are hoping for more direct flights to major cities that are currently not served. Here are seven destinations that top the wish list of many local travellers.

1. Italy: More Flights to Southern Regions

Italy remains one of the most popular destinations for UK travellers, and passengers flying from Bournemouth Airport are eager for more options. While flights to Venice are already available, many passengers expressed interest in visiting more cities in the southern parts of Italy.

Popular suggestions include:

• Perugia: Known for its medieval architecture and chocolate festival, Perugia is a cultural gem in Umbria.
• Naples and Bari: These bustling cities offer Mediterranean beaches, historical sites, and delicious cuisine.
• Sicily: With Ryanair announcing new flights to Trapani in Sicily from March 2026, it looks like this desire will soon be fulfilled.

Quick Tip: If you’re planning to explore southern Italy, consider combining a visit to Naples with a day trip to the Amalfi Coast, a popular spot for both its natural beauty and seaside villages.

2. Germany: A Gateway to Central Europe

Germany is another destination that Bournemouth passengers have longed for, with many calling for flights to major German hubs. Germany is a perfect base for onward travel to neighbouring European countries, and passengers want more direct routes to make it easier to explore beyond Germany itself.

• Düsseldorf: Known for its fashion scene and modern art galleries.
• Frankfurt and Munich: Popular for business travellers and tourists looking to explore cultural landmarks.
• Cologne and Dortmund: Historical cities offering rich culture and stunning architecture.

Quick Tip: Munich, the home of Oktoberfest, is perfect for those looking to experience Germany’s lively beer culture. For art lovers, Düsseldorf is a must-visit for its international fashion scene and museum exhibits.

3. Budapest: A Revisit for Many Fans

Many passengers were disappointed when Ryanair discontinued flights to Budapest earlier this year. As Hungary’s vibrant capital, Budapest offers a blend of history, architecture, and thermal bathhouses, making it a prime destination for travellers. The desire to bring this destination back to the Bournemouth schedule is loud and clear, with many asking for its return.

• Highlights: The Danube River, Buda Castle, and the historic thermal baths.
• Perfect for: History buffs, architecture lovers, and those looking to experience a city with a rich cultural history.

Quick Tip: Budapest is perfect for a weekend break. Make sure to visit the famous Gellért Baths, a stunning example of Budapest’s bathhouse culture.

4. Dublin and Beyond: Exploring Ireland’s West Coast

Dublin is a top destination for those seeking vibrant city life, rich history, and lively pubs. However, passengers are also keen to explore the beautiful west coast of Ireland, with suggestions for flights to Cork, Shannon, and Kerry. These destinations offer scenic beauty and unique Irish experiences.

• Dublin: Perfect for city lovers, with museums, bars, and historical sites.
• West Ireland: Kerry and Cork are renowned for their stunning countryside, cliffs, and beaches.

Quick Tip: If you’re visiting Dublin, make sure to spend a day exploring the coast of Ireland, where you’ll find rugged landscapes and charming towns.

5. Barcelona: A Popular Spanish Destination

While Bournemouth Airport already offers flights to destinations in Spain, many passengers have expressed a desire for a more direct route to Barcelona. Known for its lavish architecture, iconic cathedral, and beachside locations, Barcelona offers much more than just its famous football stadium.

• Highlights: Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, Barcelona’s beaches, and the Gothic Quarter.
• Perfect for: Art lovers, beachgoers, and food enthusiasts.

Quick Tip: Barcelona is a perfect year-round destination. Visit in the spring or autumn for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

6. Dubai: An Ambitious International Destination

For some travellers, the wish to see flights to Dubai from Bournemouth is a bit more ambitious. However, there’s strong demand for this international hotspot, which serves as a hub for connections to Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Dubai offers a mix of luxury shopping, world-class attractions, and an incredible skyline.

• Highlights: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and desert safaris.
• Perfect for: Luxury travellers, business professionals, and families seeking entertainment.

Quick Tip: Dubai is best visited in the cooler months, from November to April, when the weather is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

7. Croatia: A Desire for More Variety

Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline and historic cities continue to be a top destination for travellers. While Bournemouth already offers flights to Zadar in the summer, passengers are eager for more destinations such as Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, and Rijeka. Croatia is quickly becoming a major tourist hub, offering beaches, culture, and ancient architecture.

• Highlights: The ancient city walls of Dubrovnik, Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, and the tranquil beaches of Istria.
• Perfect for: History buffs, beach lovers, and adventure seekers.

Quick Tip: Dubrovnik is a must-visit for anyone interested in Game of Thrones history. Don’t miss a walk along the city’s ancient walls for panoramic views of the city and sea.

Conclusion: The Growing Demand for New Destinations

As more travellers seek unique experiences beyond the well-trodden paths, Bournemouth Airport is an ideal candidate for expanding its network of destinations. From the scenic beauty of Italy’s south to the cultural allure of Barcelona and the business opportunities in Dubai, the desire for more flight options reflects a growing interest in travel diversity. Whether for business or leisure, passengers are eager for new opportunities to explore the world right from their local airport.

Disclaimer: The Image is AI Generated

Source: bournemouthecho.co.uk