Jet2 Is Adding Seventeen New European Routes For Summer 2027

Last summer, my mate Dave booked a “surprise” weekend away for his girlfriend. He picked a city he’d never heard of, based solely on a cheap Jet2 deal from Manchester. Turns out, the “charming medieval town” was mostly a roundabout and a closed kebab shop.

Dave learned the hard way: not all new routes are created equal. But Jet2 just dropped a bombshell for Summer 2027, and I think Dave might finally get it right.

The airline is adding seventeen new European routes from five UK airports. That’s a lot of potential for both triumph and tragedy—but mostly triumph, if you pick wisely.

Where exactly are we going?

Let’s talk specifics, because vague holiday planning is how you end up in Dave’s roundabout situation. Jet2 is starting flights from Birmingham, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, and Newcastle to destinations scattered across the continent.

Highlights include Kalamata in Greece (hello, olive oil capital), Perpignan in France (south of France, but cheaper than Nice), and Santiago de Compostela in Spain (pilgrimage vibes, minus the blisters). Oh, and Genoa in Italy—pesto city, my friends. Genoa. Yes, please.

But wait—there’s more. They’re also flying to Bordeaux (wine, obviously), Girona (Barcelona’s cooler, less crowded cousin), and Salzburg (for Sound of Music karaoke). I’m already mentally packing my suitcase.

The “why now?” question (and my theory)

You might be thinking: “Summer 2027? That’s ages away. Why announce it now?” Good question, and I have a sneaky theory. Jet2 saw easyJet and Ryanair gobbling up secondary airports, and they said, “Hold my sangria.”

By locking in these routes early, they’re betting that British holidaymakers are desperate for something new. No more Tenerife every year—we’re ready for Sibenik (Croatia) or Pisa (leaning tower, leaning into my wallet).

Also, let’s be real: the 2027 dates let them sell packages before rivals even wake up. It’s a power move, and I respect the audacity.

Which UK airports win big?

Birmingham gets the most love this time—eight new routes. That means Brummies can now jet off to Bordeaux, Genoa, Kalamata, Perpignan, Pisa, Santiago, Sibenik, and Girona. I’m genuinely jealous of Birmingham right now.

Manchester isn’t far behind, with six new routes added. You’d think they’d slow down, but nope—they’re adding Chania in Crete (yes, the one with the Venetian harbour) and Lamezia Terme in Calabria (the toe of Italy’s boot).

For those in the North, Leeds Bradford gets Perpignan and Salzburg—perfect for a culture fix without the London prices. And Newcastle gets Girona and Santiago. Geordies, your summer 2027 is sorted.

The hidden gems you’ll thank me for

Let’s pause on Perpignan for a second. It’s in French Catalonia, right near the Spanish border. You get real Catalan food, beaches that aren’t packed, and a castle that looks like a Harry Potter set. Jet2 is basically giving you a cheat code for a stress-free holiday.

Then there’s Sibenik in Croatia. Everyone raves about Dubrovnik, but Sibenik is quieter, cheaper, and has a UNESCO old town. Plus, the Krka National Park waterfalls are a 20-minute drive away. Tell your friends you’re going to “Sibenik” and watch them scramble for Google.

And Lamezia Terme? It’s the gateway to both the Tyrrhenian and Ionian coasts. You can eat pasta on one side, swim on the other, and still have time for a gelato. Jet2, you’ve outdone yourself.

But what about the price?

I know you’re thinking: “This sounds amazing, but also expensive.” Historically, Jet2 is mid-range—not cheap like Ryanair, not luxury like British Airways. But early bird bookings for summer 2027? They’ll probably be surprisingly affordable.

For example, flights from Birmingham to Pisa often start around £40 one-way during release dates. That’s less than a train to London. Do with that information what you will.

Plus, they bundle bags, seats, and transfers automatically—so no hidden fees. Dave would’ve appreciated that before his roundabout adventure.

My final piece of advice (take it or leave it)

If you’re like me, you’ll start planning a 2027 holiday right after Christmas 2026—because let’s face it, that’s when the January blues hit hardest. But book early if you want the best prices. These routes will sell out fast, especially the sunny ones.

Don’t be Dave. Don’t pick a city based on a name that sounds “exotic” but is actually a concrete suburb. Pick Genoa for the pesto, Salzburg for the scenery, or Sibenik for the waterfalls.

And whatever you do, when you’re sipping wine in Bordeaux in July 2027, think of me. I’ll be the jealous one still waiting for my own surprise weekend—but this time, with a plan.