7 Underrated But Gorgeous European Cities You Can Fly To Nonstop From America In 2025

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Have you been dreaming of cobbled towns frozen in medieval times, hilltop castles that look as if they could belong in a Disney storybook––except they’re the real deal––and all those world-class museums you could visit?

Europe sounds like a great idea in 2025, especially with the host of nonstop flights launching from America to new, unexpected destinations tourists often skip, including a coastal metropolis in Italy and the sunniest city in Portugal.

So before you go along with the masses in flocking into Paris, London and the like, here are 7 underrated (but stunning, nonetheless) European cities:

Catania, Italy

Historic City Of Catania In Sicily, Italy During Sunset

The second largest city in Sicily, Catania is a beautiful gem littered with your usual pastel houses, magnificent churches ornamented in Baroque stucco, and picturesque piazze, overlooking a turquoise Mediterranean.

It has imposing Mount Etna, a legendary active volcano, for backdrop, and the food scene is unrivaled, with cream-filled cannoli served in local pasticcerie, and casual dining spots galore lining the lively port––for excellent seafood pasta, Trattoria Catania Ruffiana is the place to go.

Flights To Catania (CTA) From The U.S.

1 flight per day with Delta Air Lines, starting May 2025

Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade Waterfront In Serbia, Eastern Europe

The capital of a landlocked Eastern European country most Americans have only vaguely heard about, Belgrade is a bustling metropolis best known for its vibrant social scene, leafy avenues lined with cozy, art-filled cafés, and monumental sights.

Don’t miss Belgrade Fortress, a stronghold at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, a picture-perfect, cobbled Skadarlija, and Knez Mihailova, a pedestrianized street bordered by elegant buildings and fine-dining eateries where a three-course menu will still only set you back $45.

Flights To Catania (CTA) From The U.S.

1 flight every Wednesday and Saturday with Air Serbia

1 flight every Sunday and Thursday with Air Serbia

Bucharest, Romania

Panoramic View Of Bucharest, Romania

Serving as the capital of Romania, yet another Eastern nation Americans are only just starting to discover, Bucharest is one of the most unique cities you’ll ever visit, with an unlikely combination of Paris-style, Belle époque facades and graffiti-clad, Brutalist towers.

It’s a concrete jungle certain to quench your Soviet nostalgia, with communist-era apartment blocks, vintage tramways, and all that hearty, meaty-heavy Balkan food––for the best traditional ciorbă with sour cream, make sure you add Ciorbarie to your list.

Flights To Bucharest (OTP) From The U.S.

Every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday with HiSky

Limerick, Ireland

King John's Castle In Limerick, Ireland, Northern Europe

Forget an overpriced, overcrowded Dublin: next year, it’s time you discover the equally culture-rich, fascinating Limerick, in the West of Ireland, with a plethora of well-reputed pubs to its name, and a timeless Old Quarter that’s certain to appease the History buff in you.

It’s there you’ll find intact Georgian-era houses, storied pubs pouring the perfect pint of Guinness at a reasonable price, and Limerick’s pride and joy, the 13th century King John’s Castle, standing on the banks of the fast-flowing Shannon.

Flights To Shannon (SNN) From The U.S.

1 flight per day with Aer Lingus

1 flight per day with United Airlines––only seasonal, resuming May 23, 2025

1 flight per day with United Airlines––only seasonal, resuming April 4, 2025

1 flight per day with Aer Lingus

1 flight per day with Delta Air Lines––starting May 2025

Limerick is served by Shannon Airport, a 25-minute drive from the city

Faro, Portugal

A Tourist Taking A Picture In Faro, Portugal

Located in the the extreme south of Portugal, where it’s perfectly sunny for over 300 days a year, Faro combines culture and a relaxed coastal getaway with its walled, cobbled Old Town and a sun-drenched, honey-colored main beach.

As the capital of the Algarve, it boasts train connections to lively resort zones like Albufeira and Portimão, famous for their luxurious beachfront hotels and riotous nightlife, and laid-back seaside towns, like the whitewashed Carvoeiro and a beach-fringed Lagos.

Flights To Faro (FAO) From The U.S.

Every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday with United Airlines––starting May 2025

Bilbao

Bilbao Old Town In Northern Spain

Barcelona’s Northerly rival, Bilbao, is an equally eclectic port city, except it’s far cheaper and less touristy: it’s home to titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum, one of Europe’s finest, a trendy Ensanche district, dotted with art galleries and pintxo bars, and a sprawling, medieval Casco Viejo.

As the largest city in the Basque Country, a region of Spain that retains its own customs and language, it’s also a starting point for visitors keen on exploring the ancient territory, its sleepy mountain towns, and unruffled beaches.

Fly Nonstop To Bilbao (BIO) From The U.S.

1 flight every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with United Airlines, starting May 2025

Menton

View on the old part of Menton, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, France

The prettiest town in France, with a postcard-ready marina distinguished by a row of colorful houses, Menton lines the Franco-Italian border, and it offers you the best of both worlds: delicious pasta and narrow alleys, coupled with finesse, and extravagant social life of the French Riviera.

Despite being located a half-hour drive from Nice, and thus easily-accessible from the international airport, it feels comparatively quieter and more offbeat, and we’ll be honest with you, we’ve yet to find better gelato in Côte d’Azur than Menton’s Gelateria Sofia.

Fly Nonstop To Nice (NCE) From The U.S.

1 flight per day with Delta Air Lines, resuming May 2, 2025

1 flight per day with United Airlines, resuming April 21, 2025

1 flight every Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday with La Compagnie, resuming May 16, 2025

1 flight per day with Delta Air Lines, resuming March 29, 2025

1 flight per day with American Airlines, resuming May 16, 2025

1 flight every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday with United Airlines, starting May 2025

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Italy Removes All Covid Entry Requirements June 1

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Italy will remove all COVID-19 entry requirements from June 1. Italy’s health ministry said the need to show a negative test result, proof of vaccination, or recent recovery from COVID-19, will not continue after May 31. Therefore, Italy is back to normality for travelers. 

However, some internal COVID-19 restrictions still apply. 

The End Of All COVID-19 Restrictions In Italy 

Italy has become one of the last European nations to lift all COVID-19 entry requirements. The nation removed the need for all passengers to complete an EU digital passenger locator form on May 1. 

All tourists—including Americans—will no longer need to show:

  • Proof of vaccination 
  • Passenger locator forms 
  • Testing 
  • Recovery from COVID-19 

This news is excellent for the millions of visitors considering visiting Italy in 2022.

Italy will join the following European nations in scrapping all COVID-19 entry requirements:

  • Ireland
  • UK
  • Denmark
  • Sweden
  • Norway
  • Iceland
  • Lithuania
  • Latvia
  • Poland
  • Czechia
  • Switzerland
  • Liechtenstein 
  • Gibraltar
  • Madeira
  • Slovenia
  • Slovakia
  • Hungary
  • Croatia
  • Serbia
  • Romania
  • Bulgaria
  • Moldova
  • Montenegro
  • Kosovo
  • Albania
  • North Macedonia
  • Greece
  • Cyprus 
  • Germany 
  • Belgium 

Internal COVID-19 restrictions may remain in some of these nations.

Italy’s Current Internal Restrictions 

Italy still has mandatory masks on public transport nationwide. The health minister will decide whether to extend the mask mandate past June 15th. As of now, the mandate is due to expire on this date. 

However, airports and airlines may require passengers to wear face masks when flying to and from Italy until this date. That’s despite the EU-wide removal of face coverings on flights in mid-May. Most importantly, Italy requires these face masks to be FFP2. 

Currently, Italy requires face coverings in:

  • Concert halls 
  • Theatres 
  • Live music clubs 
  • Indoor sporting arenas 
  • Healthcare facilities 

If travelers need to visit inpatients on a hospital ward, they’ll need:

  • A booster dose 
  • A primary vaccination course and a negative COVID-19 test 
  • A COVID-19 recovery certificate and a negative COVID-19 test 

However, Italy has scrapped the Green Pass and Super Green Pass, commonly known as vaccine passports in North America and the United Kingdom.

However, travelers will still need a Green Pass to enter Italy from another nation until June 1. 

Travelers no longer need the Green Pass to enter local and national public transportation, bars and restaurants, shops, museums, theaters, cinemas, stadiums, gyms, and spas.

What If I Test Positive For COVID-19 In Italy? 

In some nations, such as the United Kingdom, travelers don’t legally need to self-isolate if they test positive for COVID-19. It’s just a recommendation. 

Italy, however, has different rules. 

If travelers test positive for COVID-19, they must immediately self-isolate and call the regional hotline. Travelers must remain in their present accommodation for self-isolation or transfer to a state or government hospital. In addition, travelers may need to fund the accommodation. 

If travelers have received a full vaccination course or a booster shot in the last 120 days, they must self-isolate for seven days. If travelers don’t meet these requirements or have never received a COVID-19 vaccine, they must self-isolate for ten days. 

To leave self-isolation, travelers must present a negative COVID-19 test. Travelers will also need to be symptom-free for three days. 

Two Female Tourists Drinking Coffee By The Colosseum In Rome, Italy

The COVID-19 Situation In Italy 

The current 7-day case average in Italy is 19,879. However, that’s a sharp decline from the 7-day case average of 178,332 in January 2022. Italy has fully vaccinated 85.3% of its entire population.

However, 167,000 people have died from COVID-19 in Italy. since February 2020.

In Summary

Fancy a trip to Italy? This news is superb for Americans as most European nations have now ended COVID-19 entry rules.

Americans can now visit a growing list of nations with no entry requirements.

Which country are you choosing this year?

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Germany Removes All Entry Requirements For Summer

New Flights From New York To Paris Launched

U.S. Government Issues Travel Advisory Regarding Hurricane Season In The Caribbean

Cyprus Removes All Covid Related Entry Requirements

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Pink Sand Beaches & Ritzy Resorts: Leave Your Winter Blues Behind For This Underrated Island

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When Americans daydream of their next island getaway, oftentimes, their vacation options boil down to the Caribbean or Hawaii.

But, there’s a stunning island just as close, just as dreamy, and completely safe to visit despite lingering tales of mysterious mishaps.

Pink sand at Horse Shoe Bay in Bermuda

Now that December has arrived, many Americans are beginning to feel the chill of winter, activating their sense of wanderlust for sunny escapes even more.

Recently featured as one of the top 8 ‘easy winter sun destinations‘, the gorgeous island of Bermuda stands out the most with pink sand beaches, ritzy resorts, and a fairly new airline making this underrated island easier to reach than ever before.

Experience A Sunny Slice Of The U.K.

Afternoon tea, proper pronunciations, immaculate British colonial architecture in a land run by a Queen – You might be thinking London, but this also sums up Bermuda.

Tourists riding through Hamilton, Bermuda on nice day

As a British Overseas Territory, the U.K. vibes are palpable throughout the scenic towns dotting the 21-mile-long island, especially in UNESCO-listed St. George’s and the capital, Hamilton.

While you won’t see too many dreary days like London’s notorious drab winter weather, this sunny English-speaking paradise is big on cricket matches, tea time, and wrong-way drivers (at least to Americans).

While Hamilton is a far cry from the vastness of London, Manchester, or Edinburgh, the best of U.K.’s delights can be enjoyed right here in Bermuda, from Hamilton’s historic streets to tasty fish and chips with a Bermudan twist, like Hog Penny Pub.

Historical St. Peter's church in St. George's, Bermuda

Blue Waters & Pink Sand: Bermuda’s Beaches Are Stunnin’!

Bermuda no longer has to be primarily a cruise destination as Bermuda’s 2023 launch of BermudAir makes reaching this North Atlantic island a breeze from:

  • New York
  • Boston
  • Washington D.C.
  • Philadelphia
  • Orlando
  • Miami
  • Fort Lauderdale
  • Atlanta
  • Charlotte
Pink sand beach in Bermuda

With more connectivity, Bermuda has found itself on more travelers’ radars in search of sun and sand – but not just any ordinary sand.

The Caribbean may be known for vivid blue waters and sugar-white sand, but Bermuda sets all alone in the North Atlantic as the black sheep of your vacation options.

Boasting pink sand in the most popular beach destination of Horseshoe Bay, as well as other gems speckled around the island, there are few places close to the States that measure up to Bermuda’s unique beauty.

panoramic view at north end of horseshoe bay beach bermuda

You can also find pink sand at:

  • Church Bay
  • John Smith’s Bay
  • Warwick Long Bay

Horseshoe Bay is definitely the most sought-after for its idyllic beach days and unforgettable memories.

Not all of Bermuda’s beaches are pink, but even Barbie would be hard-pressed to come across any shores that would disappoint.

Beach at Tobacco Bay in Bermuda

Take Tobacco Bay, for example, another popular coastal gem. Yet, Tobacco Bay boasts rocky cliffs, crystalline waters, soft, light sand, and a vibrant array of aquatic life for snorkelers.

For what it’s worth, Bermuda is widely acclaimed as one of the best diving destinations in the world.

Bermuda’s Ritzy Resorts

If there is ever a time to splurge on a vacation, it’s to escape your winter blues. While Bermuda is certainly not the cheapest tropical getaway, it doesn’t have to break the bank either.

It’s definitely not St. Barth’s, but it’s also not Punta Cana, either.

Princess Hotel In Bermuda

Sitting fat and happy somewhere in between are Bermuda’s luxe resorts. Even though Bermuda is only 21 miles long and roughly a 1 mile wide, there are numerous opulent stays with oceanfront views, including some very familiar names synonymous with luxury.

One of the most notable is Rosewood Bermuda, a 5-star resort offering upscale dining and world-class spa services in a prime location.

In the same breath is Loren At Pink Beach (5-star) and St. Regis (4-star) – all three will cost more than a pretty penny, typically upwards of $450 per night.

Lounge chairs on beach at Bermuda resort

There are resorts lined around all of Bermuda’s gorgeous coastlines, and some are much more palatable for your wallet.

These 3 beach resorts are in the $300 range this winter:

  • Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa
  • Pampano Beach Club
  • Coco Reef Resort (low $ 200s)

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Unveiling Mexico’s Hidden Gem! Americans Can Fly Nonstop To This Affordable Historic City

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Everyone knows Mexico is a no-brainer if you’re looking for a sunny break in a gloomy winter, with world-class leisure hotspots like Cancun, Tulum, and Puerto Vallarta to its name, where it’s always balmy out, and resort staff treat you like royalty.

Well-established as it may be, we still feel Mexico is criminally underrated for culture.

Aerial View Of Santiago de Queretaro, Mexico

If you’re looking for somewhere a little more laid-back than Mexico City, and you feel San Miguel has already become far too popular for your liking, this hidden colonial gem boasting a UNESCO-listed center and affordable prices might just do the trick.

And the best part is, you can fly there nonstop!

No long layovers in CDMX or Cancun International:

Is Querétaro One Of The Prettiest Cities In Mexico?

Colonial Plaza In Queretaro, Mexico

Tucked away in the central Mexican hinterlands, Santiago de Querétaro (commonly shortened to just Querétaro) serves as the capital of its eponymous state, and it’s easily one of Mexico’s most overlooked destinations based on its architectural wealth alone:

Established as early as 1531, during the first wave of European migration to the Americas, it has accumulated an enviable array of monuments that have stood the test of time, ranging from religious to civic structures.

In other words, its cityscape feels timeless, unlike other resort-packed areas of Mexico that have been engulfed by the 21st-century development boom.

Colonial Street In Santiago de Queretaro, Mexico

Perhaps the city’s most easily recognized attraction, the striking orange-colored Church of St. Francis of Assisi houses beautiful sacral art, while the domed Church of St. Rose of Viterbo has a distinctive Baroque exterior and a gold-clad interior.

If you know your History, you’ll be glad to learn the trial of Maximilian I, a former emperor of Mexico, was held at the nearby Teatro de la República, and up the Hill of the Bells, you can visit a small chapel built on the site where he was executed in 1867.

With its ornate inner patios and art exhibits, the ex Ex-monastery of St. Augustine is also not to be missed, not to mention the numerous plazas, 18th-century colonial homes, and charming restaurants dotting the aqueduct-fringed Centro Histórico.

Flowery Street In Queretaro, Mexico

You Can Explore The Old Town In A Vintage Car For Less Than $10 Bucks!

As you might have guessed, there is plenty in Querétaro to keep you busy, so a guided tour of the historic center is easily the best way to optimize time and see as much as possible.

You can choose between a walking tour of the western half of the UNESCO-protected zone, which is arguably our favorite, as exploring on foot is your best bet to discover picture-perfect, secret spots, and it costs only $14.83 per person.

Colonial Era Church In Queretaro City, Central Mexico

Alternatively, if you’d rather exert as little physical effort as possible and still take in the sights, you can hop on a 1908 Classic Ford T to drive around the colonial core of the city for a negligible $9.89––for less than the price of lunch in a mid-range downtown restaurant!

This tour is perfect for capturing the extent of Querétaro’s 18th-century aqueduct or even driving up the Hill of the Bells where the Maximillian chapel is––meanwhile, you get to quench your early-century nostalgia by riding a vintage automobile.

Querétaro Is One Of The Most Affordable Cultural Destinations In Mexico

Colonial Houses In Santiago de Queretaro, Queretaro State, Central Mexico

Cultural value aside, part of Querétaro’s huge appeal to foreigners, in particular Americans, is how affordable it is compared to other tourist-dominated cities in Mexico.

Based on Numbeo estimates, you can eat for as cheap as $8.90 if it’s some street tacos and soda you’re craving, whereas sitting down for a more elaborate, three-course presentation in a restaurant patio will set you back by around $40.

You can even stay in the heart of the colonial center for as cheap as $51-a-night (El Serafin Hotel Boutique), or $72 for a superior double room with city views at the five-star Hotel Criol.

High Angle View Of Queretaro City In Mexico With Mexican Flag Flying

It’s not dirt cheap, and it’s comparable to other large cities in Mexico, but it won’t break the bank, either.

Looking for the best empanadas and guacamole in town? Try The Carter Bar: the wood memorabilia and Old World atmosphere are unmatched, and their drink menu leaves nothing to be desired.

Whatever you do, do not leave Querétaro without sampling Hacienda El Salitre‘s octopus (pulpo) ceviche, and unless you’re iffy about pork, Tacos Mario serves the best pig meat tacos you’ll have in your life––not even an overstatement.

Fly Nonstop To Querétaro From The U.S.

Traveler Holding USA Passport At Airport

This year, the Querétaro International Airport (QRO) has broken its own yearly record by registering more than 2 million passengers transiting in 2024 for the first time, a 15.1% increase over 2023, proving demand for Querétaro city breaks are growing.

This season, you can fly nonstop to Querétaro (QRO) from the following U.S. departure points:

1 flight per day with Aeromexico

1 flight every Tuesday and Friday with Volaris

2-3 flights every day with American Airlines

1 flight every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday with Aeromexico

4-5 flights per day with United Airlines or VivaAerobus

1 flight every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday with VivaAerobus

Additionally, starting in April 2025, nonstop flights will be offered from Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) every Wednesday and Saturday with low-cost carrier VivaAerobus.

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Thousands Of Islands & New Luxury Hotels: The Surprising Must-Visit European City For 2025

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If you’re scoping out Europe for an epic vacation next year, you can skip the global icons we’ve all dreamed of visiting in favor of lesser-known destinations.

Many travel experts have been highlighting cities off the traditional tourist path, which makes sense given how many travelers are seeking out alternatives to avoid crowds, contributing to overtourism concerns.

Forbes just revealed a real surprise for most, but not for me, since I was fortunate to visit in October and totally get the hype.

Stockholm's waterfront Södermalm district

With nonstop flights from the U.S., brand new ritzy hotels, and thousands of islands to explore, at first glance, you might think this city sounds like the Caribbean, but it’s actually Scandinavia.

Sweden may not be commonly associated with island-hopping, being more notable for deeply-rooted viking culture and their ‘fika’ lifestyle.

While visiting this region during winter comes with blistering cold weather, planning ahead for spring and beyond is your best bet to enjoy all the thrills, delights, and luxury of Stockholm in 2025.

Travel In Style: Stockholm’s Selection Of New & Revamped Luxury Stays

Couple enjoying views from elevated walkway near historic hotels in Stockholm

Stockholm is teeming with ritzy stays throughout the city. In fact, it holds a reputation as being pretty pricey.

I scored a great deal at the conveniently located AC Hotel on the outskirts in Solna next to the train station, which made reaching the city center a breeze.

But, many travelers will want to stay in Stockholm proper, and rightfully so. According to TripAdvisor, these are travelers’ 5 favorite hotels heading into the new year:

  1. Hotel Rival
  2. Bank Hotel
  3. Hotel Skeppsholmen
  4. Grand Hotel
  5. Hotel Frantz

Additionally, Forbes just announced a pair of exciting new hotel openings to kick off 2025, as well as another remodel to a 120-year-old staple.

Two women relaxing by water in front of Stockholm's Grand Hotel

So, let’s start with the ladder. Situated in Vaxholm, a vibrant archipelago village near Stockholm, the Waxholms Hotell is undergoing an extensive makeover, transforming into a ‘food and lifestyle destination’ backed by renowned local restaurateurs Jesper Ahlbom and Stefan Strömberg.

Mark your calendars for February 15, 2025 for this historic hotel’s new chapter.

As for the new additions, travelers can look forward to Stockholm Stadshotell, a 32-room boutique hotel set to open in January 2025, and Hagastrand, a new haven for the ultimate relaxation anchored by a state-of-the-art spa, slated to open doors at an undisclosed date in Fall 2025.

Explore Thousands Of Islands, Including A Breathtaking Old Town

Toasting coffee cups in Gamla Stan, Stockholm

No matter what time of year you visit, Stockholm’s incredible islands are calling your name. Although, not all are accessible, there are sightseeing tours and ferries to reach those open to the public, along with the city’s easy-to-use metro to some as well, which sells tickets from single use to yearly passes with numerous increments in between to save you money.

My favorite was Gamla Stan made up of the island of Stadsholmen, otherwise known as Stockholm’s ‘Old Town’.

While the city center beholds a mix of old and new like many major European cities, Gamla Stan’s quaint alleyways and cobbled streets take you back in time.

Stockholm sightseeing boat

Here, you’ll find an array of cafes, bars, and fascinating architecture, including the Royal Palace and Riddarholmen Church, among rows of multi-level buildings seemingly illuminating every other shade on the color wheel.

It’s a beautiful place. So much so we kept going back to sip mulled wine and partake in the ‘fika’ way of life after an obligatory IKEA stop and wandering other neighborhoods.

Gamla Stan is not alone in must-visit islands. TripAdvisor highlights Sodermalm as travelers’ favorite Stockholm island, lined with endless cafes and restaurants, plus cozy hotels and vibrant streets.

Reindeer Meatballs with potatoes and lingonberries at Meatballs for The People, Stockholm

I visited Sodermalm, too, and loved starting my day with a cappuccino and pastry from Embargo Cafe & Bar and capping off the night with traditional Swedish meatballs and lingonberries at Meatballs for the People (book ahead!).

Forbes also mentioned the highly-anticipated Stockholm Archipelago Trail (SAT), a new attraction spanning 168 miles and linking 21 islands in 2025.

Which Airlines Fly Nonstop From The U.S. To Stockholm In 2025?

Many travelers prep for at least one connection when jetting off to Europe, but there are 3 routes and 3 airlines with direct service to Stockholm.

Row of vibrant, colofrul buildings in Gamla Stan, Stockholm

Bad news being a majority of the U.S. will have to opt for a layover as only East Coast routes are nonstop.

Scandinavian Airlines’ 2 routes:

  • Newark (EWR) – flights every Thursday and Sunday
  • Miami (MIA) – flights every Wednesday and Saturday

United’s lone seasonal route:

Newark (EWR) – flights every day from June 18, 2025 through September 2025

Delta’s lone route:

New York City (JFK) – flights 4 days per week beginning April 15, 2025

Fun fact: Believe it or not, you can stay at an IKEA Hotel and visit an IKEA Museum, both located in Almhult, Sweden.

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