Where to travel in summer 2024: Saudia announces three direct flight routes
Get inspired for your European escape…
Wondering where to head to this summer for your perfect break? Imagine diving into the crystal-clear waters of Malaga’s beaches, savouring the elegance of Nice’s French Riviera, or immersing yourself in Athens’ ancient wonders… Whether you’re seeking a chic sojourn in the sun or adventures in the great outdoors, a European holiday beckons with open arms.
And right on time, Saudia has just announced its summer flight routes from Saudi Arabia to three destinations: Malaga, Nice and Athens. So, if you’re thinking about taking a summer trip, now is the time to book it.
Here’s a look at the three direct flight routes to know about.
Riyadh to Malaga, Spain
Direct flights from Riyadh to the Spanish city of Malaga will resume in the summer on June 7. The thrice-weekly flight on Fridays, Mondays, and Wednesdays provides a gateway to the Costa Del Sol, the province of Andalucia, an electrifying world of passion cuisine, pristine beaches, coastal adventures, and prominent archaeological museums. The flight will be just under seven hours, and the service will run direct non-stop from Terminal 4 of King Khalid International Airport at 8.55am (local time) to Malaga Airport, arriving at 2.50pm (local time).
Riyadh to Nice, South of France
The Kingdom’s national airline will fly to the French Riviera this summer, operating direct flights between Riyadh and Nice from June 7 – just in time for the Eid Al-Adha holiday. The thrice-weekly service will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between King Khalid International Airport and Nice Côte d’Azur Airport on an Airbus A330 aircraft, offering the perfect opportunity for you to live the real Dolce Vita. The flight departs from Riyadh at 9.40am (local time) and arrives in Nice at 2.40pm (local time), with the journey taking around six hours. Fares inclusive of checked baggage start from SAR3,189.
Nice, renowned for its famous waterfront, boasts a scenic seven-kilometre walkway known as the ‘Promenade des Anglais’. In 2021, the city was proclaimed a Unesco World Heritage Site. It’s also known for its Michelin-starred restaurants, luxurious global yachts in the harbour, high-end fashion designer stores, enchanting beaches, contemporary and historical urban buildings, and the European Alps, only a few kilometres away from Cannes and Monaco.
Jeddah to Athens, Greece
In recent years, Greece has become the destination du jour for many Saudi travellers – whether they’re dreaming of vacations packed with relaxation, exploration, or gourmet delights. The Greek capital of Athens offers all three in spades, and is reachable via a direct flight route with Saudia launching on May 17 from Jeddah.
It takes off four times per week (every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday) from Terminal 1 of King Abdulaziz International Airport, and invites travellers to discover cultural big-hitters like the Benaki Museum, housing artefacts dating back to the Middle Ages; the historic Plaka district with its classical buildings; and Athens National Garden, with its numerous memorials and ancient relics. When you’ve had your fill of history, escape the sweltering city heat in favour of the Athens Riviera, where you can get a taste of local coastal life with days on the beach, stays at some of the city’s top hotels, and sampling the delights of the myriad waterfront eateries. Return rates start from SAR1,212.
Visit: Saudia.com
Images: Unsplash