Published on
October 14, 2025
Jet2 is set to make summer 2026 an unforgettable season for travelers by unveiling exciting new holiday packages to Greece and Italy, two of Europe’s most coveted destinations. Among the highlights is Meganisi, an enchanting Greek island often dubbed a “hidden gem” for its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere. With its crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and charming stone villages, Meganisi offers the perfect escape from mass tourism, making it a top choice for those seeking authenticity. Alongside Meganisi, Jet2 is offering packages to other stunning destinations, ensuring a diverse range of experiences, from the rich cultural heritage of Palermo in Italy to the legendary beauty of Greece’s Olympus Riviera. These carefully curated options promise travelers the opportunity to discover less-explored corners of Europe, blending serene landscapes with vibrant local cultures.
Jet2 Unveils New Summer 2026 Destinations, Including the Hidden Gem of Meganisi
Jet2 has announced exciting plans for the summer of 2026, launching packages to three stunning new destinations, including the unspoiled Greek island of Meganisi. Often referred to as Greece’s “best-kept secret,” this small island in the Ionian Sea remains a hidden treasure, offering a peaceful getaway for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.
Meganisi is nestled between Lefkada, known as the “Greek Caribbean,” and the Greek mainland. Despite its proximity to more popular tourist spots, the island has largely avoided mass tourism, preserving its authentic charm. With its fjord-like coastline, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of secluded beaches, Meganisi offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing holiday. The island’s traditional stone villages and quiet atmosphere make it an ideal destination for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more commercialized locations.
Spanning just 22.4 square kilometers, Meganisi is home to only three villages, with a population of around 1,000 people. It is considered one of the best spots in Greece for activities like sailing, swimming, and snorkelling, thanks to its calm waters and rich marine life. The island is also well-known for its connection to the famous Onassis family. Meganisi is located right next to Skorpios, the exclusive private retreat of the Onassis family, which adds an air of exclusivity to the island.
While Meganisi does not have its own airport, visitors can easily reach the island by flying into Aktion Airport in Preveza, located near Lefkada. From there, it’s a one-hour drive to Nidri, followed by a short ferry ride to Meganisi. Jet2 is joining other major airlines such as British Airways and Ryanair, who offer direct flights from the UK to Preveza during the summer months. This makes Meganisi an accessible yet still tranquil escape for British tourists looking to explore a quieter part of Greece.
In addition to Meganisi, Jet2 is also offering new holiday packages to two other beautiful destinations: Palermo in Italy and the Olympus Riviera in Greece. These two locations promise equally stunning getaways for those seeking something different.
Palermo: A Sicilian Delight
For those craving a mix of rich history, delicious food, and stunning architecture, Palermo is the perfect Italian destination. The capital of Sicily, Palermo offers visitors a vibrant cultural scene and mouth-watering cuisine, particularly its street food, which is famous throughout Italy. Known for its Norman, Arab, and Baroque architecture, the city is a feast for the eyes, with landmarks like the Palatine Chapel, the Cathedral of Palermo, and the stunning Quattro Canti square.
Day trips from Palermo are equally tempting. A must-visit is the picturesque seaside town of Cefalu, located just an hour’s drive away. This charming town, with its medieval architecture, golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters, is the perfect place for a relaxing day trip. A Vespa ride along the coastline will bring a sense of adventure, while stopping at local eateries to taste fresh seafood or indulge in an Aperol Spritz will make the experience unforgettable.
The Olympus Riviera: A Greek Paradise
For nature lovers and history enthusiasts, the Olympus Riviera offers a unique blend of both. Situated at the foot of Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the Greek gods, the Olympus Riviera is known for its breathtaking landscapes and long, sandy beaches. The region offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, with activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring ancient ruins.
The nearby seaside tavernas serve fresh seafood, and the sunsets over the Aegean Sea seem to stretch on forever, creating a tranquil atmosphere that is hard to beat. For history buffs, the area is home to ancient archaeological sites like the Sanctuary of Zeus and the remains of the ancient city of Dion, which add a cultural depth to the scenic beauty.
The Olympus Riviera also offers a slower pace of life, with traditional villages where visitors can enjoy a cup of Greek coffee and savour local dishes like souvlaki, all while soaking in the views of the imposing Mount Olympus.
Expanding Jet2’s Reach: New Flights to Kefalonia
In addition to these new destinations, Jet2 is expanding its offerings to Kefalonia, the sixth-largest island in Greece, which continues to be a favourite with British tourists. Starting May 2, 2026, flights to Kefalonia will be available from several UK airports, including Manchester, London Stansted, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, East Midlands, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, and Newcastle. This expansion is part of Jet2’s ongoing efforts to provide more options for British travellers looking to explore Greece.
Jet2’s summer 2026 packages bring Greece and Italy to the forefront, offering travelers the chance to explore the hidden gem of Meganisi along with other breathtaking destinations like Palermo and the Olympus Riviera, perfect for those seeking authenticity and adventure.
EasyJet Expands Its 2026 Routes
Jet2 isn’t the only airline expanding its 2026 offerings. EasyJet has also unveiled new routes from Newcastle Airport, adding destinations such as Malta, Corfu, Faro, and Sharm el Sheikh to its schedule. These new flights, available to book from March 22, 2026, will provide even more travel options for those seeking sun-soaked escapes.
With the rise in demand for affordable travel, easyJet is offering these new routes at competitive prices, with some flights even cheaper than UK train fares. For example, a one-way flight to Nice in France is priced at just £33, while flights to Antalya in Turkey start from £87.
Jet2 is enhancing summer 2026 travel with exclusive escapes to the hidden Greek gem of Meganisi, offering serene beaches and traditional charm, alongside stunning destinations in Greece and Italy for the ultimate getaway.
As more travellers seek hidden gems and unique experiences, Jet2’s expansion to destinations like Meganisi, Palermo, and the Olympus Riviera offers perfect opportunities to explore parts of the world that are less discovered but equally beautiful. With more flights available to these exciting locations, 2026 is shaping up to be a year full of unforgettable travel experiences. Whether it’s the serene beauty of Meganisi or the cultural richness of Palermo, Jet2 is providing options that cater to every traveller’s desires.
