12 places you can fly to from Bristol Airport

Are you interested in flying from Bristol Airport? Here’s our local lowdown on the best places that you can reach from the South West’s biggest city.

Summertime’s here, and if you haven’t already, you might be wondering if you can squeeze in a trip abroad this year. 

Summer in Bristol’s certainly charming, but swapping the Clifton Suspension Bridge for Amsterdam’s canals could be just the break you need! 

Often, the best flights and deals are from airports in London, requiring a few hours’ drive, train ride or bus journey to reach. 

But, if you’ve got your sights set on Europe this year, there are actually a variety of places that you can get to from Bristol Airport. 

So, here’s our list of the top 12 places you can fly to from Bristol Airport this summer!

Places you can fly to from Bristol Airport

If you fancy sun-soaked destinations, you can fly to various places in Spain, Greece, Portugal and Italy from Bristol Airport.

Or, for a slice of culture, jet to Amsterdam or Turkey – or for something completely different, how about Iceland, Morocco or Tunisia?

Here are our top 12 destinations to fly to from the West Country’s biggest airport.

Malaga, Spain

Take a quick flight from Bristol to the south of Spain, and you’ll find yourself in the Costa del Sol’s capital, Malaga! 

Often used as a jumping point for the rest of the Southern Spanish coast, Malaga’s worth visiting as a city break in its own right. 

It’s the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and there’s Moorish history at every step. 

In fact, the city is a cultural hub, packed with museums (including the Picasso Museum), stunning architecture (don’t miss the Alcazaba), and a lively tapas scene – head to Mercado Central de Atarazanas for local specialities. 

When the sun dips below the horizon, the city truly comes alive – this is Spain, after all! 

There is no shortage of places to enjoy some flamenco and perhaps a glass or two of the local vino. After all, isn’t that what holidays are for?

Corfu, Greece

How about Corfu, the emerald isle of Greece, for your summer getaway? 

A direct flight from Bristol will have you sipping on Ouzo with the Mediterranean sun warming your skin in no time.

Corfu offers a perfect blend of vibrant nightlife and laid-back beach life – and there’s also a dose of culture thrown in for good measure. 

Explore the historic Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its Venetian architecture and winding alleyways. 

Plus, let’s not forget about the beaches – from the tranquil waters of Paleokastritsa to the sweeping sandy bay of Glyfada, Corfu is a beach lover’s paradise.

And to top it all off, there’s Greek food! You’ll find various culinary delights on the streets of Corfu, from traditional Greek salad (Horiatiki in Greek) to mouthwatering stuffed Imam aubergine. 

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Canals and cycle paths intertwine in the effervescent city of Amsterdam, somewhere that’s a tourist favourite time and time again. 

With direct flights from Bristol, you’ll be swapping cider for Heineken faster than you can say “Gouda cheese”. 

The city’s famous for its artistic heritage, rich history, and, of course, a cycling culture that could make even the most dedicated Bristol cyclist a tad green with envy!

Once you’re there, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. From the solemn history of Anne Frank’s House to the masterpieces in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam’s brimming with culture. 

But due to the Netherlands’ petite size, you can use Amsterdam as a jumping point to explore other parts of the country. 

Many of these will have a fraction of the tourists of famous Amsterdam!

The artificial city beach of Blijburg aan Zee isn’t too far away – they liked the idea of a beach so much, they made their own!

Or, visit other Dutch cities like Rotterdam or Leiden, which has all the canals and traditional Dutch houses as Amsterdam, but barely any other visitors!

Faro, Portugal

Let’s hop across the border to Faro, the gateway to Portugal’s Algarve region, and another Southern Europe destination that you can easily jet to from Bristol.

This delightful city a gateway to the numerous resorts of the Algarve – but just like Malaga, there’s a lot on offer in the city parameters too. 

The historic old town, leading out to cobbled streets lined with pastel-coloured buildings, boasts a cathedral, a bustling square and the Municipal Museum (boasting archaeology). 

But this is Portugal in summer, and it’s toasty – so we bet that you’re keen to head to the coast!

From the secluded Ilha Deserta to the family-friendly Praia de Faro, you’ll find a beach to suit every mood. 

And if you fancy a break from the sand, the beautiful Ria Formosa Natural Park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

Ibiza, Spain

Is a holiday in the White Island on your bucket list?

You can indeed fly here from Bristol Airport – and even if you feel like your clubbing days are behind you (I feel the same!), Ibiza actually has a surprising amount to offer all ages and styles. 

In fact, while I did visit on a party holiday when I was 22, I also went on holiday to Ibiza with my parents at the age of three – we stayed in a villa on the quiet part of the island, and while I can’t remember it, my parents raved about the holiday! 

Sure, it’s home to some of the world’s most famous nightclubs, but there’s also a wonderfully serene side to this sun-drenched paradise. 

Stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns – Ibiza’s the whole package, but most tourists solely focus on the party side. 

So how to best enjoy the island on a summer trip?

 Soak up the rays at Cala Comte, wander through the cobbled streets of Dalt Vila, or savour a sunset at Es Vedrà – all achievable with a direct flight from Bristol Airport.

Of course, if Ushuaia and Space are calling to you, there’s all of that as well. 

Rome, Italy

The eternal city of Rome encapsulates ‘la dolce vita‘. 

Just imagine, in a few hours’ flight you can swap the Bear Pit for the Colosseum, and your Sunday roast for a hearty plate of carbonara!

As you meander through its ancient streets, Rome’s a living, breathing museum.

The Colosseum, Pantheon, and the Vatican City are a history overload, but in the best possible way. 

Just remember to take a break with a scoop or two of authentic gelato!

Once you’ve explored the historic city to your heart’s content, make the most of Rome’s central location – it’s an excellent jumping point to explore more of Italy. 

Drive through the rolling Tuscan hills, take a train to Puglia or a jaunt to the Amalfi Coast – Rome puts Italy right at your fingertips!

Enfidha, Tunisia

Did you know that Bristol doesn’t just do Europe flights?

Welcome to North Africa: in particular, Enfidha, Tunisia.

Enfidha might not be as well-known as some of its North African neighbours, but it’s a popular launching pad for Tunisia’s beach resorts. 

From your base in Enfidha, you can explore the ancient city of Hammamet, renowned for its gorgeous beaches and impressive fortress. 

Alternatively, head to the capital, Tunis, and take a journey back in time with a visit to the ruins of Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Last October, I stayed in Sousse, just south of Enfidha Airport, and loved the warm weather (it was 30C in October and the brilliant sunshine every day!) and Tunisian culture in Sousse city. 

We also took the train from Sousse to El Jem, an impressive amphitheatre that looks like Rome’s – but with barely any tourists!

Paphos, Cyprus

Paphos offers the ideal blend of ancient history and beach holiday charm. 

Split into two, with the upper section revealing a bustling, modern city, and the lower Kato Paphos area showcasing archaeological parks filled with stunning mosaics and historical monuments.

Once you’ve had your fill of history, head to the coast to enjoy some of Cyprus’ most beautiful beaches, including the famous Coral Bay and the eight-kilometre-long Lara Beach.

A two-hour drive away, there’s the party spot of Ayia Napa (I spent two months working here when I was 19!) which has recently opened the MUSAN Museum of Underwater Sculpture, which is now firmly on my scuba diving bucket list.

Antalya, Turkey

One of the cradles of civilization, Antalya’s most famous for its resorts, but it has ruins and beaches aplenty. 

Antalya effortlessly blends the old with the new. It was first settled in around 200 BC and nowadays, exhibits crumbling Roman ruins against the backdrop of the brilliantly blue Med. 

The old town, Kaleiçi, intertwines narrow streets lined with historic Ottoman houses, while just a short walk away you’ll find modern marinas, upscale restaurants and buzzing nightlife.

Ancient sites like Hadrian’s Gate or the Antalya Museum add a dose of culture to your trip, and when it comes to beaches, Antalya has plenty to choose from. 

Lara Beach, Konyaalti Beach, and Mermerli Beach are among the best, offering clear waters and golden sands.

If you’re spending a while in the area, I also highly recommend the town of Kas, a three hour drive from Antalya.

It’s kind of like a mini Antalya, with nearby ancient ruins, plenty of beach clubs and a pretty harbour, from which scuba diving trips leave.

Marrakech, Morocco

Another North African hotspot – did you know that you can fly to Marrakech, Morocco from Bristol? 

This vibrant city is a feast for the senses, packed with colourful markets, aromatic spices, and a warm, inviting culture. 

Marrakech’s famed medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with bustling souks, and is a must-visit on any trip. 

Don’t miss a visit to the Majorelle Garden, a botanical oasis in the heart of the city, or a chance to see the stunning Koutoubia Mosque – listen out for the welcoming call to prayer at various times throughout the day. 

When the sun sets, head to Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s main square, to enjoy an incredible array of street food, musicians, and performers.

Just a warning – Marrakech in the summer is hot, so you may want to book a hotel with a pool for a few relaxing hours in the hot midday sun each day!

Pula, Croatia

Ok, more Roman ruins here – but if you’re jetting off to Southern Europe, you may as well see as many as you can! 

Sitting on the tip of the Istrian Peninsula, Pula’s basically a huge, open-air Roman architecture history museum, and it’s just a direct flight away from Bristol Airport.

Most famous for its remarkably preserved Roman amphitheatre, Pula’s also home to an abundance of historical sites, including the Temple of Augustus and the Arch of the Sergii, all sitting astride its quaint old town. 

When it’s time to unwind, head to the beaches for a dose of Adriatic sun. Bijeca Beach is the most popular in the area.

Of course, from Pula, the rest of Croatia’s at your fingertips – whether you want to dive into the falls at Krka National Park or practice your Game of Thrones trivia in Dubrovnik, the country delivers!

Reykjavik, Iceland

Finally, let’s head north to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. 

And yes, it’s a bit colder than Bristol, but it’s worth every goosebump!

Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital, is filled with colourful houses, quirky design shops, and a restaurant scene that’s as hip as Bristol Harbourside. 

From exploring the landmark Hallgrímskirkja church to taking a dip in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, there’s plenty to see and do in Reykjavik.

However, the real charm of Reykjavik lies in its proximity to nature. 

From whale-watching tours and puffin spotting, Iceland’s unique landscape offers experiences you simply won’t find elsewhere.

The city basks in the midnight sun until around the end of July, when the days start getting shorter.

But throughout the summer, you’ll enjoy near-constant daylight and cooler, but still mild, temperatures – ideal conditions to enjoy the sub-Arctic!

FAQ about Bristol airport

How do I book flights from Bristol Airport?

I recommend using Skyscanner to find the best deals for flights from Bristol Airport. Or you could also check Jet2 Holidays, TUI or EasyJet for flights with those particular airlines and package deals. 

How early should I arrive at Bristol Airport before my flight?

For international flights, it’s recommended that you arrive at least 2-3 hours prior to your departure time. This allows for any unexpected delays at check-in, security, or while finding your departure gate. But personally, I always arrive earlier than that, as I don’t like any stress! 

Does Bristol Airport offer long-term parking?

Yes, Bristol Airport offers a range of parking options including long-stay and premium parking. Rates vary depending on the length of your stay and the type of parking you choose. You can book parking through Holiday Extras. 

Are there food and shopping options at Bristol Airport?

Absolutely! Bristol Airport has a variety of food and shopping outlets to keep you entertained before your flight. You can find everything from fast food outlets to sit-down restaurants, as well as duty-free shops, bookstores, and clothing boutiques.

Can I fly to all these destinations year-round?

While many of these destinations have regular flights throughout the year, some may be seasonal – although they do all fly in summer 2023. If you’re flying later in the year or next year,  check with the relevant airline for the most current flight schedule.

Can I get a direct flight to all the destinations mentioned in the article?

Yes, all the destinations mentioned in the article are directly accessible from Bristol Airport. However, availability might vary depending on the time of year and specific airline schedules.

Are you ready to fly from Bristol Airport?

From the art-filled streets of Amsterdam to the Roman wonders of Pula, from the enchanting landscapes of Reykjavik to the vibrant souks of Marrakech, there’s a vast variety of places to fly to from Bristol Airport. 

But don’t forget that while all of these getaways are just a plane ride away, there’s also an abundance of things to do in Bristol and the rest of the West Country too – check out my Cornwall and Devon travel guides for all of my local tips.