Some of us are already dreaming about what could be under our Christmas tree in a few months.
If you ask us here at Travel Off Path, you can feel free to wrap up some plane tickets and tie a bow on them (already enough with the Starbucks gift cards!).
United Airlines is helping with our master plan to score our favorite gifts by announcing new flights to 4 beautiful European destinations – including a Spanish city that has flown under the radar for far too long.
Each of them is scheduled for launch in 2026, which isn’t as far away as it sounds since this year has zoomed by, right?
Taking in underrated Italian coasts, beautiful Croatian coastlines, astonishing Scottish wonders and an unexpected adventure into the unknown of Spain, these are the 4 new United flights to a wide range of European getaways:
1) Split, Croatia
They say, ‘Don’t let the door knock on you where the good lord is Split yes,” but someone did not pass the memo to Croatia.
Dare we say: forget Dubrovnik? Okay, that might be a tough sell. However, flying to Croatia’s famous fortress city isn’t the only option from the US
Located on the vibrant Dalmatian coast, Split offers the same Adriatic beauty with a more relaxed atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of Dubrovik.
Split offers a mix of Roman history, Mediterranean flair and breezy island-hopping excursions on its doorstep, making it a phenomenal gateway for hopping around Croatia’s picture-postcard beaches and charming islands.
The plan is never too early, but you have plenty of time to dot your I’s and T’s on this one as United’s launch date is scheduled April 30, 2026 from Newark (EWR), which is the only non-stop service to Split.
2) Bari, Italy
Naturally, there’s no shortage of Italian cities you can fly to from numerous US airports, but this beach vacation paradise has, shall we say, become Bari trendy lately.
While little-known Neos beat United to New York’s first flight to Bari last year, travelers can now skip the chaos of JFK in favor of the city’s third airport – because does anyone really visit Newark for any other reason?
That’s right: New York’s smelliest airport (yes, I said it) will welcome the region’s second flight to Bari, showing just how much this coastal gem is rising from the shadows of Italy’s household names.
Ready for launch May 1, 2026travelers can prepare to be amazed by Bari’s breathtaking Adriatic beaches and picture-perfect Old Town, not to mention the next level of food and wine here…
Tiella Bareseeveryone?
3) Glasgow, Scotland
Welcome to Scotland’s esteemed city, where the old meets the present. You’ll discover stunning Gothic cathedrals and plenty of modern neighborhoods with vibrant art scenes.
As well as welcoming locals with funny accents, Glasgow also boasts a rugged charm, surprising attractions, classic pubs and an ever-growing reputation as one of Britain’s coolest getaways, making it truly one of Europe’s most underrated cities.
East Coasters will soon see the non-stop access only to hop ‘across the pond’ to Glasgow, with the inaugural flight scheduled for departure May 8, 2026 from, you guessed it, Newark.
4) Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Do you want to visit a place that is truly undiscovered by the masses?
Don’t tempt me with a good time!
What is not a good time is the anti-tourism protests in Spain, which are causing a stir around the world.
However, for the most part, these gatherings take place in places we all know and love – not in the hidden gems.
But Spain has even become so popular Santiago de Compostella is fight against overtourismbut United says “pish posh”.
As cities like Madrid and Barcelona attract many more visitors and prices rise, Spain’s massive popularity has even trickled down to virtually unknown destinations that the average American wouldn’t be able to point out on a map, but this only speaks to Spain’s broad appeal and diversity.
It is safe to say that travelers began to visit this city in order to still enjoy the delights of Spain with the bustle of the above icons.
That said, despite concerns about leveling out tourism, perhaps by the launch date of May 22, 2026the tone will be different, as Santiago de Compostela has taken a much friendlier approach than, say, shooting water guns.
After all, this underrated city is a gem that is definitely worth exploring. Protected by UNESCO, with a timeless character thanks to medieval wonders, cobbled streets and spectacular local cuisine, this city is the soul of the Galicia region, and its claim to fame is the legendary Camino de Santiagoa centuries-old pilgrimage that draws travelers from all over the world to the beloved cathedral.
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