Italy Unites With Norway, Estonia, Croatia, And More In Boosting Hungary Tourism As Wizz Air Enhances Network With New Direct Flights To Popular Spots Like Rimini And Bergen

Published on November 22, 2025

Italy, Norway, Estonia, Croatia, and other countries are joining forces in enhancing Hungary’s tourism appeal as Wizz Air expands its route network in 2026. With new direct flights from Budapest to popular destinations like Bergen, Lamezia Terme, and Rimini, the airline is significantly boosting Hungary’s international connectivity, making it easier than ever for tourists to explore the country. This expansion is set to drive tourism growth, fuel economic activity, and strengthen Hungary’s position as a key travel hub in Europe.

Hungary’s aviation sector is gearing up for a monumental year in 2026. Following a record-breaking year, Wizz Air, the Hungary-based budget airline, has unveiled ambitious plans to expand its fleet, introduce new direct flight routes, and continue its growth strategy in the coming year. The airline’s initiatives are set to boost Hungary’s tourism industry and enhance its international connectivity, creating new opportunities for travel and economic development.

Wizz Air’s Record-Breaking Year and 2026 Growth Plans

Wizz Air achieved an impressive milestone in 2025 by carrying over 24.5 million passengers, marking a 10 percent year-on-year increase. As Hungary’s largest airline, Wizz Air operates 17 aircraft from two airports—Budapest and Debrecen—serving 74 destinations across 34 countries. With a growing fleet and ambitious plans for 2026, the airline is expected to carry approximately 9.1 million passengers to Hungary, a 44 percent increase compared to pre-COVID levels in 2019.

As Wizz Air continues its expansion, the airline’s strategic decisions are clearly aligned with boosting Hungary’s tourism sector. In addition to growing passenger traffic, Wizz Air plans to significantly expand its route network. Direct flights to new destinations, particularly in popular European cities, are expected to create new opportunities for both leisure and business travelers.

Wizz Air’s new routes are designed to foster tourism by improving accessibility to Hungary, while also creating direct connections between the country and several European cities. For instance, the airline is introducing flights from Budapest to destinations such as Tallinn (Estonia), Billund (Denmark), Bergen (Norway), Lamezia Terme (Italy), and Rimini (Italy). These expansions reflect Wizz Air’s focus on enhancing the travel experience between Hungary and other European destinations.

New Flight Routes for 2026

Wizz Air’s 2026 route network expansion will make Hungary even more accessible to international visitors, particularly from key European markets. The airline is focused on adding new routes from Budapest, which will serve as a central hub for these expanded services. Below is a breakdown of the new routes that will be available starting in 2026:

Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth

Wizz Air’s strategic route expansions are expected to play a vital role in Hungary’s tourism industry. With more travelers choosing Hungary as a destination, the country is likely to see a boost in hotel occupancy rates, local economic activity, and overall tourism revenues. These new routes are particularly relevant for international tourists who may have previously found traveling to Hungary challenging due to limited flight options.

In particular, Budapest is poised to benefit significantly from these changes. With more direct flights to and from cities like Bergen, Tallinn, and Rimini, the Hungarian capital is set to become even more appealing to international visitors. The city, already known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere, will now have enhanced global accessibility.

For Hungary, the growth in tourism is crucial for several reasons. The influx of international travelers is expected to drive demand in the hospitality sector, particularly for hotels, restaurants, and local businesses. Furthermore, this will increase the need for job opportunities in the tourism and aviation industries, benefiting the national economy and local communities.

Strategic Partnerships and National Support

Wizz Air’s growth is not limited to its fleet expansion and new routes. The airline’s commitment to supporting Hungary’s national identity is evident through its extensive involvement in local sports. As the logistics partner of the Hungarian Olympic Committee and the Hungarian national soccer team, Wizz Air has aligned itself with key national interests. This partnership further solidifies the airline’s role as a national carrier and an essential driver of Hungary’s global presence.

Wizz Air’s contribution to Hungary’s tourism extends beyond simply operating flights. By supporting major local events, such as the country’s largest half marathon, Wizz Air helps attract international visitors to Hungary while also contributing to the development of the nation’s sporting and cultural infrastructure. This alignment between the airline and Hungary’s broader national goals showcases the airline’s long-term commitment to fostering Hungary’s tourism sector.

Financial Performance and Continued Expansion

In the second quarter of its 2026 financial year, Wizz Air demonstrated strong financial performance. The airline’s operating profit rose by 25.8 percent to EUR 439.2 million, while net profit increased by 2.6 percent to EUR 323.5 million. Total revenue surged by 9 percent, reaching EUR 3.34 billion. The growth in revenue can be attributed to the airline’s increased capacity and the stable demand for air travel. These figures underscore the success of Wizz Air’s growth strategy and the strong performance of its operations in 2025.

As Wizz Air continues to expand, its financial strength will allow the airline to reinvest in its fleet and services, further enhancing its capacity and network in 2026. With a robust financial foundation and a clear focus on growth, Wizz Air is well-positioned to continue its dominance in the European aviation market.

Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

The year 2026 promises to be a pivotal year for Wizz Air, as the airline’s expansion plans come to fruition. With a growing fleet, an expanded route network, and strengthened partnerships with key national stakeholders, Wizz Air is poised to contribute significantly to Hungary’s tourism and economic growth.

The new flight routes will not only enhance connectivity between Hungary and Europe but also promote the country as a leading destination for both leisure and business travelers. Whether it’s the charming streets of Tallinn, the stunning fjords of Bergen, or the sunny beaches of Rimini, travelers will now have more options than ever to experience Hungary’s rich culture and hospitality.

Wizz Air’s 2026 growth plans are a clear indication of the airline’s commitment to supporting Hungary’s tourism industry. With the introduction of new direct flights, the airline is enhancing Hungary’s global connectivity and making the country more accessible to international visitors. The expansion of routes to cities like Tallinn, Billund, and Bergen, as well as to popular Italian destinations like Lamezia Terme and Rimini, will strengthen Hungary’s position as a must-visit destination in Europe.

Italy, Norway, Estonia, Croatia, and other nations are helping boost Hungary’s tourism as Wizz Air expands its network with new direct flights from Budapest to destinations like Bergen, Lamezia Terme, and Rimini. This growth in connectivity is set to attract more international visitors, driving economic benefits for Hungary.

As the airline continues to grow its fleet and increase its passenger numbers, Hungary’s tourism sector stands to benefit significantly. Wizz Air’s innovative approach to air travel and its strategic partnerships with national institutions make it a key player in Hungary’s tourism ecosystem. Looking ahead to 2026, the future of Hungary’s tourism industry has never looked brighter.