Nantes, Lyon, Paris: The new low-cost flights set to revolutionize your winter getaways

Autumn is settling in, but airlines are already gearing up for winter with new route openings that promise to redraw the map of accessible getaways from France. easyJet, Transavia and other air transport players have just announced new services that focus on varied destinations, attractive fares and schedules designed for time-pressed travelers. Nantes Atlantique, Lyon-Saint-Exupéry and Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle are among the winning hubs, with offers targeting everything from urban escapes to cultural or beach getaways. Here’s what’s changing for your end-of-year plans.

The UK-based low-cost carrier easyJet has chosen Nantes Atlantique to expand its winter network, with three new direct routes launched between 26 and 31 October 2026. These openings complement those of Transavia, which has also launched services from this hub, making Nantes a genuine crossroads for travelers looking to avoid the crowds at overcrowded airports. The low-cost airline is now flying to Brussels-Zaventem, Essaouira and Luxor—three destinations catering to very different expectations: European proximity, a Moroccan getaway or a historical immersion in Egypt.

Nantes–Brussels: Europe just a short flight away for under €35

The Nantes–Brussels-Zaventem route, launched on 26 October, operates twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays. With a flight time of around 1 hour 25 minutes and one-way fares starting at €35, it’s an ideal option for a long weekend or a business trip. The Brussels airport, served by fast trains to Antwerp, Ghent or Bruges, makes it easy to continue your journey without relying on an additional flight. Here, easyJet is banking on urban tourism and flexible schedules, though the frequency remains limited for frequent travelers.

With these new routes, easyJet aims to strengthen its position at Nantes Airport, where it already operates several services. The low-cost carrier has a solid base here and is responding to growing demand from regional travelers for accessible European getaways. Brussels, the EU capital and a dynamic city, is emerging as a flagship destination for French travelers wanting to discover a nearby metropolis without breaking the bank.

Nantes–Essaouira: The Atlantic coast of Morocco just three hours away for €50

Since 27 October, easyJet has also connected Nantes to Essaouira, a UNESCO-listed medina, with two weekly flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays. A three-hour flight for a starting fare of €50 one-way: a bargain for those looking to escape to unspoiled landscapes or reunite with family in Morocco. The chosen frequency allows for stays of three to four nights, combining a Tuesday departure with a Saturday return, or vice versa. A clever way to enjoy an extended weekend without sacrificing your budget.

This opening fits into a broader strategy by easyJet to diversify its offerings from Nantes. The low-cost carrier already has a strong presence on routes to Marrakech or Agadir, but Essaouira, less touristy, offers an authentic alternative for travelers seeking genuine experiences. Passengers can discover a coastal city where Moroccan culture blends with the gentle Atlantic Ocean.

Nantes–Luxor: Dive into ancient Egypt from €90

The third new route from Nantes, to Luxor, launched on 31 October, operates every Saturday for the winter season. A 4 hour 30 minute flight for one-way fares starting at €90, with options for Nile cruises aboard five-star boats. easyJet holidays offers packages including seven-night stays, with excursions to Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings or the Colossi of Memnon. Note, however, that visits to archaeological sites are usually charged as extras by the partner Musement.

This route fills a gap for French travelers wanting to avoid layovers in Cairo or Hurghada. Luxor, gateway to Upper Egypt, allows you to combine historical discovery with relaxation along the banks of the Nile. The Saturday rotation is particularly well-suited to week-long stays, with a return the following Saturday. An opportunity not to be missed for those dreaming of walking in the footsteps of the pharaohs.

Transavia also expands from Nantes with Cairo and São Vicente

Alongside these announcements, Transavia has also enriched its winter programme from Nantes. Cairo is now served every Wednesday, while São Vicente in Cape Verde operates every Friday. These two openings give Nantes passengers an extra choice for long-haul getaways. Cairo, with its pyramids and millennia-old history, appeals to culture lovers, while São Vicente, with its beaches and island vibe, will seduce sun-seekers.

With five new direct routes opened in less than a week, Nantes Atlantique is positioning itself as a must-visit hub for travelers looking to avoid the overcrowded airports of Paris. The diversity of destinations on offer caters to all profiles, from city dwellers to globetrotters and families in search of sun or adventure.

Lyon–Luxor: Egypt just 4 hours 25 minutes away for cultural getaways

EasyJet is also expanding its network from Lyon-Saint-Exupéry with a weekly route to Luxor, launched on 31 October. A 4 hour 25 minute flight for one-way fares starting at €90, with the option to combine temple visits and Nile cruises. This opening complements existing routes to Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, making Lyon a major gateway for French travelers heading to Egypt.

The weekly frequency of this route allows for stays of seven to fourteen nights, with departures every Saturday. Passengers can explore Luxor’s iconic sites, such as Karnak Temple or the Valley of the Kings, before embarking on a river cruise to Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan. A smart way to discover Egypt without passing through Red Sea resorts.

Lyon–Nice: Two weekly flights for express getaways

On the domestic network, easyJet is operating two weekly flights between Lyon and Nice on Mondays and Fridays, with one-way fares starting at €35. A one-hour flight for getaways between the Lyon metropolis and the French Riviera, ideal for long weekends or business trips. This route marks easyJet’s return to this axis after a period of absence. The chosen schedules allow for a stay from Friday to Monday, with departures in the early morning and evening.

With this new route, easyJet is strengthening its position at Lyon-Saint-Exupéry, where it has operated a base since 2008. The low-cost carrier transports millions of passengers here every year and aims to consolidate its offering on European and Mediterranean routes. Nice, with its sunny ambiance and access to the Riviera, offers the perfect escape for those looking to get away without traveling too far.

Paris–Bangkok: Two daily flights from 1 December for non-stop travel

On the long-haul front, Thai Airways is doubling its frequencies between Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle and Bangkok-Suvarnabhumi from 1 December 2026. Two daily flights—one midday and one in the evening—will allow French travelers to reach Thailand without a layover. The schedules are designed to facilitate connections to other Asian destinations, with departures at 12:30 and 21:20 from Paris, and arrivals at 05:40 and 14:40 the following day.

This capacity increase is part of a broader strategy by the Thai carrier to strengthen its Bangkok hub. Passengers can choose between two classes, Business and Economy, with competitive fares for long-haul flights. This route complements Air France’s service, giving French travelers an extra choice for getaways to Southeast Asia.

With these new openings, airlines are demonstrating their commitment to making travel more accessible and flexible. Whether for urban escapes, cultural trips or distant adventures, travelers now have a wide range of destinations and schedules tailored to their desires. Winter is shaping up to be the perfect season for those looking to get away without spending a fortune.

How to make the most of these new routes without a hitch

For travelers looking to book one of these new routes, it’s advisable to check fare conditions, which may vary depending on dates and chosen options. The fares quoted are starting prices, and extras may apply for baggage or selected services. EasyJet and Transavia offer packages including stays or cruises, but it’s important to read the terms carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Schedules and frequencies may also change depending on demand. It’s therefore wise to book in advance, especially for routes to popular destinations like Luxor or Bangkok. The airlines offer online tools to track availability and compare prices, making it easier to find the offer that best suits your budget and travel dates.

A stress-free winter of travel

With these new routes, the 2026–2027 winter is shaping up to be an ideal time to travel, whether for an urban escape, a cultural discovery or a distant adventure. Airlines are banking on attractive fares, flexible schedules and varied destinations to win over travelers. Nantes, Lyon and Paris are becoming must-visit hubs for exploring Europe, Africa or Asia without the hassle of layovers or exorbitant prices.

One thing is certain: winter won’t be synonymous with staying put. On the contrary, it could well be the perfect time to take to the skies and discover new horizons.