Budget airline Wizz Air has unveiled six new flight routes departing from London Luton Airport, with one destination gaining popularity among British travelers for 2026 due to its historical significance and affordable beverages.
Starting from June 12, 2026, passengers will have the opportunity to travel from Luton to Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, marking the first direct flights from the UK to Armenia. This route is expected to attract more tourists seeking a city break experience. Wizz Air flights to Yerevan will last approximately five hours, with fares starting at just £51.99 for a one-way ticket.
Although geographically located in West Asia, Armenia is often associated with Eastern Europe due to its cultural ties and historical background. Yerevan, a well-liked destination among European travelers, is now poised to draw more British visitors, as only 11,000 UK tourists visited in 2025. The new direct route is anticipated to boost tourism numbers in 2026.
Yerevan, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, boasts a diverse architectural landscape blending Soviet-era structures with contemporary designs. The iconic Etchmiadzin Cathedral, recognized as the oldest cathedral globally, showcases a fusion of architectural styles dating back to the early fourth century.
The Kond District, Yerevan’s oldest neighborhood, features narrow cobblestone streets, stone residences, and remnants of its historic past, despite some areas being redeveloped during the Soviet era. The city’s distinct pink hue, derived from the local volcanic stone used in construction, adds to its charm, especially visible in Republic Square where the captivating dancing fountains entertain visitors in the evenings.
With rising costs in many European cities, Yerevan remains an economical destination for travelers. Comparative data from Numbeo reveals that Yerevan is approximately 20% cheaper than Warsaw, offering budget-friendly dining and drinking options. Local pubs serve pints for £1.50 to £2, while a mid-range bottle of wine costs around £7.
Travelers can find attractive accommodation deals in Yerevan, such as the centrally located five-star Grand Hotel Yerevan, offering rooms starting at £101 per night, and the budget-friendly Erebuni Hotel Yerevan, providing basic rooms for £47 per night, including breakfast.
Yerevan’s culinary scene showcases traditional Armenian dishes like lavash flatbreads, dolma stuffed vine leaves, and khorovats barbecue, a popular choice featuring skewered grilled meats such as pork, beef, or lamb. Explore the city’s array of authentic Armenian restaurants to savor the local cuisine.
For those interested in sharing their travel experiences, contact us at webtravel@reachplc.com.