Gulf Air restarts exciting seasonal Geneva and Nice routes for Summer 2026

Gulf Air restarts exciting seasonal Geneva and Nice routes for Summer 2026

Gulf Air has taken a look at its summer 2026 plans and decided that the French Riviera and the Swiss Alps deserve a comeback. The Bahraini flag carrier is officially bringing back its seasonal flights to Nice and Geneva, because nothing says “summer” quite like Mediterranean coastlines and mountain views that make your phone storage cry.

Both routes will return as seasonal services, operated via Milan Malpensa, and aimed squarely at peak summer demand from Bahrain and the wider GCC. In other words: Europe in summer is still very much in fashion, and Gulf Air is leaning into it.

Nice: Because Summer Without the Riviera Feels Incomplete

First up is Nice, returning to Gulf Air’s network from 24th May to 27th September 2026. The route will operate twice weekly, giving travellers easy access to one of Europe’s most reliable summer favourites.

Nice isn’t just a destination — it’s a lifestyle choice. Sun-soaked promenades, pastel-coloured streets, cafés that encourage you to sit longer than planned, and that unmistakable Côte d’Azur glow that makes everyone look well-rested (even if they’re not).

For travellers from Bahrain and across the GCC, this route ticks all the right boxes: leisure, luxury, culture, and a strong temptation to extend the trip “just a few more days.”

Geneva: Mountains, Lakes and a Different Kind of Summer Escape

Next comes Geneva, returning from 5th June to 11th September 2026, also twice weekly. While Nice brings the sun and sea, Geneva delivers something equally appealing — fresh mountain air, lakeside views, and temperatures that don’t require constant air-conditioning negotiations.

Geneva is a popular summer escape for travellers looking for nature, elegance, and a slower pace (with excellent chocolate). It also works well as a gateway to the Alps, making it ideal for those who like their holidays scenic and slightly smug.

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One Route, Two Cities, One Very Italian Stopover

Both seasonal routes will operate via Milan Malpensa, giving passengers a smooth connection into Europe while also quietly offering the possibility of a bonus Italy moment. Milan may not be the final destination here, but it’s not exactly a hardship as a stop along the way.

Flights will be operated using Airbus A321neo aircraft, bringing modern cabins, improved efficiency, and a quieter ride — always appreciated on longer summer journeys.

Morning Arrivals and Summer-Friendly Scheduling

One particularly traveller-friendly detail? Morning arrivals into Europe. That means more usable day-one time, fewer hotel-lobby naps, and a better chance of actually enjoying the destination instead of just recovering from the flight.

It’s a small scheduling choice, but one that frequent flyers know can make a big difference — especially during short summer trips where every hour counts.

Why These Routes Make Sense (Again)

According to Gulf Air CEO Martin Gauss, the decision to reinstate Geneva and Nice is simple: Europe remains hugely popular during the summer season, and demand continues to justify seasonal capacity.

Rather than overcommitting year-round, Gulf Air is sticking to a smart, flexible approach — adding capacity where and when travellers actually want it. It’s less about flashy expansion and more about right place, right time.

Bookings Are Open (And Summer Planning Can Begin)

Bookings for both Geneva and Nice are now open through Gulf Air’s direct channels and trade partners, which means summer 2026 planning can officially begin — spreadsheets, wish lists, and “just checking prices” included.

Bottom line? Gulf Air isn’t reinventing the wheel here — it’s simply bringing back two well-loved European summer routes at exactly the moment travellers start dreaming about lakes, mountains, and seaside lunches that last far too long.

And honestly, that sounds like a very sensible plan.