Jet2 Launches New Manchester to Pula Croatia Flight Route
Jet2 and its holiday arm Jet2holidays have officially launched a new air route connecting one of the UK’s busiest airports to a stunning city on the Adriatic coast, offering British holidaymakers even more choice for summer travel. The fresh connection, which links Manchester Airport with the Croatian city of Pula, promises to strengthen the growing tourism relationship between the United Kingdom and Croatia, a country that has consistently attracted millions of visitors each year.
The inaugural flight on the new Manchester to Pula route took off in early May, marking the beginning of a service that will run twice weekly through mid-October. This expansion of Jet2’s summer schedule reinforces Croatia’s reputation as a favored destination for UK tourists and aligns with the increasing travel demand reported by the Croatian Tourist Board.
According to the Croatian Tourist Board, Croatia welcomed a remarkable 21.3 million arrivals in 2024, indicating a strong recovery in global travel interest post-pandemic. The new Jet2 route to Pula not only capitalizes on this rising interest but also reflects a strategic effort to cater to the desires of British holidaymakers seeking historical, cultural, and coastal getaways.
Pula: Croatia’s Gateway to Roman History and Adriatic Charm
Pula, located at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula in western Croatia, is renowned for its captivating blend of ancient Roman architecture, scenic coastlines, and traditional Adriatic culture. The city’s rich historical tapestry dates back thousands of years, offering visitors a unique blend of antiquity and natural beauty.
The centerpiece of Pula’s historic appeal is the Pula Arena, a grand Roman amphitheatre that stands as one of the best-preserved of its kind in the world. Constructed in the 1st century AD, the amphitheatre once hosted gladiator battles and remains a powerful testament to the city’s Roman legacy. Its structure is so well-preserved that it continues to host live performances, concerts, and festivals today.
Another must-see for visitors is the Temple of Augustus, a Roman temple dedicated to the first emperor of Rome, Augustus. It is believed to have been constructed between 27 BC and 14 AD during the emperor’s lifetime. The temple’s classical design and preservation offer a tangible connection to ancient history and a serene spot to absorb the city’s cultural essence.
Nearby, tourists can also admire Porta Gemina, a striking double-arched Roman gate that served as one of the main entrances into ancient Pula. Built in the late 2nd century, it once formed part of the fortified city walls, remnants of which still remain and connect to Giardin Square. These landmarks are more than historic relics; they form the core of Pula’s identity and draw visitors who are eager to experience life through the lens of Roman civilization.
A Tradition Rooted in Culture, Industry, and Nature
Beyond its Roman monuments, Pula has a deep-rooted tradition in winemaking, fishing, and shipbuilding. The city has long held an essential role in regional administration, serving as the administrative center of Istria from Roman times until Pazin assumed the title in 1991.
Today, Pula continues to offer a harmonious mix of cultural tourism and coastal leisure. From charming old-town squares to the lively harbor and nearby beaches, the city caters to both history enthusiasts and sun-seekers alike. Local markets, seafood restaurants, and vineyard tours add to the region’s appeal, making it a complete destination for travelers of various interests.
Jet2’s Strategic Expansion Across Croatia
The newly launched route between Manchester and Pula is part of a broader Jet2 strategy aimed at enhancing accessibility to Croatia’s most alluring destinations. The airline’s return to Pula represents a notable expansion, particularly as British demand for Croatian holidays remains high.
Bisera Fabrio, Director of the Croatian National Tourist Board in the UK, expressed optimism about the new route’s potential. “This year’s first Jet2 flights to Croatia have been met with great enthusiasm and a notable increase in interest for our destinations,” she said, as quoted by Croatia Week. “With Jet2 returning to Pula and expanding its offer, we are confident that the number of British tourists in Istria this summer will be significantly higher.”
In addition to Manchester, Jet2 is also offering twice-weekly flights from Birmingham to Pula and a weekly Saturday service from London Stansted, operating throughout the summer until mid-October. These expanded offerings provide travelers from multiple UK regions the opportunity to explore Pula and its surroundings with convenience and flexibility.
The Role of Pula Airport in Enhancing Regional Tourism
Pula Airport (PUY), which will receive these new Jet2 flights, is located just four miles from the city center, offering swift access to Pula and the wider Istrian region. The airport previously reached a record of nearly 780,000 passengers in 2019, and with the reintroduction of UK routes, it is poised for another strong season.
By adding Pula to its summer schedule, Jet2 now serves three Croatian airports: Dubrovnik, Split, and Pula. This expanded coverage allows travelers to discover the full spectrum of Croatia’s coastal charm — from the medieval walls of Dubrovnik to the vibrant nightlife of Split and the Roman heritage of Pula.
Each destination offers a distinct flavor of Croatian culture and history, with Jet2 positioning itself as a key facilitator of these immersive travel experiences. The airline’s diverse schedule also makes it easier for tourists to plan multi-city holidays, combining different regions of Croatia in a single trip.
Manchester Airport’s Record Year and Key Role in Connectivity
Manchester Airport, from which the new Pula route departs, has established itself as a critical hub for international travel from the UK. In 2024, the airport surpassed 30 million passengers for the first time, securing its position as the third busiest airport in the country, behind only London’s Heathrow and Gatwick.
The addition of Jet2’s route to Pula further solidifies Manchester’s status as a launching point for European tourism. The partnership between the airport and Jet2 highlights the growing demand for diverse holiday destinations and aligns with broader efforts to support the travel and tourism sectors across Europe.
Jet2’s Vision for Growth and Traveler Experience
Commenting on the expansion, Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, emphasized the airline’s commitment to offering an enriching travel experience to customers. “Our new flights and holiday packages, along with our largest selection of options to date, offer plenty of choice for holidaymakers eager to discover this stunning Croatian region filled with scenic landscapes and cultural treasures. We’re confident the new Pula route will be a huge hit,” he said.
This summer marks Jet2’s most extensive program to Croatia yet, a sign of the company’s confidence in the country’s enduring popularity. The wide array of holiday packages, from self-catering apartments to all-inclusive resorts, ensures there is something for every type of traveler. This customer-first approach, coupled with Jet2’s reputation for quality service, is likely to drive strong bookings throughout the season.
Strengthening UK-Croatia Tourism Through Air Travel Innovation
The launch of the Manchester to Pula route underscores a broader trend in European travel — one that prioritizes cultural exploration, regional tourism development, and enhanced air connectivity. For Croatia, which continues to captivate the imagination of international travelers, especially from the UK, these developments offer long-term benefits.
As travelers become increasingly interested in authentic and meaningful travel experiences, destinations like Pula are well-positioned to meet that demand. The city’s combination of historical landmarks, coastal beauty, and local tradition makes it a versatile destination for a wide demographic of visitors.
Jet2’s initiative represents more than just an expansion of air service; it is a move that strengthens cultural ties and economic exchange between the UK and Croatia. By making it easier for British tourists to reach Croatian cities, the airline plays a direct role in shaping travel patterns and fostering mutual appreciation between nations.
Looking Ahead to a Promising Summer of Travel
With Jet2’s summer schedule now in full swing and new routes such as Manchester to Pula gaining momentum, the 2025 travel season is shaping up to be a positive one for both airlines and destinations. Croatia’s coastal cities continue to attract travelers with their blend of heritage and leisure, and the introduction of convenient, affordable flights only enhances their appeal.
As British travelers look beyond the usual tourist hotspots for their next holiday, cities like Pula are ready to welcome them with open arms, offering a journey into history and the serene beauty of the Adriatic coast. For those departing from Manchester and other UK airports, the road to ancient Roman wonders is now just a few hours away.
