26May 2025: TUI Airways will launch a new direct flight from Birmingham Airport to Budapest International Airport, Hungary. The inaugural flight will take off on 4 May 2026 offering travellers in the Midlands convenient access to Hungary’s capital city.

Sitting on the Danube, Budapest is the first port of call on selected TUI River Cruises holidays in 2026 and this new route has been added following the growth in demand for river cruises in the Central Europe region. For the first time in 2026, three of TUI River Cruises’ ships, Isla, Maya and Skyla will all be based on the Danube for the full summer season. The weekly service will operate on Mondays during the summer season, providing access to one of Europe’s most beautiful and underrated cities, with its perfect mix of history, culture, relaxation, and nightlife.

In addition, the route – which can also be booked as flight only – will serve holidays to Lake Balaton, part of TUI’s Lakes & Mountains collection between May and September 2026. Lake Balaton is a freshwater lake in western Hungary, home to beaches, volcanic hills, hiking trails and even a wine-growing region making it the perfect break for those looking to explore a different side of Europe.

• TUI River Cruises offers a seven-night East Danube Explorer from Budapest, Hungary on TUI Isla from £1,529 per person. Price based on 2 adults sharing a Deck 1 Standard Cabin on a Full Board Plus* basis. Calling at Budapest, Mohacs, Kalocsa (all Hungary); Novi Sad, Donji Milanovac, Belgrade (all Serbia) and Vukovar, Croatia. Includes TUI Airways flight from Birmingham to Budapest on 4 May 2026, 25kg of luggage per person, transfers, tips, and service charges.

• TUI Lakes & Mountains offers seven-night holidays to Siófok, Lake Balaton staying at the 4T Hotel Azur Premium on a half board basis from £1,033 per person. Price includes return TUI Airways flight from Birmingham to Budapest on 8 June 2026, 23kg of luggage per person and transfers.

• TUI Airways offers return flights to Budapest from Birmingham departing on 11 May 2026, returning on 18 May 2026 from £241 per person. This price includes 15kg of checked-in luggage and 10kg of hand luggage per person.

Bookings are available now through the TUI website, app, or local TUI travel stores.