Israir will resume flights to the resort city of Sochi starting in September, after a break of several years. The advantage: Due to the war with Ukraine, Russia is under a global boycott, including flights, so it's likely you won’t find many tourists there this summer. The disadvantage: The route will only operate until the end of October.
Israir is preparing to operate several weekly flights to the destination from September 3 until October 23, with plans to expand to a daily flight later on depending on demand. Ticket prices start at USD 430 per person.
The city, located at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains and along the Black Sea coastline, stretches for 143 kilometers and is considered the longest in all of Europe. Its location offers breathtaking, wild and green landscapes, snowy peaks, and warm coastal and lowland areas. It offers a beach holiday in 4- and 5-star hotels at particularly attractive prices compared to Europe. The hotels are scattered along the coastline, which features a giant promenade and an impressive marina. Ski lovers in the winter months will enjoy vacations in some of the most advanced and modern ski resorts in Europe.
According to Israir, there is plenty to do in the Russian city, especially for those seeking a vacation that is not just for rest, but also includes wellness treatments, thanks to the vast selection of spas and health clubs in the city. Some are concentrated along the coast, and others are located in forests at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains, in areas where nature surrounds you and the atmosphere is pastoral and relaxing. Shopping centers with international brands, a casino, ski resorts, a cable car, restaurants and nightlife, museums, theaters and performances including free summer shows on the beach and in parks, water and amusement parks, an open-air theater with summer concerts, and the chance to enjoy the beach.
For those who choose to venture outside the city—it’s worth visiting rural areas such as Krasnaya Polyana, located in the Mzymta River Valley surrounded by the western Caucasus mountain range, about an hour's drive from Sochi. The road there is magical and picturesque, running along the Mzymta River. For ski and nature lovers, it’s recommended to head toward the Caucasus mountain range and even stop in the villages along the way to discover the local lifestyle and enjoy traditional dishes served under the open sky.