For many travelers, December marks the start of a season filled with glowing lights, festive markets, and the joy of discovering new places. This year, one Andalusian city is about to make it easier than ever to experience France’s winter magic firsthand.
Volotea, the Spanish low-cost airline, has announced a new direct route between Granada and Nantes, connecting southern Spain with the heart of western France just in time for the Christmas season. The service will begin on December 18, with two weekly flights linking Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport to Nantes Atlantique Airport.
The route, established through an agreement between Volotea and the Provincial Council of Granada, marks an important milestone for both regions. According to the airline, the new connection aims to strengthen Granada’s international reach and support Andalusia’s tourism economy by attracting visitors from France and beyond.
“With this opening, we reinforce our commitment to the city by expanding its international connectivity and bringing it closer to the rest of Europe,” said Gabriel Schmilovich, Volotea’s Chief Strategy Officer, in a company statement. “At the same time, we reaffirm our dedication to Andalusia, a region full of opportunities where we want to continue contributing to its tourism and economic growth.”
The flights will operate on Mondays and Thursdays—departing Granada at 9:35 a.m. on Mondays and 7:10 p.m. on Thursdays. From Nantes, departures are scheduled for 7:00 a.m. on Mondays and 4:25 p.m. on Thursdays, with a journey time of roughly two hours. For travelers, the schedule offers flexibility for short getaways or extended stays during the holiday season.
This will be Volotea’s first international service from Granada, adding to its domestic connections with Asturias and Santander. For local travelers, the new link opens a direct gateway to France’s Loire region—an area celebrated for its elegant châteaux, riverside vineyards, and romantic winter ambience. For French visitors, it provides an easy route to explore Granada’s Alhambra, Sierra Nevada ski slopes, and rich Andalusian culture.
Nantes, often described as one of France’s most creative cities, sits on the banks of the Loire River and combines history, art, and playful imagination. Highlights include the 15th-century Château des Ducs de Bretagne, the Gothic Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, and the whimsical mechanical creatures of Les Machines de l’Île—a tribute to the city’s most famous native, Jules Verne.
During winter, Nantes transforms into a festive wonderland. The city’s Christmas markets at Place Royale and Place du Commerce sparkle with lights and artisan stalls, while streets are lined with carousels, chestnut vendors, and glowing decorations. Visitors can also enjoy the Jardin des Plantes, the elegant Passage Pommeraye shopping arcade, and the city’s vibrant bistros that celebrate both Breton and Loire Valley flavors.
For those seeking a European escape that balances affordability with culture, the new Volotea route arrives at just the right time. A two-hour flight now connects two regions known for their distinct heritage, gastronomy, and charm—inviting travelers to trade Granada’s Moorish courtyards for Nantes’ riverside promenades in a single morning.
Top Photo Credit: saiko3p / Shutterstock.com
