Travelling around Europe with Wizz Air and Norwegian Air transformed how we explored the continent during our latest European adventure. Flying from Bergen, Norway, to Kraków, Poland, with Norwegian Air, and then from Kraków to Budapest, Hungary, with Wizz Air, we discovered that flights within Europe can be easier, faster and better value than many North American travellers expect.
Before this trip, I knew very little about either airline. Outside Europe, it’s not nearly as well known as some of the larger carriers. In fact, members of my Norwegian family suggested we book Wizz Air for the next leg of our journey, telling us it was one of the easiest ways to travel around Europe. It turned out to be one of the best recommendations of our trip, although they were disappointed that we left Norway earlier than anticipated because we saw great flight opportunities for new places to discover.
By the time we landed in Budapest, both airlines had earned a place on my shortlist for future European adventures.
If you’re planning a multi-country itinerary, don’t overlook Europe’s regional airlines. They can save valuable time, connect cities that aren’t always served by larger carriers and leave you with more time to enjoy the destinations you’ve travelled quite a distance to experience.
Fast Facts
Wizz Air operates in 54 countries, with over 1,000 routes to more than 190 destinations. If you travel a lot with Wizz, they offer discount clubs that may be a good choice for you. Most of its fleet is under four years old.
Norwegian Air travels to 81 destinations, with fares starting as low as 31.25 EUR.
Why Flying Made Sense for Our European Itinerary
I love travelling by train and Europe’s rail network remains one of the world’s great travel experiences. But every itinerary is different.
Our journey took us from the fjords of Norway to the medieval streets of Poland, then on to Hungary’s elegant capital. Flying allowed us to maximize our time in each destination instead of spending entire days in transit.
Rather than returning to a major international hub, we boarded a direct flight from Bergen to Kraków. A few days later, another short flight took us to Budapest, where we boarded our Danube river cruise. For this itinerary, flying wasn’t just the fastest option. It was the smartest one.
Flying Norwegian Air from Bergen to Kraków
Our journey began after several unforgettable days exploring Bergen. We wandered the colourful wooden buildings of UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, rode the Fløibanen funicular for spectacular city views and cruised through some of Norway’s breathtaking fjords.
When it was time to continue our adventure, Norwegian Air made the transition remarkably easy. The booking process was straightforward, online check-in was simple and boarding was efficient. Our aircraft was clean and modern, and it departed on time, allowing us to exchange Norway’s dramatic landscapes for the cobbled streets of Kraków just a few hours later.
For travellers beginning their European holiday in Scandinavia, Norwegian Air offers an excellent gateway to destinations throughout Europe.
Our earlier travels in northern Norway also included a flight with Widerøe, Norwegian’s regional airline partner. Together, the two airlines make it remarkably easy to reach not only Europe’s major cities but also many of Norway’s smaller communities and spectacular northern destinations that might otherwise be difficult to access.
Widerøe, Norwegian’s regional airline partner, helped us fly to northern Norway to explore the Lofoten Islands above the Arctic Circle. We are boarding this flight in Bodø, Norway. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Flying Wizz Air from Kraków to Budapest
After spending several wonderful days exploring Kraków’s magnificent Old Town, Wawel Castle and the impressive Wieliczka Salt Mine, we headed to the airport for our flight to Budapest, Hungary.
Our first impression came before we even boarded. The aircraft looked almost brand new, something I later learned reflects Wizz Air’s young Airbus fleet.
Inside, the cabin was modern, clean and surprisingly quiet. Boarding went smoothly; the flight departed on schedule and before long we were descending over the Danube River into one of Europe’s most beautiful capital cities.
Founded in Hungary, Wizz Air has quietly grown into one of Europe’s largest low-cost airlines, serving hundreds of destinations across the continent. Its extensive route network makes it especially appealing for travellers wanting to visit several countries during one holiday.
WIZZ Air is a great choice when flying in Europe and Beyond. This is at the Krakow, Poland Airport. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
What North American Travellers Should Know Before Booking
Like many European airlines, both Norwegian Air and Wizz Air use an à la carte pricing model. (A model North American airlines are happily adopting more and more.) Your fare generally includes your seat and one personal item, while larger cabin bags, checked luggage, seat selection and other extras are available for an additional charge.
Some travellers see this as a drawback. I see it differently. It allows you to pay only for the services you actually need.
If you travel light, these airlines offer exceptional value. If you’re travelling with additional luggage, simply compare the final price after baggage has been added rather than looking only at the advertised fare.
My biggest piece of advice is to read the baggage policy carefully before booking. Spending a few minutes understanding what’s included can save both money and unnecessary stress at the airport. Also, pay close attention to their cancellation and change policies.
Sustainability Matters
While aviation will always have an environmental impact, both airlines are investing in newer aircraft and more efficient operations to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
How Wizz Air Is Reducing Its Environmental Burden
Wizz Air has introduced several initiatives intended to improve efficiency, including:
- Flying direct point-to-point routes where possible.
- Operating one of Europe’s youngest fleets, centred on Airbus A321neo aircraft.
- Using Airbus Sharklets, wingtip devices that reduce drag, improve fuel efficiency and help lower emissions.
- Installing lightweight seats to reduce aircraft weight.
- Regularly cleaning engines to improve efficiency.
- Using single-engine taxiing after landing when operationally appropriate.
- Equipping many aircraft with Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, which also reduce noise.
How Norwegian Air Is Reducing Its Environmental Footprint
Norwegian is also working to improve sustainability through fleet renewal and operational efficiency.
Its initiatives include:
- Replacing older Boeing 737-800 aircraft with more fuel-efficient Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.
- Increasing the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a goal of up to 20 percent by 2030.
- Improving flight operations to reduce fuel burn and emissions.
- Encouraging travellers to make more informed travel choices.
It’s encouraging to see both airlines investing in newer technology and cleaner operations. While sustainability isn’t the only factor when choosing a flight, it’s becoming an increasingly important consideration for many travellers.
Final Thoughts
Based on our experience, Norwegian Air and Wizz Air delivered exactly what we were looking for: reliable service, comfortable flights, excellent value and, most importantly, more time to experience the places that make Europe one of the world’s greatest travel destinations.
If you’re planning to visit more than one country during your next European holiday, don’t overlook these airlines simply because they may be less familiar in North America.
Continue Exploring Our Europe Travel Series
Our flights were only the beginning of an unforgettable European adventure. Follow along as we explore colourful Bergen and Norway’s spectacular fjords, discover Kraków’s medieval heart and rich history, wander the grand boulevards of Budapest, cruise the legendary Danube and Rhine rivers, visit the castle-filled Upper Middle Rhine Valley, uncover the wine towns of Rüdesheim am Rhein, Miltenberg and Bamberg, and share many more remarkable destinations that prove Europe is best explored one incredible journey at a time.
Follow my Europe Travel Series for more destination guides, travel tips and first-hand experiences from across the continent.
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About the Author:
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.
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