Europe Australia 40–80% OFF
Cheap flights discovered by AI✨
Fly round-trip to Sydney for €500, while others pay €1,200+.
Our AI finds Superdeals to Australia from all major airports in Europe. You book directly with airlines for half the price—or less.
Why are flights to Australia so expensive in 2026?
A mix of government decisions, plane shortages, and longer flight paths has pushed fares to record highs.
How bad is it? A return ticket from London to Sydney in November 2025 now costs around £1,550 to £1,850 in economy. That’s about 60% more than the same trip in 2019. For comparison, flying to Los Angeles costs just £600 to £800, even though Sydney is twice as far.
So what’s going on? First, the Australian government blocked Qatar Airways from adding more flights. Fewer planes means less competition, and carriers like Qantas and Emirates can charge more. Second, new long-range jets like the Boeing 777X have been delayed until 2026. Airlines are stuck using older planes and can’t add the extra seats travellers need. Third, the Russian airspace ban forces European airlines to fly longer routes around the restricted zone. That adds hours to the journey and burns more fuel, so tickets cost more.
You might spot cheaper fares on Chinese carriers like China Southern. They still fly over Russia, but layovers are longer and some travellers prefer to avoid them.
The outlook: Don’t expect big drops soon. New planes won’t arrive until late 2026, and flight restrictions aren’t changing. Your best bet is booking early or travelling outside peak summer months.
Meet Superdeals
Never overpay for flights again
You can save between 40% and 80% on your flights to Australia — and to other Asian countries — with Air Traveler Club Superdeals.
We monitor all major airports in Europe for cheap flights to Asia, including:
- London (LHR) — UK
- Paris (CDG) — France
- Amsterdam (AMS) — Netherlands
- Madrid (MAD) — Spain
- Frankfurt (FRA) — Germany
- Rome (FCO) — Italy
- Athens (ATH) — Greece
- Vienna (VIE) — Austria
- Zurich (ZRH) — Switzerland
- Warsaw (WAW) — Poland
Departure airports in Europe and destinations in APAC covered by Superdeals.
Superdeals to Australia
Fly for half price (or less)
Airlines don't design their pricing systems to offer half-price tickets. However, when algorithms detect demand shortfalls for specific routes, automated systems apply steep discounts to fill planes. Airlines would rather accept losses than fly with empty seats.
ATC monitors thousands of routes from Europe 24/7, detecting Superdeals with 40–80% discounts. While a typical return flight from Europe to Sydney costs €1,200+, with Superdeals you can often grab it for around €500:
Which airlines have promotions to Australia right now?
We track and curate genuine offers from 150+ airlines, hand-picking only the most valuable for your wallet.
Which carriers have sales and special offers for flights in February, March, April and beyond? You can now browse the entire collection of active promotions:
Browse promos →Popular airlines with frequent offers from Europe:
Travel hacks and insights
for Europe — Australia flights
Verified strategies to save money and avoid friction on routes to Australia.
Declare all food or face $3,000+ fines
Australia has the strictest biosecurity laws in the world. Undeclared food, plant materials, or wooden items attract on-the-spot fines starting at $375 AUD and escalating to $3,000+ or visa cancellation.
Discard all airline food (fruits, sandwiches) before landing. Even an accidental apple in your backpack can result in a fine. When in doubt, tick “Yes” on the Incoming Passenger Card. If you declare it, you will not be fined, even if the item is prohibited (they just confiscate it).
Dublin departures save €500-800 vs London
Departing from Dublin (DUB) instead of London Heathrow (LHR) often saves €500-800 on business class fares to Australia. The UK levies a heavy Air Passenger Duty (APD) on long-haul premium cabins, which Ireland does not charge.
Book a separate low-cost positioning flight to Dublin for €50-80. Airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Etihad frequently file aggressive fares from Dublin to Sydney or Melbourne to compete for market share, undercutting their own London pricing significantly.
Qantas LHR-PER direct flight premium
The Qantas non-stop London to Perth flight (QF10) commands a 20-30% price premium over one-stop options. While it saves 3-4 hours of travel time, the 17-hour confinement in Economy is grueling.
Unless booking Premium Economy or Business, a one-stop routing via Singapore or Doha often provides better value and a necessary physical break. The direct flight is best utilized for time-critical business travel rather than leisure, where the premium eats into holiday budgets.
Weight concept baggage allows multiple bags
Most carriers flying Europe-Asia-Australia (Emirates, Qatar, Singapore, Qantas) use the “Weight Concept” for baggage, offering 30kg total. This allows you to check as many bags as you like, provided the total weight stays under the limit.
This differs from the “Piece Concept” used on trans-Atlantic routes (usually 1 piece max). It’s ideal for bringing gifts or specialized gear. However, verify your specific ticket, as “Light” fares now increasingly restrict this to 20-25kg or introduce piece limits.
Proof of onward travel required
Airlines checking you in for Australia will demand proof of a return or onward ticket if you are on a tourist visa. One-way tickets often trigger a denial of boarding unless you hold permanent residency.
If you plan to travel flexibly, book a fully refundable return ticket and cancel it after entry, or use a service like OnwardTicket ($12) to generate a verifiable temporary reservation. Immigration officers conduct random checks for this upon arrival as well.
Upgrade bidding works on leisure routes
Airlines like Etihad, Qantas, and Singapore Airlines offer upgrade bidding systems. Europe-Australia routes are heavy on leisure travelers, meaning business class cabins are often less full of corporate contracts compared to Trans-Atlantic routes.
Bidding 20-25% above the minimum threshold often s\\ucceeds on Tuesday/Wednesday departures. Check business class availability on the airline’s website prior to bidding; if the cabin looks empty (J9 availability), a lower bid has a higher success probability.
What travelers ask most
Expert answers on routing, carriers, timing, and fees
Can I book the new direct flights from London to Sydney yet?
Not yet, as Qantas’ “Project Sunrise” nonstop flights are currently scheduled to launch in mid-2026. While the Airbus A350-1000 fleet is being delivered, tickets for these 20-hour marathon flights aren’t available for travel in late 2025. For now, the fastest “Kangaroo Route” option remains the Qantas nonstop from London to Perth (QF9), which takes about 17 hours. If you want to cut travel time, look for the new Turkish Airlines connections via Istanbul, which added significant capacity to the route in 2025.
Did Australian visa fees increase in 2025?
Yes, visa application charges were indexed on July 1, 2025, pushing the standard Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) fee to approximately AU$195 (about €120). However, most European passport holders should avoid this cost entirely by using the eVisitor (Subclass 651), which remains free of government charges. Don’t get tricked by third-party “visa service” websites that charge €50-80 to file this free form for you. Always use the official Department of Home Affairs ImmiAccount portal to apply directly.
Why are hotel prices in Sydney so high for early 2026?
Sydney is facing a massive demand surge for the January-February 2026 peak season due to a lineup of major international concerts and the return of large-scale Chinese tour groups. Average nightly rates for 4-star hotels in the CBD have hit €250-300, significantly higher than the €180 average in 2024. To save money, look at accommodation in suburbs like Parramatta or North Sydney, which have excellent train links to the harbor but cost 30-40% less. Booking 4-5 months in advance is essential for this specific summer window.
Is the new Western Sydney Airport open for flights yet?
No, Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is in its final testing phases but won’t open to commercial passengers until late 2026. For trips in December 2025 or early 2026, you will still fly into the existing Sydney Kingsford Smith (SYD). Traffic around the current airport remains heavy, so allow at least 60-90 minutes for transfers to the city center during peak times. The new airport will eventually change the dynamic, but it doesn’t affect itineraries for the next 6-9 months.
Which visa is best for European tourists visiting Australia?
Holders of most EU passports (plus UK, Switzerland, Norway) should strictly use the eVisitor (Subclass 651) visa. It allows multiple entries for stays of up to 3 months at a time over a 12-month period and, crucially, has zero government application fee. Avoid the ETA (Subclass 601) app if you qualify for the 651, as the ETA charges a AU$20 service fee for essentially the same privilege. Apply online at least 2 weeks before departure, though approvals often come through within 24 hours.
Do Europeans get free healthcare in Australia?
It depends on your country. Australia has Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCA) with the UK, Ireland, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Slovenia, and Malta. Citizens of these nations can access medically necessary public hospital care and subsidized medicine (Medicare) during their stay. However, travelers from France, Germany, Spain, and Switzerland do NOT have coverage and must pay full price for all treatment. Regardless of your nationality, comprehensive travel insurance with a high medical limit (€1M+) is essential for medical evacuation and private care.
Is the UV radiation really that dangerous in Australia?
Yes, the UV index in Australia is significantly higher than in Europe due to the thinner ozone layer and clearer air. You can get sunburned in 15 minutes even on cloudy days or when the temperature is a mild 20°C. European “all-day” sunscreen often fails here; buy SPF 50+ locally (brands like Cancer Council) which is formulated for these harsh conditions. Wear a hat and sunglasses between 10 AM and 3 PM, as UV levels regularly hit “Extreme” (11+) during summer months.
Should I rent a car to travel between Sydney and Melbourne?
Unless you specifically want a road trip experience, flying is far better. The drive is a grueling 900km (9-10 hours) on mostly boring highways, while the flight takes just 90 minutes and can cost as little as €40-60 one-way. If you do drive, remember traffic flows on the left, and speed limits (usually 110km/h) are strictly enforced with cameras—going just 3km/h over can trigger a fine. For city stays, skip the car entirely; parking in CBD hotels often costs AU$50-80 per night.
Nonstop (direct) vs 1-stop
How much do flights from Europe to Australia cost?
Nonstop Europe-Australia flights take 16-18 hours and cost 20-40% more than connecting alternatives. Major hubs in United Kingdom, France, and Italy—including London, Paris, and Rome—offer the most frequent service, primarily to Perth (PER) and Sydney (SYD).
Direct service justifies its premium for business travelers, families, or when price differences stay below €300-400—otherwise, strategic one-stop routing typically delivers better value.
| Route | Airline | Aircraft | Avg Price | Avg ATC Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| London (LHR) → Perth (PER) | Qantas | 787-9 | €1,600 | €520 (67% off) |
| Paris (CDG) → Perth (PER) | Qantas | 787-9 | €1,550 | €510 (67% off) |
| Rome (FCO) → Perth (PER) | Qantas | 787-9 | €1,500 | €495 (67% off) |
| London (LHR) → Sydney (SYD) | Qantas | A350-1000 | €1,900 | €665 (65% off) |
| London (LHR) → Perth (PER) | British Airways | 787-9 | €1,550 | €540 (65% off) |
| Frankfurt (FRA) → Perth (PER) | Qantas | 787-9 | €1,450 | €505 (65% off) |
| Amsterdam (AMS) → Perth (PER) | Qantas | 787-9 | €1,500 | €525 (65% off) |
| Paris (CDG) → Sydney (SYD) | Qantas | A350-1000 | €1,950 | €685 (65% off) |
*Avg ATC Price: Superdeal fare published on our platform (40-80% savings compared to standard market rates). Learn more.
How the 5th-freedom loophole can cut your flight costs by thousands
Welcome to the overlooked world of fifth-freedom flights. These legal, rare, and often underpriced routes create some of the cheapest fares—yet most travelers have never heard of them…
Best stopovers
for Europe to Australia flights
Not all connections are created equal. When flying from the Europe to Australia, routing through major airport hubs can deliver lower total fares, better-equipped aircraft, and access to airline stopover programs.
Doha DOH
with Qatar Airways
- Average savings: 20-30% vs non-stop flights
- Flight segments: ~6-7h Europe-Doha + ~13-14h Doha-Australia
- Typical connection: 2-4 hours (minimum 45 minutes)
- Stopover perks: Hotels from $14/night
- Visa requirements: Many Europe passports get visa-free or e-visa
- Airport rating: 5-Star Skytrax hub with top lounges
- Best for: London, Paris, Frankfurt travelers seeking award-winning business class products
Dubai DXB
with Emirates
- Average savings: 15-25% vs non-stop flights
- Flight segments: Europe-Dubai (~6-7h), then Dubai-Australia (~11-14h)
- Typical connection: 2-5 hours (minimum 60 minutes)
- Stopover perks: Complimentary accommodation package
- Visa requirements: Many Europe passports get visa-free entry
- Airport rating: 4-Star Skytrax with extensive amenities
- Best for: Amsterdam, Milan, Madrid travelers seeking A380 or 777 premium cabins
Singapore SIN
with Singapore Airlines
- Average savings: 10-20% vs non-stop flights
- Flight segments: Split into ~13h Europe-Singapore and ~7-8h Singapore-Australia legs
- Typical connection: 2-4 hours (minimum 50 minutes)
- Stopover perks: Free Singapore stopover package
- Visa requirements: Short visits visa-free for most Europe passports
- Airport rating: Consistently rated 5-Star global airport
- Best for: Zurich, Munich, Vienna travelers seeking cultural exploration during transit
Kuala Lumpur KUL
with Malaysia Airlines
- Average savings: 20-35% vs non-stop flights
- Flight segments: Two-leg journey: ~12-13h Europe-Kuala Lumpur, ~6-8h Kuala Lumpur-Australia
- Typical connection: 2-4 hours (minimum 60 minutes)
- Stopover perks: Free domestic side trips
- Visa requirements: Most Europe passports enter Malaysia visa-free
- Airport rating: 4-Star airport with modern main terminal
- Best for: Rome, Barcelona, Copenhagen travelers seeking consistently lower fares vs other hubs
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Best airlines and aircraft
for long-haul flights to Australia
Most travelers book Europe–Australia flights by price and schedule—but aircraft choice determines whether you arrive refreshed or wrecked. Cabin pressurization, humidity, seat configuration, and service standards vary dramatically on this route.
Below are carriers we recommend—with superior configurations on flights from the US and Canada to Australia.
Qantas
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
Five-time Skytrax winner Qantas operates the 787-9 with advanced fuel efficiency and lower cabin altitude, enhancing comfort on long-haul Europe to Australia flights.
- Route: 1-stop via Dubai (DXB) or Singapore (SIN) London/Munich→Sydney/Melbourne (approx. 22-24hrs total)
- Economy: 31″ pitch, 17″ width, 3-3-3 configuration, personal IFE screens with HD touch display
- Business: 1-2-1 reverse herringbone, lie-flat 78″ beds, direct aisle access
- Standouts: 12″ HD IFE with extensive entertainment, Wi-Fi available, regional Australian meals, frequent flyer perks
- Typical Pricing: Economy €1,200-1,700; Business €4,500-6,500;
British Airways
Airbus A350-1000
British Airways employs the ultra-modern A350-1000 on Europe to Australia routes, delivering quieter cabins and superior fuel efficiency via London Heathrow hub.
- Route: 1-stop via Singapore (SIN) or direct connecting London→Sydney/Melbourne (around 23-25hrs including layover)
- Economy: 31″ pitch, 18″ width, 3-3-3 layout, personal seat-back screens
- Business: Club Suite 1-2-1 configuration, fully lie-flat 79″ seats, privacy doors
- Standouts: 13.3″ 4K IFE screens, high-speed Wi-Fi, British dining experience, advanced noise reduction
- Typical Pricing: Economy €1,300-1,800; Business €5,000-7,000;
Turkish Airlines
Airbus A350-900
Skytrax 5-star Turkish Airlines flies A350-900 with a quieter cabin and improved air quality, providing seamless Europe to Australia connections via Istanbul.
- Route: 1-stop Istanbul (IST) hub, London/Paris/Frankfurt→Melbourne/Sydney (approx. 24-26hrs total)
- Economy: 31″ pitch, 18″ width, 3-3-3, personal HD touchscreens
- Business: 1-2-1 staggered lie-flat seats, 78″ beds, direct aisle access
- Standouts: 16″ IFE screens, onboard Wi-Fi, award-winning Turkish cuisine, generous baggage allowance
- Typical Pricing: Economy €1,000-1,500; Business €4,200-5,800;
Singapore Airlines
Airbus A380-800
Six-time Skytrax best airline Singapore Airlines operates the iconic A380, offering unmatched space and luxury on Europe to Australia flights via Changi Airport.
- Route: 1-stop via Singapore (SIN) London/Paris/Frankfurt→Sydney/Melbourne (23-25hrs total)
- Economy: 32″ pitch, 18″ width, 3-4-3 configuration, wide seat choice
- Business: 1-2-1 fully lie-flat suites, 78″ beds, direct aisle access
- Standouts: 16″ IFE screens with extensive content, Wi-Fi available, gourmet meals, access to Changi—world’s best airport
- Typical Pricing: Economy €1,400-1,900; Business €5,500-7,500;
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