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If you’ve been to one airport, you’ve seen them all. There’s only so much time to be spent perusing Hudson bookstores and waiting in endless lines at Starbucks.
Not everyone can justify a layover, no matter how iconic their preferred vacation spot may be.
We at Travel Off Path all have our own horror stories of being left at airports far longer than planned. As such, we collectively recommend it’s best to choose a direct route even if it costs a bit more.
Luckily for travelers residing in one of America’s most stunning cities, they don’t have to worry about annoying layovers any longer — they can now jet off to Rome for the first time ever!
It’s true — one of Europe’s dreamiest cities, overflowing with ancient history, unmatched cuisine, and tangible romance, is now a straight shot.
Tickets are now on sale for one of 2026’s most exciting new international routes and also happens to be one of Alaska Airlines‘ first ventures ‘across the pond’.
Seattle Welcomes One Of Alaska’s First European Flights
New international flights give us all goosebumps. As much as we love the current state of travel now that the government shutdown has ended, we can focus on where to go next.
For Seattleites, Rome is an exciting option.
While you’ll surely have to work your way through crowds at world-famous attractions like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, it’s one of the few places on Earth where you likely won’t care to weave through careless selfie-takers.
I mean, where else can you go where you can see where Roman gladiators once fought for glory?
Not many.
Seattle is an awesome city in its own right, but hey, everyone needs a vacation now and then.
Alaska Airlines is one of the West Coast’s most popular carriers to hop around this side of the States’ amazing cities like Las Vegas, San Diego, and yes, Seattle, but also underrated Napa alternatives, such as Sonoma, and of course, Alaska.
In other words, they’re not exactly known for flights where you need to have your passport handy, but they’re ready to take on new challenges — and it’s official!
Red tape bureaucracy is in the rear-view, so Seattle is set to receive their first-ever direct flight to Rome April 28, 2026.
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Cost & Frequency
Travelers with Rome in mind should take advantage as soon as possible. Promotional fares are as low as $599 round-trip, a great price for a West Coast-Europe adventure.
However, don’t get too excited. This will be a seasonal route, meaning limited flights for the time being.
Alaska Airlines is dipping its toes in the water, so to speak, something you definitely shouldn’t do at Trevi Fountain — a big, big, big no-no according to multiple viral TikTok vids.
It’s hard to imagine this won’t be a successful route as groundbreaking as this is for the city of Seattle.
Plus, Rome is just the starting point for Italy, which is practically a country inviting you to explore far beyond the typical tourist trail with stunning beach towns, mountainous hideaways, and lakes more pristine than other countries’ coastlines.
The new route is set to be offered daily, given its already positive feedback across the board. Flights will depart Seattle (SEA) on a ‘long-haul, twin-aisle 787-9 aircraft’, according to Alaska’s press release.
What Else Is New In Rome In 2026
For such a timeless city, your expectation might be to expect nothing new except higher prices as Rome continues to gain steam on a global scale.
Not true…
There are a few things to look forward to that are brand new in 2026:
1) New High-Speed Train Connects Munich
Who says you have to stay put? Many travelers opt for a tour de Europe, if you will, and 2026 is the perfect time to do by by knocking out a pair of incredible cities on the new train expected to be ready by December 2026.
2) The Luxe Rosewood Rome Hotel Set To Open Its Doors
Find luxury in the heart of Rome, as one of our favorite luxury brands (Rosewood) is set to steal the spotlight away from ancient wonders in a completely transformed 1900s marvel.
3) Cash In Your Points At A New Hyatt Hotel
Boutique hotels aren’t for everyone — stay with a name we all know and trust at Hyatt Regency Rome Central (slated for February 2026). Plus, it boasts central Rome’s largest rooftop pool!
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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