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ADB → ATH
Which side of the plane to sit from Adnan Menderes International Airport (Izmir) to Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (Athens)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an incredible sequence of Aegean islands and a high probability of seeing the iconic Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion during the final approach.
Samos and Ikaria
Aerial views of these lush, mountainous islands as you cross from Turkish to Greek airspace.
The Cyclades
Distant views of the iconic white-washed architecture on islands like Mykonos and Tinos.
Cape Sounion
On the standard southern approach to ATH, the ancient Temple of Poseidon is visible on the very tip of the peninsula.
Saronic Gulf
Watch the busy ferry routes connecting the port of Piraeus with the Aegean islands.
Sit on the left for the most iconic Greek landmarks. This side is particularly spectacular during morning flights when the sun illuminates the islands from behind the plane, and during sunset when the Aegean reflects golden hues. Keep your camera ready about 10 minutes before landing for the Cape Sounion flyover.
Gulf of Izmir
A sweeping view of the Izmir coastline and urban sprawl immediately after takeoff from ADB.
Chios Island
Look for the unique mastic groves and medieval 'mastihohoria' villages in the southern part of the island.
Euboea (Evia)
A long, dramatic view of Greece's second-largest island, featuring rugged cliffs and high mountain peaks.
Mount Penteli
The descent provides a close look at the marble-rich mountains that provided the stone for the Parthenon.
The right side is ideal for travelers who enjoy mountain scenery and the coastline of the Greek mainland. Afternoon flights are best on this side to capture the warm light hitting the mountains of Euboea and Attica. Since the flight is very short (under an hour), ensure your window shade stays up for the duration.
Distance: 284 km (176 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 28 min
Departure: ADB (38.2924003601, 27.156999588)
Arrival: ATH (37.9364013672, 23.944499969499997)
Route Type: International
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