Loading map...

AMS destination photo
FAO destination photo

AMSFAO

Which side of the plane to sit from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam) to Faro Airport (Faro)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most iconic views of the Dutch delta, the western edge of the Pyrenees, and a spectacular approach over the Ria Formosa lagoons when landing in Faro.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Zeeland Delta

View the massive flood protection barriers and intricate islands of the southern Netherlands shortly after takeoff.

🗼

Paris Skyline

On clear days, the distant Eiffel Tower and the sprawl of the French capital are visible to the east.

🏔️

Western Pyrenees

Crossing the border into Spain offers views of rugged peaks and deep green valleys where the mountains meet the sea.

🏰

Central Meseta

Observe the high-altitude plains of central Spain with their unique ochre and brown earth tones.

🦩

Ria Formosa

The final approach features the stunning salt pans, sandbars, and turquoise channels of the Algarve's protected lagoon.

Book a window seat on the left for a southbound flight in the morning to keep the sun behind you. Look out about 20 minutes after departure for the Dutch coast. The landing approach into Faro is the highlight; ensure your window is clear for photos of the lagoons and sand islands.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🚢

North Sea Coast

See the busy shipping lanes and the industrial heart of the Belgian and French coastlines.

🏖️

Bay of Biscay

Vast blue vistas and the rugged coastline of the French Basque Country are often visible during the cruise.

⛰️

Picos de Europa

If the flight path follows a westerly route, these limestone peaks in Northern Spain are clearly visible.

🚜

Alentejo Plains

Vast agricultural landscapes and traditional cork oak forests as you enter southern Portugal.

🏠

Faro City

A bird's eye view of the city center, the marina, and the stadium just before the wheels touch down.

The right side is ideal for sunset flights as you will see the sun dip into the Atlantic Ocean. During the final descent, keep an eye out for the Guadiana River which marks the border between Spain and Portugal. Choose a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze distorting your view.

Top Activities in Faro
Route Information

Distance: 1,970 km (1,224 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 38 min

Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)

Arrival: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.