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AMS destination photo
HAM destination photo

AMSHAM

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a scenic overview of the Dutch coastline, the massive IJsselmeer, and the unique UNESCO-protected Wadden Sea tidal flats during the journey across Northern Europe.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

IJsselmeer and Polders

Look down shortly after takeoff to see the reclaimed land of Flevoland and the vast expanse of the IJsselmeer lake.

🏖️

Wadden Sea Coastline

Enjoy the intricate patterns of sandbanks and tidal channels along the northern coast of the Netherlands and Germany.

🚢

Port of Hamburg

As you descend towards Hamburg, the massive container terminals and industrial maritime infrastructure of the Elbe river come into view.

🏗️

Airbus Factory

Just before landing, look for the massive Airbus Finkenwerder facility located on the banks of the Elbe south of the airport.

Choose a window seat on the left for the best chance to see the Frisian Islands in the distance. Morning flights are ideal as the sun remains to the south, reducing glare and providing crisp lighting for photos of the tidal flats. Watch for the 'Afsluitdijk' causeway shortly after departing Amsterdam.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🌲

Hoge Veluwe

A view of the dense forests and heathlands of one of the Netherlands' most significant national parks.

🏢

Bremen Cityscape

Depending on the specific airway, you may see the city of Bremen and its winding Weser river to the south.

🚜

Lower Saxony Lowlands

The patchwork of German agricultural fields and small villages provides a classic European countryside view.

🛶

Alster Lakes

On the final approach to Hamburg Airport, you might catch a glimpse of the Inner and Outer Alster lakes in the city center.

The right side is best during late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the horizon. If the plane approaches Hamburg from the east (Runway 23), this side offers a better view of the northern city suburbs. Keep an eye out for the Elbe river winding through the countryside before arrival.

Top Activities in Hamburg
Route Information

Distance: 379 km (235 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 38 min

Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)

Arrival: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)

Route Type: International

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