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AMS destination photo
ZRH destination photo

AMSZRH

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer excellent views of the Rhine river valley, the Right Side is preferred for its superior perspective of the Vosges mountains and a more dramatic panoramic view of the Swiss Alps and Lake Zurich during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🛤️

Dutch Rail Infrastructure

Clear views of the high-speed rail lines and modern urban planning around Utrecht.

⛰️

The Vosges

The rugged, rounded peaks of the French Vosges mountain range appearing to the west.

🥨

Alsace Region

The picturesque border region between France and Germany, often visible through clear skies.

🏔️

Swiss Alpine Chain

On the descent, the snow-capped Bernese Alps create a jagged white horizon to the south.

🏙️

Lake Zurich

A stunning view of the long, curved lake and the city of Zurich during the final approach patterns.

The right side is unbeatable for the final 15 minutes of the flight. As the plane descends into ZRH, the Swiss Alps dominate the horizon. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for photography of the peaks and Lake Zurich.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌷

Dutch Polders

Intricate patterns of reclaimed land, canals, and greenhouses immediately after takeoff from Schiphol.

🏰

Middle Rhine

Views of the industrial Ruhr area and the winding Rhine river as it cuts through western Germany.

🌲

The Black Forest

Dense, dark evergreen canopies and rolling hills of the Schwarzwald region in Southwest Germany.

💧

Lake Constance

Glimpses of the massive Bodensee on the horizon, where Germany, Austria, and Switzerland meet.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and enjoy the soft light hitting the German river valleys. Watch for the dense greenery of the Black Forest about 45 minutes into the flight.

Top Activities in Zurich
Route Information

Distance: 603 km (375 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr

Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)

Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Route Type: International

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