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ATH → CGN
Which side of the plane to sit from Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (Athens) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the glistening Ionian and Adriatic coastlines, the dramatic Dinaric Alps, and a spectacular traverse over the heart of the European Alps before descending into the Rhine Valley.
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Saronic Gulf
Aerial views of the Peloponnese coastline and the deep blue waters south of Athens shortly after takeoff.
Ionian Islands
On clear days, the rugged western coast of Greece and islands like Lefkada are visible as the flight turns northwest.
Dinaric Alps
The stark, white limestone peaks of Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina provide a dramatic contrast against the sea.
The High Alps
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped Austrian and Italian Alps, including jagged glaciers and deep alpine valleys.
Middle Rhine Valley
During the final descent, catch glimpses of the winding Rhine River and its historic hillside castles.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side provides the most consistent views of the European mountain ranges and the beautiful Balkan coastline. Watch for the sudden transition from the Mediterranean climate to the snowy alpine peaks mid-flight.
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Mount Parnassus
View the legendary limestone massif in central Greece, historically known as the home of the Muses.
Pindus Mountains
The heavily forested 'spine of Greece' offers lush green vistas and deep river gorges during the climb.
Munich & Bavaria
Depending on the specific air corridor, the city of Munich and its surrounding lakes can often be spotted to the north.
Siebengebirge
The 'Seven Hills' range, including the famous Drachenfels, appears on the right just before touchdown at CGN.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights, offering soft lighting over the Greek interior and German highlands. Keep an eye out for Lake Balaton if the flight path shifts slightly east. This side is also great for spotting the volcanic hills of the Eifel region during the final approach.
Book Hotels in CologneDistance: 1,953 km (1,214 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 36 min
Departure: ATH (37.9364013672, 23.944499969499997)
Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Route Type: International
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