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BRS → HER
Which side of the plane to sit from Bristol Airport (Bristol) to Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (Heraklion)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is marginally superior for this route as it offers the most iconic views of the Swiss Alps and a spectacular perspective of the Cyclades islands, including Santorini, during the descent into Crete.
Search flights from BRS to HER
Swiss and Austrian Alps
Breathtaking views of the central Alpine range, featuring jagged snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys.
Adriatic Coastline
The shimmering blue waters where the Italian peninsula meets the Balkan coast.
Santorini & The Cyclades
On the descent, you can often spot the distinctive caldera of Santorini and the scattered white-and-blue islands of the Aegean.
Mount Dikti Range
The rugged eastern mountain ranges of Crete become visible as you enter the island's airspace.
Sunrise Horizon
For early morning departures, this side catches the first light over the European continent.
Book a window seat well forward or behind the wing (rows 1-10 or 25+) to ensure the engine doesn't block the Alpine glaciers. Keep your camera ready approximately 2.5 hours into the flight for the Alps and 3.5 hours for the Greek islands. On early morning flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses.
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Get eSIMs for GreeceMont Blanc & Western Alps
Views of Europe's highest peak if the flight path tracks slightly westward over France.
Italian Peninsula
Aerial vistas of the Apennine Mountains stretching down the spine of Italy.
Ionian Islands
Clear views of Zakynthos and its famous coastline as you cross the Ionian Sea.
Heraklion Harbor
On final approach to Runway 27, look down to see the Koules Fortress and the historic Venetian port.
Sunset Views
Perfect for late afternoon flights, offering a golden hour glow over the Mediterranean without the direct glare.
This side is generally better for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. During the final 10 minutes of flight, the right side provides the best view of Heraklion city and its urban sprawl against the backdrop of the Cretan landscape. Watch for the 'Shipwreck Beach' island (Zakynthos) about 40 minutes before landing.
Book Hotels in HeraklionDistance: 2,846 km (1,768 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 48 min
Departure: BRS (51.382702, -2.71909)
Arrival: HER (35.3396987915, 25.1802997589)
Route Type: International
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