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BUD destination photo
ATH destination photo

BUDATH

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Balkan mountain ranges and a more scenic approach over the Saronic Gulf and the rugged coastline of Attica.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Danube River Path

Follow the winding course of Europe's second-longest river as it heads toward the Iron Gates.

🏔️

Pindus Mountains

The 'Spine of Greece' features sharp limestone ridges and deep forested valleys during the southern transit.

🚤

Saronic Gulf

Deep blue waters dotted with white sailboats and the islands of Aegina and Salamis on the approach.

🏛️

Athens Urban Sprawl

A massive perspective of the Greek capital, often including glimpses of the Acropolis depending on the runway.

🌅

Apollo Coast

The glitzy Athenian Riviera coastline stretching from Piraeus down toward the southern tip of Attica.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the Ionian Sea in the distance. When landing at ATH from the north, this side often offers a brief but spectacular view of the Parthenon. Keep your camera ready as you cross the Greek coastline for high-contrast turquoise water views.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Budapest Departure

Aerial views of the Danube River and the sprawling Hungarian capital shortly after takeoff.

🏞️

Pannonian Plain

Vast, fertile landscapes and geometric farmland patterns across Southern Hungary and Northern Serbia.

⛰️

Balkan Ranges

The rugged peaks of eastern Serbia and North Macedonia providing a dramatic mid-flight backdrop.

🏝️

Euboea Island

The long, mountainous coastline of Greece's second-largest island as you begin your descent.

💧

Lake Marathon

The historic reservoir and its iconic marble dam located just north of the Athens metropolitan area.

On morning flights, the left side provides better lighting for photography as the sun is in the southeast. Look out for the Bulgarian border mountains in the distance during the cruise phase. During winter, the snow-capped Balkan peaks are particularly striking from this side.

Top Activities in Athens
Route Information

Distance: 1,122 km (697 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min

Departure: BUD (47.429759999999995, 19.261093)

Arrival: ATH (37.9364013672, 23.944499969499997)

Route Type: International

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