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CDG → FCO
Which side of the plane to sit from Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris) to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for this route, providing a closer perspective of the high Alpine peaks and a much higher chance of seeing the historic center of Rome and the Vatican during the descent into FCO.
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The High Alps
Views of the snow-capped French and Italian Alps, including the Mont Blanc massif if the path is easterly.
Milan and Po Valley
The sprawling urban landscape of Northern Italy and the fertile plains of the Po River.
The Apennines
The rugged spine of Italy featuring deep valleys and ancient hilltop villages.
Rome Historic Center
Depending on the approach, the Colosseum, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Tiber River are often visible.
Lake Bracciano
A large volcanic crater lake north of Rome, often used as a waypoint for landing.
For the best photography of the Alps, book a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine exhaust distortion. On morning flights, the sun will be behind you, illuminating the mountains perfectly. The approach into Rome usually follows a path that puts the city center on the left if landing on runways 16L or 16R.
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Burgundy Vineyards
Aerial views of the famous patchwork quilt of French wine country south of Paris.
Massif Central
The ancient volcanic peaks and green plateaus of central France.
French Riviera
The deep blue of the Mediterranean meeting the glitzy coastline near Nice and Monaco.
Elba Island
The emerald green island where Napoleon was exiled, situated in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Tuscan Archipelago
Clear views of smaller islands and the rugged coastline of the Maremma region.
The right side is excellent for evening flights as it faces the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea. If the flight path takes a more westerly coastal route, you will get a great view of the Corsican coastline in the distance. During the final approach, look for the busy port of Civitavecchia to the north of the airport.
Book Hotels in RomeDistance: 1,101 km (684 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Arrival: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Route Type: International
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