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CDG destination photo
MAD destination photo

CDGMAD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally superior for this route, offering better views of the famous Loire Valley chateaux, the Atlantic-facing slopes of the Pyrenees, and a spectacular close-up of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains during the descent into Madrid.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

Chateaux of the Loire

View the winding Loire River and spot massive estates like Chambord nestled in their forest grounds.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

On clear days, see the distant blue of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline near the city of Bordeaux.

⛰️

Basque Mountains

The lush, jagged transition where the western Pyrenees meet the Atlantic influence.

🏔️

Sierra de Guadarrama

Dramatic granite peaks and pine forests that flank the northern approach into Madrid Barajas.

Afternoon flights are best as the sun moves west, lighting up the Pyrenees and the Guadarrama range. During the final approach to Madrid, watch for the 'Cuatro Torres' skyscrapers standing tall on the horizon.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🗼

Parisian Skyline

If departing to the south, catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower and the urban density of central Paris.

🍷

Limousin Region

Rolling green pastures and traditional agricultural landscapes of central France.

🏔️

Central Pyrenees

High-altitude views of the tallest peaks in the range, including views toward the Aneto massif.

🏜️

Castilian Meseta

The striking, arid high plateau of Spain with its characteristic red soil and geometric crop patterns.

Sit toward the front of the plane to avoid engine heat haze. Morning flights provide excellent illumination of the Pyrenees peaks. Keep an eye out for the Ebro River as you cross into Spanish territory.

Top Activities in Madrid
Route Information

Distance: 1,065 km (662 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min

Departure: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)

Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Route Type: International

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