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CEE destination photo
HEL destination photo

CEEHEL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more scenic approach into Helsinki, including potential views of the city center and the Suomenlinna sea fortress, along with the southern coast of Lake Ladoga.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Southern Lake Ladoga

View the vast expanse of Europe's largest lake and its southern shoreline shortly after departure.

🏙️

St. Petersburg Outskirts

On clear days, the distant skyline and the Lakhta Center skyscraper may be visible to the south.

⚓

Gulf of Finland

Aerial perspective of the busy shipping lanes and the Estonian coastline in the far distance.

🏰

Suomenlinna Fortress

A historic UNESCO sea fortress spread across several islands just off the Helsinki coast.

🏢

Helsinki Skyline

Excellent views of the White Cathedral and the vibrant harbor area during the final descent.

Sit on the left for the most iconic arrival views. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting as the sun moves south. In winter, look for the unique patterns of sea ice forming in the Gulf of Finland. If the plane approaches HEL from the east, you will pass directly over the city center.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌲

Karelian Taiga

Dense, untouched forests of the Vologda and Leningrad regions stretching toward the horizon.

🏞️

Valaam Archipelago

Depending on the northern deviation of the route, you may spot the famous monastery islands in northern Lake Ladoga.

💧

Finnish Lake District

The intricate mosaic of the Saimaa lake system, characterized by thousands of islands and narrow channels.

✈️

Vantaa Landscape

A view of the suburban forests and small lakes surrounding the airport as you prepare for touchdown.

The right side is ideal for nature lovers wanting to see the 'Land of a Thousand Lakes.' Early morning flights provide soft light over the Russian forests. During the summer solstice, this side enjoys the soft glow of the midnight sun during late evening flights.

Top Activities in Helsinki
Route Information

Distance: 738 km (459 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 14 min

Departure: CEE (59.273601532, 38.0158004761)

Arrival: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)

Route Type: International

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