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CGN destination photo
DRS destination photo

CGNDRS

Which side of the plane to sit from Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne) to Dresden Airport (Dresden)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of Germany's central highlands, including the picturesque Thuringian Forest and the stunning sandstone formations of Saxon Switzerland during the approach into Dresden.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏰

Siebengebirge & Rhine

Immediately after takeoff, enjoy views of the Rhine River and the Drachenfels castle ruins near Bonn.

🏔️

Rothaargebirge

Fly directly over the Kahler Asten, one of the most famous mountain ridges in North Rhine-Westphalia.

🌲

Thuringian Forest

A long stretch of the flight follows the Rennsteig ridge, offering deep green forest vistas and small mountain towns.

🏘️

Erfurt and Weimar

Look down at the historic steeples of Erfurt and the cultural landmarks of Weimar as you cross Thuringia.

🧗

Saxon Switzerland

On the final approach to DRS, the dramatic Elbe Sandstone Mountains and the Bastei Bridge are often visible to the southeast.

The right side is significantly more scenic for this east-bound route. Try to book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the Thuringian Forest. During the winter, the snow-covered Ore Mountains to the south provide a stunning contrast to the valleys.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🏙️

Ruhr Area Fringe

Upon departure from CGN, catch glimpses of the dense industrial and urban landscapes of the southern Ruhr region to the north.

🌲

Sauerland Hills

Fly over the 'Land of a Thousand Mountains,' featuring dense forests and several large reservoirs like the Biggesee.

⛰️

The Harz Mountains

In the distance to the north, the Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany, is often visible on clear days.

🏘️

Leipzig Basin

As the flight progresses east, the flat plains surrounding Leipzig come into view before descending toward Dresden.

Sit on the left if you prefer views of the flat northern plains and the distant Harz mountains. For late afternoon flights, this side will be in the shade, reducing glare for photography.

Top Activities in Dresden
Route Information

Distance: 464 km (288 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 46 min

Departure: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)

Arrival: DRS (51.1328010559082, 13.767200469970703)

Route Type: Domestic

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