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CGN destination photo
SZG destination photo

CGN β†’ SZG

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

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular approach into the Alps, featuring views of the Rhine Valley, the Munich skyline, and the dramatic limestone peaks of the Berchtesgaden Alps during the descent into Salzburg.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🌳

Siebengebirge

Shortly after takeoff, view the 'Seven Mountains' and the Drachenfels overlooking the Rhine River.

🌲

Spessart Forest

One of Germany's largest contiguous areas of mixed leaf forest, providing vibrant colors in autumn.

🏟️

Munich & Allianz Arena

On clear days, the white 'inflatable' structure of the stadium and the Munich skyline are visible to the south.

πŸ’§

Lake Chiemsee

Bavaria's largest lake, often called the 'Bavarian Sea', with its famous islands Herreninsel and Fraueninsel.

πŸ”οΈ

The Watzmann & Untersberg

Stunning close-up views of the iconic Watzmann peak and the massive Untersberg massif during the final approach.

This is the 'Alpine Side'. Choose a window seat behind the wing for the best photography of the mountain panoramas. Late afternoon flights offer golden hour lighting on the limestone faces of the Northern Limestone Alps. For the most dramatic landing experience at SZG, the right side provides the best view of the Salzburg Fortress if the plane approaches from the north.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
⛰️

RhΓΆn Mountains

Rolling volcanic hills and open plateaus of the Biosphere Reserve located in central Germany.

🏰

Nuremberg Cityscape

A clear view of the historic city center, including the Imperial Castle and the Pegnitz River.

🌊

Inn River

Watch the turquoise waters of the Inn River as it winds through the Bavarian foothills toward Austria.

πŸ”οΈ

Chiemgau Alps

The northern edge of the Alps appearing as the plane begins its final descent into the Salzburg basin.

Sit toward the front to avoid wing obstruction of the Nuremberg cityscape. This side is better during morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun while looking south toward the Alps.

Top Activities in Salzburg
Route Information

Distance: 545 km (339 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 55 min

Departure: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)

Arrival: SZG (47.7933006287, 13.0043001175)

Route Type: International

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