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CIA destination photo
BUD destination photo

CIABUD

Our Recommendation
8.4

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the crossing of the Adriatic Sea, providing stunning views of the Croatian archipelago and the rugged Dinaric Alps before the descent into the Hungarian plains.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
🌋

Alban Hills

View the volcanic crater lakes of Albano and Nemi immediately after takeoff from Ciampino.

🏝️

Dalmatian Islands

A mosaic of white-stone islands and turquoise waters along the coast of Croatia.

⛰️

Dinaric Alps

The dramatic karst mountain ranges that run parallel to the Adriatic coastline.

🌾

Pannonian Basin

The transition into the vast, fertile flatlands of Hungary as the plane heads north-east.

🌉

Danube River

Follow the winding path of the Danube river basin as the aircraft aligns for landing at BUD.

Highly recommended for afternoon flights to see the sunlight reflecting off the Adriatic Sea. Watch the Croatian coastline roughly 35 minutes into the flight for the most dramatic island views. During the descent, you may catch a glimpse of the Pest side of the city and the airport perimeter.

Left Side Highlights
7.9
🏛️

Rome Panorama

Aerial views of the Eternal City and the Vatican shortly after departing Ciampino.

🏔️

Central Apennines

The high limestone peaks of the Gran Sasso massif, the highest point of the Italian peninsula.

💧

Lake Balaton

Central Europe's largest lake, easily recognizable by its elongated shape and emerald-green water.

🏰

Buda Hills

The lush, hilly terrain on the western side of the Danube as you begin your final approach.

Choose the left side for morning departures to keep the sun behind you. This side is the best for spotting Lake Balaton about 15-20 minutes before landing. In winter, the snow-covered Apennine peaks offer spectacular photography opportunities shortly after takeoff.

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Route Information

Distance: 818 km (508 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min

Departure: CIA (41.7994, 12.5949)

Arrival: BUD (47.429759999999995, 19.261093)

Route Type: International

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