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CIA destination photo
SDR destination photo

CIASDR

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally superior for this route as it provides a stunning panoramic view of the French Riviera and a spectacular crossing of the Pyrenees mountain range.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏝️

Tuscan Archipelago

View the northern Italian islands like Elba and Capraia scattered across the blue sea.

🏖️

French Riviera

A stunning stretch featuring Monaco, Nice, and Cannes with the Alps rising in the background.

⛰️

The Pyrenees

A breathtaking crossing of the snow-capped border between France and Spain, showcasing high-altitude lakes.

🌲

Landes Forest

The massive expanse of pine forests in southwestern France stretching toward the Atlantic coast.

⚓

Bay of Biscay

A dramatic view of the Atlantic coastline and the Bay of Santander as the aircraft turns for final approach.

The right side is the premier choice for the French coast and the Pyrenees. For the best experience, fly during midday when the sun is high to see the turquoise waters of the Riviera clearly. On arrival, this side typically offers a better view of the Santander city center and its beautiful harbor.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏛️

Rome and the Tiber

Shortly after takeoff, catch a glimpse of the Tiber River winding towards the Mediterranean Sea.

🌊

Tyrrhenian Sea

Vast stretches of azure water with the distant silhouettes of Corsica and Sardinia to the south.

🏙️

Barcelona and Costa Brava

Views of the bustling Catalan capital and the rugged coastline as the plane enters Spanish airspace.

🌾

Ebro River Valley

The winding Ebro river cutting through the arid landscapes of Aragon and Navarre.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

The dramatic limestone peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains during the final descent into Santander.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. This side is excellent for seeing the transition from the Mediterranean coast to the rugged interior of Northern Spain. Watch for the Picos de Europa peaks about 20 minutes before landing.

Top Activities in Santander
Route Information

Distance: 1,353 km (841 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 48 min

Departure: CIA (41.7994, 12.5949)

Arrival: SDR (43.427101135253906, -3.82000994682312)

Route Type: International

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