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CSY destination photo
LED destination photo

CSYLED

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior perspective of the massive Lake Ladoga during descent and typically provides a more iconic view of the St. Petersburg city center and the Neva River delta during the final approach to Pulkovo.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🚤

Cheboksary Reservoir

A stunning aerial view of the massive reservoir and dam system north of the departure city.

🏭

Cherepovets & Sheksna

The industrial silhouette of Cherepovets and the winding Sheksna River connecting to the Rybinsk Reservoir.

🌊

Lake Ladoga

Spectacular views of Europe's largest lake, which often looks like an endless ocean on the northern horizon.

🏛️

St. Petersburg Panorama

The iconic Neva River, the Hermitage, and the Peter and Paul Fortress are often visible during the standard approach pattern.

⚓

Gulf of Finland

As the plane aligns with the runway, look further west to see the Baltic Sea horizon and the Kronstadt naval base.

The right side is the 'money side' for this route. Aim for a window seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. During winter, Lake Ladoga provides a mesmerizing frozen landscape. For morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for photography of the city center.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

Volga River Bend

Immediately after takeoff, witness the wide expanse of the Volga River as it flows through the Chuvash Republic.

⛪

Golden Ring Vistas

Distant views of historical cities like Yaroslavl and the intricate church spires of the Russian heartland.

🌲

Valdai Hills

The plane traverses the forested highlands of the Valdai, the source of several major European rivers.

🏘️

Southern Suburbs

Clear views of the Pushkin and Pavlovsk districts, including the sprawling palace complexes, during the final descent.

Sit on the left for softer lighting during late afternoon flights, as the sun will be on the opposite side. This side is excellent for spotting the architectural layout of the imperial estates in the southern Leningrad region just before landing.

Top Activities in St. Petersburg
Route Information

Distance: 1,085 km (674 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min

Departure: CSY (56.09030151367188, 47.3473014831543)

Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)

Route Type: Domestic

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