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DUS destination photo
SMI destination photo

DUSSMI

Which side of the plane to sit from Düsseldorf Airport (Duesseldorf) to Samos Airport (Samos)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior panoramic crossing of the high Alps and a stunning descent over the Aegean islands, culminating in a dramatic view of Samos's southern coastline.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏰

Rhine Valley

Spectacular views of the winding Rhine River and Cologne Cathedral shortly after takeoff from DUS.

🌊

Lake Constance

The massive expanse of the 'Bodensee' marking the border between Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.

🏔️

Central Alps

Prime views of the Zugspitze and the jagged limestone peaks of the Dolomites as you cross into Italy.

🏝️

Aegean Archipelago

A mosaic of blue water and white-washed islands like Mykonos, Ikaria, and Patmos during the descent.

✈️

Samos Southern Coast

Low-altitude views of the Pythagoreion harbor and the island's rocky southern coves before touchdown.

The right side is unbeatable for the 'Circle to Land' approach often required at Samos Airport (SMI) due to terrain; it provides an intimate look at the island's coastline. In winter, the snow-covered Alps on this side are breathtaking. Note that the sun will be on this side for most of the morning, so bring sunglasses for the best experience.

Left Side Highlights
7.9
🏙️

Ruhr Metropolis

Bird's-eye view of Germany's industrial heartland and the sprawl of the Rhine-Ruhr region shortly after departure.

🏔️

Eastern Alps

Glaciers and peaks of the Hohe Tauern National Park and the Salzkammergut region of Austria.

💧

Danube River

Silver ribbons of the Danube as the flight tracks south-east toward the Balkan Peninsula.

⛰️

Balkan Mountains

Rugged terrain and deep valleys of the Stara Planina range across Serbia and Bulgaria.

🏖️

Turkish Coastline

The Dilek Peninsula and the city of Kusadasi are clearly visible just before the final turn into Samos.

Sit on the left to avoid direct sun glare during morning flights heading southeast. This side offers the best views of the Turkish mainland and the narrow 'Mycale Strait' that separates Samos from Asia Minor during the final approach. Watch for the shadows of the Balkan peaks in the late afternoon.

Top Activities in Samos
Route Information

Distance: 2,186 km (1,358 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 55 min

Departure: DUS (51.289501, 6.766780000000001)

Arrival: SMI (37.68999862670898, 26.911699295043945)

Route Type: International

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