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FCO → LYS
Which side of the plane to sit from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side provides a superior perspective of the rugged Apennine spine, the Gulf of Genoa, and a breathtaking panorama of the French Alps, including distant views of Mont Blanc during the descent.
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Ancient Rome
On departure, catch a distant glimpse of the Eternal City and the iconic dome of St. Peter's Basilica.
Apennine Mountains
The 'spine of Italy' offers dramatic ridges and valleys as you fly north toward the Ligurian sea.
Port of Genoa
The densely packed historic port city of Genoa situated between the mountains and the Gulf.
French Alps
Magnificent views of snow-capped peaks; on clear days, the massive silhouette of Mont Blanc is visible to the northeast.
Rhone Vineyards
The lush green tapestry of the famous northern Rhone wine regions during the descent into Lyon.
The right side is the 'mountain side.' For the best experience, fly in the afternoon when the sun illuminates the western faces of the Alps. Keep your camera ready about 40-50 minutes into the flight for the best Alpine views. In winter, the snow-covered peaks provide a particularly high-contrast, spectacular landscape.
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Tyrrhenian Coastline
Stunning views of the Italian coast and the blue Mediterranean waters immediately after departing Rome.
Elba Island
A clear view of the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago, famous for Napoleon's exile.
Cote d'Azur
Glimpses of the glamorous French Riviera and the Mediterranean coastline as the flight path curves north.
Camargue Delta
The unique marshlands and salt pans where the Rhone River meets the sea near Marseille.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is ideal for spotting Mediterranean islands like Elba and potentially the northern tip of Corsica in clear weather. During the final approach into Lyon from the south, you will have a great view of the Rhone River winding through the valley.
Get eSIMs for Italy
Get eSIMs for FranceDistance: 721 km (448 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min
Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Arrival: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Route Type: International
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