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FRA destination photo
FCO destination photo

FRAFCO

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer spectacular views of the Alps, the Right Side provides a superior perspective of the high Swiss peaks and glaciers, as well as the beautiful Mediterranean coastline and Tyrrhenian Sea during the final descent into Rome.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🌲

Black Forest

Dense evergreen canopies of southwestern Germany shortly after reaching cruising altitude.

💧

Lake Constance

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

🏔️

Bernese Oberland

Prime views of the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks if the flight path tracks through central Switzerland.

🚤

Italian Lakes

Look down for the deep blue waters of Lake Como or Lake Maggiore as you cross into Italy.

🌊

Tyrrhenian Coastline

Spectacular views of the Mediterranean shoreline and the port of Civitavecchia during the arrival sequence.

🏖️

Ostia Antica

The ancient Roman port and modern beaches of Ostia visible just seconds before touchdown at FCO.

The right side is the winner for the Alps crossing; the high glaciers are more prominent here. During the descent into Fiumicino, planes often fly over the sea and turn back toward the land, offering a stunning panoramic view of the coastline. Avoid mid-afternoon flights if possible to minimize sun glare on this side.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏙️

Frankfurt Skyline

Aerial view of Germany's financial district and the Main river immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Central & Eastern Alps

Dramatic views of the jagged Austrian and eastern Swiss massifs approximately 35 minutes into the flight.

🚜

Po Valley

The expansive, flat agricultural heartland of Northern Italy stretching toward the Adriatic.

🏛️

Florence & Tuscany

On clear days, the distinctive red dome of the Florence Cathedral and the rolling Tuscan hills are visible.

🇮🇹

The Eternal City

During the descent from the north, catch a distant glimpse of Rome and St. Peter's Basilica to the east.

Sit on the left for the best chance to spot the city of Rome and the Apennine Mountains during the descent. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the Alps and the Italian landscape perfectly without glare.

Top Activities in Rome
Route Information

Distance: 958 km (595 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min

Departure: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)

Arrival: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)

Route Type: International

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