Loading map...
GRU → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Guarulhos - Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport (Sao Paulo) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is generally preferred for this route because it offers a spectacular sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean and a better chance of spotting the Macaronesian archipelagos like Cape Verde and the Canary Islands.
Search flights from GRU to MAD
Atlantic Sunrise
A breathtaking view of the sun rising over the ocean, usually occurring 6-8 hours into the flight.
Cape Verde
The volcanic islands of the archipelago may be visible depending on the specific air traffic control routing.
Canary Islands
Views of Tenerife's Mount Teide are possible if the flight path tracks closer to the African coast.
Tagus River
As you approach Europe, look for the silver ribbon of the Tagus river winding toward the coast.
Madrid Skyline
Clear views of the 'Cuatro Torres' skyscrapers and the city's financial district during the final approach.
The right side is the 'sunrise side' for this eastbound journey. If you are on a night flight, keep your window shade down during the middle of the flight to avoid waking others, but open it as light begins to appear. During the approach to MAD, this side typically offers the best view of the city center and the distinctive architecture of Terminal 4.
Book Hotels in Madrid
Serra do Mar
Lush, forested mountain ranges visible shortly after departure from Guarulhos.
Oceanic Sunset
For evening departures, the left side provides views of the sun dipping below the western horizon over the water.
Spanish Meseta
The arid, high-altitude plateau of central Spain as the flight crosses into the Iberian Peninsula.
Toledo
On certain southern approaches to Madrid, the historic hilltop city can be spotted in the distance.
Sit on the left if you are on an evening flight and want to catch the sunset during the initial climb. On the descent into Madrid, this side often provides a clearer view of the rugged terrain of Extremadura and the western Spanish countryside. Use a window seat behind the wing to minimize engine glare during the night segment.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for SpainDistance: 8,378 km (5,206 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 51 min
Departure: GRU (-23.435556411743164, -46.47305679321289)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.