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HAM destination photo
NCE destination photo

HAMNCE

Which side of the plane to sit from Hamburg Airport (Hamburg) to Nice-Côte d'Azur Airport (Nice)?

Our Recommendation
9.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a masterclass in European geography, featuring the highest peaks of the Swiss Alps, including Mont Blanc, and an iconic approach over the French Riviera coastline.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
🛥️

Rhine Valley

The winding Rhine river as it flows through the industrial and scenic heart of Germany.

🏔️

Bernese Oberland

Spectacular views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks in the heart of Switzerland.

🏔️

Mont Blanc

Europe's highest peak often appears prominently on the horizon during the traverse of the Alps.

🏞️

Verdon Gorge

The turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs of Europe's 'Grand Canyon' in Provence.

🏖️

Promenade des Anglais

A perfect view of Nice's famous waterfront and blue waters during the low-altitude final approach.

The right side is the undisputed winner for the approach into NCE. When planes land from the West (Runway 04L/R), you get a panoramic view of the entire Côte d'Azur. For the best lighting of the Alps, choose an afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the western faces of the mountains.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌲

Harz Mountains

Dense, ancient forests and rolling hills of Central Germany shortly after departure.

💧

Lake Constance

The expansive 'Bodensee' marking the meeting point of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

🏔️

Eastern Alps

The rugged Bernina Range and the glaciated peaks of the Graubünden region.

🇮🇹

Italian Lakes

Glances of Lake Como and the foothills of the Italian Alps during the cruise phase.

🇲🇨

Principality of Monaco

The high-density luxury skyline of Monte Carlo visible just before the final turn into Nice.

The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. It offers excellent views of the 'Bayerische Alpen' in the distance. Watch for the dramatic change from the flat North German Plain to the high Alpine peaks within about 45 minutes of takeoff.

Top Activities in Nice
Route Information

Distance: 1,127 km (700 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min

Departure: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)

Arrival: NCE (43.658401489300005, 7.215869903560001)

Route Type: International

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