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HAM destination photo
SZG destination photo

HAMSZG

Which side of the plane to sit from Hamburg Airport (Hamburg) to Salzburg Airport (Salzburg)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

While both sides offer excellent views of the German landscape, the Left Side is superior for the approach into Salzburg, providing an intimate view of the Chiemgau Alps and the Berchtesgaden massif just before landing.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🚢

Hamburg Port & Elbe

Aerial view of one of Europe's largest container ports and the Elbphilharmonie during the initial climb.

⛰️

The Brocken

The highest peak in the Harz mountain range, often shrouded in mist, visible to the southeast of the flight path.

🏙️

Leipzig Skyline

Visuals of the Völkerschlachtdenkmal (Monument to the Battle of the Nations) and the city's unique circular layout.

🌊

Lake Chiemsee

Known as the 'Bavarian Sea', you can spot the Herreninsel island and its famous royal palace.

🏔️

Watzmann Massif

Breathtaking views of Germany's second-highest mountain as the aircraft banks for the final approach into Salzburg.

The Left Side is essential for the scenic arrival. During a standard approach to Runway 33, you will fly directly past the iconic Alpine peaks. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the mountains from the east, highlighting the rugged textures of the limestone cliffs. In winter, the contrast between the white peaks and the blue lakes is stunning.

Right Side Highlights
8.1
🌿

Lüneburg Heath

A vast nature reserve south of Hamburg, appearing as a sea of purple heathland in late summer.

🏢

Hannover Cityscape

Clear views of the New Town Hall and the Maschsee lake as the route follows the A7 corridor.

🌲

Thuringian Forest

A continuous stretch of dense evergreen forest and rolling hills through central Germany.

🏟️

Munich & Allianz Arena

The glowing white 'donut' stadium is highly visible to the west when bypassing the Bavarian capital.

🌄

Alpine Panorama

A long-distance panoramic view of the high Alps, including the Zugspitze on clear days.

The Right Side offers a broader view of the German heartland and the city of Munich. If flying during the afternoon or sunset, this side provides spectacular 'Golden Hour' lighting over the Bavarian plains. Watch for the distinct architecture of the Allianz Arena north of Munich, which is one of the easiest landmarks to spot from 30,000 feet.

Top Activities in Salzburg
Route Information

Distance: 683 km (424 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min

Departure: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)

Arrival: SZG (47.7933006287, 13.0043001175)

Route Type: International

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