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HDF destination photo
CGN destination photo

HDFCGN

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers a superior scenic experience, beginning with stunning views of the Baltic coastline and culminating in a spectacular aerial perspective of the Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine River during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Usedom Coastline

Detailed views of the Imperial Spas (Kaiserbäder) and the long sandy beaches immediately after takeoff.

⚓

Greifswalder Bodden

The shallow lagoon and the coastal islands offer striking turquoise and green water patterns.

🚢

Hamburg & Elbe

Distant but clear views of Germany's largest port and the Elbphilharmonie on the northern horizon.

🏭

Ruhr Metropolitan Area

The dense urban sprawl and industrial heritage sites of the 'Pott' come into view during descent.

⛪

Cologne Cathedral

A world-class view of the twin spires and the Rhine bridges, typically visible during the base leg of the approach.

The right side is the definitive choice for city-spotters. During the approach into CGN, planes often fly a pattern that puts the Cologne city center directly in view. Try to book a seat toward the front of the cabin to avoid engine heat haze. In autumn, the mist over the Baltic lagoons at departure provides a mystical atmosphere perfect for photography.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
💧

Mecklenburg Lake District

Expansive views of Lake Müritz and the surrounding plateau, often reflecting the sky in deep blues.

🌲

Harz Mountains

On clear days, the silhouette of the Brocken peak is visible on the southern horizon.

🌾

Lüneburg Heath

The unique landscape of the north German plain, alternating between sandy heath and dense pine forests.

⛰️

Bergisches Land

Rolling green hills and reservoirs provide a scenic transition as the plane descends into the Rhineland.

🏗️

CGN Cargo Hub

An impressive view of the massive logistics centers and the specialized runway layout of Cologne Bonn Airport.

The left side is particularly rewarding for morning flights, as the rising sun illuminates the thousands of lakes in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Keep an eye out for the vast forests of the Müritz National Park. For the best photography, choose a seat behind the wing to capture the landing gear extending over the green hills of the Bergisches Land.

Top Activities in Cologne
Route Information

Distance: 582 km (362 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 58 min

Departure: HDF (53.8787002563, 14.152299881)

Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)

Route Type: Domestic

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