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HEL destination photo
GZP destination photo

HELGZP

Which side of the plane to sit from Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki) to Gazipaşa Airport (Alanya)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer stunning views, the Right Side is superior for catching the Turkish Riviera's turquoise coastline, the iconic Alanya Castle peninsula, and the sun setting over the Mediterranean on afternoon flights.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

The Baltic Sea

Expansive views of the sea traffic and remote Baltic islands during the first hour of flight.

🏔️

Carpathian Mountains

Stunning vistas of the arched mountain range spanning through Slovakia and Romania.

🌉

The Bosporus

Depending on the specific airway, a distant view of the bridges connecting Europe and Asia near Istanbul.

🏰

Alanya Peninsula

A highlight of the trip, featuring the historic Seljuk-era castle sitting on a rocky promontory.

🏖️

Cleopatra Beach

The famous stretch of golden sand and turquoise water as the plane aligns with the Gazipaşa runway.

The right side is essential for the scenic approach. Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport is often approached from the west, meaning the right side looks directly at the coastline. Aim for an afternoon flight to see the 'Turkish Riviera' bathed in golden hour light.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Helsinki Archipelago

Aerial view of the thousands of small, forested islands dotting the Gulf of Finland immediately after takeoff.

🏙️

Tallinn Skyline

Clear views of the Estonian capital and its historic Old Town across the water from Helsinki.

🚢

Black Sea Coast

As the flight crosses Bulgaria or Romania, enjoy the deep blue expanse and coastal wetlands.

🏔️

Taurus Mountains

Dramatic, rugged limestone peaks of the Central Taurus range during the descent into the Antalya region.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is also excellent for spotting the dense forests of Eastern Europe and the sharp transition from the Anatolian plateau to the Mediterranean mountains.

Top Activities in Alanya
Route Information

Distance: 2,721 km (1,691 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 38 min

Departure: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)

Arrival: GZP (36.299217, 32.300598)

Route Type: International

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