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LEJ destination photo
CGN destination photo

LEJ โ†’ CGN

Which side of the plane to sit from Leipzig/Halle Airport (Leipzig) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of central Germany's diverse geography, including the Thuringian Forest, the historic Wartburg Castle, and a more scenic approach into the Rhine-Ruhr region.

Left Side Highlights
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Thuringian Forest

Expansive views of the dark green ridges and rolling hills shortly after takeoff from LEJ.

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Wartburg Castle

The iconic UNESCO World Heritage fortress perched on a cliff near Eisenach is often visible.

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Edersee Lake

The large, winding reservoir in Hesse can be spotted mid-flight depending on the specific air corridor.

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Siegerland

Crossing over the dense forests and industrial valleys of the Siegerland region.

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Rhine River

The silver ribbon of the Rhine appears as the aircraft begins its final descent into Cologne.

Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Wartburg Castle about 15-20 minutes into the flight. Afternoon flights are particularly scenic on this side as the sun illuminates the hills of the Thuringian Forest. During a southern approach to CGN, you might catch a glimpse of the Bonn skyline.

Right Side Highlights
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Harz Mountains

Looking north, the Brocken peak is frequently visible as a prominent landmark on the horizon.

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Sauerland Highlands

The 'Land of a Thousand Mountains' provides a textured landscape of peaks and valleys.

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Gรถttingen

The historic university city is located just north of the typical flight path across central Germany.

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Ruhr Valley Horizon

On clear days, the distant industrial skyline of the Ruhr area can be seen to the northwest.

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Cologne Cityscape

If landing from the north, you may see the Cologne Cathedral and the Hohenzollern Bridge.

The right side is better for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. Keep an eye out for the Harz mountains early in the flight; if the weather is clear, the Brocken is unmistakable. On a northern approach to CGN, this side offers a glimpse of the dense urban areas surrounding the airport.

Top Activities in Cologne
Route Information

Distance: 361 km (224 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 36 min

Departure: LEJ (51.423889, 12.236389)

Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)

Route Type: Domestic

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