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LHR destination photo
ZRH destination photo

LHRZRH

Which side of the plane to sit from London Heathrow Airport (London) to Zürich Airport (Zurich)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior panorama of the Swiss Alps and Lake Zurich during the descent, along with views of historic Windsor on departure.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

Windsor Castle

Visible almost immediately after a westerly takeoff from Heathrow, appearing as a massive stone fortress.

🍾

Champagne Region

Geometric patterns of world-famous vineyards across the undulating hills of northeastern France.

⛰️

Jura Mountains

Rugged limestone ridges and forested slopes marking the entry into Swiss airspace.

🏔️

Swiss Alps

A stunning horizon of snow-capped peaks including the Eiger and Jungfrau on the distant horizon.

🛶

Lake Zurich

Aerial view of the long, crescent-shaped lake as the plane makes its final turn for landing.

The right side is essential for the iconic 'Alps view' during the descent into Zurich. On clear winter days, the snow cover makes the mountains exceptionally vibrant. In the morning, be prepared for direct sunlight; window blinds or high-quality sunglasses are recommended.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

London Skyline

Clear views of the Thames, The Shard, and the City if the aircraft departs toward the east.

🌊

White Cliffs of Dover

The iconic chalk coastline of Kent is often visible before crossing the English Channel.

🌲

Black Forest

Dense evergreen canopies and rolling hills of the Schwarzwald in southwest Germany.

💧

Rhine River

The major European waterway snaking through the landscape near the French-German border.

Choose the left side if you want the best chance of seeing the London city center on departure. During afternoon flights, this side remains in the shade, which is ideal for photography without cockpit glare.

Top Activities in Zurich
Route Information

Distance: 788 km (490 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min

Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)

Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Route Type: International

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