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LPA destination photo
ZRH destination photo

LPAZRH

Which side of the plane to sit from Gran Canaria Airport (Gran Canaria) to Zürich Airport (Zurich)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer merit, the right side provides a superior vantage point for the volcanic landscapes of the eastern Canary Islands upon departure and the dramatic panorama of the Swiss Alps during the descent into Zurich.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏜️

Fuerteventura & Lanzarote

Direct views of the arid, volcanic landscapes and turquoise coastal fringes of the easternmost Canaries.

🇪🇸

Spanish Meseta

The vast, high-altitude plateau of central Spain, featuring the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains.

🏔️

The Pyrenees

A distant but majestic view of the snow-capped peaks separating the Iberian Peninsula from France.

🌋

Massif Central

Fly over the ancient, dormant volcanic domes of the Chaîne des Puys in central France.

❄️

Bernese Oberland

Spectacular views of the high Swiss Alps, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau massifs on approach.

🏙️

Lake Zurich

A stunning panoramic view of the lake and the city of Zurich as the plane banks for its final approach.

The right side is the 'scenic winner' for the approach into Switzerland. For the best experience, choose a morning flight to see the Alps illuminated by the sun. During the descent, the pilot often performs a turn that provides a full view of the Glarus Alps and Lake Zurich. Ensure you are seated away from the wing for an unobstructed view of the high peaks.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌋

Mount Teide

Look west shortly after takeoff to spot the towering peak of Tenerife rising above the Atlantic clouds.

🌊

Portuguese Coastline

Aerial views of the rugged cliffs and white-sand beaches near Lisbon and the mouth of the Tagus River.

🚤

Bay of Biscay

The transition from the Iberian Peninsula to the French coast, often showcasing dramatic cloud formations.

🏰

Loire Valley

Identify the winding path of the Loire River and the patchwork of French countryside and vineyards.

⛰️

Jura Mountains

The folded limestone ridges that define the border region between France and Switzerland.

The left side is ideal for avoiding direct sunlight on northbound afternoon flights. It offers better views of the Atlantic horizon and the coastal entry into mainland Europe. Keep a close watch during the mid-flight transition over Galicia for beautiful views of the 'Rias' (estuaries).

Top Activities in Zurich
Route Information

Distance: 3,001 km (1,865 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 32 min

Departure: LPA (27.931900024414062, -15.38659954071045)

Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Route Type: International

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