Loading map...
LYS → AMS
Which side of the plane to sit from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Jura mountains and the distant snow-capped French Alps shortly after takeoff, followed by the lush Ardennes and the unique geography of the Dutch polders.
French Alps & Mont Blanc
Distant but clear views of Europe's highest peaks to the east immediately after departure.
Jura Mountains
Rugged ridgelines and deep valleys along the French-Swiss border as the plane climbs.
Ardennes Forest
Dense, dark green forest canopy stretching across Luxembourg and southern Belgium.
Zeeland Delta
The intricate network of dams, bridges, and reclaimed land in the southwestern Netherlands.
Markermeer
The vast inland lake north of Amsterdam, often seen during the circling patterns for landing.
Choose the right side for the most scenic mountain views in the first 20 minutes of the flight. Morning flights are preferred to catch the sun illuminating the Alps. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff from Lyon for the best mountain panoramas before the route levels out over the French plains.
Beaujolais Vineyards
Geometric patterns of world-famous vineyards stretching north from the Lyon outskirts.
Burgundy Estates
Aerial views of historic chateaus and the rolling limestone hills of eastern France.
Port of Rotterdam
On the descent, catch a glimpse of the massive industrial cranes and ships of Europe's largest port.
Amsterdam Canal District
If approaching from the south, the UNESCO-listed concentric canal rings are often visible.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Amsterdam city center and the North Sea coast during the final approach phase. Afternoon flights are ideal for this side as the sun will be behind the plane, providing excellent lighting for photography of the Dutch landscape.
Distance: 732 km (455 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 13 min
Departure: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.