Loading map...

LYS destination photo
ORY destination photo

LYSORY

Which side of the plane to sit from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon) to Paris-Orly Airport (Paris)?

Our Recommendation
7.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the historic city of Lyon shortly after takeoff and the iconic Paris skyline, including the Eiffel Tower, during the final approach into Orly.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

Lyon Presqu'île

Aerial view of the city center, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers.

🌳

Morvan Regional Park

Dense green forest cover and granite massifs of the Burgundy region's mountainous heart.

🌲

Fontainebleau Forest

The massive former royal hunting grounds recognizable by its unique rock formations and vast deciduous canopy.

🗼

Paris Skyline

On clear days during the descent, the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse Tower, and the Sacré-Cœur are visible to the north.

Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Paris city center during the landing pattern. For evening flights, this side catches the sunset light over the French countryside. Avoid seats directly over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Seine river as you approach the capital.

Right Side Highlights
6.2
🏔️

The French Alps

Distant but stunning views of the snow-capped Alpine peaks to the east during the initial climb.

🍇

Burgundy Vineyards

The geometric patterns of some of the world's most famous wine estates near Dijon and Beaune.

🛶

The Yonne River

The winding path of the Yonne as it snakes through the agricultural plains of north-central France.

🍎

Rungis International Market

One of the world's largest wholesale food markets, located right on the edge of the Orly airport perimeter.

The right side is best for morning flights to see the sunrise reflecting off the distant Alps. As the flight is very short, typically under an hour, keep your window shade open from the moment of takeoff to catch the rapid transition from the Rhone valley to the Parisian basin.

Top Activities in Paris
Route Information

Distance: 391 km (243 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 39 min

Departure: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)

Arrival: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.