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LYS destination photo
ZRH destination photo

LYSZRH

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled view of the high Alpine peaks, including the Mont Blanc massif and the Bernese Oberland, whereas the left side focuses on the Jura range and the Swiss Plateau.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Mont Blanc Massif

The highest peak in the Alps is often visible to the south shortly after takeoff from Lyon.

💧

Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)

Stunning views of the southern French shore, including the spa town of Evian-les-Bains.

🏔️

Bernese Oberland

A distant but majestic view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks as you cruise eastward.

🚤

Lake Zurich Approach

If landing from the south, you will get a perfect view of the entire length of Lake Zurich and the 'Gold Coast'.

The right side is superior for mountain lovers. For the best photography of the Alps, choose a morning flight to have the sun behind you. Ensure you are seated away from the wing to fully capture the scale of the Mont Blanc massif during the early phase of the flight.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Geneva and the Jet d'Eau

A clear view of the city of Geneva and its famous water fountain on the western tip of Lake Geneva.

⛰️

Jura Mountains

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

🌊

Lake Neuchâtel

The largest lake located entirely within Switzerland, often shimmering under the northern light.

🏘️

Lausanne Shoreline

The terraced vineyards of Lavaux and the steep urban landscape of Lausanne along the lake.

Sit on the left if you prefer views of the Swiss cities and the Jura range. This side is better in the late afternoon to avoid the direct glare of the sun reflecting off Lake Geneva. Watch for the Three-Lakes region shortly before beginning the descent into Zurich.

Top Activities in Zurich
Route Information

Distance: 328 km (204 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 33 min

Departure: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)

Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Route Type: International

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