Loading map...

MAD destination photo
ATH destination photo

MADATH

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior panorama of the Mediterranean's most iconic islands, the silhouette of Mount Etna, and a stunning approach over the Saronic Gulf islands toward Athens.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏝️

Ibiza and Formentera

Initial views of the Pityusic Islands and their famous white sand beaches.

🌵

Southern Sardinia

Views of the capital city, Cagliari, and the vast coastal lagoons.

🌋

Mount Etna

On clear days, the silhouette of Europe's most active volcano is visible to the south over Sicily.

🌊

The Mani Peninsula

The rugged, mountainous southern fingers of the Peloponnese region.

🚢

Saronic Gulf

Islands such as Spetses, Hydra, and Aegina are visible during the descent into Athens.

🏙️

Athens Riviera

A final view of the Vouliagmeni coastline and the upscale southern suburbs of Athens before landing.

Sit on the right for the best approach experience; planes usually loop over the Saronic Gulf, providing a great view of the coast. Late afternoon flights offer a spectacular sunset reflection over the Mediterranean.

Left Side Highlights
8.1
🏝️

Northern Balearic Islands

Aerial views of the rugged northern coastlines of Mallorca and Menorca shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

Corsica and Northern Sardinia

Dramatic mountain peaks and turquoise waters of the Strait of Bonifacio separating the islands.

🇮🇹

Southern Italy

Views of the 'heel' of Italy (Puglia) as the flight crosses from the Tyrrhenian to the Ionian Sea.

🌊

Ionian Islands

Clear views of Corfu, Lefkada, and the deep blue waters of the Ionian Sea.

🏛️

Gulf of Corinth

The narrow stretch of water separating the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland.

The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare from the south. Keep an eye out for the Pindus mountain range when entering Greek airspace, especially during winter when peaks are snow-capped.

Top Activities in Athens
Route Information

Distance: 2,377 km (1,477 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 10 min

Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Arrival: ATH (37.9364013672, 23.944499969499997)

Route Type: International

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