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MAD destination photo
BIO destination photo

MADBIO

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior aerial perspective of the northern Meseta cities and the most iconic approach views of Bilbao's architectural landmarks.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🍇

Ribera del Duero

Aerial views of the world-famous wine region characterized by orderly vineyard rows and the Duero river.

⛪

Burgos Cathedral

The massive Gothic spires of the UNESCO-listed cathedral are often visible from high altitude mid-flight.

🏘️

Vitoria-Gasteiz

A clear view of the Basque capital's urban layout surrounded by its iconic green belt of parks.

🏙️

Bilbao & Guggenheim

A stunning perspective of the Nervión river, the industrial port, and Frank Gehry's titanium masterpiece during descent.

The right side is highly recommended for the descent into Bilbao Airport. Depending on the wind direction, aircraft often circle the city, providing a perfect 'bird's eye' view of the Guggenheim Museum and the city center before landing.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Sierra de Guadarrama

Snow-capped peaks and granite formations just north of Madrid shortly after takeoff.

🏰

Segovia Province

Vistas of the historic Castilian landscape and the distant silhouette of the ancient city.

🌾

The Great Meseta

The vast, golden and green agricultural plains of central Spain spanning towards the horizon.

⛰️

Cantabrian Range

The dramatic transition from the dry plateau into the lush, green mountains of Northern Spain.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight glare. It offers a more wilderness-focused view of the central mountain ranges and the high plateau's rugged western edge.

Top Activities in Bilbao
Route Information

Distance: 319 km (198 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 32 min

Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Arrival: BIO (43.30110168457031, -2.9106099605560303)

Route Type: Domestic

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