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MAD destination photo
CIA destination photo

MADCIA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior sequence of landmarks, including the rugged interior of Spain, the dramatic northern coastline of Corsica, and a high probability of seeing Rome's historic center and the Vatican during the descent into Ciampino.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Madrid Metropolitan Area

Aerial views of the Spanish capital's grid and the Cuatro Torres Business Area immediately after takeoff from Barajas.

⛰️

Serranía de Cuenca

Dramatic karst formations and deep river canyons visible as the plane crosses the eastern edge of the Spanish Meseta.

🌊

Gulf of Lion

Expansive views of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea where the Spanish and French coastlines meet.

🏔️

Corsican Peaks

The snow-capped granite mountains of northern Corsica, including Monte Cinto, provide a stunning mid-flight landmark.

🏝️

Isle of Elba

Clear views of the Tuscan Archipelago's largest island, famous for Napoleon's exile.

🏛️

Rome City Center

On many approach patterns to CIA, the left side provides a breathtaking view of the Colosseum, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Tiber River.

To maximize views, choose a seat in front of the wing. On morning flights, the sun will be on the right side, providing perfectly front-lit views of the Italian coast. Watch closely during the final 10 minutes of flight; if the plane approaches from the north, the city of Rome is most visible from this side.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏖️

Balearic Islands

Distant but clear views of Ibiza and Mallorca shimmering in the Mediterranean to the south.

🌅

Mediterranean Horizon

Uninterrupted views of the sea horizon, often featuring merchant ships and ferries on the transit routes to Africa.

🗺️

Northern Sardinia

The rugged coastline of the Gallura region and the Emerald Coast visible as the flight path tracks between the islands.

🌋

Pontine Islands

Small volcanic archipelagos like Ponza and Ventotene appearing as jewels in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

💧

Lake Albano

A stunning volcanic crater lake located in the Alban Hills, very close to the final approach path into Ciampino.

The right side is excellent for catching the sunset on evening flights. As the plane nears Rome, look for the Castel Gandolfo (the Pope's summer residence) overlooking Lake Albano. Note that the afternoon sun can be quite intense on this side, so window shades may be necessary during the cruise phase.

Top Activities in Rome
Route Information

Distance: 1,359 km (844 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 49 min

Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Arrival: CIA (41.7994, 12.5949)

Route Type: International

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