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MAD → SOF
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to Sofia Airport (Sofia)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this trans-European journey, offering sweeping views of the Southern French Alps, the Italian Dolomites, and the dense, rugged landscapes of the Northern Balkans.
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The Pyrenees
Distant views of the high peaks forming the natural border between Spain and France shortly after departure.
Southern French Alps
Spectacular sightings of snow-capped massifs and glaciers as the flight crosses from France into Italy.
Venetian Lagoon
On clear days, the distinctive shape of Venice and its surrounding islands can be seen nestled in the Adriatic.
The Dolomites
The unique, jagged limestone formations of the Italian Alps offer a dramatic geological display.
Dinaric Alps
The dense forests and deep limestone canyons of the Balkan interior as you approach the Bulgarian border.
To maximize your experience, choose a seat forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the Alpine peaks. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you (south), perfectly illuminating the mountains to the north. Keep an eye out about 90 minutes into the flight for the best mountain panoramas.
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Spanish Levante
Views of the sparkling Mediterranean coastline as the aircraft leaves the Spanish mainland.
Corsica and Sardinia
The mountainous silhouettes of these Mediterranean islands often appear on the southern horizon.
The Apennines
The 'spine of Italy' provides a rolling landscape of terracotta-roofed villages and green valleys.
Dalmatian Coast
The stunning turquoise waters and thousands of islands along the Croatian shoreline.
Mount Vitosha
The massive, dominant mountain that looms over Sofia, providing a majestic backdrop during the final descent.
The right side offers better coastal views, particularly of the Croatian islands. However, beware of direct glare on midday flights heading east. On the final approach into Sofia (usually landing to the West or East), the right side provides the most direct view of the Vitosha mountain massif which sits just south of the city.
Book Hotels in SofiaDistance: 2,247 km (1,396 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)
Route Type: International
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