Loading map...

MSQ destination photo
LED destination photo

MSQLED

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for this route because it offers a stunning perspective of Lake Peipus (Chudskoye Lake) during the cruise and an unparalleled view of the Gulf of Finland and the St. Petersburg city center during the standard approach into Pulkovo Airport.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Lake Peipus

One of the largest lakes in Europe, forming the natural border between Russia and Estonia.

🏰

Pskov Kremlin

The ancient fortress of Pskov is often visible as you transition into Russian airspace.

⚓

Gulf of Finland

On many approach patterns, the plane flies over the water, offering views of the Kronshtadt naval base.

🏙️

St. Petersburg Skyline

Panoramic views of the Neva River, the Winter Palace, and the Lakhta Center skyscraper.

🏢

Minsk Sea

Shortly after takeoff, look for the Zaslawskaye Reservoir, a popular getaway for locals.

Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. For evening flights, this side catches the sunset over the Baltic horizon. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the Lakhta Center, which is the tallest building in Europe and highly prominent on the left.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

Belarusian Taiga

Vast stretches of dense pine and spruce forests typical of the northern Vitebsk region.

🛶

Vitebsk & Western Dvina

The winding Western Dvina river and the historic city of Vitebsk can be spotted mid-flight.

👑

Tsarskoye Selo

During the final descent, the Catherine Palace and its turquoise facades are visible in the town of Pushkin.

📐

Pulkovo Heights

Strategic high ground south of St. Petersburg that offers a clear view of the airport's modern terminal.

🛣️

M20 Highway

The historic 'Kievskoye Shosse' provides a straight geometric line through the Russian landscape.

The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It provides the best view of the imperial palaces in Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo) and Pavlovsk just moments before landing. Watch for the distinctive blue and gold domes of regional cathedrals dotting the landscape.

Top Activities in St. Petersburg
Route Information

Distance: 672 km (418 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min

Departure: MSQ (53.882499694824, 28.030700683594)

Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)

Route Type: International

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