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MUC → HAM
Which side of the plane to sit from Munich Airport (Munich) to Hamburg Airport (Hamburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for this route because it offers the most iconic views of the Elbe river and a higher probability of seeing the Hamburg city center, the Alster lakes, and the massive container port during the landing sequence.
Altmühltal Nature Park
Scenic views of the winding Altmühl river and the dramatic limestone formations of the Franconian Jura.
Thuringian Forest
A dense, dark green canopy stretching across the horizon as you cross central Germany.
Elbe River Valley
The wide, snaking path of the Elbe river as it leads toward the North Sea, often followed during the descent.
Hamburg Skyline and Alster
Stunning views of the City Hall, the Elbphilharmonie, and the Inner and Outer Alster lakes during the final approach.
For the best photography, choose a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. The right side is particularly spectacular during morning flights when the sun illuminates the Hamburg harbor and the Elbe river. During the typical approach into Hamburg (Runway 05 or 33), this side offers the best chance to see the city's landmarks.
Bavarian Countryside
Rolling agricultural plains and small Bavarian villages immediately after takeoff from Munich.
Nuremberg Cityscape
A clear view of the historical city center and the sprawling urban area of Franconia's capital.
Harz Mountains
The northernmost mountain range in Germany, featuring the prominent Brocken peak visible to the west.
Wolfsburg Autostadt
View of the Volkswagen plant and the distinctive twin glass towers of the car delivery center.
On evening flights, the left side provides beautiful sunset views over the German countryside. If the flight departs toward the south before turning north, sit here to catch a brief glimpse of the Alps in the distance. Clear winter days offer the best visibility of the Harz mountain snow caps.
Distance: 600 km (373 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr
Departure: MUC (48.353802, 11.7861)
Arrival: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)
Route Type: Domestic
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