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MXP destination photo
MAD destination photo

MXPMAD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a stunning panorama of the Mediterranean coastline, including the French Riviera and the Spanish Costa Brava, contrasted with the initial view of the Italian Po Valley.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Maritime Alps

Glimpse the snow-capped peaks where the Alps meet the Mediterranean Sea shortly after crossing into France.

🏖️

French Riviera

Aerial views of the iconic coastline from Nice and Cannes down toward the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

⚓

Marseille Coastline

Spot the ancient port city and the rugged white limestone cliffs of the Calanques National Park.

🌊

Gulf of Lion

The wide crescent of the Mediterranean coast leading toward the Spanish border and the Pyrenees foothills.

🏙️

Madrid Metropolis

If landing on runways 18 or 32, the left side often provides clear views of the Cuatro Torres and the city center.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct glare while enjoying the coastal scenery. Watch for the transformation of the landscape from the lush Po Valley to the arid Spanish Meseta. During winter, the contrast between the white Pyrenees and the blue Mediterranean is particularly striking.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🛶

Lake Maggiore

Immediate views of the stunning glacial lake and the Borromean Islands if the plane turns north after takeoff.

🏔️

Central French Alps

Majestic views of Ecrins National Park and the high peaks of the French interior Alps during the mid-flight cruise.

🏞️

Verdon Gorge

The deep turquoise waters and dramatic limestone canyon walls are often visible from high altitude.

⛰️

Pyrenees Mountains

A direct crossing of the central Pyrenees provides a spectacular look at the rugged border between France and Spain.

🏰

Castile Plateau

The geometric patterns of the Spanish agricultural heartland and the Henares River valley on the final approach.

The right side is superior for sunset flights, offering golden hour views over the mountain ranges. Keep an eye out for Monte Rosa just after takeoff from MXP, which is the second highest peak in the Alps. Use a polarising filter for photos to cut through the haze over the French interior.

Top Activities in Madrid
Route Information

Distance: 1,150 km (715 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min

Departure: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)

Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Route Type: International

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