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NCE destination photo
AMS destination photo

NCEAMS

Our Recommendation
8.9

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior panoramic view of the highest peaks in the Alps, including the massive Mont Blanc massif, and typically provides a better angle of Lake Geneva and the city of Amsterdam during the final descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.9
🏖️

French Riviera

Sweeping views of the coastline stretching toward Monaco and the Italian border as the plane climbs.

🏔️

Mont Blanc

The highest peak in Western Europe is often clearly visible approximately 20-30 minutes into the flight.

💧

Lake Geneva

The iconic crescent-shaped lake (Lac Léman) with views of Geneva and the Swiss shoreline.

⛰️

Vosges Mountains

Rolling green hills and granite peaks of eastern France near the border with Germany.

🏰

Luxembourg City

The dramatic deep valleys and historic fortifications of the Grand Duchy visible from cruising altitude.

🌆

Amsterdam Centrum

Depending on the runway in use (like 18R or 06), you often get a perfect view of the concentric canal rings.

The right side is the 'Alpine side.' For the best lighting on the mountains, choose a morning flight when the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the Alps. Look out for the snowy peak of Mont Blanc mid-way through the first half of the flight. During landing at Schiphol, this side frequently offers views of the city center's unique architecture.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Baie des Anges

Dramatic views of the Nice coastline and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Mercantour National Park

Glacial valleys and rugged limestone peaks of the southern French Alps during the initial climb.

🌲

Jura Mountains

The dense forests and folded ridges of the Jura range marking the border between France and Switzerland.

🏛️

Brussels Skyline

Distant views of the Belgian capital and the sprawling urban landscape of the Low Countries.

🏗️

Port of Rotterdam

On the descent, see the massive industrial infrastructure and shipping containers of Europe's largest port.

🌾

Dutch Polders

The geometric precision of reclaimed land and drainage canals characteristic of the Netherlands.

Sit on the left for afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. This side is excellent for seeing the Mediterranean coastline of Antibes and Cannes during the initial departure turn. Keep your camera ready for the intricate canal patterns and wind turbines as you enter Dutch airspace.

Top Activities in Amsterdam
Route Information

Distance: 979 km (608 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min

Departure: NCE (43.658401489300005, 7.215869903560001)

Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)

Route Type: International

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