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NCE destination photo
CFR destination photo

NCECFR

Which side of the plane to sit from Nice-Côte d'Azur Airport (Nice) to Caen-Carpiquet Airport (Caen)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior sequence of views, starting with the iconic turquoise coastline of the French Riviera, followed by a direct perspective of the volcanic craters in the Massif Central and the winding Loire River.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

French Riviera Coast

Stunning views of the Bay of Cannes, the Lérins Islands, and the red rock cliffs of the Esterel Massif shortly after takeoff.

🌋

Chaîne des Puys

A spectacular look at the UNESCO-listed tectonic hotspot featuring dormant volcanoes like Puy de Dôme in the Auvergne region.

🏰

Loire Valley Castles

Aerial perspectives of the 'Garden of France' and the sprawling estates near Saumur as you cross the Loire River.

🐄

Normandy Bocage

The classic patchwork of hedgerows and green pastures that define the rural landscape of Calvados during the descent.

Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is particularly rewarding mid-flight for spotting the distinct circular craters of ancient volcanoes. During the final approach to CFR, look for the Orne river snaking through the landscape.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏘️

Nice Promenade

A bird's-eye view of the Promenade des Anglais and the historic Vieux Nice if the plane takes off towards the east and banks north.

🏔️

Southern Alps

Glances toward the snow-capped peaks of the Mercantour National Park shimmering in the distance to the northeast.

🍷

Rhône Valley Edge

Distant views of the prestigious vineyards and the prominent silhouette of Mont Ventoux far to the south.

⛪

Caen Historic Center

Excellent views of the Abbaye-aux-Hommes and the medieval Caen Castle if the flight path approaches from the south.

The right side is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights, offering golden hour views over the French interior. It is the best side for seeing the city of Nice itself during the initial climb if the wind conditions dictate an eastward departure.

Top Activities in Caen
Route Information

Distance: 849 km (528 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min

Departure: NCE (43.658401489300005, 7.215869903560001)

Arrival: CFR (49.173301696777344, -0.44999998807907104)

Route Type: Domestic

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