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NCE destination photo
CGN destination photo

NCECGN

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers an unrivaled perspective of the French Riviera coastline upon departure and provides the best chance to see the iconic Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine loops during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏖️

Côte d'Azur Coastline

Detailed views of Nice, the Cap d'Antibes, and the luxury yachts dotting the coastline during the initial climb.

🏔️

Mont Blanc

On clear days, the highest peak in the Alps is visible to the north-east as you cross the mountain range.

🏰

The Black Forest

The dense, dark evergreen canopy of the Schwarzwald region as you enter German airspace.

⛪

Cologne Cathedral

The world-famous twin spires and the Hohenzollern Bridge are typically visible when approaching CGN from the south.

The right side is superior for morning flights as the sun illuminates the Alps from the east. To maximize your chances of seeing the Cologne Cathedral, check the wind direction; a landing on Runway 32R usually provides a perfect city view.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Baie des Anges

Panoramic views of the turquoise Mediterranean waters and the Promenade des Anglais immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Dauphiné Alps

The rugged, snow-capped peaks of the Ecrins National Park including Barre des Écrins.

💧

Lake Geneva

The western tip of the crescent-shaped lake and the city of Geneva are often visible depending on the airway.

🌲

Eifel Mountains

Low mountain ranges with volcanic craters and dense forests as the plane begins its final descent into Germany.

Sit on the left for softer lighting during late afternoon flights, which highlights the textures of the Alpine ridges. This side is also excellent for viewing the Jura Mountains if the flight path tracks slightly west.

Top Activities in Cologne
Route Information

Distance: 801 km (498 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min

Departure: NCE (43.658401489300005, 7.215869903560001)

Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)

Route Type: International

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