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NCE destination photo
ORY destination photo

NCEORY

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a breathtaking departure over the Baie des Anges with immediate views of Nice and the Alps, followed by a superior angle for the French Alps and a better chance of seeing Central Paris during the Orly approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Nice & Baie des Anges

Immediate panoramic view of the Promenade des Anglais and Nice city center upon takeoff.

⛰️

Southern French Alps

Rugged, snow-capped peaks of the Mercantour National Park shortly after leaving the coast.

🏞️

Gorges du Verdon

The deep turquoise waters and steep limestone cliffs of Europe's largest canyon.

🗻

Mont Blanc Distance View

On clear days, the highest peak in Europe is visible on the horizon to the east.

🗼

Paris Landmarks

Depending on the wind and approach path (Runway 06), views of the Eiffel Tower and Tour Montparnasse.

The right side is the 'Alpine side.' For the best experience, sit well clear of the wing. On the descent into Orly, keep your eyes peeled as the aircraft often turns over the southern suburbs, offering a distant but iconic view of the Eiffel Tower if landing to the east.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Cote d'Azur Coastline

Aerial views of the luxury resorts in Antibes and Cannes shortly after takeoff.

🌋

Estérel Massif

Striking volcanic red rock formations meeting the turquoise Mediterranean sea.

🍇

Burgundy Vineyards

Geometric patterns of world-famous wine estates as you fly over central-eastern France.

🌳

Fontainebleau Forest

A massive green expanse south of Paris, once a royal hunting ground.

Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is ideal for spotting the red cliffs of the Estérel and the famous Croisette in Cannes during the initial climb. In winter, look for the snow line moving north.

Top Activities in Paris
Route Information

Distance: 675 km (419 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min

Departure: NCE (43.658401489300005, 7.215869903560001)

Arrival: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Route Type: Domestic

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