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NTE → HER
Which side of the plane to sit from Nantes Atlantique Airport (Nantes) to Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (Heraklion)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers a superior perspective of the most iconic landscapes on this route, including the northern Alps, the intricate Dalmatian coastline of Croatia, and the legendary volcanic caldera of Santorini during the descent into Crete.
Search flights from NTE to HER
Nantes and Loire River
Aerial views of the 'City of Dukes' and the winding Loire estuary shortly after takeoff from NTE.
The High Alps
A breathtaking crossing of the snow-capped Swiss and French Alps, often providing views of Mont Blanc to the north.
Venetian Lagoon
Potential sightings of the historic island of Venice and its complex lagoon systems as you cross the Adriatic.
Dalmatian Archipelago
Stunning views of the Croatian islands, characterized by white limestone and deep turquoise waters.
Santorini (Thira)
During the descent, you often pass the iconic crescent-shaped caldera of Santorini, one of the world's most recognizable islands.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing (rows 5-12) to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the Alps or the Greek islands. On morning flights, the sun is on the right side, giving the left side perfect lighting for photography without glare. Keep your camera ready about 50-60 minutes after takeoff for the Alps.
Get eSIMs for France
Get eSIMs for GreeceChaîne des Puys
The ancient dormant volcanic domes of the Auvergne region in central France.
Ionian Coastline
Views of the western Greek islands like Corfu and Zakynthos as the flight paths toward the Peloponnese.
The Peloponnese
The rugged, mountainous terrain of southern Greece, including views of the Gulf of Corinth.
Mount Ida (Psiloritis)
As you approach Crete, the island's highest peak dominates the landscape to the right of the aircraft.
Mediterranean Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea with dramatic sun glints during afternoon flights.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights if you enjoy golden hour lighting over the Mediterranean, though you will face direct sunlight for much of the journey. During landing at HER, the right side provides an excellent view of the rugged Cretan coastline and the city of Heraklion itself if the wind requires an approach from the west.
Book Hotels in HeraklionDistance: 2,578 km (1,602 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 26 min
Departure: NTE (47.15319824220001, -1.61073005199)
Arrival: HER (35.3396987915, 25.1802997589)
Route Type: International
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