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NUE destination photo
SMI destination photo

NUE โ†’ SMI

Which side of the plane to sit from Nuremberg Airport (Nuernberg) to Samos Airport (Samos)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers unparalleled views of the Croatian coastline and the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea before a stunning approach into Samos.

Right Side Highlights
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Nuremberg City Center

Excellent views of the Imperial Castle and the Pegnitz river shortly after takeoff from NUE.

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Bavarian Alps

A panorama of the snow-capped peaks of the Karwendel or Wetterstein ranges during the climb.

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Dalmatian Archipelago

The highlight of the trip: hundreds of Croatian islands like Hvar and Braฤ set against deep blue water.

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Gulf of Corinth

As the plane crosses Greece, you may see the narrow stretch of water separating the Peloponnese from the mainland.

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Turkish Coastline

During the final descent, look for the Dilek Peninsula and the city of KuลŸadasฤฑ in Turkey across the water.

Choose the right side for the most iconic Mediterranean scenery. The transit over the Adriatic coast is spectacular, especially on clear days. For afternoon flights, be aware of the sun's glare, but the golden hour lighting over the Greek islands is worth it. This side also often provides the best view of the runway approach near Pythagoreion.

Left Side Highlights
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Franconian Switzerland

Lush green hills and limestone formations of Northern Bavaria immediately after departure.

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High Tauern Range

Dramatic views of the Austrian Alps, potentially including the Grossglockner peak depending on the corridor.

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Thessaloniki & Olympus

As you cross into Greece, look for the Thermaic Gulf and the legendary Mount Olympus in the distance.

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Northern Aegean Islands

Views of Chios and the smaller islands of the Fourni archipelago during the descent.

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Mount Kerkis

A close-up view of Samos' highest peak, an extinct volcano, as the plane maneuvers for landing.

The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Keep an eye out for the rugged mountains of the Balkans. During the final approach to SMI, you will get a great look at the interior landscape of Samos and the Mykale Strait separating the island from Turkey.

Top Activities in Samos
Route Information

Distance: 1,823 km (1,133 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 26 min

Departure: NUE (49.498699, 11.078056)

Arrival: SMI (37.68999862670898, 26.911699295043945)

Route Type: International

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