Loading map...

OPO destination photo
LPA destination photo

OPOLPA

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is generally preferred for this route as it provides a superior perspective of the Portuguese coastline during the initial phase and a spectacular view of the other Canary Islands during the approach to Gran Canaria.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🍷

Douro River & Porto

Aerial view of the historic Ribeira district and the winding Douro River immediately after takeoff from OPO.

🏙️

Lisbon & Tagus Estuary

On a clear inland track, you can spot the sprawling Tagus estuary and the Vasco da Gama bridge.

🏖️

Algarve Shoreline

The golden cliffs and turquoise waters of southern Portugal before the flight heads out over the open Atlantic.

🌋

Lanzarote and Fuerteventura

As you descend into the Canaries, these volcanic islands often appear on the eastern horizon.

⛰️

Roque Nublo

During the final approach into LPA, the central mountainous interior of Gran Canaria is prominently visible.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun which will be on the right. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the volcanic craters of Lanzarote appearing roughly 20-30 minutes before landing.

Right Side Highlights
7.3
🌊

Costa Verde

The rugged, wave-battered western coastline of Portugal stretching south toward Aveiro.

📍

Cabo da Roca

View the westernmost point of mainland Europe where the land dramatically meets the Atlantic Ocean.

🏝️

Madeira Archipelago

On more westerly flight paths, the high peaks of Madeira can sometimes be spotted rising above the clouds.

🗻

Mount Teide

Spain's highest peak on the neighboring island of Tenerife is often visible piercing through the cloud layer during descent.

🌅

Atlantic Sunset

For evening flights, this side offers an unobstructed view of the sun setting over the infinite horizon.

Choose the right side for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic. This side is also best for spotting Mount Teide on Tenerife, which is a significant landmark to look for shortly after the descent begins.

Top Activities in Gran Canaria
Route Information

Distance: 1,602 km (995 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 8 min

Departure: OPO (41.2481002808, -8.68138980865)

Arrival: LPA (27.931900024414062, -15.38659954071045)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.