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Which side of the plane to sit from Paris-Orly Airport (Paris) to Caen-Carpiquet Airport (Caen)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the Paris skyline during initial climb and follows the iconic, winding loops of the Seine River valley toward the Normandy coast.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🗼

Paris Landmarks

On departure from Orly, catch a distant glimpse of the Eiffel Tower and the Montparnasse Tower to the north.

〰️

Seine River Meanders

Watch the dramatic loops of the river as it carves through limestone cliffs near Les Andelys.

🎨

Giverny Area

Fly over the region made famous by Claude Monet's impressionist paintings near the town of Vernon.

⚓

Ouistreham & Coast

If the aircraft loops for a western approach, you will see the mouth of the Orne and the D-Day landing beaches.

For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. This side is prime for spotting the serpentine path of the Seine. In the afternoon, the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for photography of the river valley.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🌳

Forêt de Rambouillet

A vast expanse of ancient hunting grounds and dense greenery southwest of Paris.

🐄

Normandy Bocage

The classic patchwork of small fields, hedgerows, and cider orchards typical of the Calvados region.

⛪

Basilica of Lisieux

One of the largest churches built in the 20th century, visible as a massive white structure on the landscape.

Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights. This side provides an excellent perspective of the rural 'Bocage' landscape as you descend. Keep an eye out for traditional stud farms (haras) as you enter the heart of Normandy.

Top Activities in Caen
Route Information

Distance: 213 km (132 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 21 min

Departure: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Arrival: CFR (49.173301696777344, -0.44999998807907104)

Route Type: Domestic

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