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PFO destination photo
ATH destination photo

PFOATH

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the Aegean archipelago, including the northern Dodecanese and Cyclades islands, and usually provides a clear sight of the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion on the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

Rhodes Town

A perfect aerial view of the northern tip of Rhodes, featuring the medieval Old Town and the Mandraki Harbor.

🏘️

Dodecanese Islands

Detailed views of Symi, Tilos, and Kos as the flight path skims the southeastern edge of the Aegean.

🏛️

Cape Sounion

The Temple of Poseidon is often clearly visible on the cliff's edge as the plane turns for its final approach to Athens.

⛰️

Mount Hymettus

The limestone ridge that separates the Mesogeia plain from the city of Athens, visible just before landing.

🚢

Port of Rafina

Depending on the wind direction, you may see the busy ferry hub serving the northern Cyclades.

Sit on the right for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. The highlight of this route is Cape Sounion; look down about 10-15 minutes before landing. This side also offers closer views of the Turkish coast in the distance during the middle portion of the flight.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Akamas Peninsula

The rugged, northwestern tip of Cyprus with crystal-clear turquoise lagoons visible shortly after takeoff.

🌋

Santorini (Thira)

A distant but iconic view of the volcanic caldera and white-washed villages on the southern horizon.

🏝️

Milos & Sifnos

Stunning views of the southern Cycladic islands with their unique geological formations and deep blue waters.

🛥️

Saronic Gulf

Panoramic views of Aegina and the southern Athenian coastline during the final descent into Eleftherios Venizelos.

The left side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Mediterranean. If the flight path takes a southerly route, you might see the northern coast of Crete in the distance. Keep your camera ready as you cross the Akamas Peninsula for great coastal contrast.

Top Activities in Athens
Route Information

Distance: 844 km (524 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min

Departure: PFO (34.71799850463867, 32.48569869995117)

Arrival: ATH (37.9364013672, 23.944499969499997)

Route Type: International

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