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SLM destination photo
BCN destination photo

SLMBCN

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a more dramatic perspective of the Spanish landscape, featuring the rugged Sierra de Guadarrama, the jagged peaks of Montserrat, and the iconic city skyline of Barcelona during the final approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

Salamanca Old Town

Aerial view of the Plaza Mayor and the historic sandstone cathedrals immediately after takeoff.

⛰️

Sierra de Guadarrama

Glances of the high peaks of the Central System mountains stretching toward Madrid to the south-east.

⛪

Zaragoza & Basilica

The sprawling city of Zaragoza and the massive towers of the Basilica del Pilar on the banks of the Ebro.

🧗

Montserrat Massif

The unmistakable serrated silhouette of the holy mountain and its monastery shortly before descent.

🏙️

Barcelona Skyline

A clear view of the Sagrada Família, Agbar Tower, and the grid pattern of the Eixample district.

To see the Barcelona city center, ensure you are on the left side during the descent. If the plane lands on Runway 24R (the most common landing configuration), you will fly directly past the city's landmarks. Afternoon flights are best as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the Pyrenees and the city perfectly.

Right Side Highlights
7.3
🌾

Meseta Central

The high, golden plateau of the Spanish interior with its unique agricultural patterns.

🏔️

Sistema Ibérico

Crossing the rugged, less-traveled mountain ranges that separate the plateau from the Ebro basin.

💧

Ebro River Valley

The winding green corridor of Spain's most powerful river cutting through the arid landscape.

🏖️

Costa Dorada

The glistening Mediterranean coastline and the port of Tarragona appearing as you reach the sea.

🚢

Port of Barcelona

A bird's-eye view of the massive cruise ships and container terminals during the final turn over the water.

The right side is ideal for views of the Mediterranean Sea. Often, flights into BCN will head out over the water to line up with the runway, providing a beautiful coastal panorama. Be aware that midday flights on this side can be very sunny and warm due to the southern exposure.

Top Activities in Barcelona
Route Information

Distance: 636 km (395 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 4 min

Departure: SLM (40.95209884643555, -5.501989841461182)

Arrival: BCN (41.2971, 2.07846)

Route Type: Domestic

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