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SMI destination photo
MUC destination photo

SMIMUC

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

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior vantage point for the most dramatic segments of the flight, including the stunning Croatian archipelago and the highest peaks of the Austrian Alps during the descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏝️

Cyclades & Mykonos

Distant views of the iconic white-washed islands scattered across the deep blue Aegean Sea shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Dalmatian Archipelago

A breathtaking sequence of thousands of Croatian islands and the rugged coastline along the Adriatic Sea.

🏔️

Hohe Tauern National Park

Dramatic views of the Austrian Alps, including snow-capped peaks and glaciers as you cross into Central Europe.

🏟️

Allianz Arena

On a northern approach into Munich, catch a glimpse of the glowing, tire-shaped home of FC Bayern Munich.

🏙️

Munich City Center

A clear view of the Frauenkirche towers and the English Garden as the plane banks for its final approach.

For the best experience, book a morning flight to have the sun behind the aircraft, which enhances the colors of the Adriatic Sea. About 75-90 minutes into the flight, keep your eyes peeled for the transition from the sea to the jagged Dinaric Alps in Croatia. Seats forward of the wing are recommended to avoid engine heat distortion during Alpine photography.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🇹🇷

Turkish Coastline

Immediately after departure, view the Karaburun Peninsula and the winding bays near Izmir, Turkey.

🏝️

Lesbos Island

A direct overhead view of the olive-grove-covered landscape and the historic capital of Mytilene.

🏞️

Pannonian Basin

The vast, fertile plains of Hungary and the winding path of the Danube River system.

💧

Lake Chiemsee

Known as the 'Bavarian Sea', this massive lake with its famous islands is visible roughly 15 minutes before landing.

⛰️

Chiemgau Alps

The northern limestone ridges of the Alps, providing a lush green contrast to the higher peaks on the left.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the landscape is bathed in warm, soft light. Watch for the dramatic change from the arid Mediterranean landscape to the deep greens of the Balkan forests and Bavarian plains. If the flight path passes further east, you may also see the outskirts of Sofia or Belgrade.

Top Activities in Munich
Route Information

Distance: 1,702 km (1,058 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 16 min

Departure: SMI (37.68999862670898, 26.911699295043945)

Arrival: MUC (48.353802, 11.7861)

Route Type: International

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