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SOF destination photo
BVA destination photo

SOFBVA

Which side of the plane to sit from Sofia Airport (Sofia) to Paris Beauvais Tillé Airport (Beauvais)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a front-row seat to the most dramatic peaks of the Austrian and Swiss Alps, as well as a better chance to spot the Paris skyline in the distance during the descent into the Picardy region.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Balkan Range

Immediately after takeoff, enjoy views of the Vitosha and Rila mountains south of Sofia.

⛰️

The High Alps

A spectacular transit over the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the central Alpine massif.

💧

Lake Constance

The expansive southern shore of the Bodensee where Germany, Austria, and Switzerland meet.

🌲

Vosges Mountains

The rounded, forested summits of eastern France near the border with Germany.

🗼

Parisian Horizon

On clear days, the Eiffel Tower and the skyscrapers of La Défense are visible to the south during the approach to BVA.

Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze when photographing the Alps. This side is prone to direct sunlight on westbound morning flights, so bring sunglasses to reduce glare while looking at the snowy peaks. During the final 15 minutes of the flight, look south for the distant sprawl of the French capital.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

The Danube River

Aerial views of the winding river as it snakes through the Pannonian Basin.

🏙️

Munich Panorama

Distant views of the Bavarian capital and its distinctive red-roofed suburbs.

🌳

The Black Forest

Deep green vistas of Germany's most famous woodland region from above.

🍇

Champagne Vineyards

The neatly organized rows of grapevines in the historic region of Reims and Epernay.

⛪

Beauvais Cathedral

During the final descent, look for the massive Gothic structure of Saint Pierre in Beauvais town.

The right side is ideal for soft, indirect lighting throughout the day, making it better for photography without sun interference. It offers excellent views of the rolling French countryside and the specific architecture of the Picardy region. Watch for the distinctive 'meanders' of the rivers in eastern France as you cross into the final flight leg.

Top Activities in Beauvais
Route Information

Distance: 1,798 km (1,117 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min

Departure: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)

Arrival: BVA (49.45439910888672, 2.1127800941467285)

Route Type: International

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