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SOFDTM

Which side of the plane to sit from Sofia Airport (Sofia) to Dortmund Airport (Dortmund)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior panorama of the high Alps peaks to the south and iconic views of Belgrade and the central European mountain ranges.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Vitosha Mountain

Immediately after takeoff from Sofia, enjoy a stunning view of the massive Vitosha dome rising to the south.

🏙️

Belgrade Confluence

Watch for the historic city of Belgrade where the Sava and Danube rivers meet in a dramatic Y-shape.

🏔️

Austrian Alps

As the flight crosses central Europe, the snow-capped peaks of the High Tauern and Tyrolean Alps are visible on the horizon.

💧

Chiemsee and Bavarian Lakes

Glance down at the shimmering blue surfaces of Bavaria's largest lakes nestled against the mountain foothills.

✈️

Frankfurt Skyline

Depending on the specific airway, the impressive skyscraper cluster of 'Mainhattan' may be visible during the descent phase.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the best views of the Bulgarian mountains and again mid-flight for the Alpine horizon. In winter, the snow-covered peaks of the Alps provide exceptional contrast against the valleys.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Danube River Bend

Follow the winding path of Europe's second-longest river as it carves through the landscape towards Budapest.

🏰

Vienna Basin

The flight path often passes near Vienna, offering views of the city's sprawl and the surrounding vineyards.

🌲

Bohemian Forest

Observe the dense, ancient woodlands marking the border between the Czech Republic, Germany, and Austria.

⛰️

Sauerland Hills

As you descend into Dortmund, the rolling green hills and reservoirs of the Sauerland region dominate the landscape.

Choose the right side if you are flying in the late afternoon or evening to catch the golden hour light hitting the Danube. This side provides excellent views of the low mountain ranges of central Germany during the final 30 minutes of the flight. Watch for the 'Iron Gate' gorge earlier in the flight if the path hugs the Serbian border.

Top Activities in Dortmund
Route Information

Distance: 1,541 km (958 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 3 min

Departure: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)

Arrival: DTM (51.518299102799986, 7.61223983765)

Route Type: International

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