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SOF destination photo
PFO destination photo

SOFPFO

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

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Bulgarian mountain ranges shortly after takeoff, followed by a spectacular vantage point of the Greek peninsulas and the arrival along the scenic Cyprus coastline.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
⛰️

Rila and Pirin Mountains

Immediately after departing Sofia, look down at Bulgaria's highest peaks, often snow-capped well into the spring.

🏖️

Chalkidiki Peninsula

Exquisite views of the 'three fingers' of northern Greece reaching into the emerald Aegean Sea.

🏛️

Rhodes and Dodecanese

A clear view of the island of Rhodes and its historic coastline as you transition toward the Mediterranean.

🏞️

Akamas Peninsula

During the descent into Paphos, the rugged cliffs and turquoise lagoons of western Cyprus are perfectly visible.

✈️

Paphos Coastal Approach

As the plane aligns with runway 11, you get an intimate view of the Cypriot shoreline and resort areas.

Sit on the left for the best land-to-sea ratio. On morning flights, be aware that the sun will be on this side, which may cause glare; use a window shade if needed. The view of the Akamas Peninsula during descent is the highlight of the trip.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Mount Olympus

Visible in the distance to the west, the legendary home of the Greek gods stands out against the horizon.

🧿

Cyclades Islands

Clusters of white-and-blue islands like Mykonos and Naxos can be spotted scattered across the deep blue sea.

🌅

Mediterranean Horizon

An uninterrupted view of the sun reflecting off the water, particularly stunning during late afternoon flights.

🏰

Paphos Medieval Fort

Just before touchdown, the historic harbor and the stone fort are visible as the plane nears the runway.

The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the Mediterranean sunset. It offers a more 'open sea' feel with distant island silhouettes. Keep an eye out for Mount Olympus about 25 minutes after takeoff from Sofia.

Top Activities in Paphos
Route Information

Distance: 1,185 km (736 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min

Departure: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)

Arrival: PFO (34.71799850463867, 32.48569869995117)

Route Type: International

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