Loading map...

SOF destination photo
STN destination photo

SOFSTN

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the majestic Alpine range to the south and provides the best chance to spot the London skyline during the final descent into Stansted.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Vitosha & Rila Mountains

Stunning views of the Balkan massifs immediately after takeoff from Sofia.

🏔️

The Austrian Alps

Distances views of the snow-capped Eastern Alps as the flight traverses Central Europe.

🏙️

Brussels & Benelux

High-altitude views of the dense urban clusters and canal networks of Belgium.

🏢

London Skyline

When landing on Runway 22, the Shard and Canary Wharf are often visible in the distance to the south.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid direct glare while still enjoying southward views. This side is particularly rewarding in winter when the Alps and Balkan mountains are heavily snow-covered. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for potential London views.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
💧

The Danube River

The flight path frequently parallels Europe's second-longest river through Serbia and Hungary.

🏙️

Budapest Panorama

The Hungarian capital and its iconic bridges are often visible depending on the exact airway.

🌲

German Rhineland

Aerial views of the lush forests and industrial heartlands near Frankfurt and Cologne.

🌊

North Sea Transition

The crossing from the Dutch coast into British airspace offers views of massive offshore wind farms.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side of the aircraft. Look out for the intricate patterns of the Dutch polders and the coastline of East Anglia as you cross the North Sea. It offers excellent views of the Pannonian Basin shortly after departure.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 2,012 km (1,250 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 41 min

Departure: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)

Arrival: STN (51.8849983215, 0.234999999404)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.