Loading map...

STN destination photo
MAD destination photo

STNMAD

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior mix of coastal views over France, the world-famous Bordeaux vineyards, and a stunning approach over the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains before landing in Madrid.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🛳️

English Channel

Watch the maritime traffic and ferries crossing between the UK and the northern French coast.

🏖️

Normandy Coast

Spot the rugged cliffs and historic D-Day landing beaches near the mouth of the Seine.

🍇

Bordeaux Wine Region

See the geometric patterns of world-famous vineyards stretching toward the Gironde Estuary.

⛰️

Western Pyrenees

A spectacular view of where the mountain range meets the Atlantic coast of the Basque Country.

🌲

Sierra de Guadarrama

Jagged granite peaks and pine forests provide a dramatic backdrop just north of Madrid.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid direct solar glare. It provides a stunning perspective of the Bay of Biscay coastline and the dramatic entry into Spanish airspace over the Guadarrama mountains. Ensure you have your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the mountain views.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Thames Estuary

View the winding river mouth and coastal wind farms off the Kent coast shortly after takeoff.

🏰

Loire Valley

Look for the winding Loire River and the dense clusters of historic French chateaux.

🏔️

Central Pyrenees

Dramatic views of the high-altitude peaks and deep glacial valleys as you cross the border.

🏜️

Meseta Central

The vast, reddish-gold high plateau of central Spain characterizes the middle of the flight.

🌇

Madrid Cityscape

Catch the iconic skyline and the Cuatro Torres Business Area during the final approach phase.

Sit on the left for the best views of the sunrise on early morning departures. On the descent into Madrid, keep an eye out for the sprawling suburbs and the historic city center if the aircraft follows a southern landing pattern.

Top Activities in Madrid
Route Information

Distance: 1,302 km (809 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 44 min

Departure: STN (51.8849983215, 0.234999999404)

Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Route Type: International

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