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SXB destination photo
LIL destination photo

SXBLIL

Which side of the plane to sit from Strasbourg Airport (Strasbourg) to Lille-Lesquin Airport (Lille)?

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of major urban landmarks, including the historic centers of Strasbourg, Metz, and Reims, along with the prestigious vineyards of the Champagne region.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
⛪

Strasbourg Cathedral

Catch a glimpse of the iconic pink sandstone spire of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Moselle River & Metz

Excellent views of the winding Moselle river and the historic city center of Metz with its yellow-stone architecture.

🍾

Champagne Vineyards

Fly over the rolling hills of the Montagne de Reims, home to some of the world's most famous vineyards.

🏰

Reims Cathedral

The massive Gothic structure where French kings were once crowned is often visible as you transition toward the north.

🏗️

Lille Urban Area

During the descent, enjoy a panoramic view of the 'Capital of Flanders' and the Grand Place as you approach Lesquin.

Sit on the left for the best morning light on the Alsace plain. For the best view of Reims, look out about mid-flight; the cathedral is large and stands out from the surrounding urban grid. During autumn, the Champagne vineyards turn vibrant gold, making this side particularly scenic.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌲

Northern Vosges

View the forested ridges of the Vosges du Nord Regional Nature Park as the plane heads northwest.

⛰️

Ardennes Massif

Glimpse the rugged, forested plateau of the Ardennes stretching toward the Belgian border.

🇱🇺

Luxembourg Border

On clear days, you can spot the deep valleys and plateaus marking the territory of the Grand Duchy to the north.

🏭

Charleroi & Wallonia

Look toward the horizon to see the industrial landscape and slag heaps of the Belgian 'Black Country'.

🌾

Hauts-de-France Plains

Aerial views of the vast, geometric agricultural fields that characterize the landscape of Northern France.

The right side is ideal for seeing the vast forests of the Ardennes. If flying in late afternoon, the sun will be behind you, providing excellent lighting for photography of the landscape toward the Belgian border without glare. Watch for the distinct change from the hills of the east to the flat plains of the north.

Top Activities in Lille
Route Information

Distance: 397 km (247 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 40 min

Departure: SXB (48.53829956054688, 7.628230094909668)

Arrival: LIL (50.563332, 3.086886)

Route Type: Domestic

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