Loading map...

SXB destination photo
RAK destination photo

SXBRAK

Which side of the plane to sit from Strasbourg Airport (Strasbourg) to Menara Airport (Marrakech)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer stunning mountain views, the Right Side is preferred for its sweeping views of the Atlantic coastline as you enter Africa and the iconic aerial perspective of Marrakech's red city landscape during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🍷

Burgundy Region

Fly over the world-famous vineyards and rolling hills of eastern France shortly after takeoff.

🏙️

Madrid Outskirts

Often provides a distant view of the Spanish capital and the arid plains of the Meseta Central.

🌉

Strait of Gibraltar

The dramatic narrowing of the sea where Europe and Africa nearly touch, with views of the Rock of Gibraltar.

🏖️

Moroccan Atlantic Coast

Follow the coastline past Rabat and Casablanca, observing the contrast between the deep blue ocean and the sandy shore.

🕌

Marrakech Cityscape

On final approach, the 'Red City' unfolds with its distinctive ochre buildings, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the sprawling Medina.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the southern sun. It offers the best view of the Atlantic Ocean during the transit into Morocco. During the landing pattern at RAK, the right side usually provides a better view of the city center and the Palmeraie oasis before touchdown.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
⛰️

Vosges Mountains

Immediately after departure from Strasbourg, enjoy views of the densely forested ridges of the Vosges range.

🌋

Massif Central

Aerial views of the dormant volcanic peaks and rugged terrain of south-central France.

🏔️

Central Pyrenees

The snow-capped high peaks of the Pyrenees marking the natural border between France and Spain.

🌊

Mediterranean Horizon

As you cross the Strait of Gibraltar, look east to see where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean Sea.

🌄

The High Atlas

Spectacular views of the highest mountain range in North Africa as the plane begins its descent toward Marrakech.

Sit on the left for morning flights to see the sunrise over the Rhine Valley before heading south. This side is also superior for spotting the Sierra Nevada in southern Spain if the flight path tracks slightly inland. Ensure your window is clean for the High Atlas descent, as the orange-tinted peaks are highly photogenic.

Top Activities in Marrakech
Route Information

Distance: 2,297 km (1,427 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 4 min

Departure: SXB (48.53829956054688, 7.628230094909668)

Arrival: RAK (31.6068992615, -8.036299705510002)

Route Type: International

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