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SXF destination photo
ORY destination photo

SXFORY

Which side of the plane to sit from Berlin-Schönefeld Airport (Berlin) to Paris-Orly Airport (Paris)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior chance of seeing the iconic Paris skyline, including the Eiffel Tower, during the descent into Orly, along with clear views of downtown Berlin shortly after takeoff.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Berlin City Center

Depending on the departure path, the TV Tower and central landmarks are often visible out of the right window.

🏔️

Harz Mountains

To the north of the flight path, the Brocken peak often rises above the cloud layer in central Germany.

⛰️

The Ardennes

Rugged, forested hills and winding river valleys near the junction of Germany, Belgium, and France.

🗼

Paris Skyline

On a standard approach to Orly from the north or east, the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse Tower, and Sacré-Cœur are visible.

🛫

CDG Airport

You can often spot the massive Charles de Gaulle Airport complex to the north as you descend toward the city.

The right side is the 'pro choice' for this route. For the best view of Paris, hope for a westerly landing (Runway 25 or 26) where the plane circles the city. Afternoon flights are best on this side for optimal lighting on the Eiffel Tower. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes before landing.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏰

Potsdam & Sanssouci

View the sprawling gardens and historic Prussian palaces of Potsdam shortly after departing the Berlin area.

🌲

Thuringian Forest

The dense, green mountain ridges of central Germany provide a scenic backdrop during the mid-flight cruise.

🍾

Champagne Vineyards

As the plane enters French airspace, look for the meticulously gridded vineyards surrounding the city of Reims.

🌳

Fontainebleau Forest

A massive historic royal hunting forest south of Paris, visible during the final approach phase into Orly.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is excellent for seeing the rural beauty of the French countryside and the historic estates south of the capital. During winter, the Thuringian Forest is often strikingly covered in snow.

Top Activities in Paris
Route Information

Distance: 885 km (550 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min

Departure: SXF (52.380001, 13.5225)

Arrival: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Route Type: International

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