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TFNBIO

Which side of the plane to sit from Tenerife Norte Airport (Tenerife) to Bilbao Airport (Bilbao)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior view of the dramatic Cantabrian coastline and the limestone massifs of the Picos de Europa during the approach to Bilbao.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🌋

Anaga Rural Park

Aerial views of the ancient, rugged volcanic ridges and laurel forests of northern Tenerife immediately after takeoff.

🌊

Atlantic Ocean

A vast perspective of the deep blue Atlantic as the flight tracks northeast toward the Iberian Peninsula.

🇵🇹

Portuguese Coastline

Distant glimpses of the rugged Atlantic cliffs and the Tagus estuary as the plane crosses into the mainland.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

Spectacular views of the snow-capped limestone peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains during the descent.

⚓

Bay of Biscay

The deep blue waters of the northern Spanish coast and the rocky shoreline visible during the final approach maneuvers.

For the most scenic experience, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the Picos de Europa peaks. The left side is essential for seeing the coastline if the pilot executes a standard approach from the sea into Bilbao. Keep an eye out for the distinctive 'Green Spain' landscape as the arid interior transforms into lush forests.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Mount Teide

The iconic silhouette of Spain's highest peak may be visible in the distance shortly after departing Tenerife Norte.

🌾

The Meseta

The vast, golden agricultural plains of the Spanish interior, displaying intricate geometric patterns from above.

🏙️

Madrid Metropolitan Area

On clear days, the cluster of skyscrapers in northern Madrid can be seen as the flight path crosses the center of Spain.

💧

Ebro River Valley

The winding course of Spain's most significant river as it flows toward the Mediterranean through the Aragon region.

🌲

Basque Mountains

Dense green valleys and steep hills characteristic of the Basque Country as the plane enters the final descent phase.

The right side is ideal for capturing the scale of the Spanish Meseta and the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains. If flying in late afternoon, the golden hour light creates dramatic shadows across the mountain ranges. Ensure you are seated ahead of the wing to avoid the heat distortion from the engines, which can blur views of the distant Madrid skyline.

Top Activities in Bilbao
Route Information

Distance: 2,038 km (1,266 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 43 min

Departure: TFN (28.4827003479, -16.341499328599998)

Arrival: BIO (43.30110168457031, -2.9106099605560303)

Route Type: Domestic

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