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TXL destination photo
LHR destination photo

TXLLHR

Which side of the plane to sit from Berlin-Tegel Airport (Berlin) to London Heathrow Airport (London)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is the clear winner due to the iconic aerial tour of central London landmarks during the final descent into Heathrow.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏙️

Berlin Environs

Aerial views of the Wannsee lake and the forested outskirts of southwestern Berlin shortly after takeoff.

🏔️

Harz Mountains

Distal views of northern Germany's highest mountain range featuring Brocken peak to the south.

🏰

Cologne and the Rhine

The winding Rhine river and the massive twin spires of the Cologne Cathedral are often visible.

🧇

Brussels Cityscape

A clear view of the Belgian capital and the distinctive silver spheres of the Atomium.

🎡

Central London Panorama

Unrivaled views of The Shard, Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament on the standard arrival path.

Book a window seat on the left for the 'River Effect' approach into LHR. Most flights land toward the west, meaning you'll fly directly alongside the Thames. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun is positioned to the south/west, perfectly illuminating the London skyline for photography.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏞️

Elbe River Valley

Views of the meandering Elbe river as the flight heads west toward the Netherlands.

🇳🇱

Dutch Coastline

The intricate network of dikes, polders, and the North Sea canal near Amsterdam.

🚢

Port of Rotterdam

One of the world's largest shipping hubs and the industrial landscape of the Maasvlakte.

🌊

North Sea Wind Farms

Expansive views of massive offshore wind turbines standing in the turquoise and gray waters.

🏗️

Canary Wharf

A view of London's secondary financial district and the O2 Arena during the initial descent phase.

The right side offers superior views of the engineering marvels of the Netherlands and the English East Anglia coast. It is also the better side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the southern sun. Watch for the 'Maeslantkering' storm surge barrier when crossing the Dutch coast.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 947 km (588 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min

Departure: TXL (52.5597, 13.2877)

Arrival: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)

Route Type: International

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