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TXL destination photo
SOF destination photo

TXLSOF

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more dramatic view of the Danube's progression, a direct look at the Budapest cityscape, and the rugged terrain of the Carpathian and Balkan mountain ranges.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Berlin Departure

Aerial views of the Spree river and the eastern suburbs of the German capital.

🏰

Dresden Elbe Valley

The historic 'Florence on the Elbe' with its distinct architecture and river bends.

⛰️

High Tatras

Distant views of the jagged, snow-capped peaks along the Polish-Slovak border.

🌊

Budapest & Danube

A stunning perspective of the Hungarian Parliament and the bridges connecting Buda and Pest.

🏔️

Balkan Mountains

The Stara Planina range provides a dramatic, ridged landscape during the descent into Bulgaria.

Opt for a morning flight to keep the sun on the opposite side, preventing glare. The Danube Bend north of Budapest is a major landmark to watch for about 60 minutes into the flight. In winter, the contrast of the Balkan peaks against the clouds is exceptional.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🇨🇿

Prague Skyline

The 'City of a Hundred Spires' is often visible within the first 30 minutes of the flight.

🎡

Vienna Basin

Views of the Austrian capital and the edge of the Wienerwald forest.

💎

Lake Balaton

Central Europe's largest freshwater lake, known for its unique turquoise-milky color.

🌉

Belgrade Confluence

The meeting point of the Sava and Danube rivers in the heart of the Serbian capital.

⛰️

Vitosha Mountain

The massive dome-shaped mountain that looms over Sofia during the final approach.

The right side is excellent for spotting major European capitals like Prague and Vienna from a distance. During the final approach to SOF, the Vitosha Mountain provides a grand entrance. Be aware that afternoon flights may face direct sunlight on this side of the cabin.

Top Activities in Sofia
Route Information

Distance: 1,331 km (827 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 46 min

Departure: TXL (52.5597, 13.2877)

Arrival: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)

Route Type: International

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