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VGO destination photo
MAD destination photo

VGOMAD

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more consistent view of the dramatic Sierra de Guadarrama mountains and the deep river canyons of the Galician interior.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Ría de Vigo

Breathtaking views of the Atlantic estuary and the Cíes Islands shortly after takeoff from VGO.

⛰️

Sil River Canyons

Deep, winding gorges carved through the mountains of the Ribeira Sacra region in interior Galicia.

🚜

Castilian Plateau

The vast, golden agricultural plains of Zamora and Valladolid, creating a geometric patchwork quilt effect.

🏔️

Sierra de Guadarrama

Dramatic views of the Peñalara peak and the snowy ridges of the Central System during the descent.

🏟️

Madrid Suburbs

A clear view of the sprawling residential areas and sports complexes in the northern Madrid metropolitan area.

For morning flights, the left side is shaded, providing better visibility without sun glare. During winter months, the snow-covered peaks of the Sierra de Guadarrama are a major highlight about 15 minutes before landing. If the flight departs to the North, you'll get a full 180-degree turn over the Ría de Vigo.

Right Side Highlights
7.6
🇵🇹

Portuguese Border

Views of the Miño River which serves as the natural boundary between Spain and Northern Portugal.

🦅

Arribes del Duero

The rugged natural park where the Duero river cuts deep canyons into the granite landscape.

⛪

El Escorial

The massive 16th-century Royal Monastery complex visible nestled in the foothills of the mountains.

🏙️

Madrid Skyline

The 'Cuatro Torres' skyscrapers and the city's financial district are often visible during the final approach phase.

The right side is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights as the low sun illuminates the landscape with a golden hue. Keep a close watch for the Arribes del Duero canyons, which look like deep scars in the earth. Depending on the landing runway configuration (Configuración Sur), this side can offer a spectacular parallel view of the city center.

Top Activities in Madrid
Route Information

Distance: 466 km (290 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 47 min

Departure: VGO (42.2318000793457, -8.62677001953125)

Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Route Type: Domestic

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