Loading map...

VLC destination photo
SDR destination photo

VLCSDR

Which side of the plane to sit from Valencia Airport (Valencia) to Santander Airport (Santander)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer stunning views of the Iberian Peninsula's diverse geography, the Right Side is preferred for the iconic approach into Santander, which often includes views of the Cantabrian Sea and the breathtaking Bay of Santander.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Costa del Azahar

Panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline stretching north toward Castellón during the initial climb.

🛤️

Ebro River Valley

The fertile basin of Spain's most voluminous river, visible as a green ribbon cutting through the arid landscape.

🏔️

Pyrenees Silhouette

On clear days, the high peaks of the Pyrenees are visible on the far northeastern horizon.

⚓

Bay of Santander

A spectacular arrival sequence featuring the Magdalena Peninsula, the Sardinero beaches, and the city's natural harbor.

Sit on the right for the most scenic landing. As the plane aligns with Santander Airport (SDR), you often fly over the Bay of Biscay, providing a stunning contrast between the deep blue sea and the emerald green hills of Cantabria. Morning flights are best to avoid the sun and capture the coastline in soft light.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌆

Valencia Cityscape

Aerial view of the City of Arts and Sciences and the Turia Gardens immediately after takeoff from VLC.

⛰️

Serranía de Cuenca

Rugged karst landscapes and deep limestone canyons as the flight crosses the southern Iberian System.

🌾

Castilian Meseta

The high altitude plains of central Spain, featuring a patchwork of golden wheat fields and red earth.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

Distant but majestic views of the snow-capped limestone peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains during descent.

The left side is ideal for photographers interested in the geometric patterns of the Spanish interior. Afternoon flights on this side may experience some glare, but the long shadows over the Serranía mountains create dramatic depth for landscape shots.

Top Activities in Santander
Route Information

Distance: 519 km (322 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 52 min

Departure: VLC (39.4893, -0.481625)

Arrival: SDR (43.427101135253906, -3.82000994682312)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.