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ZAD destination photo
CGN destination photo

ZADCGN

Which side of the plane to sit from Zadar Airport (Zadar) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer incredible views of the Alps, the right side provides a superior view of the rugged Velebit mountains immediately after takeoff and a more consistent panoramic view of the Cologne city center and Cathedral during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
⛰️

Velebit Mountains

Stunning karst limestone peaks rising sharply from the coast, offering a stark contrast to the sea.

🏙️

Ljubljana Basin

The picturesque valley containing the Slovenian capital, surrounded by the high peaks of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps.

🏔️

Grossglockner View

On clear days, see Austria's highest peak and the surrounding Pasterze glacier in the Hohe Tauern National Park.

🏢

Frankfurt Skyline

The 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers are often visible in the distance to the east as the flight progresses through central Germany.

⛪

Cologne Cathedral

During the final approach into CGN, the right side often gets a spectacular view of the twin spires of the Kölner Dom.

The right side is prime for mountain enthusiasts. For the best experience, try to book a seat ahead of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the Alps or the iconic Cologne Cathedral during the landing phase.

Left Side Highlights
8.4
🏝️

Dalmatian Archipelago

Aerial views of the crystal clear waters and the densely packed islands like Ugljan and Pašman right after departure.

🌊

Istrian Peninsula

The jagged coastline of Istria and the blue expanse of the Adriatic Sea as the plane turns north.

🏔️

Central Austrian Alps

Dramatic views of the glaciated peaks near the Tyrolean border and the Hohe Tauern range.

🍷

Rhine Valley

The winding Rhine river and the lush vineyards of the Rheingau region during the descent.

🏙️

Bonn Cityscape

A clear view of the former German capital and its government district as you approach Cologne from the south.

Sit on the left for better morning light when flying north, as the sun will be on the opposite side. This side is also excellent for spotting the transition from the Mediterranean turquoise of the Adriatic to the deep greens of the European mainland.

Top Activities in Cologne
Route Information

Distance: 971 km (603 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min

Departure: ZAD (44.108299, 15.3467)

Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)

Route Type: International

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