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ZRH destination photo
BRS destination photo

ZRHBRS

Which side of the plane to sit from Zürich Airport (Zurich) to Bristol Airport (Bristol)?

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior perspective of the Jura Mountains shortly after takeoff, the winding Seine river in France, and a classic aerial entry over the English south coast near the Isle of Wight.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏔️

Jura Mountains

Craggy limestone ridges and deep valleys marking the border between Switzerland and France.

🗼

Paris Distant View

On clear days, the urban sprawl of Paris and the Eiffel Tower are visible on the southern horizon.

🐍

Seine River Meanders

Dramatic loops of the Seine river as it winds through the Normandy countryside toward the sea.

🏖️

Alabaster Coast

The striking white chalk cliffs of Upper Normandy near Dieppe as you leave the French mainland.

🏝️

Isle of Wight

The distinct diamond shape of the island and the chalk stacks of 'The Needles' on its western tip.

⛰️

Mendip Hills

An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty featuring limestone plateaus and the deep gorge at Cheddar.

For the best experience, choose a seat behind the wing to see the flap movements over the Mendips. If flying in the afternoon, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses or a polarizing filter for photos. The Jura crossing happens within the first 15 minutes of flight.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌲

Vosges Mountains

Densely forested rounded peaks of Eastern France visible shortly after crossing the border.

🍾

Champagne Region

Vast, organized patterns of world-famous vineyards surrounding the city of Reims.

🚢

English Channel Crossing

Views of busy shipping lanes and the distant silhouette of the French and British coastlines meeting.

🏡

The Cotswolds

Quintessential English countryside with honey-colored stone villages and rolling green hills.

🏛️

City of Bath

A UNESCO World Heritage site where the Royal Crescent and Roman Baths are often visible during descent.

🌉

Bristol Cityscape

Detailed views of the floating harbor and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge on the final approach.

The right side is ideal for the final moments of the flight. If the plane lands on Runway 27, you will get an incredible view of Bristol's city center and the Suspension Bridge. This side also avoids direct sunlight on afternoon flights, making it better for glare-free photography.

Top Activities in Bristol
Route Information

Distance: 923 km (574 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min

Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Arrival: BRS (51.382702, -2.71909)

Route Type: International

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