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ZRH → CGN
Which side of the plane to sit from Zürich Airport (Zurich) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the meandering Rhine River, the dense greenery of the Black Forest, and the picturesque transition into the Eifel mountain range during the descent into Cologne.
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Black Forest (Schwarzwald)
Bird's-eye view of Germany's highest and largest low mountain range, characterized by dense evergreen forests and deep valleys.
Rhine River Bend
Follow the silver ribbon of the Rhine as it forms the border between France and Germany, offering a stunning geographic orientation.
Palatinate Forest
Look for the ruins of medieval castles perched atop red sandstone cliffs within this sprawling UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Eifel National Park
As you begin your descent, the volcanic landscapes and crater lakes (Maars) of the Eifel region become visible.
Sit on the left for the best morning light, as the sun will be behind you. This side is also ideal for spotting the industrial heritage of the Ruhr region in the distance as you approach Cologne. Use a window seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the river's path.
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Swiss Alps Panorama
During the initial climb from Zurich, enjoy a sweeping southern view of the snow-capped Bernese and Glarus Alps.
Frankfurt Skyline
On clear days, the 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers are visible in the distance as you fly past the Rhine-Main metropolitan area.
Siebengebirge Hills
The famous 'Seven Hills' near Bonn, including the legendary Drachenfels, signal that you are moments away from landing.
Autobahn Networks
Observe the intricate patterns of the German highway system, particularly around the busy Frankfurt and Cologne intersections.
The right side is perfect for sunset flights, offering a golden glow over the landscape. Watch for the 'Seven Hills' (Siebengebirge) shortly before touchdown, as they provide a dramatic gateway to the Bonn/Cologne region. Early morning flights on this side may suffer from significant sun glare.
Book Hotels in CologneDistance: 392 km (244 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 39 min
Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)
Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Route Type: International
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