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ZRH destination photo
LUG destination photo

ZRHLUG

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

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of Central Switzerland's iconic lakes and the high peaks of the Bernese Oberland as the plane crosses the Alpine ridge toward the Mediterranean climate of Ticino.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🌊

Lake Lucerne

The dramatic four-armed lake surrounded by steep mountains, including the famous Rigi massif.

⛰️

Mount Pilatus

The jagged limestone peaks of Lucerne's local mountain, often appearing above the cloud layer.

🏔️

Bernese Oberland

A distant but majestic panorama of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks to the southwest.

💎

Lake Maggiore

Views of the Locarno and Ascona region at the northern tip of Lake Maggiore during the descent into Agno.

🛬

Agno Valley Approach

A thrilling low-altitude flight through the narrow valley between the Prealps on final approach to Lugano Airport.

Choose the right side for the most iconic Swiss landmarks. The transition from the high Alps to the palm-lined lakes of the south is most dramatic here. For late afternoon flights, you will experience a beautiful sunset over the Valais and Bernese Alps. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the Lucerne region.

Left Side Highlights
8.4
🏙️

Zurich Gold Coast

Aerial view of the affluent residential areas along the eastern shores of Lake Zurich immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Glarus Alps

Glaciated peaks including the Tödi massif visible to the southeast during the climb to cruising altitude.

🏰

Bellinzona Castles

The three UNESCO-listed medieval castles of Bellinzona are visible during the steep descent into the Ticino valley.

⛰️

Monte Brè

The sunniest mountain in Switzerland overlooking Lugano as the aircraft maneuvers for final approach.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight glare. This side is particularly rewarding for seeing the fortifications of Bellinzona during the final ten minutes of the flight. In winter, the snow-covered Glarus Alps provide a stunning high-contrast landscape against the blue sky.

Top Activities in Lugano
Route Information

Distance: 165 km (103 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 17 min

Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Arrival: LUG (46.00429916379999, 8.9105796814)

Route Type: Domestic

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