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ZRH destination photo
LYS destination photo

ZRHLYS

Which side of the plane to sit from Zürich Airport (Zurich) to Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the majestic Swiss and French Alps, including distant views of the Eiger, Jungfrau, and the massive Mont Blanc massif.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏔️

Bernese Oberland

Stunning distant views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks piercing the horizon shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Lake Neuchâtel

A clear view of the longest lake entirely within Switzerland and the surrounding three-lakes region.

💧

Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)

The plane typically tracks parallel to the northern shore, offering views of Lausanne and the crescent-shaped lake.

🍷

Lavaux Vineyards

The UNESCO World Heritage vineyard terraces cascading down to the water's edge near Vevey and Montreux.

🏔️

Mont Blanc Massif

On clear days, Europe's highest peak is visible as a massive white wall to the south near the French border.

⛰️

Savoy Prealps

Rugged limestone peaks and deep valleys as the flight enters French airspace near Annecy.

The left side is superior for Alpine scenery. Morning flights provide the best lighting on the mountain faces. Request a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze distorting your view of Mont Blanc. In winter, the snow-covered peaks are particularly dramatic, but beware of low-level stratus clouds common in the Swiss Plateau which may obscure the lakes.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
⛰️

Jura Mountains

Follow the distinct parallel ridges and deep valleys of the Jura range that define the Swiss-French border.

🌀

Creux du Van

A natural rocky cirque of giant proportions located in the Val-de-Travers region, visible as a massive horseshoe cliff.

🌲

Haut-Jura Nature Park

Expansive views of dense evergreen forests and remote plateaus as the plane crosses into France.

🌊

Lake Biel

Views of the lake and St. Peter's Island, where Jean-Jacques Rousseau once sought refuge.

🏙️

Zürich Outskirts

Immediately after departure, look for the urban sprawl and industrial architecture of northern Switzerland.

💧

Rhône River Meanders

The winding path of the Rhône River as it makes its way toward the city of Lyon during the final descent.

The right side is ideal for sunset flights, as you'll see the sun dipping behind the Jura ridges. It's also better if you prefer looking at the rural, forested landscapes of eastern France. During the approach into LYS, the right side often provides a broader view of the Rhône valley floor. Note that glare can be an issue on afternoon flights heading southwest.

Top Activities in Lyon
Route Information

Distance: 328 km (204 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 33 min

Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Arrival: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)

Route Type: International

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