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ZRH destination photo
NCE destination photo

ZRHNCE

Which side of the plane to sit from Zürich Airport (Zurich) to Nice-Côte d'Azur Airport (Nice)?

Our Recommendation
9.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a front-row seat to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps, followed by a dramatic descent over the French Alps and a stunning view of the Nice coastline and city upon arrival.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
🏔️

Mont Blanc

A spectacular, close-up view of Europe's highest summit and the Bossons Glacier.

🌊

Lake Geneva

Sweeping vistas of the crescent-shaped Lac Léman with the Jura Mountains in the background.

🏔️

Écrins National Park

The rugged, wild heart of the French Southern Alps featuring the Barre des Écrins.

🌲

Mercantour National Park

The final dramatic alpine ridges before the landscape transforms into Mediterranean scrubland.

🏖️

Promenade des Anglais

Iconic views of Nice's famous beachfront and the turquoise Baie des Anges during landing.

The right side is the clear winner for landmark spotting. Mont Blanc typically appears about 15-20 minutes after takeoff. During landing at NCE, this side provides the iconic view of the city of Nice and the Var river valley. Ensure you have your camera ready for the steep turn over the sea before touchdown.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Central Swiss Alps

Glacial views of the Uri and Glarus Alps shortly after reaching cruising altitude.

💧

Lake Maggiore

The plane often passes directly over or near the northern tip of this massive sub-alpine lake.

🏙️

Turin

Distant views of the Piedmont capital and the iconic Mole Antonelliana nestled at the mountain base.

🇲🇨

Monaco

A bird's-eye view of the Principality and its harbor during the descent into the Mediterranean basin.

🌊

Ligurian Coast

Expansive turquoise water views as the aircraft banks for its final approach into Nice.

Sit on the left if you prefer looking out over the open Mediterranean Sea during the final approach. This side is also excellent for morning flights as the sun illuminates the western faces of the peaks you pass.

Top Activities in Nice
Route Information

Distance: 436 km (271 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 44 min

Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Arrival: NCE (43.658401489300005, 7.215869903560001)

Route Type: International

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