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ZRH destination photo
NUE destination photo

ZRHNUE

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

Our Recommendation
7.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally superior for this short-haul flight, offering a spectacular vista of the Alps to the south and the sprawling waters of Lake Constance shortly after takeoff.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏔️

The Alpine Chain

A majestic horizon of snow-capped peaks spanning the Swiss and Austrian Alps throughout the first half of the flight.

🌊

Lake Constance

Also known as the Bodensee, this massive tri-national lake is the primary geographic landmark on the route.

⛪

Ulm Minster

Look for the world's tallest church spire poking through the skyline of Ulm as you pass to the east.

⛵

Franconian Lake District

The artificial lakes of Brombachsee and Altmühlsee provide beautiful blue accents during the descent phase.

Morning flights are best for this side to see the Alps illuminated by the sun. This route is very short (often under 45 minutes), so focus your attention immediately after takeoff for the Lake Constance crossing. Check the wind direction; landing in Nuremberg from the east provides a great view of the city center.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🏙️

Zürich City & River

Aerial views of the Limmat river and the historic Old Town immediately following departure from Runway 32 or 34.

🌲

Black Forest

The dark, dense canopy of the Schwarzwald is visible to the west as the plane crosses the Rhine into Germany.

⛰️

Swabian Jura

The rugged limestone cliffs and high plateau of the Schwäbische Alb as you traverse Baden-Württemberg.

🏘️

Stuttgart Panorama

In clear weather, the urban sprawl of Stuttgart and the Neckar valley appear to the northwest mid-flight.

The left side is ideal for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It offers a more detailed view of the German industrial heartland and the dramatic escarpment of the Swabian Jura. Watch for the Rhine Falls near the border shortly after takeoff.

Top Activities in Nuernberg
Route Information

Distance: 293 km (182 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 29 min

Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Arrival: NUE (49.498699, 11.078056)

Route Type: International

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