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ZRH destination photo
OLB destination photo

ZRHOLB

Which side of the plane to sit from Zürich Airport (Zurich) to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (Olbia)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the most iconic 4,000-meter peaks of the Swiss Alps and a continuous view of the rugged Corsican coastline during the descent toward Sardinia.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

Bernese Oberland

Unrivaled views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks approximately 10-15 minutes after takeoff.

🗻

The Matterhorn

The world's most famous pyramid-shaped mountain is often visible to the southwest during the Alpine crossing.

🏞️

Lake Maggiore

Excellent views of the Borromean Islands and the transition from the high Alps to the Italian lakes.

🏙️

Genoa & Ligurian Coast

The dense urban sprawl and major Mediterranean port of Genoa as the plane leaves the mainland.

🗺️

Corsica's Eastern Shore

A long, scenic stretch following the mountainous terrain of the 'Island of Beauty' from north to south.

🏝️

La Maddalena Archipelago

Breathtaking turquoise waters and granite islands as the plane enters Sardinian airspace.

The right side is the definitive choice for Alpine scenery. To avoid glare, this side is best for mid-day or afternoon flights. During the descent into Olbia (typically Runway 23), you will get an incredible view of the emerald waters of the Costa Smeralda. Keep your camera ready as you pass the Strait of Bonifacio between Corsica and Sardinia.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🏔️

Central Swiss Alps

Dramatic views of the Glarus and Urner Alps shortly after departure from Zurich.

💧

Lake Lucerne

The complex, fjord-like shape of the lake is often visible nestled between Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus.

🏟️

Milan & Po Valley

Aerial perspective of the Lombardy capital and the vast agricultural plains of Northern Italy.

⛰️

Apennine Mountains

The rugged spine of Italy stretching south toward the Mediterranean.

🏝️

Tuscan Archipelago

On clear days, the islands of Elba and Capraia can be spotted dotting the Tyrrhenian Sea.

⚓

Gulf of Olbia

Final views of the industrial port and the city of Olbia during the landing sequence.

Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the Apennines. It is also the better side for spotting the distant skyline of Milan and the distinctive shape of Lake Como if the flight path is easterly. Ensure your window is clean as the sun will be on this side for much of the southward journey.

Top Activities in Olbia
Route Information

Distance: 734 km (456 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 13 min

Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Arrival: OLB (40.898701, 9.51763)

Route Type: International

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