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ZRH destination photo
SOF destination photo

ZRHSOF

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

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior panorama of the high Swiss Alps shortly after takeoff and an unparalleled view of Vitosha Mountain during the descent into Sofia.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
❄️

Central Swiss Alps

Breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Bernese Oberland and the glaciers of Graubünden.

🇮🇹

Dolomite Spires

To the south, the jagged limestone peaks of the Italian Dolomites are often visible on the horizon.

🏖️

Adriatic Coastline

In the distance, you can catch the sparkling blue of the Adriatic and the many islands along the Croatian coast.

🧗

Dinaric Alps

Dramatic views over the limestone karst landscapes of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

⛰️

Vitosha Mountain

A magnificent close-up of Sofia's landmark mountain as the plane maneuvers for its final approach.

The right side is the 'money side' for this route, particularly during the descent. As the plane aligns with the runway at Sofia (SOF), the Vitosha mountain appears almost within reach. During summer afternoons, choose this side to catch the golden hour light hitting the Alpine glaciers early in the flight.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
💧

Lake Constance

Shortly after departure, you can see the expansive Bodensee bordering Switzerland, Germany, and Austria.

🏔️

Austrian Alps

Spectacular views of the Hohe Tauern range and potentially the Grossglockner peak on a clear day.

🏙️

Belgrade Cityscape

The flight often passes near the Serbian capital, where the Sava and Danube rivers meet.

🌊

Iron Gates of the Danube

A glimpse of the spectacular gorge where the Danube separates the Southern Carpathians from the Balkan Mountains.

⛰️

Stara Planina

The rugged northern range of the Balkan Mountains visible as you enter Bulgarian airspace.

For morning flights, the left side is better to avoid direct sunlight and glare. Keep an eye out for the distinctive bend of the Danube River near the Serbian-Bulgarian border, which marks the transition into the final leg of the journey.

Top Activities in Sofia
Route Information

Distance: 1,279 km (795 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min

Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Arrival: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)

Route Type: International

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