While the Stockholm departure offers a nice archipelago view, the Alps dominate the Zurich approach with far more dramatic, sustained mountain scenery, giving the right side the stronger overall visual payoff.
Flown ARN to ZRH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Stockholm to Zurich is 924 miles (1,487 km), a flight of about 2 hours 35 minutes.
Baltic Sea crossing, northern German lowlands, and the beginnings of the Central European uplands before the Alps come into view near Switzerland
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ARN
LEFTDeparting south from Arlanda, the initial climb passes directly over Stockholm and its archipelago, which sits to the east of the airport - visible on the left side as the aircraft turns onto its southbound track.
Landing at ZRH
RIGHTOn approach into Zurich, especially with the common runway 28 arrival from the west, the Alps rise dramatically to the south of the flight path, putting jagged snow-capped peaks squarely on the right side of the cabin during the final descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Arlanda (ARN) to Zurich (ZRH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Stockholm to Zurich. While the Stockholm departure offers a nice archipelago view, the Alps dominate the Zurich approach with far more dramatic, sustained mountain scenery, giving the right side the stronger overall visual payoff.
What can I see during takeoff from Arlanda in Stockholm?
During takeoff from Arlanda (ARN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing south from Arlanda, the initial climb passes directly over Stockholm and its archipelago, which sits to the east of the airport - visible on the left side as the aircraft turns onto its southbound track. Notable sights include: Stockholm city center, Lake Mälaren, the Stockholm archipelago islands.
What can I see when landing at Zurich in Zurich?
When landing at Zurich (ZRH), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into Zurich, especially with the common runway 28 arrival from the west, the Alps rise dramatically to the south of the flight path, putting jagged snow-capped peaks squarely on the right side of the cabin during the final descent. Notable sights include: Swiss Alps foothills, Lake Zurich, the city of Zurich, Uetliberg ridge.
How long is the flight from Stockholm to Zurich?
The flight from Arlanda (ARN) to Zurich (ZRH) takes about 2 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 924 miles (1,487 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Stockholm to Zurich flight path pass over?
Baltic Sea crossing, northern German lowlands, and the beginnings of the Central European uplands before the Alps come into view near Switzerland