While takeoff offers decent Saronic Gulf views from the right, the landing approach on the left provides far superior scenery: the dramatic Lefka Ori mountains and Souda Bay approach are among the most visually striking moments on this short route. Left seats win the overall flight experience.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Aegean Sea between the Attica Peninsula and Crete. Notable features include the Cycladic islands (Kea, Kythnos, Serifos, Sifnos visible as small landmasses), the open Aegean waters, and the gradual approach to Crete's northern coast. At cruise altitude (around 20,000-25,000 feet), the Peloponnese may be visible to the west on clear days, and the Cretan coastline becomes increasingly prominent as you descend toward Chania.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ATH
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Saronic Gulf and Attica coastline as the aircraft climbs southwestward from Athens. You'll see the sprawl of greater Athens receding below, then the transition to open water and islands.
Landing at CHQ
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of Crete's northern coast and the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) as you descend toward Chania. The dramatic mountain backdrop and coastal approach into Souda Bay are far more striking from the left.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Souda (CHQ)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Athens to Chania. While takeoff offers decent Saronic Gulf views from the right, the landing approach on the left provides far superior scenery: the dramatic Lefka Ori mountains and Souda Bay approach are among the most visually striking moments on this short route. Left seats win the overall flight experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos in Athens?
During takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Saronic Gulf and Attica coastline as the aircraft climbs southwestward from Athens. You'll see the sprawl of greater Athens receding below, then the transition to open water and islands. Notable sights include: Saronic Gulf, Attica Peninsula coastline, Aegean Sea, Athens urban area.
What can I see when landing at Souda in Chania?
When landing at Souda (CHQ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of Crete's northern coast and the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) as you descend toward Chania. The dramatic mountain backdrop and coastal approach into Souda Bay are far more striking from the left. Notable sights include: Lefka Ori (White Mountains), Souda Bay, Cretan coastline, Chania city area.
How long is the flight from Athens to Chania?
The flight from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Souda (CHQ) takes Approximately 50-60 minutes.
What does the Athens to Chania flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Aegean Sea between the Attica Peninsula and Crete. Notable features include the Cycladic islands (Kea, Kythnos, Serifos, Sifnos visible as small landmasses), the open Aegean waters, and the gradual approach to Crete's northern coast. At cruise altitude (around 20,000-25,000 feet), the Peloponnese may be visible to the west on clear days, and the Cretan coastline becomes increasingly prominent as you descend toward Chania.