Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Athens to Shanghai. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery at departure (Aegean islands and coastline) and offer reasonable views during the long cruise phase over Central Asia. While left wins at landing, the takeoff experience is more visually rewarding on this route.

During takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Saronic Gulf and Aegean Sea immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northeast over water, giving clear sightlines to the Greek coastline and islands before turning east toward the flight corridor. Notable sights include: Saronic Gulf, Aegean Sea coastline, Mount Hymettus (to the left but visible from right side during climb), Attica Peninsula.

When landing at Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Yangtze River delta and Shanghai's urban sprawl during descent. The aircraft approaches from the northwest, and left-side windows face the Huangpu River, Pudong's skyline, and the distinctive geometry of Shanghai's development. Notable sights include: Yangtze River delta, Huangpu River, Pudong financial district skyline, Hangzhou Bay.

The flight from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) takes Approximately 11-12 hours.

The flight path crosses the Anatolian Plateau (Turkey), the Taurus Mountains, the Mesopotamian plains (Iraq/Syria), the Zagros Mountains (Iran), the Iranian plateau, the Hindu Kush and Pamir ranges (Afghanistan/Tajikistan border region), and the Taklamakan Desert (western China). Right-side seats offer better views of the Taurus Mountains and Zagros ranges during daylight cruise; left-side seats may catch views of the Pamir and Hindu Kush depending on exact routing and time of day.