Right side scores higher (3.5 vs 2.5) due to superior scenic variety across the full flight. Takeoff offers Rome's urban and river landscape; cruise crosses the Alps and Mediterranean with moderate alpine views; landing provides dramatic Hangzhou Bay mudflats and Shanghai's iconic skyline. Left side remains more monotonous, with less distinctive landmarks during takeoff, extended ocean crossing, and industrial approach views.
Flown CIA to PVG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Rome to Shanghai is 5,683 miles (9,146 km), a flight of about 11 hours 15 minutes.
Alps (Mont Blanc region visible around 2 hours into flight), Mediterranean coastline near southern France/northern Italy, Adriatic Sea, Balkans, Black Sea region, Caucasus Mountains (distant), Caspian Sea, Central Asian steppes, Tian Shan Mountains (visible during descent into China), Yangtze River valley approaching Shanghai
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from CIA
RIGHTRight side captures Rome's urban sprawl and the Tiber River valley during initial climb. Left side faces inland toward the Apennines but offers less immediate visual interest during the critical takeoff and early climb phase.
Landing at PVG
RIGHTRight side offers superior approach views over Hangzhou Bay and the Yangtze River estuary, with Shanghai's skyline and Pudong's distinctive towers visible during final descent. Left side faces inland toward Zhejiang Province's industrial zones with less dramatic urban or natural features.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ciampino (CIA) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Rome to Shanghai. Right side scores higher (3.5 vs 2.5) due to superior scenic variety across the full flight. Takeoff offers Rome's urban and river landscape; cruise crosses the Alps and Mediterranean with moderate alpine views; landing provides dramatic Hangzhou Bay mudflats and Shanghai's iconic skyline. Left side remains more monotonous, with less distinctive landmarks during takeoff, extended ocean crossing, and industrial approach views.
What can I see during takeoff from Ciampino in Rome?
During takeoff from Ciampino (CIA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures Rome's urban sprawl and the Tiber River valley during initial climb. Left side faces inland toward the Apennines but offers less immediate visual interest during the critical takeoff and early climb phase. Notable sights include: Tiber River winding through Rome, Castelli Romani hills to the southeast, Mediterranean coastline near Ostia Antica.
What can I see when landing at Shanghai Pudong International in Shanghai?
When landing at Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers superior approach views over Hangzhou Bay and the Yangtze River estuary, with Shanghai's skyline and Pudong's distinctive towers visible during final descent. Left side faces inland toward Zhejiang Province's industrial zones with less dramatic urban or natural features. Notable sights include: Hangzhou Bay's mudflats and tidal patterns, Yangtze River estuary, Shanghai Pudong skyline with Oriental Pearl Tower, Huangpu River bend.
How long is the flight from Rome to Shanghai?
The flight from Ciampino (CIA) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) takes about 11 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,683 miles (9,146 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Rome to Shanghai flight path pass over?
Alps (Mont Blanc region visible around 2 hours into flight), Mediterranean coastline near southern France/northern Italy, Adriatic Sea, Balkans, Black Sea region, Caucasus Mountains (distant), Caspian Sea, Central Asian steppes, Tian Shan Mountains (visible during descent into China), Yangtze River valley approaching Shanghai