Left side scores 3.5 versus right's 2.5 due to superior scenic content on both legs: NYC metropolitan area and Hudson River during departure provide dramatic urban scenery, while the approach to Budapest from the north showcases the Danube River, Parliament Building, and Buda Castle—iconic landmarks with genuine visual impact. Right side offers only flat terrain and suburban sprawl on both ends of the flight.
Flown EWR to BUD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Newark to Budapest is 4,373 miles (7,038 km), a flight of about 7 hours 15 minutes.
Atlantic Ocean crossing (5+ hours over open water with minimal visual interest), then European landfall over Ireland/UK coastline, crossing the English Channel, traversing the Alps and Alpine foothills (Swiss/Austrian border region), following the Danube River valley through Austria into Hungary, with the Carpathian Mountains visible to the east during descent into Budapest
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from EWR
LEFTLeft side captures the New York City metropolitan area during initial climb, including Manhattan's skyline, the Hudson River, and the New Jersey urban corridor. Right side faces inland toward flat New Jersey and Pennsylvania terrain with minimal visual interest during departure.

Landing at BUD
LEFTLeft side (north) provides views of the Danube River, Budapest's city center including the Parliament Building and Buda Castle on the western bank, and the Pest district on the eastern bank during approach to runway 31. Right side (south) shows suburban sprawl and flat Hungarian plains with minimal distinctive features.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Newark Liberty International (EWR) to Ferihegy (BUD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Newark to Budapest. Left side scores 3.5 versus right's 2.5 due to superior scenic content on both legs: NYC metropolitan area and Hudson River during departure provide dramatic urban scenery, while the approach to Budapest from the north showcases the Danube River, Parliament Building, and Buda Castle—iconic landmarks with genuine visual impact. Right side offers only flat terrain and suburban sprawl on both ends of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Newark Liberty International in Newark?
During takeoff from Newark Liberty International (EWR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the New York City metropolitan area during initial climb, including Manhattan's skyline, the Hudson River, and the New Jersey urban corridor. Right side faces inland toward flat New Jersey and Pennsylvania terrain with minimal visual interest during departure. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline and East River, Hudson River valley, Newark Bay and surrounding industrial waterfront.
What can I see when landing at Ferihegy in Budapest?
When landing at Ferihegy (BUD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side (north) provides views of the Danube River, Budapest's city center including the Parliament Building and Buda Castle on the western bank, and the Pest district on the eastern bank during approach to runway 31. Right side (south) shows suburban sprawl and flat Hungarian plains with minimal distinctive features. Notable sights include: Danube River with its characteristic meanders, Budapest Parliament Building and Buda Castle complex, Chain Bridge and other Danube crossings, Pest district urban grid.
How long is the flight from Newark to Budapest?
The flight from Newark Liberty International (EWR) to Ferihegy (BUD) takes about 7 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,373 miles (7,038 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Newark to Budapest flight path pass over?
Atlantic Ocean crossing (5+ hours over open water with minimal visual interest), then European landfall over Ireland/UK coastline, crossing the English Channel, traversing the Alps and Alpine foothills (Swiss/Austrian border region), following the Danube River valley through Austria into Hungary, with the Carpathian Mountains visible to the east during descent into Budapest