Left side scores higher due to the exceptional scenic value of the New York City departure sequence—one of the world's most recognizable urban skylines and harbor views—combined with solid cruise-phase scenery over the Atlantic and European coastlines. While the landing approach favors the right side, the takeoff experience from Newark is dramatically superior on the left, and the overall flight duration (approximately 7 hours 45 minutes) means the cruise phase and departure sequence carry substantial weight. The left side's advantage during the first 30 minutes of flight outweighs the right side's landing advantage.
Flight Path
Transatlantic cruise over the North Atlantic with occasional views of the Irish coast (if visible during daylight), the Celtic Sea, and the Bay of Biscay. Upon approaching Europe, passengers see the Iberian Peninsula's western coast, the Pyrenees mountain range (on the horizon), and the Mediterranean coast of southern France. The final approach into Italy crosses the Alps' southern foothills and the Ligurian coast before turning inland toward Tuscany.
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 FLR
RIGHTRight side (north) provides the superior approach to Florence. Descending from the north, passengers see the Apennine Mountains rising dramatically, the Arno River valley, and the city of Florence nestled in rolling Tuscan hills. Left side (south) faces open Tuscan countryside and lacks the mountain drama and urban focal point.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Newark Liberty International (EWR) to Peretola (FLR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Newark to Firenze. Left side scores higher due to the exceptional scenic value of the New York City departure sequence—one of the world's most recognizable urban skylines and harbor views—combined with solid cruise-phase scenery over the Atlantic and European coastlines. While the landing approach favors the right side, the takeoff experience from Newark is dramatically superior on the left, and the overall flight duration (approximately 7 hours 45 minutes) means the cruise phase and departure sequence carry substantial weight. The left side's advantage during the first 30 minutes of flight outweighs the right side's landing advantage.
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 estuary, Newark Bay and Port Newark container terminals, Statue of Liberty and Liberty Island.
What can I see when landing at Peretola in Firenze?
When landing at Peretola (FLR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (north) provides the superior approach to Florence. Descending from the north, passengers see the Apennine Mountains rising dramatically, the Arno River valley, and the city of Florence nestled in rolling Tuscan hills. Left side (south) faces open Tuscan countryside and lacks the mountain drama and urban focal point. Notable sights include: Apennine Mountains (northern approach), Arno River valley, Florence city center with Duomo and urban sprawl, Tuscan rolling hills and cypress-lined valleys.
How long is the flight from Newark to Firenze?
The flight from Newark Liberty International (EWR) to Peretola (FLR) takes 7h 45m.
What does the Newark to Firenze flight path pass over?
Transatlantic cruise over the North Atlantic with occasional views of the Irish coast (if visible during daylight), the Celtic Sea, and the Bay of Biscay. Upon approaching Europe, passengers see the Iberian Peninsula's western coast, the Pyrenees mountain range (on the horizon), and the Mediterranean coast of southern France. The final approach into Italy crosses the Alps' southern foothills and the Ligurian coast before turning inland toward Tuscany.