Left side scores higher due to the superior takeoff experience over Genoa's dramatic coastline and Mediterranean, combined with the Apennine Mountains providing terrain variety. While Madrid's approach on the right is respectable, the cruise phase over the Spanish interior plains is relatively flat and featureless. The left side's coastal departure and mountain scenery outweigh the right side's urban landing views.
Flown GOA to MAD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Genoa to Madrid is 687 miles (1,106 km), a flight of about 2 hours 10 minutes.
Provence region with Rhône Valley, southern French Alps (Mont Ventoux visible on clear days), transition from Mediterranean climate to Spanish interior plateau, Ebro River valley in northeastern Spain
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from GOA
LEFTLeft side captures Genoa's harbor and the Ligurian coastline during the typical eastward departure over water, with immediate views of the Mediterranean and the Apennine Mountains rising inland. Right side faces the city and mountains directly but offers less dramatic water scenery during the initial climb.
Landing at MAD
RIGHTRight side benefits from the typical northbound approach into Madrid's Barajas, offering views of the Spanish Meseta plateau, the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains to the north, and the urban sprawl of Madrid itself during descent and final approach. Left side sees mostly flat interior plains with fewer distinctive landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Genova Sestri (GOA) to Barajas (MAD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Genoa to Madrid. Left side scores higher due to the superior takeoff experience over Genoa's dramatic coastline and Mediterranean, combined with the Apennine Mountains providing terrain variety. While Madrid's approach on the right is respectable, the cruise phase over the Spanish interior plains is relatively flat and featureless. The left side's coastal departure and mountain scenery outweigh the right side's urban landing views.
What can I see during takeoff from Genova Sestri in Genoa?
During takeoff from Genova Sestri (GOA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Genoa's harbor and the Ligurian coastline during the typical eastward departure over water, with immediate views of the Mediterranean and the Apennine Mountains rising inland. Right side faces the city and mountains directly but offers less dramatic water scenery during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Genoa harbor and Porto Antico, Ligurian coastline curving southeast, Apennine foothills, Mediterranean Sea.
What can I see when landing at Barajas in Madrid?
When landing at Barajas (MAD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side benefits from the typical northbound approach into Madrid's Barajas, offering views of the Spanish Meseta plateau, the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains to the north, and the urban sprawl of Madrid itself during descent and final approach. Left side sees mostly flat interior plains with fewer distinctive landmarks. Notable sights include: Sierra de Guadarrama (northern approach), Madrid city sprawl and urban districts, Meseta plateau terrain, Barajas airport complex.
How long is the flight from Genoa to Madrid?
The flight from Genova Sestri (GOA) to Barajas (MAD) takes about 2 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 687 miles (1,106 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Genoa to Madrid flight path pass over?
Provence region with Rhône Valley, southern French Alps (Mont Ventoux visible on clear days), transition from Mediterranean climate to Spanish interior plateau, Ebro River valley in northeastern Spain