While takeoff offers volcanic island scenery, the landing approach into Zurich provides more dramatic and sustained views of the Alps and multiple lakes, making left-side seats the better choice for the overall journey.
Flown LPA to ZRH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Gran Canaria to Zurich is 1,865 miles (3,001 km), a flight of about 4 hours 10 minutes.
Over southern France, the Pyrenees form the southern horizon during cruise. The Rhône Valley becomes visible as you approach Switzerland, with the Jura Mountains appearing on the left side during descent. The flight path crosses the Mediterranean coast near the French Riviera before turning northeast toward the Alps.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from LPA
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Gran Canaria's interior volcanic terrain and the northern coast as you climb northeastward. The island's central ridge and Pico de las Nieves are visible on the right during initial climb.

Landing at ZRH
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Zurich. You'll see the Swiss Alps on approach, particularly the Säntis massif and surrounding peaks, plus the Zurich area lakes (Zurichsee and Greifensee) as you descend toward the airport.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gran Canaria (LPA) to Zurich (ZRH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Gran Canaria to Zurich. While takeoff offers volcanic island scenery, the landing approach into Zurich provides more dramatic and sustained views of the Alps and multiple lakes, making left-side seats the better choice for the overall journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Gran Canaria in Gran Canaria?
During takeoff from Gran Canaria (LPA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Gran Canaria's interior volcanic terrain and the northern coast as you climb northeastward. The island's central ridge and Pico de las Nieves are visible on the right during initial climb. Notable sights include: Gran Canaria's central volcanic ridge, Pico de las Nieves (6,394 ft), northern coastline near Las Palmas, Atlantic Ocean extending northward.
What can I see when landing at Zurich in Zurich?
When landing at Zurich (ZRH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Zurich. You'll see the Swiss Alps on approach, particularly the Säntis massif and surrounding peaks, plus the Zurich area lakes (Zurichsee and Greifensee) as you descend toward the airport. Notable sights include: Swiss Alps and Säntis massif, Zurichsee (Lake Zurich), Greifensee, Zurich city and surrounding urban areas.
How long is the flight from Gran Canaria to Zurich?
The flight from Gran Canaria (LPA) to Zurich (ZRH) takes about 4 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,865 miles (3,001 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Gran Canaria to Zurich flight path pass over?
Over southern France, the Pyrenees form the southern horizon during cruise. The Rhône Valley becomes visible as you approach Switzerland, with the Jura Mountains appearing on the left side during descent. The flight path crosses the Mediterranean coast near the French Riviera before turning northeast toward the Alps.