Left side scores higher due to the exceptional takeoff experience from Chicago—the urban skyline and Lake Michigan provide concentrated scenic value during the first 20 minutes of flight. While right side offers superior landing scenery into Porto, the left side's strong departure sequence and the 7+ hour cruise phase over the Atlantic (which favors neither side significantly) combine to give left a slight overall advantage. Left provides more memorable early-flight engagement.
Flown ORD to OPO? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Porto is 3,934 miles (6,332 km), a flight of about 7 hours 15 minutes.
Transatlantic crossing over the North Atlantic with no significant landmarks; the route passes north of Newfoundland and south of Greenland at cruise altitude. The flight crosses the Mid-Atlantic Ridge region (underwater, not visible). Approaching Europe, the route passes over the Irish Sea and Wales before descending toward Portugal. The Iberian Peninsula's interior plateau becomes visible during descent into Porto.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
LEFTLeft side captures Chicago's urban skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline during initial climb. The city's downtown core, harbor, and lakefront are prominent features during the first 10-15 minutes of flight, providing strong urban scenery at low altitude.
Landing at OPO
RIGHTRight side offers superior approach scenery into Porto. The Douro River valley, Atlantic coastline, and Porto's hillside architecture become visible during descent. The city's dramatic topography and the river's serpentine path through the landscape provide distinctive visual landmarks absent from the left side's inland approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Porto (OPO)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Porto. Left side scores higher due to the exceptional takeoff experience from Chicago—the urban skyline and Lake Michigan provide concentrated scenic value during the first 20 minutes of flight. While right side offers superior landing scenery into Porto, the left side's strong departure sequence and the 7+ hour cruise phase over the Atlantic (which favors neither side significantly) combine to give left a slight overall advantage. Left provides more memorable early-flight engagement.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Chicago's urban skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline during initial climb. The city's downtown core, harbor, and lakefront are prominent features during the first 10-15 minutes of flight, providing strong urban scenery at low altitude. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago Harbor and Navy Pier, suburban sprawl extending west toward Dupage County.
What can I see when landing at Porto in Porto?
When landing at Porto (OPO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers superior approach scenery into Porto. The Douro River valley, Atlantic coastline, and Porto's hillside architecture become visible during descent. The city's dramatic topography and the river's serpentine path through the landscape provide distinctive visual landmarks absent from the left side's inland approach. Notable sights include: Douro River estuary and valley, Atlantic Ocean coastline, Porto's tiered hillside neighborhoods and historic center, Ribeira district waterfront.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Porto?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Porto (OPO) takes about 7 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,934 miles (6,332 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Porto flight path pass over?
Transatlantic crossing over the North Atlantic with no significant landmarks; the route passes north of Newfoundland and south of Greenland at cruise altitude. The flight crosses the Mid-Atlantic Ridge region (underwater, not visible). Approaching Europe, the route passes over the Irish Sea and Wales before descending toward Portugal. The Iberian Peninsula's interior plateau becomes visible during descent into Porto.