Right side scores higher due to the dramatic landing approach over the Saronic Gulf and Athens' urban landscape, which outweighs left side's modest takeoff advantage. The approach into Athens offers significantly more visual variety and recognizable landmarks than the departure from Thessaloniki.
Flown SKG to ATH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Thessaloniki to Athens is 186 miles (299 km), a flight of about 1 hour 5 minutes.
Mount Olympus (visible to the left/east during cruise at altitude), Pelion Peninsula, Sporades Islands (Skiathos, Skopelos visible as small landmasses), transition from Thessaly plains to Attica's rocky terrain, Euboea Island (large island to the east during cruise)
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SKG
LEFTLeft side captures Thessaloniki's harbor and urban waterfront during climb-out, with the Thermaic Gulf spreading below. Right side shows inland plains with minimal visual interest during departure.
Landing at ATH
RIGHTRight side offers superior approach scenery: the Saronic Gulf's island-dotted waters, the Attica coastline with its rocky promontories, and Athens' sprawling urban landscape filling the final descent. Left side shows open water and distant mountains with less dramatic detail.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Makedonia (SKG) to Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Thessaloniki to Athens. Right side scores higher due to the dramatic landing approach over the Saronic Gulf and Athens' urban landscape, which outweighs left side's modest takeoff advantage. The approach into Athens offers significantly more visual variety and recognizable landmarks than the departure from Thessaloniki.
What can I see during takeoff from Makedonia in Thessaloniki?
During takeoff from Makedonia (SKG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Thessaloniki's harbor and urban waterfront during climb-out, with the Thermaic Gulf spreading below. Right side shows inland plains with minimal visual interest during departure. Notable sights include: Thessaloniki harbor and waterfront, Thermaic Gulf coastline, Mount Olympus (distant, on horizon to the south).
What can I see when landing at Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos in Athens?
When landing at Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers superior approach scenery: the Saronic Gulf's island-dotted waters, the Attica coastline with its rocky promontories, and Athens' sprawling urban landscape filling the final descent. Left side shows open water and distant mountains with less dramatic detail. Notable sights include: Saronic Gulf with Salamis and Aegina islands, Attica's rocky coastline, Athens metropolitan area and Acropolis district, Mount Hymettus.
How long is the flight from Thessaloniki to Athens?
The flight from Makedonia (SKG) to Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) takes about 1 hour 5 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 186 miles (299 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Thessaloniki to Athens flight path pass over?
Mount Olympus (visible to the left/east during cruise at altitude), Pelion Peninsula, Sporades Islands (Skiathos, Skopelos visible as small landmasses), transition from Thessaly plains to Attica's rocky terrain, Euboea Island (large island to the east during cruise)