While the Zurich departure offers a nice glimpse of the Alps, most of the cruise over northern Germany is flat and unremarkable on both sides. The Copenhagen approach's coastal and bridge scenery gives the right side a slightly richer overall visual payoff.
Flown ZRH to CPH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Zurich to Copenhagen is 591 miles (950 km), a flight of about 1 hour 50 minutes.
Flat agricultural plains of northern Germany (Schleswig-Holstein), with glimpses of the Baltic Sea coastline near the German-Danish border before descent into Denmark
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ZRH
LEFTDeparting Zurich, the initial climb and turn give a brief but genuine view south toward the Alpine foothills and Lake Zurich before the aircraft settles onto its northbound track. The right side mostly shows the flatter Swiss plateau near the city.
Landing at CPH
RIGHTOn approach into Copenhagen from the northeast, the aircraft crosses the Öresund Strait with Malmö and the Swedish coastline visible to the east, followed by the Öresund Bridge and Copenhagen's harbor skyline coming into view as the plane turns to land. The left side mostly shows the flatter agricultural land of central Zealand.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Zurich (ZRH) to Kastrup (CPH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Zurich to Copenhagen. While the Zurich departure offers a nice glimpse of the Alps, most of the cruise over northern Germany is flat and unremarkable on both sides. The Copenhagen approach's coastal and bridge scenery gives the right side a slightly richer overall visual payoff.
What can I see during takeoff from Zurich in Zurich?
During takeoff from Zurich (ZRH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing Zurich, the initial climb and turn give a brief but genuine view south toward the Alpine foothills and Lake Zurich before the aircraft settles onto its northbound track. The right side mostly shows the flatter Swiss plateau near the city. Notable sights include: Lake Zurich, Uetliberg ridge, distant Alpine foothills (Rigi/Pilatus area).
What can I see when landing at Kastrup in Copenhagen?
When landing at Kastrup (CPH), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into Copenhagen from the northeast, the aircraft crosses the Öresund Strait with Malmö and the Swedish coastline visible to the east, followed by the Öresund Bridge and Copenhagen's harbor skyline coming into view as the plane turns to land. The left side mostly shows the flatter agricultural land of central Zealand. Notable sights include: Öresund Strait, Öresund Bridge, Malmö skyline, Copenhagen harbor/city center.
How long is the flight from Zurich to Copenhagen?
The flight from Zurich (ZRH) to Kastrup (CPH) takes about 1 hour 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 591 miles (950 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Zurich to Copenhagen flight path pass over?
Flat agricultural plains of northern Germany (Schleswig-Holstein), with glimpses of the Baltic Sea coastline near the German-Danish border before descent into Denmark