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BCN → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Barcelona International Airport (Barcelona) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled panorama of the European coastlines, the French Riviera, and the majestic Southern Alps peaks in the distance.
Costa Brava
The rugged cliffs and secluded turquoise coves of the northern Spanish coastline shortly after takeoff.
French Riviera
Glamorous views of Nice, Cannes, and the Principality of Monaco as you fly along the Mediterranean coast.
The Alps
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped southern Alpine peaks stretching across the northern horizon.
Venice Lagoon
On clear days, the intricate network of canals and the distinct shape of Venice can be seen from high altitude.
Balkan Mountains
Dense forest canopies and steep river valleys of Serbia and Bulgaria during the cruise phase.
Book a window seat on the left side for morning departures to avoid the direct glare of the sun while enjoying the well-lit French and Italian landscapes. This side also offers the most consistent views of the land rather than open sea.
Corsica & Sardinia
Aerial views of the northern tips of these rugged islands and the Strait of Bonifacio.
Italian Peninsula
The distant silhouette of the Apennine Mountains and the central Italian coastline.
Dalmatian Coast
The striking archipelago of Croatia with hundreds of white-shored islands scattered in the blue Adriatic.
Sea of Marmara
Vast numbers of cargo ships anchored and the deep blue waters preceding the descent into Istanbul.
Istanbul Skyline
If the flight approaches from the south, this side provides views of the historic peninsula and its minarets.
The right side is superior for island spotting in the Mediterranean and Adriatic. For the approach into IST, if the aircraft enters a holding pattern or approaches from the Sea of Marmara, this side offers a better view of the city sprawl.
Distance: 2,220 km (1,379 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 58 min
Departure: BCN (41.2971, 2.07846)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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