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BRE destination photo
IST destination photo

BREIST

Which side of the plane to sit from Bremen Airport (Bremen) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a more scenic approach into Istanbul, frequently providing views of the Danube River, the Balkan mountain ranges, and the iconic Istanbul skyline during the final descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

Prague and Vltava River

The historic 'City of a Hundred Spires' is often visible as the flight path crosses the Czech Republic.

💧

Danube River Bends

Spectacular views of the Danube as it winds through the borders of Hungary, Serbia, and Romania.

⛰️

Balkan Mountains

Rugged, high-altitude terrain stretching across Bulgaria, offering dramatic shadows during late afternoon flights.

⛴️

Bosphorus Strait

The iconic waterway dividing Europe and Asia, usually visible if the aircraft approaches Istanbul from the south.

🕌

Istanbul Historic Peninsula

A bird's-eye view of the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace during the final approach pattern.

Request a window seat behind the wing for unobstructed views of the Bosphorus. During the final approach to IST, the right side is typically favored for seeing the city center and the Sea of Marmara if the winds require a southern landing pattern.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

Harz Mountains

Dense forests and granite peaks of northern Germany visible shortly after departure from Bremen.

🏔️

High Tatras

The jagged peaks of the Tatra Mountains marking the border between Poland and Slovakia to the northeast.

🌊

Black Sea Coastline

The transition from the Bulgarian plains to the deep blue waters of the Black Sea during the initial descent.

The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. Look out for the Carpathian range when crossing over Romania; in winter, these peaks are beautifully snow-capped.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 1,986 km (1,234 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 39 min

Departure: BRE (53.0475006104, 8.78666973114)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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