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CGN → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior sequence of major European capitals and landmarks, including views of the Rhine, the Danube river bend, Vienna, Budapest, and a spectacular approach over the Black Sea coastline into Istanbul.
Search flights from CGN to IST
Cologne & The Rhine
Immediate views of the Cologne Cathedral and the winding Rhine River shortly after takeoff from CGN.
Frankfurt Skyline
Visibility of Germany's financial hub and its impressive cluster of skyscrapers as you head southeast.
Vienna & The Danube
A clear view of the Austrian capital and the iconic 'Blue' Danube river snaking through the landscape.
Budapest Panorama
Exceptional views of the Hungarian Parliament and the bridges connecting Buda and Pest across the river.
Carpathian Mountains
The rugged, forested ridges of the Southern Carpathians in Romania appearing as you cross towards the Balkans.
Black Sea Coastline
A dramatic descent parallel to the Black Sea coast as the plane prepares for its arrival into Istanbul Airport.
Sit on the left for the 'Capital Run'—this side is prime for spotting Vienna and Budapest. For morning flights, this side is also preferable as the sun will be on the opposite side of the aircraft, reducing glare for photography. During the final approach to IST, look for the Bosphorus Bridge and the shimmering Black Sea.
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The Alps (Distance)
On clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the Austrian and Bavarian Alps are visible to the south.
Lake Balaton
The turquoise waters of Central Europe's largest freshwater lake as you fly over western Hungary.
Balkan Mountain Range
Crossing the Stara Planina in Bulgaria, offering views of steep cliffs and deep valleys.
Sea of Marmara
As the plane enters Turkish airspace, the vast Sea of Marmara becomes visible to the south.
Istanbul City Sprawl
Panoramic views of Istanbul's massive European-side expansion and the unique landscape of the Thrace region.
The right side is ideal for catching distant views of the Alps. It is better for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh morning sun. During landing at IST, if the plane circles from the south, the right side provides a massive overview of the city's residential districts and the Marmara shoreline. Watch for seasonal snow covers on the Balkan mountains during winter months.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 1,968 km (1,223 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 37 min
Departure: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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