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CMN destination photo
SAW destination photo

CMNSAW

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for its proximity to the European coastline of the Mediterranean and the iconic views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul's historic skyline during the approach to Sabiha Gökçen.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Rif Mountains

The rugged, green peaks of northern Morocco shortly after departure from Casablanca.

🇮🇹

Sardinian Coastline

A view of the northern shores of Sardinia and the Strait of Bonifacio between Sardinia and Corsica.

🇬🇷

Northern Aegean Islands

Bird's eye view of the northern Greek islands such as Thassos or Lemnos depending on the airway.

🌉

Bosphorus Strait

The legendary waterway separating Europe and Asia, visible as the plane turns for its final approach.

🏰

Istanbul European Side

Panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the historical peninsula including Topkapi Palace.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. During the descent into SAW, keep your camera ready as the plane often banks over the Bosphorus, providing a perfect view of the bridges and the European skyline. Visibility is best in late spring when the air is clear and the Rif mountains are still green.

Right Side Highlights
7.9
🇩🇿

Algiers Coast

The sweeping coastline of the Algerian capital and the rugged Kabylie region.

🌋

Mount Etna

On clear days, the smoking peak of Sicily's famous volcano can be spotted to the north.

🏛️

Peloponnese Peninsula

The deep bays and mountainous terrain of southern Greece as you cross the Ionian Sea.

🏝️

Cyclades Archipelago

The stunning pattern of white-washed islands and deep blue Aegean waters.

⛴️

Princes' Islands

A cluster of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara just before touching down at SAW.

The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to catch the golden hour over the Aegean islands. Look out for the distinct shape of the Princes' Islands just minutes before landing. In winter, this side offers better views of the snow-capped mountains of the Peloponnese and the Southern Alps of Albania in the distance.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 3,350 km (2,082 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 56 min

Departure: CMN (33.36750030517578, -7.589970111846924)

Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)

Route Type: International

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