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CZL destination photo
IST destination photo

CZLIST

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior vantage point for witnessing the Sicilian coastline, the majestic Mount Etna, and a panoramic sweep of the Greek islands and the Sea of Marmara before landing.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Gulf of Tunis

Clear views of the North African coastline and the ancient site of Carthage as the plane heads over the Mediterranean.

🌋

Mount Etna

A prime view of Europe's highest active volcano on Sicily, often seen puffing smoke against the horizon.

🏛️

Peloponnese Peninsula

The deeply indented coastline of southern Greece, featuring rugged mountains and historic maritime towns.

🏺

Greater Athens Area

On clear days, the sprawling urban landscape of Athens and the busy Port of Piraeus are visible to the north.

🚢

Sea of Marmara

A stunning display of shipping traffic and the Princess Islands shortly before touchdown in Istanbul.

The right side is essential for volcano enthusiasts; Mount Etna typically appears about an hour into the flight. For the landing at IST, the right side offers the best chance to see the historic peninsula and the Blue Mosque if the flight path follows the Marmara coast.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌉

Constantine Gorges

Aerial view of the dramatic Rhumel River canyon and the famous suspension bridges immediately after takeoff.

🏖️

Southern Sardinia

Glimpses of the rugged coastline and turquoise waters around the southern tip of the Italian island.

🏔️

Pindus Mountains

The snow-capped peaks of the Greek mainland visible as the flight crosses from the Ionian to the Aegean Sea.

🏝️

Northern Aegean Islands

Aerial views of islands such as Lemnos and the Dardanelles strait entrance in the distance.

🏙️

Istanbul Northern Forest

The lush green belt and the Black Sea coastline during the final approach into IST from the north.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and harsh glares. During the final descent, if the wind necessitates a northern approach, you may catch a distant view of the Third Bosphorus Bridge and the Black Sea entrance.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 1,991 km (1,237 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 39 min

Departure: CZL (36.2760009765625, 6.620389938354492)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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