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GOA destination photo
IST destination photo

GOAIST

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side is superior as it captures the stunning Italian Riviera immediately after takeoff, the rugged Dinaric Alps crossing the Adriatic, and a panoramic view of the Marmara Sea and Istanbul's historic landmarks during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🌊

Cinque Terre Coastline

Breathtaking views of the colorful Ligurian villages and the steep cliffs of the Riviera di Levante right after takeoff.

⛰️

Apennine Mountains

A direct crossing over the 'spine of Italy' featuring rolling green ridges and medieval hilltop towns.

🏖️

Adriatic Coast

A stunning transition from the Italian coast over the deep blue Adriatic toward the islands of Croatia and Montenegro.

🏛️

Istanbul Approach

Spectacular views of the Prince Islands and the historical peninsula of Istanbul if the wind dictates a southern approach.

The first 15 minutes are crucial for the Italian coastline; ensure your window is clear. For the arrival into IST, the right side often provides a better angle of the Bosphorus entrance. Evening flights are particularly scenic on this side as the sun sets over the Mediterranean behind the aircraft.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🏙️

Milan and Po Valley

Aerial views of the sprawling industrial heart of Northern Italy and the grid-like agricultural fields.

🏔️

Southern Alpine Vista

On clear days, the distant jagged peaks of the Dolomites and Italian Alps are visible to the north.

💧

Danube River

Sightings of the winding Danube River as the flight path crosses through the Serbian and Bulgarian border regions.

⛰️

Balkan Interior

The high plateaus and dense forests of the Stara Planina mountain range in central Bulgaria.

Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side offers better views of the continental interior and the distant snowy peaks of the Alps. Keep an eye out for the thermal power plants and geometric farmland of the Bulgarian plains.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 1,656 km (1,029 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min

Departure: GOA (44.4133, 8.8375)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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