Loading map...
IST → CGN
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a more dramatic scenic experience, featuring the Balkan mountain ranges, a glimpse of the Alps, and a picturesque approach over the Rhine Valley and Eifel region.
Search flights from IST to CGN
Istanbul Urban Sprawl
Aerial view of the massive western districts and urban developments of Istanbul's European side.
Rhodope Mountains
Rugged and ancient mountain landscapes in Southern Bulgaria near the border with Greece.
Alpine Arc
A distant but spectacular view of the snow-capped Austrian Alps visible on the southern horizon.
Rhine Gorge
The UNESCO-listed valley known for its steep vineyards and historic medieval castles.
Eifel National Park
Beautiful dense forests and volcanic landscapes visible during the final descent into Cologne.
Book a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the Balkan and Alpine views without harsh sun glare. Watch for the Rhine river as the plane begins its final descent into CGN airport.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for Germany
Black Sea Coastline
The turquoise waters and rugged cliffs of the Turkish northern coast immediately after takeoff.
Iron Gates Gorge
A dramatic canyon where the Danube River separates the Balkan and Carpathian mountain ranges.
Budapest Skyline
A potential panoramic view of the Hungarian capital and its iconic bridges crossing the Danube.
Frankfurt Skyline
A far-off view of Germany's financial hub and its distinct cluster of modern skyscrapers.
Cologne Cathedral
Spot the world-famous twin spires as the plane aligns with the runway on final approach.
Ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the vast European plains. Keep a close eye on the ground to track the path of the Danube River, which serves as a natural navigational guide for much of the cruise phase.
Book Hotels in CologneDistance: 1,968 km (1,223 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 37 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.