Loading map...
IST → CPH
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Copenhagen Kastrup Airport (Copenhagen)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Carpathian mountain range in Romania and provides the best angle to see the Øresund Bridge connecting Sweden and Denmark during the final approach into Copenhagen.
Istanbul & Thrace
After takeoff from IST, view the European side of Istanbul and the rolling hills of the Thrace region.
Southern Carpathians
Look for the Făgăraș Mountains in Romania, home to the highest peaks in the Southern Carpathians.
Budapest & Danube
Depending on the exact airway, catch a glimpse of the Danube river winding through the Hungarian capital.
Bohemian Massif
Cross over the scenic highlands of Czechia, often featuring small medieval towns and dense forests.
Øresund Bridge
The famous 8km bridge and tunnel system connecting Malmö to Copenhagen is visible during the descent.
Sit behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the mountains. Morning flights are ideal for the left side as the sun will be behind the aircraft, lighting up the Balkan and Central European landscapes perfectly. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes before landing for the bridge views.
Bulgarian Coastline
Stunning views of the Black Sea coast near Varna as the plane tracks north-west.
Bucharest
The sprawling urban layout of the Romanian capital, including the massive Palace of Parliament.
High Tatras
Distant but sharp granite peaks along the border of Slovakia and Poland.
Baltic Archipelago
Views of the German and Danish islands, including Rügen, as you cross the Baltic Sea.
Copenhagen Harbor
A great view of the Amager Bakke and the industrial-chic waterfront of Copenhagen upon arrival.
The right side is excellent for afternoon or evening flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. Watch for the dramatic transition from the jagged Tatra mountains to the flat, water-dominated landscapes of Northern Germany and Denmark. In winter, the Baltic coastline is often beautifully dusted with snow.
Distance: 1,978 km (1,229 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 38 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: CPH (55.617900848389, 12.656000137329)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.