Loading map...
IST → RIX
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Riga International Airport (Riga)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more diverse landscape, featuring the rugged Balkan peaks, the dramatic Tatra Mountains, and a scenic approach over the Gulf of Riga.
Search flights from IST to RIX
Istanbul Skyline
Panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the sprawling historical peninsula shortly after takeoff from IST.
Balkan Mountains
Dramatic ridges and deep valleys as the flight passes over the heart of Bulgaria.
Tatra Mountains
The highest range in the Carpathians, offering spectacular snow-capped peaks along the Slovakia-Poland border.
Vistula River
The longest river in Poland, visible winding through the Masovian plains toward the Baltic.
Gulf of Riga
Coastal views and sandy beaches as the aircraft begins its final descent into Latvia.
Choose a seat in front of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. On late afternoon flights, this side experiences the sunset, creating a golden glow over the Tatra Mountains. Look out for the transition from the rugged Balkans to the flat Polish lowlands.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for LatviaBlack Sea Coast
Stunning views of the Turkish shoreline and the deep blue expanse of the western Black Sea.
Danube Delta
The intricate network of channels where the Danube meets the sea, visible during the Romanian transit.
Lithuanian Forests
Dense, deep green forest canopies and hidden lakes as you cross the Baltic states.
Vilnius Region
Distances views of the Lithuanian capital and the Neris river valley during the northern leg.
Riga Old Town
The iconic spires of Riga and the wide Daugava River are often best seen from this side during the final turn.
Morning flights are ideal for this side to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. Keep an eye out early in the flight for the Danube River. During landing, this side often provides the clearest view of Riga's historic TV tower and the Daugava bridges.
Book Hotels in RigaDistance: 1,773 km (1,102 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 22 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: RIX (56.92359924316406, 23.971099853515625)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.