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LJU → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (Ljubljana) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the rugged Dinaric Alps and a more dramatic approach into Istanbul, often showcasing the Sea of Marmara and the historical silhouette of the city before landing.
Search flights from LJU to IST
Dinaric Alps
Stunning karst formations and deep limestone canyons visible while overflying Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Rhodope Mountains
The dense forests and high peaks of southern Bulgaria, offering a dramatic green carpet below.
Sea of Marmara
A view of the busy shipping lanes and tankers waiting to enter the Bosphorus Strait during the descent.
Istanbul Peninsula
Depending on the landing pattern, you may see the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the dense urban sprawl of the European side.
The right side is unbeatable for the final approach into IST. If landing from the south, you get a front-row seat to the historical peninsula. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the best mountain and sea transitions. Afternoon flights provide excellent golden-hour lighting on this side.
Book Hotels in IstanbulJulian Alps
Immediate views of the snow-capped Slovenian peaks and the lush Sava River valley shortly after takeoff.
Belgrade Panorama
A clear view of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers at the heart of the Serbian capital.
Balkan Mountains
The majestic Stara Planina range stretching across Bulgaria, creating a jagged horizon to the north.
Black Sea Coast
As the plane nears Istanbul, the vast blue expanse of the Black Sea becomes visible to the northeast.
Sit on the left for better lighting during morning flights to avoid direct glare. This side is ideal for spotting the industrial and urban landscapes of central Serbia and northern Bulgaria. Watch for the Danube's wide bends near the border regions.
Get eSIMs for Slovenia
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 1,271 km (790 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min
Departure: LJU (46.223701, 14.4576)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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