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MUC destination photo
IST destination photo

MUCIST

Which side of the plane to sit from Munich Airport (Munich) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the majestic Austrian and Julian Alps shortly after departure from Munich, followed by the rugged Dinaric mountain ranges of the Balkans and a high probability of seeing the historic heart of Istanbul and the Sea of Marmara during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Austrian Alps

Spectacular views of the snow-capped Eastern Alps and the peaks around Salzburg early in the flight.

⛰️

Dinaric Alps

Dramatic karst landscapes and jagged limestone ridges stretching through Slovenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

🚢

Sea of Marmara

Countless cargo ships anchored and moving toward the Bosphorus Strait as you approach the destination.

🕌

Istanbul Peninsula

If landing from the south, you'll see the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque sitting on the historic Golden Horn.

🌉

Bosphorus Bridges

The massive suspension bridges connecting Europe and Asia are frequently visible during the descent.

The Alps appear very quickly after takeoff from MUC; have your camera ready within 15 minutes. For the most iconic Istanbul views, hope for a southern approach (Runway 34/35) which places the historic peninsula and bridges directly in your line of sight. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the Turkish coastline.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏰

Lower Bavaria

Bird's eye view of the rolling hills and traditional German villages east of Munich shortly after takeoff.

💧

The Danube River

Observe the winding path of Europe's second-longest river as it flows through Austria, Hungary, and Serbia.

🏙️

Vienna

On clear days, the expansive urban sprawl of the Austrian capital is visible to the north of the flight path.

⛰️

Balkan Mountains

Traverse the rugged, forested peaks of the Stara Planina range in Bulgaria.

🌊

Black Sea Coast

As the plane begins its descent into Istanbul, the deep blue waters of the Black Sea come into view.

Sit on the left if you prefer views of the Danube and the Black Sea coast. For morning flights, this side will be in the shade, making it easier to take photos without glare. Watch for the Bulgarian capital, Sofia, which often appears mid-flight.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 1,548 km (962 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 4 min

Departure: MUC (48.353802, 11.7861)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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