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SAW → ATH
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (Athens)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the historic Istanbul skyline shortly after takeoff and the iconic Mount Athos peak, followed by a panoramic view of central Athens and the Acropolis during the descent.
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Istanbul Peninsula
If the flight path turns west, enjoy views of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Bosphorus Strait.
Gallipoli Peninsula
A clear view of the historic WWI battlefields and the massive Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial.
Mount Athos
The stunning 2,033m 'Holy Mountain' peak and its ancient monasteries jutting into the Aegean Sea.
Skyros Island
A bird's eye view of the Chora's white-washed houses clinging to a steep rocky outcrop.
Athens & Acropolis
Unmatched views of the Parthenon, the Olympic Stadium, and the dense urban sprawl of the Greek capital.
Sit on the right for the most iconic landmarks. For the best photography of Mount Athos, mid-day flights provide the most direct lighting. When approaching Athens, this side usually provides the best angle for the Acropolis and the Port of Piraeus as the plane banks toward the runway.
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Princess Islands
A cluster of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara, known for their pine forests and Ottoman-era mansions.
Dardanelles Strait
The southern entry point of the Hellespont, marking the boundary between Europe and Asia.
Evia Island Coast
The rugged southern coastline of Greece's second-largest island, featuring dramatic cliffs and hidden coves.
Cape Sounion
Look closely for the Temple of Poseidon perched on the cliff edge during the final approach into Athens.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. During the final descent, keep your eyes peeled for the southern tip of the Attica peninsula; if the plane approaches from the sea, the Temple of Poseidon is often visible for a brief moment.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for GreeceDistance: 566 km (352 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 57 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: ATH (37.9364013672, 23.944499969499997)
Route Type: International
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