Turkey Medical Tourism Travel Guide: Visas, Accommodation & Airport Transfers
Your comprehensive guide to traveling to Turkey (Turkiye) for medical tourism. From visa requirements to accommodation, we've got you covered.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Everything you need to know about entering Turkiye
Most travelers can easily obtain an e-Visa online through www.evisa.gov.tr. The process usually takes only a few minutes.
Citizens of many countries (including most of Europe, Gulf countries, and parts of Asia) can enter visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days).
For extended treatment or recovery stays, your clinic can help provide official invitation letters or documents to support a medical-purpose visa application at the nearest Turkish consulate.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date.
Airport Transfers
Smooth and stress-free transportation to your destination
Whether you're visiting for a few days or several weeks, smooth and stress-free airport transfers are key to starting your medical journey comfortably. Turkiye's major medical tourism destinations — Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir, and Ankara — all have modern airports with extensive transport options. Many of our partner clinics offer complimentary airport transfers.
Airports
- Istanbul Airport (IST) – on the European side, the largest in Turkiye.
- Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) – on the Asian side, ideal if your clinic or hotel is in Kadikoy, Atasehir, or Umraniye.
Transfer Time
- From IST to central areas (Taksim, Sisli, Nisantasi, Besiktas): 30–60 minutes depending on traffic.
- From SAW to Kadikoy or Uskudar: 25–40 minutes.
Transfer Options
- Private VIP Transfers: Many clinics offer pre-arranged chauffeur-driven transfers (often included in medical packages).
- Taxi: Readily available 24/7. Always prefer official yellow taxis or book through BiTaksi or Uber apps.
- Airport Shuttle (Havaist / Havabus): Reliable and affordable bus services.
- Metro & Public Transport: Istanbul Airport has a direct metro line (M11).
Tip: For post-operative comfort, request your clinic to arrange door-to-door transfer — most are accustomed to handling patients after aesthetic or surgical procedures.
General Tips for All Airports
- • Confirm with your clinic whether airport transfer is included in your medical package.
- • Share your flight details at least 48 hours in advance for a smooth pick-up.
- • Keep clinic contact info handy in case of delays.
- • If traveling with medical documents, carry them in your hand luggage.
Essential Travel Tips
While Turkish is the official language, English is widely spoken in medical settings, hotels, and tourist areas. Your clinic will likely provide multilingual coordinators.
The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are available at airports and throughout cities.
Turkiye has excellent healthcare infrastructure. Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is recommended. Keep clinic emergency contacts handy.
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical procedures abroad. Check if your clinic offers insurance options.
Turks are known for their hospitality. A simple 'Merhaba' (Hello) goes a long way. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or religious sites.
General emergency: 112. This number works for medical, police, and fire emergencies throughout Turkiye.
Accommodation Guide
Where to stay during your medical journey
Istanbul
Istanbul offers a wide range of accommodation options near major clinic districts.
Areas:
- • Sisli & Nisantasi – Close to many aesthetic clinics and hospitals
- • Taksim & Beyoglu – Central location with excellent transport links
- • Besiktas & Levent – Modern districts with luxury hotels
- • Kadikoy & Uskudar (Asian side) – Quieter areas with easy access to clinics
- • Many clinics have partnered hotels offering special rates for patients
- • Post-operative stays near your clinic are recommended for easy follow-up
- • Consider apartments for longer recovery stays
Antalya
Known as the Turkish Riviera, Antalya combines medical treatment with resort-style recovery.
Areas:
- • Lara – Popular for luxury resorts and medical hotels
- • Muratpasa – City center with clinics and boutique hotels
- • Konyaalti – Beach area with modern accommodations
- • Belek – Premium resort area, slightly further from clinics
- • Many resorts offer health tourism packages
- • Sea view rooms can enhance recovery experience
- • All-inclusive options available for stress-free stays
Izmir
A coastal city offering a relaxed atmosphere for recovery.
Areas:
- • Alsancak – Trendy district with restaurants and hotels
- • Bornova – Close to university hospitals
- • Karsiyaka – Charming waterfront area
- • Cesme & Alacati – Seaside towns for extended recovery (1 hour from center)
- • Waterfront hotels offer peaceful recovery environments
- • Fresh Aegean cuisine supports healthy recovery
- • Consider combining treatment with coastal relaxation
Ankara
Turkey's capital offers excellent medical facilities and comfortable urban stays.
Areas:
- • Cankaya – Upscale area near major hospitals
- • Kizilay – City center with convenient access
- • Kavaklidere – Embassy district with quality hotels
- • Sogutozu – Modern business district
- • Ankara's hotels often have medical travel coordinators
- • University hospitals are among Turkey's best
- • Less tourist-focused, more authentic Turkish experience